Wedding Party
Mark Bridgeman
Groom
Brandon Lofthouse
Groom
Joe Higgins
Best Man
Meeting on the Holland America ship over 8 years ago, we created a brotherly bond that we now call “the crew”. Sometimes you just know immediately that a friendship will last a lifetime. We’ve been through so much together in such a short time and what a gift to create these friendships later in our lives. "I will always forgive Mark’s passion for the Packers." - Joe
Joseph Lofthouse
Best Man
Hey everyone! I’m Joe, the best man and the groom’s slightly older brother. With just 1.5 years between us, we’ve been close since day one. From building epic pillow forts to questionable haircuts (the matching mohawks wasn’t our finest moment), we’ve tackled it all together. When I’m not reading, working out, or binge-watching Netflix, you might find me enjoying a margarita (or 4) while taking in a sunset. I’m here to celebrate my brother and his wonderful husband, and maybe show off a few embarrassing dance moves. Cheers!
DeAnna Vaughan
Groomswoman
Mark and I met in 1998 through the Association of Legal Administrators. At that time, we both lived in Orange County, California. When Mark relocated to Wisconsin, I felt like a huge piece of my heart moved with him, but that did not stop our friendship from continuing to grow. We have battled cancer together, suffered through the passing of loved ones, celebrated the birth of new family members and so much more (some of which I cannot put in writing 😊). Through thick and thin, including geographically undesirable differences, Mark and I have remained the best of friends. I think of Mark as my “Soul-Friend.” Nothing will ever destroy the bond we have formed over the years. Sometimes I wish I could keep a little Mark in my pocket to remind me of my self-worth and that I am loved unconditionally – something Mark has always exceled in doing.
Max Bailes
Groomsman
Brandon and I became best friends in the 6th grade where we bonded over our love of sports. Mainly our love for Da Bears (Bear Dahn). Through the years we have stayed very close even with both of us moving away from home multiple times. Brandon is the most kind hearted and loving person I have ever met. I don’t know where I would be without his friendship. So to see him so happy is a blessing. I wish these two both a lifetime of love, happiness and unforgettable memories together.
Amanda Koplos
Groomswoman
Amanda is a Texas native who moved to Orlando in November of 2018 with her husband and two kids. She has been married to Nick for 12 years and together they have 2 kids Kylie (14) and Hudson (11), and the bestest girl dog, Biscuit. Amanda & Nick didn't know anyone when the family moved to Orlando, so Amanda was excited to connect with Mark. Mark and Amanda had known each other peripherally for many years while volunteering for the Association of Legal Administrators (ALA). When they first met for wine in June of 2019, neither had any idea of the friendship that would soon develop. What started as a one-time meeting turned into a weekly wine-drinking tradition that is going strong after five years. They are proud “regulars” at Digress, the wine bar near Mark’s house, and they can be found most Thursdays with a glass of Chenin Blanc (Mark) or Pinot Noir (Amanda). Amanda has this to say about Mark “I credit Mark for so many good things that have happened in my life. Our weekly happy hours are therapy sessions for me, and have lifted me up and encouraged me through some times of self-doubt and insecurity. We have laughed together, cried together, and shared every emotion in between. I couldn’t be happier to support him and Brandon on their special day.”
Kyle Donahoe
Groomsman
Though we were in the same friend group growing up, Brandon and I never really got to know each other until his last night before college when we threw a goodbye party for him. One sunrise and too many beers later, we never looked back! Now, 12 years later, we have so many stories together it's hard to remember them all! Shortly after that night, I joined the fire department and still reside in our hometown of Fox Lake, IL. But the bond we’ve built is stronger than ever! I can’t wait to celebrate this amazing marriage, meet some new friends, and (hopefully) show Joe up on the dance floor!
Al Sherman
Groomsman
I met mark…. Mid 90’s. We became good friends quickly. Best friends over the years. We did lots of outings together. Some of our best times were going country “dancing” (or checking out the cowboys). From Laguna Niguel to Long Beach. Then one day he came to me and said “I have met my someone”. I was happy for him, then he said he was moving across the country to be with him…. Sad, but still happy for him. We kept in touch and we visited each other over the years. I went thru some tough times and moved to Florida. Then I found out they moved here too. Two hours away. Wow, I get to see my best friend more often. They went thru some hard times. I tried to be there for them as often as I could. There was only one person that was always there for Mark. Thank you Brandon for being there when I could not be there. So happy for you two. Welcome to our family.
Matthew Spears
Groomsman
I’m Matthew, a groomsman for this beautiful celebration of love. I love hiking, golfing and spending time with family and friends. Brandon and I have known each other for more than half of our lives. We became friends freshman year of high school and it developed into a friendship I knew I’d have for life. We actually have a friendaversary that we take pretty seriously. From sitting on his kitchen floor and drinking pickle juice, to back flipping off trees (those days are far behind us), getting matching tattoos and acting surprised when people would point them out, rooming together in college, and him standing by my side at my wedding, we’ve been through many stages of life together. I am so excited to celebrate the love of my best friend and his husband.
Ben Hable-Guild
Officiant
Years ago, I was courting Marks stepdaughter. At first, he was a bit intimidating having a high-powered job in Chicago, and being so incredibly fit and handsome. That intimidation faded very quickly as I got to know one of the kindest, most thoughtful people on earth. Over the years our relationship has changed and grown as we have leaned on each other for support in difficult times and celebrated the good times! On one of my trips to Florida with the girls Mark introduced me to his roommate Brandon. He was a bit reserved at first, but it was immediately clear to me there was a deeper connection. Over subsequent Orlando trips, I too fell for Brandon! Seeing Brandon and Mark's dynamic made me so happy, and as I got to know him more I realized we have a ton of shared interests and passions. Thanks to the internet I have had the privilege to officiate several family, friends, and professional weddings. When Mark and Brandon FaceTime’d to tell us the big engagement news they asked if I would officiate. I would do anything for Mark and Brandon, but to be asked to be part of their big day is such an honor and I can’t wait to play my small role in the wedding!