Mary & Brandon
Wedding Party
Asal Ghasemi Neri
Maid of Honor
Asal and I met soon after my family moved to Sacramento, and while we were good friends throughout grade school, it wasn't until high school and college that we realized we were simply kindred spirits. From Harry Potter wine nights to drives to the ocean, Asal has been with me through and through. She is my chummy, and there will truly never be words to define the connection we've built over the years. God knew what He was doing when He brought us together, and I know no matter what that she will always be there.
Travis Stoakley
Bestest Mensch
I met Travis on Feburary 4th, 1999, when I became his big brother. From that moment on we have played countless sports, gone on tons of hikes and camping trips, caught many fish together and have spent hundreds of hours watching The Office. He is my best-friend and always has my back. He may be taller and faster than me but I’ll always be stronger. I am excited for him the be my Bestest Mensch. “Fact, bears eat beets. Bears, beets, "Battlestar Galactica." – Jim Halpert
Mckenzie Paul
Matron of Honor
I've always been able to describe McKenzie as an older sister. My own sisters have always been there for me and stood alongside me, but Mckenzie was always there when I needed someone close by. We've spent countless hours on adventures, cleaning, learning, working out, watching ABC family, and a million more things. Her friendship is one that I cherish so dearly, and I couldn't dream of having this day without her. Her steadfast faith and depth of strength make her such a fantastic person.
Nick Starrett
Groomsman
I first met Nick when he followed me home from school one day and I let him hangout with me till his mom got off. From there he became my other little brother and we have played baseball for hours upon hours, spent summers swimming at the OV pool, gone to countless baseball games and made a lot of memories together. He’s been the third Stoakley brother for many years and will be for many years to come.
Madison Saunders
Bridesmaid
It's been a constant joke that Madi is my "adoptive mother" (we have the handmade paperwork to prove it), I am so grateful for a friendship likes Madi's. Ever since I was 11 years old, Madi was a...strong presence in my life. She was never afraid to take charge and be an influence, and that has evolved in our friendship in such a beautiful way. She is constantly taking care of me, ensuring that I know my worth, and for that, I am forever grateful.
Daniel Cattolica
Groomsman
I met Daniel while working Camp Fair Oaks one summer. I remember the first time Mary told me how excited Daniel was that we had started dating and how happy I was that he liked me. He has welcomed me into the family with open arms and has been such an awesome friend and brother to me. I am excited I get to call him Brother-In-Law soon and build more memories together as part of the family.
Mikayla Koskenmaki
Bridesmaid
Mikayla is one of the greatest friendships I've ever been blessed to have. She has the fiercest spirit for God, and she feeds into me and I to her as we have grown up in this journey of life. Her and I have reveled in these years of "growing up" and although California and Kansas are over 1,500 miles away, I know that we will always have each other to love and support one another.
Micah Paul
Groomsman
Micah has been a brother in faith to me these last few years. We have spent many hours playing with fire, working on our gardens and watch Star Wars together. I am proud of call him a friend and to grow our families side by side and continue to build each other up.
Macie Litchfield
Bridesmaid
Macie is quite literally one of the wisest and sweetest friends I could have. She brings an effortless joy into our relationship with her insightful thoughts, deep care, and strength that she exudes. While we didn't grow up best friends, she's one I cherish so much as a friend now. I feel very fortunate to have someone so invested in the joy of not only my life but Brandon's as well.
Justin Litchfield
Groomsman
Rock and Roll has always played a big part in my life. When I first met Justin he was wearing a rock and roll t-shirt and I knew instantly that we would be good friends. From then on we have shared rock music, had some great talks over a glass of whiskey and sat by many bonfires together. He has been an amazing friend and am grateful to have him stand by me on this day.
Cliff Carey
Officiant
Cliff has played a significant role in Mary's life for 9 years, as well has been huge support alongside both of us throughout our relationship. Mary was introduced to Cliff and his family when they moved to Fair Oaks and became the new High School Pastor at Sunrise! Immediately, she began babysitting their kids and Cliff transformed the makeup of the ministry. Throughout life's biggest struggles, Cliff and his family counseled and provided support for Mary, advocating and praying no matter how hard things got. After we started dating, Cliff was also able to build a relationship with Brandon as he coached/refereed his son's flag football leagues. Cliff and his wife April have guided us through pre-marital counseling, and we are so blessed to have Cliff officiate our wedding.
The Kiddos!
Our Stellar Helpers!
It was very important to Mary to involve her nieces and nephews (and a special family friend) in our special day. Walking down the aisle will be our flower girls Anne Kathryn, Declan, and Annabelle as well as our ring bearers Wilder and Garrett. Our incredible ushers George and Brayden will be around to show people to their seats as well as make sure everyone signs our photo guest book. Peyton will be reading a verse during the ceremony, and Colt has assisted Brandon and I in a piece of our unity ceremony. We are so grateful to have these kiddos in our lives!