Wedding Party
Marissa Ingram
Bride
Hi everyone, I’m Marissa (I hope anyone reading this already knows me by now lol). I’ve been dreaming about my wedding for as long as I can remember... from watching Say Yes to the Dress, curating Pinterest boards, to seeing just about every wedding-related rom-com known to mankind. Through all of it, I’ve learned that the two most important things when it comes to my wedding day are: who I’m marrying, and who will be there beside us to support us. Everything else is just the sparkly cherries on top. I am beyond excited to be marrying the love of my life. Mateo is truly the kindest, sweetest soul, and anyone who has ever met him would agree. This has been a long time coming; we’ve been talking about marrying each other since we were 15 (and probably would have done it back then if it were legally possible). Even at that age, we knew we had found something special and that we were meant to spend our lives together. I also want to thank everyone in advance for coming to celebrate with us. Every person we’ve invited holds a special place in our hearts and has played a meaningful role in our journey so far. Having you all with us on our day means more to us than we could ever put into words.
Mateo Baez
Groom
Hey everyone, I’m Mateo (if you didn’t know that already), and I’ve been waiting for this day since the moment I fell in love with Marissa. I’m so excited to share this once-in-a-lifetime moment with my close friends and family. I appreciate everyone who has shown us consistent love and support, and we can’t wait to continue celebrating with you all. Meeting Marissa in high school changed my life for the better, and I couldn’t have asked for anything more. She has opened my eyes in so many ways, and it holds a special meaning for me. We’ve connected in so many meaningful ways throughout our lives, often without even realizing it, and that’s how I know we were meant for each other. I can’t wait to see Marissa walking down the aisle and finally prove that I can cry (I’m not a crier). Ten years is a really long time, and I wouldn’t want to spend that — or any more — with anyone else but her. The life we’ve built, and continue to build, is so beautiful to me, and I’m incredibly happy to keep growing together and see what the future holds.
Kayla
Maid of Honor
Hi everyone! I’m Kayla Ingram, Marissa’s younger sister. I’m also the proud mother of Marissa and Mateo’s adorable niece and nephew, Kaleesia and Kaimani Llin. It was an honor to name them after Marissa, inspired by her beautiful middle name, Catelin—which, funny enough, nobody can seem to spell right, not even our parents. Marissa and I are only 18 months apart, making us what people call Irish twins. Growing up together was nothing short of an adventure. We had our fair share of sibling rivalry, but over the years we’ve become best friends. I find myself calling her multiple times a day—which I’m sure Mateo finds amusingly frustrating. Our bond is incredibly special, and it’s something I cherish deeply. I met Mateo when I was around 13 or 14 years old, and now at 23, it’s amazing to realize we’ve essentially grown up together. I’ve never seen him as just Marissa’s boyfriend, fiancé, or husband—he’s always been family to me. From playful banter to meaningful support, we’ve shared countless memories, and I’m grateful for the role he’s played in my life. Watching their love grow over the past ten years has been beautiful. They make love look effortless. The bond they share is truly special, and witnessing the way they choose each other every single day is inspiring. I’m so excited to celebrate their big day and honor the life they’re building together.
Brian Ingram
Best Man
My name is Brian Ingram, and I am the older brother of this whole operation. I am loud and obnoxious, but I'm also always there for my family. I like to try to be a good role model for everyone around me and lead by example. Some of my hobbies are obviously motorcycles and collecting trading cards as of lately. I've known Marissa for all 25 years of her life. I remember holding her when she was born and not being sure if I was going to like her or not. Being much older than her made for a distant relationship a lot of her life, but I'd say over the past 6 years we've grown a lot stronger bond. I am very happy for her to have found someone she can love for the rest of her life. I don't remember the first time I met Mateo, but I know that I am happy he is marrying my sister. Mateo has passed many of my tests to prove he can be a part of the Ingram family. He is a strong man who takes care of his priorities and knows how to provide for his family. I am proud to be Mateo's best man for his wedding, and I will always be by both of your sides through anything you go through. If you ever need me, just tell me where, and I won't even ask any questions; I'll just show up as fast as I can, and bring my own tools because I know Mateo won't have any. I love both of you, Congratulations!
Tiffany Ingram
Bridesmaid
My name is Tiffany. I’m 33 years old, a wife, a mother, and a homesteading enthusiast. I’m usually in the kitchen cooking, working in my garden, or raising chickens. I was lucky enough to marry the love of my life, Brian, and I’m so excited to watch Mateo and Marissa experience that same love and commitment together. I first met Marissa at a family barbecue, and although we didn’t connect right away, over time we realized how much we had in common. When Brian proposed to me, Marissa and Mateo helped make it incredibly special, and I had no idea it was coming. Since then, we’ve grown very close. She calls me to share shows, ask for advice, and sometimes I call her for advice too. Watching Brian and Mateo’s friendship has always shown me what kind of person Mateo is—loyal, dependable, and always there when it matters most. He has been family long before this wedding, and I’m so grateful our bond continues to grow. It’s amazing to see you both reach this moment. You found each other early and have so many beautiful years ahead. I hope you cherish every moment and continue building the life you’ve dreamed of. I love you both and feel honored to be part of your journey.
Dylan (Noonie) Ingram
Groomsman
Marissa’s little brother and groomsman for Mateo, Noonie is the epitome of an enigma. At any given moment, you’ll find him in the corner with his hood up and hands clasped, observing the chaos like the true mastermind he is. While dancing isn’t exactly his thing (much to Marissa’s dismay), he’s looking forward to placing bets on who cries first—or if Mateo will shed a tear. Over the years, Dylan and Mateo have grown incredibly close, with Noonie seeing Mateo as another big brother. Mateo has encouraged Dylan to step outside of his comfort zone and become a better person, helping him grow in ways that he will appreciate forever. Dylan and Marissa share a special bond, with many of their favorite activities overlapping. They’re just alike in so many ways—both love reading and binge-watching shows together, spending hours debating everything under the sun. They enjoy sharing new music with each other just to watch the other squirm as they know full well they’ll hate it. Their relationship is built on deep conversations, inside jokes, and seeing who gets sick of the other first (game still in progress), making Noonie an irreplaceable part of the day.
Paige Vargo
Bridesmaid
Hello, I am Paige, and I am immensely proud to be Marissa’s bridesmaid — “the old friend.” I am relatively shy, but I do my best to be outgoing when needed. I am overjoyed to have such a special role in this beautiful and highly anticipated wedding, and I know it will be remembered for years to come. Marissa and I have been friends for almost five years. From the moment we met, it was an instant and effortless bond. Funny enough, we were set up by our boyfriends. While many people bond over similarities, we bond over our differences. We truly are opposites, yet alike in the ways that matter most — like Marissa’s kindness, morals, and gratitude. We both believe the little things mean everything. We share many memories, from almost ruining her dryer with tie-dye shirts to talking endlessly wherever we go. Our friendship has taught me that you do not need to be the same to be best friends — you just need to show up for each other. No matter how busy life gets, we always check in. I am so grateful for our friendship and cannot wait to make more memories together. Although I do not know Mateo as closely, I have seen how deeply he cares for Marissa. His actions show his love and dedication. I am so happy she has found someone who loves her unconditionally. Their love has grown stronger over the years, and I am honored to witness this beautiful chapter and celebrate their unforgettable day.
Isaiah Ortiz
Groomsman
Hi, I’m Isaiah. I’m just a chill guy, known for being a jokester who likes to brighten people’s day with laughter. Some of my hobbies include sports (watching and playing—could’ve gone D1), making music, playing video games, and chilling with friends. Marissa and I go way back to the college days, having a math class together at U of M Dearborn (she doesn’t remember me). She and I talk and connect about all sorts of different things. Game nights, shows, or movies, telling funny stories about ourselves, or just random things about life. I always make sure to talk and share some laughs with her whenever I go over there to hang out. I can honestly say she is perfect for Mateo, and she makes him very happy. Mateo and I met in middle school and were friends before drifting apart when he moved. He and I have so much in common, making music, playing sports, and playing games. Literally everything I enjoy, he also enjoys; it’s awesome. We also have a lot of good memories, going all the way back to our 8th-grade science project rolling a can on the ground, to going on a road trip to Chicago with the boys. He is one of the most funny, genuine, and loyal friends I’ve ever had, and we are friends for life. I cannot wait for the wedding. Their wedding is the first one I’m going to be in, and I’m very grateful to be a part of their special day. All I can say is we’re turning up and going stupid all night on trim. I’ll be dancing and trying to get everyone to have fun all night long.
Kaleesia Llyn
Flower Girl
I can’t wait to see my auntie in her princess dress. My middle name is just like my auntie’s (Llyn). When I grow up, I hope to have a pretty dress just like hers. I love Auntie and Teo to South Africa!
Kaimani Llin
Ring Bearer
I’m so excited that my TT and my Tío Teo are getting married! My middle name (Llin) is also after my TT. Tío Teo is my favorite guy, and I love playing with him! TT is my favorite person to call and talk to — I talk to her almost every day.
Rori
Flower Girl
I am super excited for my Aunt Marissa and Uncle Mateo to get married and I can’t wait to see Aunt Rissa’s pretty princess dress. I hope she looks like princess Bride Barbie and I can’t wait to do the SpongeBob- big guy dance at the wedding.
Mason
Ring Bearer
I’m very excited for Aunt Rissa’s and Uncle Teo to getting married and I really like playing Fortnite with and I love them because they always buy me the best skins.
Christie Ingram
Mother of the Bride
I’m Christie, Marissa’s proud mom. Being a mother has been the greatest joy of my life, and my family means everything to me. I am someone who leads with love, enjoys bringing everyone together, and cherishes the simple moments we share. Watching my children grow into the people they are today has been my greatest blessing. Marissa, my firstborn daughter, holds such a special place in my heart. From the moment she was born, she changed my life in the best way. Watching her grow into the strong, kind, and beautiful woman she is today fills me with so much pride. We have shared so many memories, laughs, and life lessons, and she will always be my baby girl. Being part of her wedding day is an emotional and joyful milestone I will treasure forever. Mateo has become such an important part of our family. Over the years, I have seen how deeply he loves and cares for Marissa. He supports her, respects her, and brings her true happiness. I am grateful for the bond we’ve built and proud to welcome him as not just a son-in-law, but as a son. I am so excited to celebrate this beautiful day and watch the life they will continue to build together. Their love and commitment give me so much confidence in their future, and I feel honored to witness their love story continue.
