Wedding Party
Matthew & Nataley
The Couple
Matthew and Nataley first crossed paths during their sophomore year of high school in the JROTC program, laying the foundation for a deep and enduring connection. Throughout their senior year, Nataley’s affection for Matthew was unmistakable, though it wasn’t until their friend Caleb intervened-revealing her wish to attend prom with him-that Matthew finally reciprocated her feelings. After graduating high school, their paths diverged yet remained intertwined. Matthew pursued his ambitions at the University of Central Florida, joining the AFROTC to become an Air Force officer, eventually earning the prestigious opportunity to train as a Combat Systems Officer. Meanwhile, Nataley followed her passion to Santa Fe College’s Teaching Zoo, where she embraced a career as a zookeeper. Through the years of personal growth and transformation, their relationship evolved alongside them, blossoming into a resilient and profound love. Today, they are the devoted parents of a delightfully demanding dog which they adore above all else. Supported by a circle of friends and loved ones-who are reading this very story-Matthew and Nataley have been uplifted and shaped by those who have cheered them on. Now, they are thrilled to share their journey and the love they’ve built together with all of you.
Tiffany Wentz
Matron of Honor
Tiffany, Nataley’s oldest sister and the proud mother of Josette (one of the darling flower girls), stands as the bride’s unshakable rock, her cherished confidante, and the tender guardian of her wildest dreams and most hidden secrets. Tiffany’s strength wraps around Nataley like a warm embrace, her unwavering loyalty a glowing thread in the tapestry of their lives. Her presence radiates love and light, a beacon of warmth that makes Nataley’s world all the brighter. Nataley having Tiffany by her side feels like a gift-a bond so deep, so sweet, that gratitude barely captures the joy of having her there.
Chelsey Porter
Bridesmaid
Chelsey is Nataley's younger older sister -she’s the one who’s been there from the start, through every scraped knee, shared secret, and late-night giggle fits. She’s more than family; she’s a vital piece of the Nataley’s soul, a steady presence amid life’s shifts. She is also fiercely protective and will make sure things get DONE, she's honorary security!
Rebecca Porter
Bridesmaid
Rebecca, her bridesmaid and sister-in-law, is a woman Nataley holds in the highest regard-a guiding light and a source of endless inspiration. With grace and grit, Rebecca has carved a path that Nataley looks up to, her every step a lesson in strength and kindness. She’s woven herself into the bride’s life not just as family, but as a mentor of the heart, her wisdom and warmth sparking courage and dreams. Nataley feels lifted by Rebecca’s presence, a quiet awe mingling with love for the incredible woman she’s honored to call sister, Nataley is so happy she will be by her side while she says 'I Do'!
Coco Graham
Bridesmaid
Coco, her bridesmaid and future sister-in-law, is a cherished piece of Nataley’s story-a young soul Nataley has had the privilege of watching bloom over the years. From wide-eyed beginnings to the remarkable woman Coco has become, Nataley has seen her grow with a tender pride, marveling at the strength, spirit, and grace that now shine through. Coco is more than a soon-to-be sister; she’s a living thread of memories, a bond forged through time and love. Having Coco by Nataley’s side feels like a full-circle moment, a celebration of both her journey and the family they’re building together.
Hunter Wagner
Best Man
Hunter, the best man, is a cornerstone in Matthew’s life-a friend whose bond, forged through years of laughter, loyalty, and unshakable trust, runs deep. From the earliest days of their friendship to this very moment, Hunter has been a constant, a brother in all but name. When Matthew found his forever with Nataley, Hunter didn’t merely stand by-he stepped forward, offering unwavering support and a quiet strength that nurtured their love. As best man, Hunter stands beside Matthew not just as a witness to their union but as an integral part of their story, his steadfast friendship a cherished gift to them both. And if there’s one thing Hunter might treasure even more than this role, it’s his passion for adventure and camping-always ready to swap a plush bed for a sleeping bag, quipping that he’d pick a starry night and a campfire over civilization any day. Newly engaged to the love of his life, Lily.
Gage Weathers
Groomsman
The gentle giant of our forever friend group-quiet, steady, and the guy who’s always had everyone’s back. He’s known Nataley since middle school, but he really clicked with Matthew in high school and never looked back. The whole crew has been tight for so long it feels like we’ve all been family since the Stone Age! Now he’s newly engaged to Katie, who slipped into the group like she’d always been part of the furniture. Matt & Nat adore her almost as much as they adore Gage. Today he’s standing tall next to Matthew, suit on, probably fighting a small emotional battle he’ll never admit to.
Connor McIntire
Groomsman
Connor, one of Matthew’s groomsmen, is a kind and funny soul whose friendship with Matthew stretches back to their college days. Together, they weathered the full rollercoaster of university life; late-night study sessions, questionable decisions, and the camaraderie of shared dreams. Side by side, they also tackled the challenges of AFROTC, bonding over crisp uniforms, grueling drills, and a mutual love for all things airborne. Connor’s loyalty and humor made him a perfect companion through those years, and now he stands proudly by Matthew’s side on his big day. As for planes, Connor’s passion borders on the absurd-he’s been known to pause mid-conversation to watch a passing plane, remarking, “A fine specimen, wouldn’t you agree?”. Connor not only celebrates his friend’s marriage but also, no doubt, keeps an eye on the sky for any flyovers to mark the occasion.
Jesse Pearson
Groomsman
Jesse, a groomsman, is a rare gem in Nataley and Matthew’s world-a friend whose wisdom shines brightest with a drink in hand, dispensing tipsy truths that somehow always hit the mark. Beyond his uncanny knack for sage advice, Jesse’s humor is a gift that keeps them both laughing, his quick wit and playful spirit lighting up even the dullest days. He’s been a steadfast, funny force in their lives, turning moments into memories with his charm. Jesse stands with Matthew, a wise and hilarious ally, celebrating the love he’s watched bloom between Nataley and Matthew with a grin and, perhaps, a raised glass.
Zachary Porter
Officiant
The officiant, Nataley’s brother, steps into this sacred role with a heart as vast as his love for the couple-a guiding light who’s inspired Nataley through every chapter and welcomed Matthew with open arms, military stripes and all, into the family fold. He’s been a wellspring of wisdom, sharing insights that steady and uplift, and a warm presence whose acceptance has made Matthew feel at home from the start. With a spirit that radiates pure, unwavering love, he’s poured his truest self into supporting Nataley and Matthew’s journey. Zachary stands before them not just as a brother, but as the one who binds their vows, his deep devotion weaving their union into something eternal.