Maid of Honor
Introducing my incredible maid of honor, Rainie, brings me great happiness and pride. Our remarkable journey began in April 2011 when destiny united us as bunk mates during Army basic training. Our connection was instantaneous, and I immediately knew Rainie was my kind of person. Rainie, hailing from the charming city of Albany, OR, infused our PNW friendship with a touch of Oregonian spirit. As luck would have it, my first duty station was in Seattle, a mere hour away from my hometown and a three-hour drive from Rainie's. Countless weekends were spent crossing state lines—Rainie coming to Fort Lewis for drill or me embarking on a road trip to Oregon—to spend time with my sweet friend. Those moments were precious and filled with memories. We reveled in dancing and embracing the present. Despite the physical distance that often separates us, our bond has proven unbreakable. We consistently found ways to stay in touch and support each other through life's highs and lows—navigating growth, heartbreak, and change. Last July, Rainie bestowed upon me the honor of standing by her side as her maid of honor when she tied the knot. It was a celebration brimming with love, laughter, and shared joy. Now, as I embark on this beautiful journey to marry my soulmate, I am delighted to have Rainie once again at my side as my maid of honor. Her unwavering friendship and support hold immeasurable significance, and I am deeply grateful to have her by my side as I exchange vows and say "I do."
Best Man
Wil Hardin served in the United States Marines from 2000-2009, and after his military service he pursued a bachelor’s degree in criminal Justice at UTSA while working. Wil's desire to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu led him to explore local gyms, including RPBJJ, where he crossed paths with Tyler. Their shared passion for simulated murder instantly sparked a connection between them. With time, they discovered commonalities in their dark senses of humor and musical preferences, and dedicated numerous hours to perfecting techniques, whether breaking limbs or rendering opponents unconscious. The two of them would spend many a Friday night drilling new moves and catching up with each other after training. Wil got his brown belt in BJJ thanks to his years of commitment and discipline and has inspired many of his peers to strive to become better versions of themselves through martial arts. Tyler has described Wil as 'probably my only friend that would help me cover up a murder with no questions asked,' a sentiment presumably meant to speak more to his support and loyalty as a friend rather than his general disregard for the law. Wil brings a warmth to any room, and his friendship carries a bond stronger than one would expect from most relatives. He's known to say wildly inappropriate things in public settings and has drinking stories that have literally made guests excuse themselves from the conversation. Perhaps, he's an acquired taste, but he is a caliber of friend not often seen.