Maria & Ryan

Wedding Party

Meet the crew! This is the group that’s been with us through the laughs, the late nights, and everything in between. They’re the reason our lives are so full of joy—and they’ll definitely be the life of the party on the dance floor!

Jenna Hildebrandt

Maid of Honor

As Maria’s older sister, Jenna has been one of the most important people in her life—a built-in best friend, trusted confidante, and constant source of love and support. From spending countless hours playing Barbies together, to sharing a room for nearly two decades, to patiently teaching Maria how to drive a minivan in high school, Jenna has been by her side through every chapter and milestone. Some of Maria’s most cherished memories include Jenna, and she cannot imagine reaching this day without her. Maria is incredibly grateful for their unbreakable bond and is beyond honored to have Jenna standing beside her on one of the most meaningful days of her life.

Erica Hildebrandt

Maid of Honor

Erica is Maria’s little sister, her mini-me, and one of her very best friends. Maria still remembers the excitement she felt when her parents came home and told her, “Looks like you need to save the dolls,” because she was getting another sister. From the moment Erica entered the world, Maria knew her life would never be the same. What began as the joy of gaining a little sister quickly grew into a lifelong friendship filled with love, laughter, and countless memories. Maria is so grateful for the special bond they share and couldn’t imagine celebrating this day without Erica by her side.

Annya Wingate

Bridesmaid

Maria and Annya’s friendship began when they were just four years old in a dance class, and they have been inseparable ever since. Through middle school, high school, and even attending colleges less than ten minutes apart, their friendship continued to grow stronger with each passing year. After college, they became roommates, creating even more memories together. Having witnessed so many chapters of Maria’s life, Annya remembers the moment Maria met Ryan and knew there was something special about him. From the very beginning, this relationship felt different, and she couldn’t be happier to stand by Maria’s side as she marries the love of her life.

Hailey Thom

Bridesmaid

Maria and Hailey first met in a college chemistry class, but their friendship truly began to grow when the pandemic turned college life upside down. What started as frantic back-and-forth texts about assignments and online classes quickly blossomed into a lasting friendship. Throughout college, their shared major, similar sense of humor, and countless hours spent together made them inseparable. As the years passed, their bond only grew stronger, and what began as a friendship formed in the classroom became a lifelong connection that continued well beyond graduation.

Betsy Matuska

Bridesmaid

Maria and Betsy first met during their freshman year at Bethel while performing together in a play for a humanities class. What started as a shared class quickly grew into a meaningful friendship built on their similar sense of humor, love of mac and cheese, and experience as biology majors navigating college life together. Throughout their time at Bethel, their friendship continued to deepen, creating countless memories along the way. Maria introduced Betsy to her now-husband, Nick—a reminder that sometimes the most important relationships begin in the most unexpected places. Who would have thought that one introductory class would lead to not just one lifelong friendship, but two lasting love stories?

Carolyn McFarland

Bridesmaid

Maria and Carolyn’s friendship began through their mutual friend Annya and quickly grew into something special. With a shared love of Taylor Swift and Harry Styles, the two instantly connected and became fast friends. In fact, one of the very first things Maria told Carolyn when they met was about a boy named Ryan—and the rest is history. After living together for a year and a half, Carolyn had a front-row seat to Maria and Ryan’s relationship, witnessing both the everyday moments and the milestones that shaped their journey. Maria is so grateful for Carolyn’s friendship and support and is thrilled to have her by her side on such a meaningful day.

Kelly Bier

Bridesmaid

Kelly is the wife of Maria's brother, Derick, and she officially joined the family two years ago. Maria has been grateful for her humor, support, and countless memories ever since. Whether she's offering helpful advice, making everyone laugh, or spending time with the family, Kelly always brings warmth and joy to every occasion. Adding to their special bond, Moose (Kelly's dog) and Riggs (Maria's dog) are best friends, creating even more shared memories along the way. Maria is so thankful to have Kelly standing by her side on this special day.

Eleanor

Flower Girl

Eleanor is no stranger to sprinkling petals and bringing smiles down the aisle—she's already been a flower girl before! Maria has had the joy of knowing her for years and even spent time as her nanny, making their bond especially meaningful. Eleanor loves all things pink, glittery, and sparkly, and she brings that same bright sparkle wherever she goes. Whether she's dreaming up her next adventure or lighting up a room with her enthusiasm, she fills every moment with joy. We are so excited to have her help lead the way on this special day!

Lincoln

Ring Bearer

Lincoln holds a very special place in the Maria's heart! During college, she spent many summers and school years nannying him. The two shared countless adventures, laughs, and memories that created a bond lasting far beyond those days. Maria loves Lincoln like a little brother and has cherished watching him grow over the years. She is so excited to have him by her side on this special day and can't wait to see him help carry the rings down the aisle!