Wedding Party
David Smolinski
Best Man
“Lives with Matt. Has known Matt since pre-day one.”
Callie Miller
Matron of Honor
Callie and Monse have been best friends for over a decade! They first met while both serving as university chaplains — Monse at UNAM in Mexico City and Callie at the University of Pittsburgh — and instantly recognized each other as kindred spirits. As dinner-crashers, dancing partners, laughing (and sometimes weeping) companions, and sisters made by grace, their friendship grew quickly and deeply. They’ve had more adventures than they can count, but a few favorites include spending two unforgettable weeks road-tripping across the U.S. and visiting national parks when Monse moved from seminary in California to Michigan, and traveling together to Mexico City in 2023 where Callie fell in love with Monse’s beautiful family. Other treasured memories are hot springs visits, traveling to watch the solar eclipse together, and having Monse’s sister Ame in the U.S. for the first time and exploring Northern Michigan together, complete with autumn leaves, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and endless laughter. One of many things Callie loves about Monse is she’s always expanding the circle of fun and friends, and it makes everything better. She can’t wait to hang with or meet all of you, too! After many years of praying with Monse for the right partner, Callie couldn’t be happier to celebrate her marriage to Matt.
Sean Connors
Groomsman
We met my sophomore (Matt’s junior) year of high school in the hallway next to the gym locker rooms before erg practice. Two bean poles and a ginger come strolling up and Matt (being the talkative one of the three) starts chatting away with us. “What's one of your favorite memories of your friendship?” Wilcox would host poker nights in his basement during high school at which, Matt and Dave would team up against the rest of the table. Many hours later, they would come out the winners more often than not. It being low stakes, we all just enjoyed hanging out and burning time.
Amethyst Santiago
Bridesmaid
Hi, I'm Amethyst. I live in Mexico City. Monse knew me first, because I'm her little sister. I'm so proud of her, because she's a woman that taught me how to deeply love our Lord and I'm so grateful for her and Matt, the blessing of our Lord will follow them the rest of their lives.
Justin Berger
Groomsman
Justin “favorite cousin - sometimes even better than Dave” Berger. Grew up in Cali/PA, and has been residing in the Chicago area since college. “Favorite memory of our friendship?” Too many to count… catching critters, getting muddy and yelled at, dressing as cows, spoons at Thanksgiving, adventures in Cabo, 30 hours weekend calls to coordinate games from afar, or ever time we play volleyball or now when he and his better half come visit Chicago!
Maria O’Connell
Bridesmaid
Hi! My name is Maria. I first met Monse in Grand Rapids where she (and her family) picked her up to drive back to Ann Arbor for Monse’s first visit. Fluent in Spanish, with a deep understanding of Mexican culture, and sharing many mutual connections from back home, we immediately connected. I have been so blessed to be witness to the amazing story that has unfolded for Monse and Matt. God is so good. Not only did he bring the perfect woman to RUF Michigan (Monse) but THEN he orchestrated the most unbelievable love story! I’m so excited to celebrate their union!
Jeff Wilcox
Groomsman
Jeff has been friends with the groom since 4th grade, sharing decades of memories and mischief. He enjoys 3d printing, hiking, and pickleball. He currently lives in Lake Mary, FL with his partner, Justin.
Sofia Mosqueda
Bridesmaid
Sofía is a Mexico City-San Luis transplant to Michigan. We met in grad school in 2013 and shared an infinite amount of fun, dread and sleepless nights, but most importantly support and care. She loves and cherishes Monse’s genuineness and devotion to the people she loves.
