Wedding Party
Abby Olson
Maid of Honor
Kat and Abby first met in high school when Kat was coaching the junior high cheer team Abby was trying out for. They instantly clicked and quickly became inseparable, building a sisterhood rooted in laughter, long talks, and unconditional support. No matter where life has taken Kat or how far she's moved, Abby has always been a constant, making the distance feel a little smaller and home feel a little closer. She's the kind of best friend everyone should have and this day wouldn't be the same without her!
Jared Bell
Best Man
Jared and Alex have known each other since elementary school, but really hit it off in high school. Jared introduced Alex to water polo, and subsequently swim team, and without Jared there never would have been "Coach Nowjack." Truly one of the hardest workers there is, Jared has always excelled in social, physical, and intellectual spheres, dragging Alex (sometimes reluctantly) along with him. Jared's ability to put up with nonsense and achieve great success is unparalleled, and truly something that Alex continually aspires to achieve.
Christiana Layman
Bridesmaid
Kat and Christiana met at a kombucha bar in San Diego within the first few months of Kat moving there. Both were on the hunt for a roommate and decided to take a chance on living with a complete stranger, a decision that turned into one of the most special friendships. They ended up living together for five years before Kat decided to move to Denver, but their bond has remained just as strong. Christiana is the kind of friend who brings laughter, spontaneity, and the best hugs into your life. Fun Fact: Christiana custom made Kat’s engagement ring, making an already special moment even more personal!
Jacob Nowjack
Groomsman
Alex has known Jacob since birth. Literally. Growing up Alex and Jacob had different academic pursuits and goals, but shared in Boy Scouts, Swimming, and Water Polo. Jacob is an incredibly talented Software Engineer in Utah, and constantly inspires Alex to challenge himself intellectually .
Hanna Hoien
Bridesmaid
Kat and Hanna met while working together at the La Jolla Country Club in San Diego and instantly bonded over their shared roots in Washington state and their time at Central Washington University. What started as a casual connection quickly grew into one of Kat’s most trusted friendships. Hanna is the person Kat can always count on whether she needs honest advice, a good cry, or someone to push her out of her comfort zone. She’s the kind of friend who shows up for you, no matter what!
Joe Hatzinikolis
Groomsman
Alex met Joe at Steel Creek (this will be a theme). Joe welcomed Alex into his social circle with open arms, and has been a fantastic friend ever since - whenever a helping hand, or encouraging word was needed, Joe has always been there. To have a friend that you can always rely on is truly special, and Joe is that guy.
Bryce Gallagher
Bridesmaid
Bryce and Kat met during their sophomore year of high school through cheerleading and instantly clicked. A few years later, Kat introduced Bryce to her brother, Kevin and the rest is history! Now, not only is Bryce one of Kat’s closest friends, but also her sister-in-law! Kat can always count on Bryce for a good time, a sarcastic conversation, and uncontrollable laughter that usually ends in plenty of inside jokes. She’s the kind of friend you can always count on, whether you need a little girl time or just someone to brighten your day!
Donny Case
Groomsman
Donny and Alex met at...Steel Creek a few years back, but it wasn’t until more recently that their friendship really took off. Donny is known for lighting up the dance floor with his moves, and just as impressive, he recently became a paramedic. He’s been an incredible support to Alex as he pursues his own path to becoming a firefighter. Donny’s energy, dedication, and loyalty are unparalleled!
Kenzie Gallagher
Bridesmaid
From the very minute Patrick introduced Kenzie to the family, Kat knew she was someone special. She immediately felt like more than just family through marriage, she felt like a sister. Over time, their bond has grown stronger through lots of laugher, honest advice, and countless meaningful moments. Kenzie is someone Kat can always turn to for support, encouragement, and a fresh perspective. Watching her become such an incredible mom to Kat’s nephew's Kayden and Levi has given Kat even more reasons to look up to her!
Jack Amaya
Groomsman
Steel Creek? Steel Creek. Alex and Jack first crossed paths a few years ago, and since then Jack has proven to be one of the most genuine and supportive friends you could ask for. He’s the kind of guy who always has your back, is down to talk through anything, and does it all with a humble attitude. Jack and Alex also bond over unique hobbies that make their friendship one-of-a-kind, and Alex is grateful to have him standing by his side.
Lauren Buchberger
Bridesmaid
Lauren and Kat have been close since the day they were born, cousins by family, but truly more like sisters. They were born just a year apart, grew up side by side, and even went to the same high school. From childhood adventures to life’s big moments, the two have been there for each other through it all. Even though Lauren and Kat have lived in different states for years, they always make time for each other, whether it’s long phone calls or at least a couple hours set aside for a coffee shop catch-up whenever they’re home. Their bond is something so special to Kat, and something she will never take for granted. Fun Fact: Kat and Lauren are getting married exactly 6 months apart!
Gabe Clark
Groomsman
Gabe is one of the original Bainbridge crew. He and Alex swam and played water polo together throughout high school, building a bond that’s only grown stronger over the years. Gabe is one of the classiest people you’ll ever meet—steady, genuine, and always someone Alex can count on. If you're looking for the best foods and beverages, Gabe is your guy!
Tori Talon
Bridesmaid
Kat and Tori met in 2022 during flight attendant training and quickly realized they had more in common than just being nervous about a new career. They grew up in the same area, went to the same high school (just a few years apart), and shared a love for the outdoors. Since then, they’ve become travel buddies, hiking over 50 miles together throughout Washington and Canada including Kat’s very first trip to Banff. Now living less than a mile apart and flying together often at Alaska Airlines, Tori has become one of Kat’s most easygoing, devoted, and dependable friends, the kind of person you’re always thankful to have in your corner.
Nathan Van Aken
Groomsman
Nathan and Alex have been known each other since the early Bainbridge Island days. Ever the history buff, Nathan helped get Alex into the wonderful world of online gaming, and that has been something that has helped keep their bond strong - through high school, college, Covid, and still to this day. Always one to laugh at your jokes, Nathan is a gentleman and a scholar. And he is currently studying to become a history professor!
Malia Jensen-Noa
Bridesmaid
Malia and Kat met during their sophomore year of high school and quickly formed a lasting friendship. Their bond only grew stronger when they attended Central Washington University together and spent two years as college roommates. Now as adults, Malia and Kat live just minutes apart and often meet up for walks at Chambers Bay with her two adorable kiddos, Kinsley and Colter. Malia is one of the sweetest, most caring, and genuine friends, always by Kat’s side, even when life gets busy. Their long talks, both deep and lighthearted, keep their bond as strong as it was when they were roommates!
Todd McCarthy
Groomsman
Todd has been kicking Alex's butt in the pool since...forever. You know how some people just "get you"? Todd is that man for Alex. Always the punniest guy around, Todd is a great friend that Alex can let loose with and just be himself. Todd is low-key a fantastic dancer and also a beast on the bike!
Kayden and Levi Gallagher
Ring Bearer
Mike Brooks
Officiant