Rachel & Michelle
Wedding Party
Derrick Jones
Best Man
We briefly met through work many, many years ago and talked about riding motorcycles. A few years later, when we met again, I remembered that time. He did not. Since then, we've laughed and speculated. Cried and pontificated. Discussed deep issues pertaining to the world and to ourselves. Pushed each other to grow and called BS on each other when necessary. And of course, have played countless games of pool. He's still ahead, though we long ago lost sight of the actual count. I'm honored to have him stand by my side.
Denise Harris
Officiant
We met Denise and her wife Mandy through our mutual friend and realtor. Through bowling leagues, pool leagues, pride celebrations, and inspiring hors d'oeurves nights, we quickly grew to love them both. Denise is spunky, brilliant, creative, and humble. And hysterical. We've laughed to tears on many occasions. She's like a breath of fresh air with a charming dose of sarcasm -- often expressed with a wide array of facial expressions we adore. We're fortunate to call her and her wife our friends and are incredibly honored that Denise is performing our ceremony. All the love!
Darin Larsen
Bridesman
We met in a Comedy College class offered through our common workplace. I admired him from the minute I met him. Brilliant. Hilarious. Confident. We've performed in various sketch comedy groups where he wrote sketches funnier than what you see on SNL. He helped me write and be confident in performing. We've talked for hours and hours about travel, religion, politics, comedy, relationships... We've spent many New Year's together creating goals, playing games, and making sure I've washed my hands before making any foods. He's a hugely important part of my life.
Greg Wilkening
Bridesman
I met Greg through Darin. He's one of the kindest, most thoughtful, passionate humans I've ever encountered. He's funny and caring and an excellent listener. We are generally the two of the group who vote to extend our evenings out. We get into trouble sometimes. He's loyal and protective and has been there multiple times to help me pick up the pieces of my life and move forward. He's mostly on my side in battles with Darin. Sometimes he slips, but I love him anyway. It makes my heart happy to have him by my side for our wedding.
Sarah Weber
Bridesmaid
Sarah is my daughter, my friend, and my hero. She lives every moment of every day with purpose and passion. She has been the steadfast light of my life since she entered the world. I am in awe of what she gives to the world with her words, her actions, her heart, and her soul. I still have sticky notes throughout my house that she placed there years and years ago. Messages of inspiration and love and self-reflection. She combines that with humor, laughter, and joy. We've laughed until we cried more times than I can count. She's been by my side for scary, sad, happy, and joyous moments. I couldn't be more proud of the person she's become and am thrilled to have her by my side on this special day as well!
Jeannine Pacholski
Bridesmaid
Jeannine is my sister. When we were young, she was mostly my nemesis. We literally had tape down the center of the room we shared for much of our youth. We argued, battled, and ratted each other out. We fought over clothes and chores and even friends. As is the case with many siblings, we grew to respect one another's experiences and perspectives. Now, we are each other's safe place. We spill our guts, cry, complain, solve the world's problems, sing, dance, try to solve our own problems and mostly laugh. So. Much. Laughter. I can't imagine my life without her and couldn't imagine this day without her standing by my side.
Pam Shepherd
Bridesmaid
Pam and I met in the mid-90's at NCS in the Editing Dept. She was my boss and I was her plebe. We reconnected again in 2007 when I returned to the same place (then Pearson Assessments) as a project manager. Pam's vivacious personality and kind heart have endeared me to her from the day we first met. Through her, I've met some of my closest friends. I'm Blessed to have her be a part of this big day.
Cristie Belland
Bridesmaid
Ah, Seven...I've known her for nearly a quarter of a century! How can that be?!?!?? Gosh, we've had some good times!! Happy Hours at ChiChi's...drunken shenanigans...she's been there for the highs and lows, the loves and heartbreaks, the big twins and the Frankent*tties (hahahaha!!)...to the time she came to my grandfather's funeral...that meant the world to me. She's one of the most thoughtful, kind, and caring people I've had in my life...and I love her for it. So thrilled that she'll be by my side to check off this big event, too.
Bobbi Ernst
Bridesmaid
I've known Bobbi (a.k.a. Hooker) for nearly 20 years. OMG...have we raised some hell!! Honestly, I wasn't sure what to make of her when we first met...she was loud, boisterous...rather frightening...but fascinating, nonetheless. She curses like a sailor, which I LOVE...but behind all that bluster hides an innately good and generous person with a heart of gold. I love that we can act like fools and howl with laughter for hours and still be serious and have thought-provoking conversations when the moment calls for it. Her passion to help those less fortunate is one of the things I admire most about her. I'm so thrilled she's going to be by my side during this adventure. LYLT, skank! :*
Jennifer Henry-Roling
Maid of Honor
Jen is one of the most brilliant and funniest people I know. We've been through hell and back and, much to my surprise, she's one of my closest friends. I used to believe that being friends with an ex was impossible, but we've proven that it IS possible. Were it not for her, I wouldn't have grown up to be the partner that I've become for Michelle. We're thrilled that she and her wife, Kristie, will be a part of this beautiful day.