Bridesmaid
Michelle and I met through our mutual love of Alaska’s lands, waters, and ways of life, serving as board members of the Alaska Conservation Foundation. But it was salmon that brought us closer together and forged our friendship. I’m grateful for my fishy friend and excited to celebrate and honor Michelle and Joe on their wedding day.
Matron of Honor
My name is Tobi and I have known Michelle since birth, she is my udla (older sister). Michelle practically raised me so to say we're close is an understatement. We've always called ourselves "twins, 10 years apart". We talk every day whether it's me bugging her on the phone or just sending funny texts to each other, she's the person I look up to the most and owe so much for everything she's done in my life. I'm incredibly happy that she has found the person she wants to spend the rest of her life with and are raising their beautiful family together. I'm honored to be able to help plan Michelle and Joe's wedding and proud to be a Matron of Honor.
Maid of Honor
Yagheli du! My name is Beth Hill and I live in Kokhanok. Michelle has been one of my closest friends and mentors for around 13 years. Together we have hiked, harvested, worked and have done a lot of exploring (sometimes in the pitch black) having a lot of laughs along the way. I have learned so much from her and am truly honored and excited to be a part of this ceremony.
Maid of Honor
Bridesmaid
I have known Michelle for forever! While living next to her in a remote fish camp named Tommy Point, she and I became best friends at 5 years old! Michelle and her brother were the only children I was able to play with in our remote area. In high school, in various events, we reconnected and it was like not a minute went by. Fast forward, life happened and we again met back up. Now I have the honor and blessing of being her Bridesmaid. What a beautiful couple and family, we are so happy for you all!
Bridesmaid
Waqaa // Yagheli Du! Michelle and I grew up as “neighbors” on Lake Iliamna, but didn’t get to know each other well until traveling together leading cultural activities throughout the region for the past six years. We are currently co-directing a program to revitalize Lake Iliamna Dena’ina and Yup’ik languages, and Joe has been a solid anchor in supporting all of her endeavors. It is a true honor to stand beside Michelle for any event, but especially as a bridesmaid for her matrimonial ceremony. “Anything for Michelle!”
Bridesmaid
Waqaa! My name is Christina and I've known Michelle for a very long time. It was after we ended up on the Lake and Pen Borough Assembly together that I really got to know her. Long flights, fun nights, and always one to keep me thinking and guiding me in the right direction, Michelle is my go-to friend for life advice. What an honor and joy to be here with her and Joe today.
Bridesmaid
Best Man
I have known Joe his whole life, and am proud to call him my brother. Although, during the first few years of his life I wasn't as fond of having a younger brother as I am today. When Joe was little, I attempted to sell him! I'm not sure what the market value was, but I must have asked for too much and didn't make the sale. It was a good thing I didn't get any offers, because I would have missed out on the many memories we had growing up. I have always admired Joe for his adventurous nature and passion for the outdoors. We have spent a lot of time together, hunting and fishing in the Idaho mountains, and I am so glad I had the opportunity to share these experiences and adventures with him! I am extremely happy for the life and the family that he and Michelle have built, and wish them the very best.
Best Man
Best Man
The year was 2001 and I was a fulltime college student that just landed a job at a local outdoor store in Boise, Idaho. From my very first day at work, I heard rumors of an employee that was coming back the following week after a season in Alaska. I was so excited to meet this legend, and so glad we did! Since that first day in 2001, Joe has been the best friend anyone could ever wish to have, and I feel so fortunate to call him my friend! Thank you for all of the epic adventures over the years, and congratulations on your finest adventure yet!
Best Man
Best Man
I first met Joe working for him at the lodge. There was an instant connection, and it felt like I’ve known him my whole life. We’ve experienced so many amazing moments over the years and can’t wait for more awesome days and summers together. He is one of the most honorable, caring, selfless and hardest working guys I’ve ever met. He puts everyone before himself and doesn’t blink an eye doing it; it’s nothing short of inspirational. Joe and Michelle are incredible, they have accepted me with open arms and treated me like family. I’m truly honored to be a part of such a magical and memorable moment in their lives, and wish nothing but the best in the future for them and their family!
Best Man
Best Man
Congratulations are definitely in order for Joe, Michelle, and their girls! Joe and I met while my wife, Ashlee, and I were dating. Ashlee and Joe became friends in high school and crossed paths again years later when we all lived in Star. As soon as we met, Joe and I were fast friends! I felt like I’d known him forever, and over the years he’s become one of my closest friends. I've been lucky enough to visit the lodge four times for “work” trips (with some fishing thrown in…), and many, many hours were spent talking, telling stories, and “problem-solving.” Joe does everything with his whole heart, and his relationship with Michelle is no exception. I can’t wait to celebrate their marriage and the family they’ve been blessed with!
Officiant
Mother of the Groom
I have the privilege of being Joe's mom. All of his life he has never ceased to amaze me. His passion for his family, friends and the great outdoors is evident in all he does. I am proud of the person he has become and love the family he and Michelle have made. I am so happy and blessed to be able to share this wonderful day with family and friends!
Mother of the Bride
Jr. Bridesmaid
Jr. Bridesmaid
Jr. Bridesmaid