Wedding Party
Shannon Schielke
Bride
"Not gonna lie, I knew very early on that I wanted to spend the rest of my life with Shannon. I couldn't stop talking about her, couldn't get her off my mind. My friends had enough of Shannon, but I never can and never will have enough of her. She has been my best friend, my confidant and a rock that keeps me levelheaded around the clock!" -Alex
Alex Richardson
Groom
"The man I knew was the one in under six months. His humor, patience, and heart have been the steady rhythm behind some of the best days of my life. Thank you for being the best partner and the most devoted dog dad; your kindness, loyalty, and gentle strength never go unnoticed. You show up every day with love and intention, and for that (and a million other things), I’m endlessly grateful. I truly can’t imagine spending the rest of my life with anyone else. I cannot wait to grow old with you—wrinkles, gray hairs, and all." - Shannon
Sharon Babala
Aunt of the Bride
"The most selfless woman that I know. I wouldn't be who I am today without her love and influence. I am forever grateful to have such an amazing aunt in my life. She has been a constant source of strength, wisdom, and unconditional love. Her heart is a refuge, her actions a daily reminder of what it means to truly care." - Shannon
Michelle Richardson
Mother of the Groom
"The definition of warmth and generosity—beautiful inside and out, with a heart that never stops giving. She's the ultimate hostess, making everyone feel instantly at home, and she's always ready to turn any moment into a celebration. Whether she’s throwing a party, offering a shoulder to lean on, or dancing in the kitchen just because, she brings joy wherever she goes. She's our family’s spark and glue, all in one." -Alex
Michael Babala
Uncle of the Bride
"The King of Puns. The Golfer. The Skier. The Hiker. The Handyman. The man with a heart of gold. The list goes on. Uncle Mike is laid-back, silly, and ALWAYS there to lend a hand when you need him. He’s the kind of person who shows up without being asked and makes everything better just by being there. He leads by example, teaches with patience, and loves with quiet strength. I’m beyond lucky to have him in my life." - Shannon
KC Richardson
Father of the Groom
The kind of guy who keeps everyone laughing. Incredibly handsome (just ask him), he’s always ready with a joke, a tool belt, and a smile. Whether he's patching up a leaky sink or lighting up a room with his wit, he’s the heart of every gathering and the first to lend a hand—even if he may have been the one who accidentally loosened that cabinet door to begin with. -Alex
Emily Hill
Matron of Honor
"Four words to describe Emily: sunshine in human form. My best friend for 15+ years, through thick and thin, the kindest, most compassionate person that I know. It's both wild and amazing to look back and see how far we have come, both in our friendship and our individual lives. We've truly watched each other grow up. My Matron of Honor." - Shannon
Calvin Richardson
Best Man
"My older brother is delightfully dorky, unapologetically quirky, and always up for some fun (with a little convincing). We’ve shared a lifetime of unforgettable memories—some hilarious, some chaotic, and yes, even a few questionable ones we’d probably both like to forget. But through it all, he's been my built-in best friend, partner in crime, and the guy who can always make me laugh (usually at his own expense). Life wouldn’t be nearly as colorful without him." -Alex
Sydney DeFruscio
Maid of Honor
"Sydney's mom always jokes that I'm her fifth daughter, and honestly, that’s the perfect way to describe our relationship—sisters through and through. Ever since we became friends in college, something just clicked. Sydney is the one who loves with her whole heart and who always knows how to lift you up when life gets tough. We've stood by each other through the highs and lows, and there's no doubt in my mind that our bond will last a lifetime. It’s an honor to call her my Maid of Honor. Go Bearcats!" - Shannon
Olcay Sarap
Best Man
"I’ve known Olcay for over 13 years, and from the start, he’s felt more like family than anything else. We met in Highschool, laughing, venting, and making the kind of memories that last a lifetime. He’s loyal, hilarious, and always up for a good conversation or a spontaneous adventure. Through every season of life, he’s been there, and I’m lucky to call him my friend." -Alex
Sophia Richardson
Bridesmaid
"The sister I always wanted growing up, but never had, until now. From the very beginning, Sophia has been our #1 fan. She’s the one always cracking jokes, keeping things real, and reminding us not to take life too seriously. Sophia lights up any room that she's in. She’s not just my future sister-in-law, she’s family in every sense of the word, and I’m so grateful that life brought us together." - Shannon
Khalid Akhtar
Groomsman
"Khalid and I have had our fair share of ups and downs—maybe more than most—but somehow, we always find our way back to being best friends. We’ve broken things (sometimes on purpose, sometimes not), patched them up, and then probably broke them again just for good measure. Through every argument, laugh, and late-night fix-it session, there’s always been trust, loyalty, and a bond that doesn’t shake. He’s chaos and comfort all in one, and I wouldn’t trade our friendship for anything." -Alex
Emily Dzembo
Bridesmaid
"Besties since 6th grade basketball tryouts—where it all began. From the moment we met, Emily has been a constant in my life. My dad used to joke that I basically lived at the Hebert household growing up (which, let’s be honest, I pretty much did). Emily is the hardest working, most empathetic person I know. Through every awkward phase, every milestone, and every challenge, she's been by my side with unwavering support and love. I'm lucky to have Emily as a bestfriend." - Shannon
Andrew Horton
Groomsman
"Andrew isn’t just my cousin—he’s been one of my best friends since day one. Growing up, we were inseparable: from endless sleepovers to staying up way too late doing who-knows-what (and probably not telling our parents about half of it). He’s been there for every stage of life, from the wild childhood adventures to the grown-up ones we’re still figuring out. With Andrew, it’s always been laughter, love, and a bond that feels more like brotherhood." -Alex
Lara Dzembo
Bridesmaid
"From basketball to volleyball, from the halls of middle and high school to jumping around Europe and now navigating adulthood, Lara has been by my side through it all. She’s my fellow type-A bestie, the one who gets my color-coded lists, over-planned itineraries, and obsessive attention to detail, and matches it with her own. The Dbo’s have always felt like family. I’m so grateful that we get to experience our bridal eras side by side—it’s a full-circle moment I’ll always treasure. " - Shannon
Liam Mooney
Groomsman
"Liam has been in my life for as long as I can remember—more like a third brother than just a friend. When we were kids, I used to blame things on him (sorry, Liam), but my parents never bought it—probably because he was a baby... From childhood mischief to growing up side by side, he’s been a constant, steady presence. Loyal, dependable, and always just a call away, Liam’s the kind of friend who becomes family without even trying." -Alex
Hannah Newson
Bridesmaid
"My Gemini twin—born under the same stars and somehow even more alike in spirit. Hannah is the most honest, straightforward person I know, and that’s exactly what makes her such a grounding force in my life. She tells it like it is, always with love, and never sugarcoats the truth when it matters most. Fiercely protective of her family and friends, Hannah shows her love through action: always ready to stand up, speak out, and have your back no matter what. Though distance may separate us now, she’s never far from my heart." - Shannon
Jake Hill
Groomsman
"Jake might be a newer friend, but it feels like he’s been part of the crew forever. With confidence that could tame a lion and a wit that never misses, he’s the undeniable life of the party. Whether it’s a last-minute plan or a full-blown event, Jake shows up with energy, charm, and a joke ready to go. He’s the kind of person who makes everything more fun—and keeps you on your toes in the best way." -Alex
Makayla Mori
Officiant
"If it weren’t for Echo and Marley, we probably never would’ve met—and thank god we did. What started as a chance connection turned into one of the most important friendships in my life. Somehow, we grew incredibly close in what felt like no time at all. She’s the kind of friend who’s always there when you need her, no questions asked—the ride-or-die, drop-everything, show-up-in-her-sweats kind of loyal. And make no mistake, she will fight anyone for the people she loves (and win). I wouldn’t want to have matching tattoos with anyone else, and I definitely wouldn’t want anyone else standing up there marrying us. Go Leafs!" - Shannon
Christy & Craig Schielke
Mother & Father of the Bride
"I would be remiss not to mention my mom and dad. Growing up, I knew what love looked like because of them. Their love for each other was fierce, joyful, and unwavering; a true partnership that shaped how I understand devotion, resilience, and connection. They built a home filled with laughter, music, support, and so much heart. Although it will be incredibly difficult not to have them here with us physically on our wedding day, I know that they will be here in spirit. I can feel their presence in the little moments, their guidance in the choices I make, and their love woven into everything I do. My parents were the life of the party—no one loved to celebrate quite like the Schielkes. So while there may be tears, there will also be dancing, because that’s what they would’ve wanted. Let us laugh loudly, love deeply, and dance the night away in their honor, knowing they are smiling down on us with pride and joy." - Shannon
