Robert and Maria
Wedding Party
Chris Lee
Best Man
Chris is the groom's younger (and possibly smarter) brother. Don't be fooled by his charming smile, this guy is the biggest gangster in the Lee family. Due to the age gap, Robert has been absent for a portion of his childhood. Throughout the past few years, they have been relighting their relationship on the weekends where the could travel to see each other. Even more so this year, as Chris begins his studies at the U of M.
Synia Vang
Maid of Honor
Synia and Maria have been friends since middle school. She was the only person who could make Maria seem like a bad student in class for talking too much. Hint, Maria never spoke much before that. This habit would then make teachers separate them when they had classes together. This act of discipline never hindered their friendship as they always found ways to bond through their love for food, anime, and video games. Though time has passed, and priorities have changed, their close friendship has never waned.
Todd Nordell
Groomsman
Robert's mother once asked Todd's mother for childcare advice when they were toddlers, leading them to meet and forming their friendship. From the childhood sleepovers and Cub Scouts to late night, bonfires at the Nordell residence, Todd always seems like he'll be around for us.
Dalena Tran
Bridesmaid
Dalena is Maria's cousin. While most of their extended family lived in California, they both happen to be the "out of state" cousins. Dalena is from Connecticut while Maria resided in Minnesota. Additionally, they have a mutual understanding regarding the pains and gains of working in the healthcare field! Despite seldom reunions, Maria always felt welcomed by Dalena's presence. Her quiet demeanor, honesty, and sweet nature could disarm anyone.
Eric Erstad
Groomsman
Even though Eric lives out of state, they always find time to meet up every year to enjoy the things we're passionate about. He's is the type of person pushes you a little bit further. Sometimes, he'll call you out if you're wrong. Of course, it's with good intentions. People like this don't come by often; but you hold on to them when they do.
Jaide Nguyen
Bridesmaid
Maria met Jaide when she was just 5 years old. Yes, 5 years old and an immigrant from Vietnam. Maria could not have imagined that a five year old would become a close friend/relative to her at some point in time. Jaide has become one of the most level headed, and down to earth women Maria has known. Time and time again, Jaide has shown how much she has grown through her actions and words. Maria could always count on Jaide to be present with her through the thick and thin.
Eric Hamman
Groomsman
Eric is one of Robert's earliest childhood friends. They met at We Care Day Care Center back in their home town and have nearly 30 years of history. From street skating sessions to shredding the mountain pow, Eric has been there to turn life up to 11. Truly one of the raddest dudes alive!
Jessica Yang
Bridesmaid
Jessica and Maria have also known each other since middle school, but became closer as they got older. Maria was always inspired by Jessica's art and has thrived to become just as good when it came to illustrating anime. There was always an unspoken commonality between the two, they are both introverts. Conversations were never just small talk, but in depth thoughts reserved for close friends. It has always felt as if Maria has known Jessica forever.
Jordan Willemssen
Groomsman
Jordan was one of Robert's roommates and best friend through college. The time spent ranged from Taco Bell runs at the student union and late night grinds on World of Warcraft. Of which, has now evolved into the shared love of enjoying craft breweries and weekend camping trips in the great outdoors.
Mai Kou Xiong
Bridesmaid
Mai Kou Xiong and Maria also met in middle school. They shared many classes together, including ESL (English as a Second Language). Maria wasn't sure if ESL actually helped her English, but she chose to stay for her friends. Mai Kou always had a way of making everything seem less tense, including the test days they had in science classes. Even if she didn't know it, Mai Kou always made her day.