Rachael & James
Wedding Party
Rebecca Parks
Maid of Honor
As Rachael's twin sister I expected to be the maid of honor for her wedding, however what I didn't expect was how many speeches and excerpts she would make me write. We've been with each other during every major life event and this wedding will be no different. My favorite thing about Rachael and Jimmy is that even though they're always busy with school, work, and extra-curriculars, they still make time for family. My hope for them is that they maintain that lifestyle even when they're in another state. I've seen their relationship change and grow from the beginning of Sophomore year, and I don't think I've ever seen a relationship evolve so much. If any two people can handle a move across states, new careers, and a new last name, I think it's the two of them.
Spencer Schultz
Best Man
Jimmy and I have know each other for 18 years. When we were younger we looked so much a like people thought we were brothers.. all these years later we are. Many years our friendship revolved around soccer, from munchkins through high school we were on the same team. Then came the dreadful day he left me for Kent. One day he tells me he met a girl in ROTC he really wanted me to meet. I was down the following weekend and met them outside the building I was staying at and there she was the best friend stealer herself.. Rachael. All jokes aside we sat outside on a cold night for 45 mins and all talked. I didn’t know it from that moment.. but every moment after I have seen what an amazing woman she is and how great these two will be!
Jessica Hategan
Matron of Honor
I'm Jessica, Rachael's 2nd oldest sister. Although we are 8 years apart in age, it never feels like a huge gap! I've always known Rachael to be brave and strong in her convictions. Getting to know James, I've seen how he shares those same attributes and how they bring out the amazing parts of eachother. I can't wait to see what great things they accomplish as they start this new adventure together!
Caleb Malcolm
Groomsman
Ever since I knew Jimmy he has been calm, cool & collected. That is... until he met Rachael. He naturally took a father figure role in my life. I remember the first time he had a disagreement with Rachael. I could see how he cared for her. It was making him anxious & hopeful to see how they would fix the situation. If you know Jimmy you’ll know that being anxious isn’t really one of his main characteristics. He called me because he needed to talk through the situation. The way he talked about her in that moment, showed me how much she meant to him. Since that point on things just started to click for them! I would watch their relationship grow in such healthy ways. I think Rachael is the perfect amount of uncertainty to keep Jimmy on his toes as they embrace this awesome journey together.
Katherine Buttriss
Bridesmaid
Growing up with Rachael, she always felt a lot more like a little sister to me than a cousin. The early years that consisted of playing house, dress up and making up dances has turned into our infamous “Cousins Nights” that are now held in our own homes where we still enjoy makeovers and dancing! My advice to you both as you dive into this new chapter of marriage and military lifestyle is to LIVE IN THE MOMENT. The military will take you to places you would’ve never imagined living which is such a great experience for newlyweds. You learn to truly lean on each other and grow together. Take adventures and explore the places you will go, Ohio will always be waiting and so will I! I love you so much Rach! Welcome to the family Jimmy-if you can keep up with us Parks girls, your a keeper!
Daniel Proffitt
Groomsman
Jimmy moved to Brook Park when we were in first grade. From that point on Jimmy and I have been best friends. I am grateful to have have him in my life and I am proud of the man he has become and the obstacles he has overcame. I met Rachael for the first time over breakfast at Bob Evans. I knew right then and there that she was the perfect match for Jimmy and I’ve never seen him so happy. I wish you both the best on your new your adventure!!
Leah Gilbert
Bridesmaid
Growing up with 8 children in one household means sharing EVERYTHING. Sharing toys, opinions, laughs, and tears. Rachael and I have been lucky to share most of our lives together as not only cousins but friends. Fun fact: You can't spell Rachael without Leah!
Justin Nascembeni
Groomsman
Well, I’d like to say I have a special bond with Jimmy. We both have our different interests but it never stopped us from getting along and spending time with each other. I always loved doing activities/different sports with Jimmy even though I wasn’t the best. Jimmy helped me through high school and really taught me a lot about real world things. He also helped me get a couple different jobs with him that I really enjoyed because I got to work with him. I have had a really good impression of Jimmy and Rachael’s relationship. They seem to have something really perfect and I love that they are going to be married it’s really awesome and I’m proud of everything they have done to get to where they are now!! Love you both!
Kimberly Parks
Bridesmaid
Rachael is my little sister who has grown into this beautiful young women who has proved that if you set your mind to it, you can achieve anything. I hope that both her and Jimmy embark on this new adventure called marriage continuing to do what they already are great at; keeping their faith and continuing to bring out the best within each other. I love you both and wish you a long happy and healthy marriage!
Joseph Roy
Groomsman
When Jimmy first introduced me to Rachael I thought she seemed nice and kind of timid. When I learned more about her honestly I was a little surprised and confused about how the two of them ended up in a relationship because they seemed to have some different views. Next thing I knew Jimmy was baptizing Rachael in a lake with their church group. Followed by a 5 hour long family Monopoly game during Christmas time. Jimmy is my oldest brother and he’s always kind of seemed older than his age, he has always directed our siblings in the right way. I appreciate his heart and efforts. I’m so glad God brought him a life partner that gets him and loves him, & compliments who he is as a person and I hope Jimmy and Rachael will continue to nurture each other and build each other up.