Wedding Party
Perla Lopez
Maid of Honor
Perla and I met back in middle school in 2007, and it didn’t take long for her to become such an important part of my life. Who would’ve thought the girls who bonded over The Twilight Saga would grow up to be more like family than friends? As young teens, we’d have sleepovers at each other’s houses, and even our parents became close. I have so many memories with her and her family that I’ll cherish forever. From the moment we became friends, Perla has always been there to listen, guide me, and support me when I needed it most, and I’m so grateful to have her in my life. Through every phase and every moment, she’s been a constant and such a special presence. It still feels unreal that I get to share this beautiful chapter of my life with the same friend I used to daydream with about my wedding day. I am so lucky to call her my amiga. -Rosa
Jasmine Quinteros
Bridesmaid
Jasmin is my cousin, but she’s always been more like the sister I’ve always wished for. From childhood adventures and trips we’ve taken together to late nights filled with inside jokes, she’s been by my side through every chapter of my life. I’ll never forget her getting me obsessed with The Backstreet Boys, one of those moments that turned into a forever memory. I’m so grateful for our bond and for every laugh, every story, and every moment we’ve shared. I thank her for always supporting me, no matter where I am in life, she always cheers me on like a true sister. I love her tons! - Rosa
Jazmin Manzo
Bridesmaid
Jazmin and I met over FaceTime while I was interviewing potential housemates at Cal State Long Beach and even though I met her later in life, our bond continues to grow since. Jazmin was actually with me the night I met Leo. She even made up a speech she planned to give at our wedding one day, after he and I had only gone on a few dates. Who would’ve thought that speech would age so well? Lol. Every time we’re together, there’s nonstop laughter, fun, and never a dull moment. She’s truly one of the most amazing people, and I’m so lucky to have her in my life. P.S. She’s the kind of friend who always has your back, even if it means fighting for your chicken nuggets. - Rosa
Ray Lopez
Groomsman
Ray and I first met at City College in 2009, and before long, our friendship extended far beyond the classroom. We bonded over concerts, trying new restaurants, nights out (Spinn Thursdays!), and countless hours spent at friends’ houses (Orphanage)—often doing absolutely nothing, which somehow became our favorite thing. Our connection grew so naturally and so strong that we’d wait for each other at the bus stop every morning on the way to school, invite one another over whenever hunger struck, or just because we wanted to spend time together. Ray has been there for me through so many of life’s ups and downs, and whether we were sharing simple conversations, diving into deep life questions, or sitting side by side in comfortable silence, his presence always brought a sense of calm into my life. That’s something I’ve always treasured about our friendship. I truly appreciate all the kindness you’ve shown me and for always being there whenever I needed a friend. -Leo
Jesus Chavez
Groomsman
Jesus and I first crossed paths at City College. I remember watching him drive around in his classic Mustang always wearing a metal band T-shirt. We didn’t really get the chance to hang out back then, but somehow after City College, life brought us back together. From that point on, everything just flowed. Happy hours turned into deep conversations, talking endlessly about cars, music, and life, and eventually even traveling together. One moment I’ll never forget is climbing Mt. Grouse in Vancouver—pushing our bodies and emptying our souls, refusing to stop until we reached the top. That climb felt like a reflection of our friendship: showing up, pushing through, and having each other’s backs. Even with you in NYC now, the distance hasn’t changed a thing. We continue to check in on each other, and to stay connected every single day. I’m grateful for you and for our friendship. -Leo
Michael Munoz
Groomsman
I first met Michael in 2011 at Cal State Long Beach when we both rushed the same fraternity. We instantly bonded over nights out and the shared struggles of college life. What started quickly grew into the kind of friendship that didn't needed a reason to get together. Michael is the ultimate hype man, the kind of person everyone deserves in their corner, and I’m lucky to have him in mine. He brings the fun wherever he goes, and together we somehow manage to make new friends everywhere because people are naturally drawn to the good times we have. That energy defines the type of friendship we have and why I'm so happy that you are a part of my life. We’ve been there for so many of life’s best moments, and I can’t wait to continue showing up for each other for many more to come. -Leo
Joe Bolanos
Groomsman
My go-to joke about how I met Joe is that it was “through Craigslist, when I replied to his ad looking for friends in Long Beach.” In reality, he was the one who responded to my ad looking for a housemate. We met for coffee, and almost immediately I knew he was the one who would be moving in. That meeting marked the beginning of a friendship that quickly turned into family. Our shared love for sports, hiking, and staying active brought us closer, but it was the countless life conversations—filled with banter, support, and encouragement—that truly solidified our bond. We showed up for each other in moments of need and in moments of laughter, and that’s something I genuinely appreciate. One of my favorite memories will always be spending quarantine together and getting creative just to keep ourselves entertained. We built a makeshift ping-pong table and paddles and spent night after night playing, fueled entirely by our competitive streaks. Round after round, neither of us wanted to quit. That memory says so much about our friendship—we’ve always found ways to build something out of nothing and create great memories along the way. Never lose that competitive edge, bro. -Leo