Maid of Honor
Vanessa, cousin, 4 months apart but the height always made it seem like I was 2 years younger. We go back to the simple days of finger painting, playing with waterbabies, dress-up (Vanessa a Princess or Ballerina, me an old lady, pumpkin, witch - thanks mom). Then we advanced to swim lessons, playing school (yup nerds from the start), riding bikes, and some how we jumped forward to getting married! I'm lucky to have been her maid of honor and even more lucky to have her as mine!
Best Man
The man, the legend. Met Michael the summer after college, but not by choice. I was working at this place called The Little Theater and Michael's parents offered a room to rent to the theater crew, which is where I came in. I started hanging out with him and eventually, a beautiful friendship blossomed (Samii's words, not mine). Back in a town where drinks were under $5 at the bar and pool tables were free to use... we would go out every Thursday and chat about life. Even though we are farther apart, I know he's always a person I can count on. Glad to have him by my side for our big day.
Bridesmaid
Jill, cousin. Started off she would babysit me and then skip a few years, add a few parties and how the tables have turned :). Parties aside, if I ever need a person to have a relaxing weekend with, catch up on a good movie, lay out by the pool... I know can always count on her! She has always been more than a cousin but more of a sister (a 3rd sister... the math doesn't matter here).
Groomsman
Brother. This is what makes a good brother... when Matt would come home around 2am from work, he would come by my room drop off Jack in the Box tacos. It's the simple things. And for the record, he did NOT buy me alcohol when I was in high school dad.
Bridesmaid
Kaili, one of my oldest friends. I met Kaili back in 3rd grade after I had just moved to a new school (and state - AZ). This town is small, smaller than Dave's hometown small. Everyone knew each other in the school but Kaili made it a point to include me in everything. We became instant besties. I lived in AZ until 5th grade but continued going out to visit weeks at a time in the summers through HS. Kaili always full of positive energy and just energy. She kicks my butt in running...but I love training with her when ever I get the chance!
Groomsman
Brother-in-law. Corey has been part of our family since I was in high school. One of my favorite memories is going deer hunting with Corey. Hanging out at the club house, drinking, hunting, bar hopping...really hunting was a very small portion of the whole trip. It's always an adventure with Corey.
Bridesmaid
Amelia, friend, and partner in crime. Amelia and I met in the 6th grade (just moved back from Arizona). Again new school, kids had known each other since kindergarten. Luckily, Amelia and I made fast friends and have been pretty inseparable ever since. One hobby that we've always bonded over is the joy of cooking, food in general, and entertaining. We have spent many a night at each other's house co-hosting an event! Amelia is a person I can count on to go dress shopping on a last minute whim or knows I'll help her out on a work-school project until the late hours of the night.
Groomsman
Friend. Met Curtis through Michael. Curtis would come out and party with us and we became friends. Last year I got to be part of his wedding day and happy for him to be part of mine.... But I'll never forget the time that Curtis had us guys come over to help him install a massive fish tank in his basement. Well typical Curtis, he didn't want to hire help and he had to have the biggest fish tank he could find (on sale). Well, after removing the door frame and getting it stuck in the stairs... we finally got it installed. Just a few years later, he removed it. Thanks Curtis.
Bridesmaid
Lizzie, a friend, doctor, amazing human being. So if you have been reading these in order, you may guess did she change schools again?... I met Lizzie when I changed to a new school in 7th grade (I promise I was a good student). I had the pleasure to go through high school and college (+being roommates) with Lizzie. Many long nights of studying (mainly Lizzie)...and I being the helpful friend, kept her entertained with my sleep deprived jokes and we would laugh and laugh. Lizzie is not only brilliant but she is caring and supportive. Whenever I need a person to talk through a problem, I know that Lizzie will be there with her logic and reasoning to help me through it.
Groomsman
Friend. Elvis... aka Justin but everyone prefers when Elvis comes out to party. I met Elvis through Michael and our friend Chris. A few fond memories from New Year's Eve parties in Elvis' basement to bar hopping for St. Patty's Day, to all-inclusive in Mexico, to Las Vegas.... we do like to hang out without drinks despite the above. And who can forget Elvis' cooking.... many a gourmet late night meal with this guy.
Bridesmaid
Jenny, friend, caring and genuine. Jenny is Lizzie's older sister. I really got to know Jenny in 8th grade when I was homeschooled with Lizzie at their house (for more information on my strange schooling history, feel free to call me). Jenny also went to the same HS and transferred to the college I attended. Jenny has a wonderful heart. I have been so lucky to become part of her family. I remember many a movie night, Gilmore Girls episode binge-watching, making various teas late at night... and a very fond memory of taking care of a few stray pregnant dogs that later gave me my little Olive. Jenny has always been such a joy to be around. She is strong beautiful and smart and has treated me like a sister in her family!