Maranda & Ethan
Very Important People
Debbie Farrell
Mother of the Bride
Debs. To know her is to love her. My mom isn’t just the Mother of the Bride — she’s my best friend, everyone's biggest supporter, and quite possibly my brain twin. We’re so alike it’s almost scary — we finish each other’s sentences, laugh at the same things, and somehow always just get each other without saying a word. As the years go on, we continue to grow closer and I truly don’t know how I would’ve made it through this season (or every season before this) without her. I really did give her and my dad a run for their money from 20-24 years of age... WHEW! Nevertheless, she loved me through it all. Her joy is infectious, her honesty is refreshing (even when it’s brutally on point), and her heart is as big as they come. Through every twist and turn of planning this day, Debs has been my calm in the chaos — listening when I needed to vent, loving me through every meltdown, and talking me down when I was wound tighter than ever before. To her, every day is the best day ever... but our wedding day truly is, and it’s all because of her unwavering support, her calming presence, and the kind of love that holds everything together. I’m endlessly proud to be her daughter, and even more grateful that she’s my mom.
Mark Farrell
Father of the Bride
Over the past couple of years, my relationship with my dad has grown in such a deep and meaningful way — in ways I didn’t see coming, but now can’t imagine my life without. What once felt like occasional conversations has turned into something rich and real: filled with honesty, laughter, understanding, and a connection I’ll always cherish. Getting to know him more fully — not just as my dad, but as a person — has been one of the most unexpected blessings of this season. He has always been a quiet constant — the kind of man who protects, provides, and shows up for his family in all the ways that matter most. His strength is steady, his wisdom is hard-earned, and his love runs deeper than words often reveal. Whether he’s offering thoughtful advice, helping behind the scenes, or just being a calming presence when I need it most, he does it all with quiet grace and a big heart. He’s also the reason I had the courage to start my small business — a leap of faith that felt wild and uncertain. Instead of doubt, he offered support. Instead of hesitation, he gave encouragement and belief. He saw something in me and stood behind it — and that means everything. I’m so thankful for the relationship we’ve built, and so proud to call him my dad.
Debbie Simcik
Mother of the Groom
You may not believe it but this quiet little lady can get pretty rowdy. Granted, I was a lot to deal with as a kid and we still get into it from time to time. But if you know my mom, then you know she is the most selfless person you'll meet. I don't know a person she wouldn't do anything for, give a gift too, or pray for. Quiet but loves loudly. And I thank you mom for the example of love and patience you've instilled into me.
Mark Simcik
Father of the Groom
It's now been 4 years since he passed. Dealing with losing him has not been easy and it's going to really hurt not having him there. I know how badly he and my mom prayed I would find someone. But I know that he would of been thrilled and truly overjoyed that I met Maranda. He would of been so happy getting to talk about coffee with her and all her endeavors and would definitely would been bragging and telling everyone about her business. Thank you Dad for raising me, doing everything you could to provide for the family, for being my coach and biggest fan, and for shaping me into the man I've become.
Rachel Adame
Matron of Honor
She started out as my boss when I worked at Liberty Coffee Haus, then I became her tenant living in her garage apartment I had always dreamed of living in, and for the last 3 years she has been a pillar of strength, a voice of reason, and one of the ones to always pull me up by my boot straps telling me to keep going. Who would have thought she would be standing next to me on my wedding day?! Rachel has seen me at my lowest of lows and highest of highs. I would without a doubt not be the same person I am today if it was not for her and her wisdom, heart, and love of people.
Alayna Speck
Matron of Honor
The ultimate built in best friend and sounding board! Alayna is my older sister and though we have been through plenty of tiffs and altercations (as sisters do), Layn has been steadfast in supporting, loving, and encouraging from both near and far. To be honest, we both didn't think this day would ever come, but God had other plans! If you know us, you know our personalities are pretty polar opposite, but we never fail to lean into each other for just about anything and I wouldn't have it any other way. We don't always agree with each other, but there is just nothing quite like having a sibling to go through life with in each and every season. I am over the moon that she gets to stand next to me as I become a whole WIFE!
Aaron Simcik
Best Man
My brother. People always ask if we fought a lot as siblings growing up (as most siblings do). I’d say I did my duty as the younger brother to be annoying but due to our age gap and his patience he helped make my childhood and upbringing very easy. He was and continues to be a great leader, cares for others and has so much patience. He’s been a great role model for me and I’m honored and thankful he’ll be apart of my special day.
Landry Rose
Best Man
Some of the best memories with this guy. From making music videos as kids to playing in a heavy metal band and traveling the world (south Texas). From growing up watching our brothers play basketball to becoming better athletes than them. Landry has always been a great friend and an upstanding man. Knows how to uplift and loves to connect others with Jesus. Thankful that he's been apart of my life and I look forward to continue growing up together.
Cheryl
Honorary Bridesmaid
Cheryl, a fiercely independent feline with a regal air, holds the esteemed title of Honorary Bridesmaid at Maranda + Ethan's wedding. While she won’t be gracing the event with her presence (people are the worst), her spirit will be felt in every cat-hair-covered detail. A lover of sunbeams, judgmental stares, and ignoring affection until it suits her, Cheryl has blessed the couple with her approval—provided they maintain her feeding schedule. Though she won’t be walking down the aisle, her influence reigns supreme, ensuring the wedding remains purrfectly sophisticated… and ever so slightly aloof.
Milo
Honorary Groomsman
The sweetest brown dog you'll ever meet. Shy and full of separation anxiety, but once he gets to know with you, he'll give you kisses and show you high he can jump. Due to the venue, amount of people showing up and his anxiety, he will not be attending but wants everyone to be sure they have a few treats and enjoys themselves.
Stephen Gonzales
Officiant
Ethan's Perspective: The best looking person (in his mind) in my life. I had the privilege of meeting Stephen (and Tarah) at a time when I needed guidance and a mentor in my life. They helped me through my grief, my walk with Christ, and my call to worship. They gave me opportunities when I didn't really deserve any and saw the potential and call on my life. I am forever grateful of the time that I had with Journey Church and all its ups and downs. Grateful that Stephen and I got to work together closely for 4 years and ultimately led me to reconnecting with Maranda. I will not give him credit for us getting together even though I know he'll want it now* Maranda's Perspective: Stephen and Tarah came into my life at just the perfect time. I was a heathen and thought I had it all figured out. Little did I know, that they, along with Ethan, were just what I needed to be reintroduced to Christ. Tarah specifically has had a hand in who I am today, even just 2 years later. No matter what time of night it was, what questions I had, or what affirmation I needed, she was always there to answer with depth, clarity, and brutal honesty. Exactly what I needed. Stephen and Tarah have had such a hand in the union of Ethan and I, the growth of us as individuals and as a couple. We are proud and forever grateful to have them as friends, as well as Godly mentors/role models to look up to and lean into as we venture into this next chapter of our lives.