T & J
Wedding Party
Kelly Craze
Matron of Honor
Kelly was the first friend I ever had. We grew up together on the same block, and I spent nearly every day following her around like an overly attached little sister. As the years went by, our distance grew further, but no matter how far, I knew that she'd always be there whenever I needed. It's rare to be able to say that the person you asked to be your Maid of Honor at age 7, will be said person. She taught me about life, how to stand up for myself, and most importantly, never be afraid to be the person you are. She's unique and beautiful, and I'm lucky enough to have been shaped in some way by her.
Donovan Balderama
Best Man
I first met Don in second grade. My most vivid memory of our first encounter was sitting in a tribes circle whilst reading from a textbook with partners. I overheard a commotion from the other side of the circle and looked up to the sight of Don digging his nose and planting snot in he and his partner's book. Needless to say, his partner did not see the humor in that. Ever since, we have spent many days over at each other's houses. We know the intricacies of each other's families and lives. He is the brother I never had. He is my brother.
Kristina Runyeon
Bridesmaid
Kristina and I met in Pre-K at Alvernia Montessori School. Though we went on to different schools, and lived far apart, we maintained a strong friendship throughout the years. She was always there to talk, and most of our relationship is sitting on her couch pouring our hearts out to each other. Along with her friendship, I gained a 2nd mother; her mother Alicia. The two of them have been strong pillars of my life, especially during the most unstable of times. I love them as my family, and thank them for the years of undying support without judgement.
Ian Brodo
Groomsman
Don had introduced me to Ian right after high school. He is most certainly a unique individual. There have been many nights where Ian, Don, and I would get into trouble. Late night drinking, going to the beach, walking around Waikiki and the sort. What is interesting to note, is despite how much we have changed, Ian is the most genuine and true-to-self person I have ever met, and because of that, I hold the highest value to our friendship.
Jackie Flinn
Bridesmaid
I first met Jackie in 1st grade at Sacred Heart. Both of us were in a way outcast from the rest of our grade, and often made fun of. Through that we had each other. We had sleepovers, and I'd often take trips with her and her parents. My mother didn't have the means for us to travel, but you welcomed me into your family and shared those memories with me. (Thank you Mr. and Mrs. Klemens!) She was my best friend from 1st to 8th grade until we continued on to different high schools. I don't know what I would have done in those 8 years if she wasn't there. Kids can be cruel, even more so when you're alone. No matter where life takes us, I know that I'll always have her back, and she'll have mine.
Spencer Im
Groomsman
During my undergraduate years, Spencer had been one of my closest confidants. We both were in the Air Force ROTC program and had fostered a strong bond together. Spencer had always been down for what ever adventures were presented to him, and usually goes out of his way for his friends. Out of all the people I have met in this lifetime, Spencer has been the closest to what someone would call a true friend.
Danielle Trunk
Bridesmaid
Quality over quantity is probably the best definition of my friendship with Danielle. It was in 11th grade, when I decided to attend a youth group another friend of mine had mentioned to me, where I met Danielle. Her personality was so positive and welcoming that I continued to attend youth group a few more times. We kept in touch, and although we haven't connected much in person, she's still my number one supporter. From the struggles, to the accomplishments, she's there cheering me on every time. I could only hope that everyone would be as fortunate as me, to have a Danielle in their life.
Sang Hyun Mun
Groomsman
I've known Sang through high school. However, he was an underclassmen compared to me, and thus, didn't really hang out with our group. However, it was after high school where things really took off for Sang. He is one of the most driven and ambitious people I know. He is incredibly successful and mature for his age, and in most regards, I look up to him in how far he's gone in the many facets of his life.
Marigold Alvarez Susan Gambler
Flower Girl
The guest of honor: Our Beautiful Heaven-Sent Angel of a Daughter! Marigold came into our lives February 2015, at 3 months of age. By this time we were her 3rd owners. Due to this, she suffered from anxiety and was quite the handful in the beginning. To this day, she never leaves our sides. In January 2017 Marigold was diagnosed with liver disease, and only given a few months. Over 2 years later, she's here, and with more energy than ever! We feel that her love and happiness with us is what has kept her going this far; that's why we couldn't not have her by our sides on this important day: to watch Mom and Dad finally get married!