Maid of Honor
6th grade middle school, where kids are all awkward and unsure of themselves, I found my best friend. My friendship with Jade has stood the test of time and we are still friends 13 years later. FaceTime and 2+ hour phone calls keep our friendship strong now that we are on different ends of the country. I was able to stand by Jade's side as her MOH when she got married and now I am so lucky to have her stand next to me.
Best Man
I've known Matt longest of all my friends, meeting back in preschool. His terrible memory doesn't recall. We had been friends forever but became closer throughout high school and into college. Illegally downloaded movies and trying to get Dave to say "yes" in his sleep to allow us to take the Iroc Camaro was a weekly occurrence hanging out at the Bailey household. Now our occasional face-times are just like the old times with just as much laughter and just as much sports.
Bridesmaid
Sister-in-law turned into best friend. I have to give props to my brother for marrying someone so great who truly has become my sister. Kate has been the sister I never had growing up. Throughout the years Kate has given me the love, support, and advise I always needed- but the best thing she ever did was introduce me to Allan.
Groomsman
Ben and his family have been my football family. We were on the same team from rocket football to Varsity where his dad was our coach. Ben was there the first night I met Taylor at the Winter Inn. He wasn't much help piecing together that night but he was also there at St. Patrick's day when her and I met again with both Ben and I in a much better state. Ben has always been there for a boring hangout or a night-out, I can always count on him for that.
Bridesmaid
Cori is married to Allan's brother and will become my sister-in-law or "bro" as we like to call it. She also is the mother to our adorable ring bearer, Howie. Cori is the sweetest person I know! She is so willing to offer a lending hand when needed. I am so grateful to have her standing by me on my wedding day!
Groomsman
Andy and I were never close growing up always fighting as brothers do. Like most people, as we spent more time away from each other (and grew up) we became closer. On our second date Taylor and I went out to Andy and Cori's to celebrate their birthday's. Taylor was really nervous thinking it's A LOT for a second date but I ignored the supposed date-steps. Andy always liked Taylor from the start and shows it. There is no one more inviting of us to come over and hangout than he is. Fortunately, his best feature is his little chunky son.
Bridesmaid
I met Kayla a few years ago when she started dating one of Allan's friends and groomsmen Eric Hansen. She is so bubbly and has an amazing personality. Kayla is the life of the party you will always catch her smiling. She was one of my first friends in Indiana and I am so thankful for her friendship. Kayla and Eric are our go to couple for game night, trivia, cookouts, and puppy play dates!
Groomsman
Eric and I went to high school together though we never hung out in the same group. Eric visited Central Michigan for a tailgate weekend and ended up at our apartment through Benny. From there, Eric recruited me, the big race fan I am, to Hoosier Racing Tire. After a few years at Hoosier, Eric and I now lead the development of Drag Racing and specialty tires together. Our active lifestyles and enjoyment of adult beverages finds us hanging out way beyond work.
Bridesmaid
Maeling and I met through Allan. She is dating Allan’s best man, Matt. Even though Allan and Maeling have known each other for longer Maeling likes me better! I have been lucky to become close with Maeling through the years and consider her one of my close friends! Maeling is someone you can easily talk to and always has great advise to give!
Groomsman
Pretty sure it all started because Mark had the same name as Mark Martin. Mark is the friend that you talk the most crap to because if you don't, he'll get you and that's the way we've been our entire life. When I transferred to Central Michigan, Mark and I lived together for 3 years. Even got him to watch the entire Daytona 500 one year, he was in disbelief he had. We're a distance away now but the crap talking never stops.
Flower Girl
These two little girls have our hearts. Daughters of one of my bridesmaids, Kate and brother, Matt, we have been lucky enough to watch these girls grow up. Becoming their aunt Tay has been my greatest gift. Their inquiring minds and spunky attitudes keep us on our toes. Those two can’t get enough of play time with uncle Allan. We can't wait to see these two little ones in action!
Ring Bearer
This little chunky fella loves lights, fans, and remotes. He truly is the happiest baby I know. Andy and Cori's son Howie has been a great addition to the Acker clan. A clear favorite in Grandma's eyes and she isn't afraid to let us know.
Officiant
The commissioner. Matt is among my long-time friends dating back to rec league basketball. 90% of our contact now seems to be NFL player/team analysis and reviewing draft picks with the other 10% catching up on life. One of my many friends that bond over our love for sports. We chose Matt to officiate our wedding because he has been a long time friend of Allan, and has gotten to know us as a couple over the last 4 years. This may be Matts first time as an officiant, but couldn't imagine anyone better for that role.