Anna & Sam
"I Do" Crew
Alex Reid
Best Mate & Wee Man
Younger brother to the groom, Alex keeps you on your toes. He’s traveling nearly 4000 miles to join this happy occasion. Alex was one of the first people in the UK to sign off on Anna—and he’s been like a brother to her ever since. From watching his Bautista bombs in the pool to being named god-parents—this happy couple is excited to have Alex standing by Sam’s side.
Ellen Chodzko
Getaway Driver
Ellen and Anna met their first year of university—but this is a bond forged over 20 years! Ellen will be the first to tell you that "Anna didn't like me"...literally. (Look, this was a case of mistaken identity. Anna was convinced that Ellen and her freshmen roommate were basically the same person.) It was after Ellen spent a semester abroad in Spain, these two started their own (mis)adventures from Champaign to Chicago. Multiple jobs, relationships and moves--but they're still standing, stronger than ever. Often mistaken for sisters because of their bond, these two feel like they've "grown up together" as adults.
Dipal Pater
Master Planner
From Anna's boss to bestie, this friendship is almost 15 years old. (We won't tell you what year they met.) They've been on many adventures, endured work drama together, and shared a million laughs. Dipal has been there to give career advice, set Anna up to win, introduced her to red wines--but most importantly--she's been a steadfast friend. When Anna moved back from ATL and didn't have her furniture (or hot water)--she stayed with the Paters. The Paters, are in fact, the family you choose. Dipal is the kind of bestie you make your Emergency Contact, call when you're upset and definitely when you need a laugh. If Sam hadn't come into the picture, Anna probably would have made Dipal her emergency contact.
Tasia Katzenbach
Provisioner
Tasia and Anna met over a decade ago at a women's bible study table. Sometimes you meet another woman in life--and you very awkwardly ask to be friends like you're in middle school all over again. That's how Anna remembers it after their table group went to Baker's Square one night. (Did we just date ourselves? Is Baker's Square around?) From 30th Birthday party, to going away to celebrating anniversaries, dog-sitting, holidays, Super Bowls and to kids' sporting events to meals after church. They've had late night chats, tear shedding and laughs. Most importantly, Tasia is someone Anna can turn to for sound biblical advice and perspective. From low valleys to mountain top moments--these two have been through quite a bit--which is why Anna is honored to have Tasia with her on this day.
Mary Anne Ryan
Weapons Master
Mary Anne and "Banana" met through a mutual friend, but made the plunge to roommates after meeting at a Starbucks. Little did they know they would become best friends. They lived together a little over a year (like a decade ago) and that time cemented a friendship. Faith talks, catching cicadas, and meal prep made Mary Anne one of the best roommates Anna's ever had (sorry Sam). Anna learned a lot from Mary Anne in terms of throwing together a quick meal without a recipe, that you don't have to be overly worried about cooking salmon if you eat sushi and most importantly, how to be a good housemate. From heartbreaks to tears to navigating their late 20s, Mary Anne is someone Anna knows will be in her life for many decades to come. She’s been there to offer advice, laugh and cry.
Isla
Flower Girl
Isla, wee bairn of Jonathan, is Anna's niece. This young lady is full of giggles and light, but is also the recipient of numerous post cards sent from Anna's travels. She loves ballerinas, twirls and ball pits.
Lilyanna & Abigail
Jr. Bridesmaid & Flower Girl
Lilyanna was the first person to ever call Anna “auntie.” Anna basically held her on the day she was born, played store with her and put together puzzles. Auntie Anna has been there for birthdays, dance competitions & recitals, and even First Communion. So Anna is thrilled to have Lily be a part of this special day. Abi, lover of Disney Princesses, would be sorely missed if she didn’t get to walk down the aisle looking like a princess herself! We are so excited to see this dancing diva cut shapes on the dance floor!