Best Man
Michael met Gerald in church as kids where they were often paired together for group activities. Their time here was short lived but thankfully they randomly ran into each other during a middle school flag football game many years later. This was in the middle of the field, on opposing team, and without the slightest of clues they were going to re-connect with their long lost friend. It was straight out of a movie, trust me you had to be there. Since that day, they have shared many milestones together and Gerald has always been a brother to Michael. In high school, Gerald used to drive out of his way to pick Michael up just to make sure he was able to go all the hangouts/trips. When things were rough, Gerald was always there and supporting in any was he could. Things like this make it obvious as to why people call him, G-Love, or why Michael chooses to call him his best man.
Maid of Honor
Best Man
Michael met Alan during his first week at UCLA during a very sacred college tradition, beer pong! That night Michael was laughed at by the entire party for wanting to change before heading out to Bruin Bash. Alan volunteered to walk back to the dorms and from then on Michael knew he was a homie. The two eventually became roomies at the best apartment ever, Thugz Mansion! You know how you meet someone sometimes and immediately there's just something about them that just clicks with you, that's Alan. They would spend a lot time together studying, working at the library together, and playing basketball/badminton. Both Alan and his now wife, Stephanie, were there from the beginning of relationship. Even after college, the four of them would go on many adventures together. Alan was there when Michael first admitted to having a crush on Christine and was there when he decided to propose. Now Alan will be there as he say I do as Michael's best man.
Maid of Honor
Groomsman
When Michael was younger, his older cousins would always bully him, but Dany was one of the ones who secretly let him hang out. As kids, Dany used to sell Playstation cheat codes to Michael, before he knew that they were actually free online! Upset at first, Michael soon learned to admire his hustle and it quickly became contagious. Dany was one of the first cousins who went to university and that motivated Michael to do the same. Dany has the natural ability to make the most of the situation he's given, no matter how bad it seems. This has always served as inspiration for Michael and has helped shape him into the person he is today.
Matron of Honor
Groomsman
Budi and Michael are also cousins and lived together for a few years after Budi immigrated to the US. As kids, they did everything together. One day they both signed up for youth basketball league, despite our parents' disapproval. They did it anyways and thanks to this act of rebellion, Michael fell in love with the sport and learned the discipline it requires to accomplish goals. Budi was always like an older brother to Michael. He taught him how to fix his car, what it means to prioritize your family, and to believe in yourself when no one else does. Michael may have taught him English, but Budi taught Michael life lessons that helped shape who he is today.
Bridesmaid
Groomsman
Michael met EJ through Christine while they were co-workers at EA. The boys blossomed their friendship during one of EJ's infamous game nights. The vibes were immaculate and they started hanging out more and more. So many great memories shared from summer BBQs to night outs in SF, but some of the fondest memories are from the deep talks they would have. Both Michael and EJ would bring different perspectives that pushed the other to expand their outlook and grow. This led the pair to combine forces in a startup school where they spent a large chunk of the pandemic trying to launch their own company. Even if they weren't able to launch, the experience together was priceless. One thing Michael really admires about EJ is his dedication to invest time with the people he cares about.
Bridesmaid
Groomsman
Michael met Brian at a random hangout at UCLA, but it wasn't until summer Physics class did the bromance truly develop. Brian was in search of an apartment and Michael was looking for a special someone to join Thugz Mansion, it was just meant to be. They spent a lot of time together: working out at John Wooden, Brian getting his regular haircut from Michael, and motivating each other to accomplish their goals. Michael always felt comfortable confiding in him because he felt like Brian always understood what he was going through. He is empathetic, gives great advice, and has biceps the size of watermelons - what's not to love!
Bridesmaid
Groomsman
Romnick and Michael met in 9th grade honors english at Colton High School. Interestingly enough, Romnick was also at the middle school football game, but his memory of it was a bit different, "Hey, you're the kid I caught a catch over. It's on tape -_-" This competitive spirit brought the best of both as they would push each other in high school. On the outside Michael discovered Romnick's motivation in life was as long as his triple XL Pro Club t-shirts. Underneath the baggy shirts, was a funny, laid back, and caring compadre. When Michael decided not to apply to medical school and spent the year figuring what his next step would be, Romnick was always there. That same friend who pushed and encouraged him in high school, is now doing the same as Michael navigated his path into adulthood. That's how Michael knew that Romnick would a friend who would always be there when he needed him.