Wedding PartyWedding Party

Alyssa EarlAlyssa Earl

Bride

Brennan FergusonBrennan Ferguson

Groom

Olivia FaganOlivia Fagan

Maid of Honor

Olivia and I first met in dance class when we were just four years old. Through middle and high school, we carpooled to dance, used school computers for Omegle, and ate lunch together every day junior year. But it wasn’t until the last few months of senior year that we realized God put us on this earth to be best friends. Suddenly, we were inseparable. From show choir to anchoring school broadcasts to just driving around, if Liv was doing it, I was too. Out of nowhere, this girl I’d known since I was four became my sister. On a total whim, we decided to room together at UNL, and she’s been my other half ever since. We’ve shared three birthdays, lived together for three years, and still get separation anxiety if we go too long without seeing each other. Liv is my twin flame, and I truly couldn’t imagine this day without her.

Hunter FergusonHunter Ferguson

Best Man

My older brother, Hunter, was the person I looked up to most growing up. I know, I have no clue why either. But truly, he was a great big brother. Hunter was also my first bully, and honestly, I’m thankful for it. He beat up on me constantly, and I was way too nice to ever do anything back. We were always playing sports together in the front yard, and whenever I wanted to quit, he’d just throw things at me until I kept going. Looking back, I know he was just pushing me to be tougher, more confident, and better in ways I didn’t understand at the time. Now I can’t wait for Hunter to give me my new best friend, and I’m especially excited for the day I get to tell him everything his dad did growing up. Most of all, I’m so grateful to have Hunter standing by my side on my wedding day as my best man.

Emily ScottEmily Scott

Bridesmaid

My big sister Emily is the first friend I ever had. From fan-girling over Zac Efron in our shared bedroom to standing beside each other on our wedding days, she’s always been such an important role model in my life. She’s the kind of sister who listens without judgment, shows up without hesitation, and gives advice you didn’t even know you needed—but always in the most loving way. Watching Emily become a wife and a mom has been such an honor. She’s grown into one of the strongest, most caring women I know. I not only get the privilege of being her little sister—but she also made me an aunt to the two cutest kiddos on earth. I’m so happy to have had Emily by my side since literally day one—and even luckier to walk into this next chapter with her by my side once again.

Lucas RonnfeldtLucas Ronnfeldt

Groomsman

Luke was one of my first ever friends. Even though that was a long time ago, I still remember him crying more than the average child. I figured he would grow out of it when we got older. He didn’t. When he wasn’t crying, we were usually playing sports together, playing tratters, or eating psgetti (he had a speech impediment). Luke took preschool twice, which limited our time together for a bit, so we made up for it by practically living at each other’s houses. I also learned a lot from Luke growing up. One time, he took me out to the pig barn to check on his show pigs. While climbing from one pen to another, Luke suggested we climb over the wall instead of using the gate. He jumped down, slipped on hog manure, and hit his head on the floor. After I found out he was okay and it was safe to laugh, I took a mental note of exactly what not to do. Luke has truly been like a brother to me, and I’m really glad to have him standing next to me as I get married.

Sophia EarlSophia Earl

Bridesmaid

Sophia made me a big sister—a role I never thought I’d get to play. Even though she’s still that Zombies-movie-obsessed little eight-year-old in my head, watching her grow into the gorgeous, silly, and talented girl she is now has been such a bittersweet and beautiful journey. I quickly learned how fun it was to be an older sibling—teasing her for trying to order a salad and ending up with just lettuce, taking videos of her jamming out to Ke$ha, letting her stay up late before Mom and Dad got home, and teaching her the ropes of Pokémon cards. Being a big sister was so much fun. I’m so thankful to have her in my life—and SO grateful she doesn’t say “skibbity rizz” anymore!

Chad ChristoffersenChad Christoffersen

Groomsman

Chad is one of my oldest and best friends. There was a stretch of time when I practically lived at his house after school. His parents treated me like one of their own, and I’m beyond grateful for everything they’ve done for me. One year, Chad invited me to go Black Friday shopping with his family in Omaha, and it quickly became a tradition. As job-less kids, we never really bought anything, but it was the perfect excuse to hang out. Things have definitely changed since then, because now every time Alyssa and I go back to Lyons, Chad spoils us with his big boy money. It’s been cool growing up with him, and even better now that he picks up the tab.

Elizabeth TrauschElizabeth Trausch

Bridesmaid

Lizzy and I met in middle school when my dad offered to take a friend go-karting. I randomly reached out to her—even though we had no classes together and had never talked before—and an hour later, we were hanging out for the very first time. Little did we know that day would lead to hours of athletic training with the football team, countless Sno-Cone firework fountains on the 4th of July, and sharing every phase of life imaginable from then on. Liz has made me laugh harder than anyone else I know. There’s never a dull moment when she’s around, and growing up together has truly been one of the greatest blessings in my life.

Derek PetersenDerek Petersen

Groomsman

Derek was one of my closest friends growing up. Wherever he was, you could usually find me right there with him. We were inseparable. That meant riding shotgun in the tractor during harvest, hanging out after football games, and spending pretty much every free weekend together. Then came Brooklyn. All of a sudden, Derek decided she was way cooler than me. Even though that was clearly untrue, my spot in the tractor was gone just like that. I still came out on top though, because I got to stand with him as one of his groomsmen (she was the bride). All jokes aside, I’m lucky to have a friend like Derek, even if it means sharing the buddy seat in the tractor.

Ashlyn MarshallAshlyn Marshall

Bridesmaid

One of my favorite memories with Ashlyn (and honestly, of college in general) was when we lived in the Delta Gamma house and suddenly had to move out for an unknown amount of time… because of a bat. Everyone scrambled to find somewhere to stay—most went to friends’ houses—but Ashlyn and I didn’t have a backup plan. So we packed our bags and moved into Selleck, the abandoned, outdated dorm on campus. For the first couple of nights, it was just the two of us in this entire empty dorm. It sounds wild (and it was), but those nights turned out to be some of the absolute best memories of sophomore year. Of course, we couldn’t let that chaotic living situation be a one-time thing. The next semester, we moved into the four-man room together in the DG house—where the memories only got crazier and even more fun. Ashlyn is such a loyal and dependable friend, and I’m so thankful to have her by my side for my big day. Here’s to Selleck and rabies shots!

Nathan BreitbarthNathan Breitbarth

Groomsman

I met Nathan (Gingy) Gingerkins during summer legion baseball when we played on the Pender team together, but it wasn’t until we moved into Harper 7 freshman year of college that we really got close. Every day, I’d spend most of my time in Nathan and Maise’s dorm room. We’d eat at the dining hall together, do homework together, and hang out so late that half the time I’d end up sleeping there, even though my room was only five doors down. One Saturday sophomore year, we heard about a "record-breaking" Powerball jackpot and naturally ran out to buy a ticket. Fully buying into each other’s delusions, we spent hours talking about what we were going to do with our prize WHEN we won. Needless to say, the lottery wasn’t in our favor that day, but 99% of gamblers quit right before they hit it big, so we’re clearly not giving up anytime soon.

Faith EickhoffFaith Eickhoff

Bridesmaid

I’m not exactly sure when it happened, but one day I just woke up and realized Faith and I were best friends. We met back in middle school when our friendship thrived on band class, Peace Dances, and making Musical.lys. We’re a dangerous duo—when we’re together, social anxiety is scared of US. One of our favorite rituals in high school was heading to McDonald’s after show choir rehearsal at least once a week. Faith would get two McChickens, I’d grab a nugget Happy Meal, and we’d drive across the street to the empty parking lot and park directly IN the cart corral. We'd sit for hours talking about literally anything. Our parents were probably wondering what kind of trouble we were getting into—when really, we were just laughing ‘til our ribs hurt over things only we would find funny.

Karter LongieKarter Longie

Groomsman

I met Karter through our fraternity, Delta Tau Delta. Similar to myself, Karter had a love for golf, ball, and trivia in the Playpen at Delt, so it didn’t take long for us to realize we’d get along. The foundation of our friendship rests on deep talks about random, mostly unimportant things around 2 - 3 A.M. These conversations usually take place just after getting home from karaoke, where we regularly compete for the best voice in the friend group. I’m marginally better, he just has a deep voice. It goes without saying that my North Dakotan brother and I will never say no to a trip to the karaoke bar.

Jillian WebberJillian Webber

Bridesmaid

Jill and I became Delta Gamma sisters at the same time, both unsure if sorority life was for us. I remember thinking, “She looks nice!” and asked if she’d sit with me at our first meeting—thankfully, she said yes. We nervously said hi… and then didn’t talk the rest of the time. In fact, we did that every week for the entire semester. Eventually, one of us broke the silence (probably me), and from then on, Jill and I were side by side through all things DG. We lived together in the four-man room at the DG house and later shared a townhome senior year. Four years and a million college memories later, I’m so lucky to have her standing by my side as a bridesmaid!

Jaxon MaiseJaxon Maise

Groomsman

Jaxon (Maise) Maise was an unexpected friendship. I loved baseball and hated track, so I decided to be a student manager for the spring baseball team in Pender. Maise was also a student manager, and we clicked right away. By freshman year, we were playing side by side on that very same team. Once we got to college, we only got closer. We lived on the same floor freshman year, were roommates at the frat house, and shared two more houses together after that. All those years led to so many iconic memories, including the time we loaded up on white Monster and drove to Colorado at midnight on a complete impulse to pick up my stranded brother. Somehow, a consecutive 14-hour drive flew by as Maise and I talked about everything and anything, and maybe even sang a few duets along the way. All these years later, I’m so glad to still have him by my side on my wedding day.

Olive EarlOlive Earl

Bridesmaid

Olive has a way of turning everyday moments into something exciting. She makes sure every family gathering comes with a stocked fridge of cold ones and that no guest goes un-talked to. She’s always up for trying my card games or going on a spontaneous adventure, and she has a million stories—each one only ever told best by her. Also, it’d be illegal not to mention her insane Nertz record! Olive officially became my sister on May 4, 2024, when she married my brother Ryan—and now I truly can’t imagine the family, or my wedding day, without her. She’s brought such a fun, warm, and refreshing energy into our lives, and I’m so grateful to have her as both a sister and a friend.

Jayson HavensJayson Havens

Groomsman

Jayson and I met when we spring rushed Delta Tau Delta. Jayson was the worst. I couldn’t stand him. Clearly things have changed, because now he’s a groomsman in my wedding. I guess living under the same roof with someone for three years gives you time to get to know each other. From Delt, to C St, to Hilltop, we bonded over dirty dishes, karaoke (he sings with confidence, I’ll give him that), and a lot of golf. Even though he’s significantly worse than I am, I still always enjoy hitting the links with the guy. Turns out he wasn’t the worst after all.

Payton FergusonPayton Ferguson

Bridesmaid

Payton started coming around with Hunter, Brennan’s brother, about a year after Brennan and I started dating. In a town full of Brennan’s high school buddies, she was my saving grace—another girl! We clicked almost instantly. Bonding over our Ferguson boys and our type-A personalities, it didn’t take long to realize we’d be great friends… and maybe even sisters someday. Now that little dream is coming true—we’re officially becoming Ferguson sisters! We’ve already spent so much time daydreaming about future holidays together, hosting family gatherings, and hearing little voices call her “Aunt Payton.” Having her by my side throughout this wedding season—and in life to come—makes it all feel even more special.

Alec FelzienAlec Felzien

Groomsman

Alec Drew, the old man of the friend group, was the most recent addition to this roster. We only met because one of Alyssa’s best friends, Liz, started talking to this guy. At the time, I figured he’d just be some random dude I met a few times and probably wouldn’t see again. That didn’t last long. After a couple of hangouts, Alec and I became pretty much best friends. Somewhere along the way, he stopped being “Liz’s guy” and just became one of us. Between all the time we’ve spent together, it’s hard to remember what it was like before he was around. This eventually led to Alec and Liz getting engaged, which I’ll take partial credit for, and now I get to be in his wedding too. It’s funny how something that started so randomly turned into such a strong friendship. It’s always crazy to see how God brings the right people into your life at the right time, and I’m really glad Alec is one of them.

Raelynn ScottRaelynn Scott

Flower Girl

At just two years old, you can already see how sweet Raelynn’s soul is. She is the smiliest, silliest girl who brings so much joy everywhere she goes. Whether she’s enjoying her favorite strawberries or watching Frozen (just like her favorite aunt 😉), she has a way of making every moment a little more fun. Raelynn loves to sing, dance, and keep everyone around her entertained. She also absolutely adores her Uncle Brennan. In fact, we've never seen bigger tears in those big brown eyes than the time Brennan thought she was going to fall down the camper stairs and told her "no." Brennan could hardly handle it, so luckily for her, I don't think that will ever happen again. Raelynn has such a fun, playful personality, and it’s impossible not to smile when she’s around. We absolutely love any time we get to spend with her, and she never fails to make us laugh. We are so excited to have one of the cutest little girls be part of our special day, and we couldn’t imagine it without her.

Wesley ScottWesley Scott

Ring Bearer

Wesley made us both an aunt and an uncle, although some would argue Brennan was not technically an uncle until marriage. Wesley calling him Uncle Brennan from the time he could speak says otherwise. Being known only as Aunt Alyssa and Uncle Brennan did cause a little confusion, though. After we told Wes that we were getting married, he responded with a very honest and concerned, “Aunt Alyssa and Uncle Brennan can’t get married! They’re siblings!” This whole aunt and uncle thing is clearly very confusing. We are so excited to have one of the cutest kiddos on the planet walk our rings down the aisle and officially give Brennan the "Uncle Brennan" title.

Ryan EarlRyan Earl

Usher

Something I never really thought about when I imagined getting married was how someone else’s family would become my own. I met Alyssa’s brother Ryan not long after we started dating, and at the time, I had no idea what was in store. We quickly realized we would get along with our large number of shared interests: sports and beer. Ryan eventually deemed me worthy of joining his golf league, and somewhere along the way I ended up becoming friends with all of his friends too. Now that I’m marrying his sister, I guess I should probably start accepting his poker invites, which is unfortunate because I’m broke. In all seriousness, I didn’t just gain a brother-in-law in Ryan, I gained a really good friend. I’m grateful for the relationship we’ve built, and I’m glad he’ll be around for all the years ahead, especially as our kids’ future uncle.

Brooke BendorfBrooke Bendorf

Bridal Attendant

Brooke and I were in the same pledge class in Delta Gamma, and at first, we were kind of “friends by association.” We’d end up at the same events or hangouts just because we had overlapping circles—but over time, that turned into a real and meaningful friendship. Which led us to end up living together in the "four-man" at the DG house. This was the only room that had four girls, which means we had bunk beds with Brooke and I both on top. The number of times we’d smack our heads on the ceiling when getting out of bed was never not funny. You could literally hear it through the vent into our desk room next door. That year was full of inside jokes, talking through the vents, 5 am wakeup calls, and watching the madness of sorority life unfold together from our top bunks. From being "friends by default" to one of my dearest friends, I’m so grateful for all the laughter and memories—and I’m so glad she’s there to back me up on my big day.

Jon ChristiansenJon Christiansen

Usher

We always find ourselves spending time with Jon whenever we’re back in Lyons. Whether it’s a day out on the boat, a trip to Decatur, or just sitting around laughing at Alyssa’s stories at the shop, he’s always up for a good time. Some of our best memories with Jon come from the most random moments, like the time we found out it wasn’t illegal to ride in the bed of a truck while actively being pulled over… while we were in the bed of the truck. We’ve also rung in the new year timing the guitar solo of Free Bird perfectly at midnight, and suffered through more Husker losses than we’d like to admit at his tailgate. It goes without saying that Jon is always down for a good time, no matter how early he has to be up for work the next morning. Even though Jon may have mellowed out over the years, we know the good times aren’t going anywhere.

Laurel JonesLaurel Jones

Bridal Attendant

Laurel’s official title should honestly be “Certified Party Starter.” If she’s around, there’s no room to be boring—and absolutely no margarita is safe. I met Laurel freshman year through Delta Gamma, and it was instantly clear she was a guaranteed good time. Plus, she’s also the only person I know who can pull off a shirt with her own face on it! Laurel brings energy, confidence, and fun wherever she goes. I can always count on her to say yes to a spontaneous trip to Tipsy Tina’s Taco Cantina and to match my jumbo marg when everyone else is playing it safe with a small. I’m so lucky to have her by my side for this day—and for all the fun ones to come.

Nicholas RonnfeldtNicholas Ronnfeldt

Usher

Nick was my second bully. Growing up, Nick and my brother Hunter were super close, just like Nick’s little brother Luke and I were. Because of that, we were constantly swapping houses. Luke and I would be at the Ronnfeldts’, while Nick would be at our house with Hunter. Sometimes we’d all be at the same house, where I’d hang out with Nick, and Hunter and Luke would hang together. It was kind of weird, but it worked. Then Nick hit high school and decided he was WAY cooler than he actually was, so he started bullying the heck out of me. Honestly, I’m incredibly glad he did. If he hadn’t, I’d probably be much fatter and a lot less successful. Bullying works. And now my second bully is an usher in my wedding. Wild stuff. (Also, Nick, you’re still not invited to Deadwood.)

Psalm 34:3Psalm 34:3

Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together.

Karen EarlKaren Earl

Mother of the Bride

I’m blessed to resemble my mom not only in looks but also in so many of her personality traits. I learned how to be extra, throw a great party, shop for hours without needing a break, and above all, be deeply caring. Even though I have four siblings, it’s always felt like I had a hundred because my mom has always welcomed everyone in, going the extra mile for anyone in need. She taught me to love like Jesus—through how she lives. Matthew 25:35 (NIV) says: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in…” and that is exactly how she’s always loved and served others. She’s cared for me, my siblings, and my Dad with every ounce of love she has. Over time, my mom has grown into one of my best friends. I smile when she’s around and miss her when she’s gone. God truly blessed me with the perfect mom for me—and I’m so excited to experience my wedding day with her by my side.

William EarlWilliam Earl

Father of the Bride

Growing up, I was always a Daddy’s girl. He treated me like a princess, and I never once had to doubt how deeply I was loved. Some of my earliest memories are of my dad lifting me out of the bath, wrapping me up tight in a towel, and holding me up to the mirror. He’d sing a little jingle—one he used to sing to my brothers as “King Tut,” but lovingly changed to “Queen Tut” just for me—and I’d watch him smile at me through the glass. He always got me water before bed and read me stories almost every night. Our favorites were the Junie B. Jones books, and while I adored them, I’m convinced no one ever laughed harder at them than my dad. Half the time, he couldn’t even finish a sentence without pausing for a giggle break—which only made me laugh harder, too. My dad has always put his family first, and that love and sacrifice have never gone unnoticed. I am so incredibly blessed to have him walk me down the aisle, and while he may be “giving me away,” I know he’ll never stop being right behind me—supporting me, cheering me on, and loving me every step of the way.

Jamie CarlsonJamie Carlson

Mother of the Groom

My mom is the most caring, loving, and selfless person I know. She's probably crying as she's reading this, and honestly, that's no surprise. Her heart is bigger than anyone else's, and she loves her family with everything she has. No matter what life brings, she's always the first person to offer support, encouragement, and a hug when it's needed. If you've had the chance to meet her, I'm sure you already know exactly what I'm talking about. My mom has been a dispatcher for as long as I can remember, and honestly, it couldn't be a more perfect job for her. Every day, she helps people through some of their hardest moments, and that's exactly who she is outside of work too. She has always put others before herself, always been willing to listen, and always shown up when someone needs her. Growing up with a front-row seat to that taught me the importance of slowing down, helping others, and being there for the people you love. No matter how old I get or how many new chapters life brings, she'll always be my mom, my biggest supporter, and one of the people I look up to most. They say a son's first love is his mother, and for me, that couldn't be more true. I am so grateful for everything she's done for me and for the example she's set throughout my life.

Waylon CarlsonWaylon Carlson

Step-Father of the Groom

When Waylon first started coming around, our dog hated him, so I wasn't sure what to think. It didn't take long to start thinking I agreed with the dog. As time went on, though, he grew on me more and more, and now I couldn’t imagine our family without him. Growing up, Waylon coached me in both football and baseball, which felt kind of like the worst thing ever at the time, but looking back, it was a pretty cool way for us to bond. He has always been there to support us, whether it was from the sidelines, in the stands, or just by being someone we could count on. To this day, Hunter and I still have a group chat with him that is used almost exclusively for sports updates and his wild overreactions. We’re grateful to have Waylon around to keep us informed on every major sporting event, whether we asked for the update or not. We also know the only thing he might love more than his family is his dogs. Now, these dogs seem to love him, and after all these years, we're starting to agree with them too.

Melody FergusonMelody Ferguson

Step-Mother of the Groom

Over the past few years, it has been such a joy to watch the relationship she and my dad have built together. From the very beginning, it was obvious how much they cared for one another, and seeing the happiness she brings to his life has meant so much to all of us. If you've ever received a gift from Melody, you know how thoughtful she is. She somehow always knows exactly what will make someone feel loved and appreciated. More importantly, she has treated our family like her own from the moment she came into it. Whether it's hunting, fishing, camping, or any other outdoor adventure with my dad, she is always up for it, making her the perfect match for him. We are so grateful for the love, kindness, and joy Melody has brought into our lives. She has become such an important part of our family, and we couldn't be happier that she and my dad found each other.

Jim FergusonJim Ferguson

Father of the Groom

My dad has always been the person I've looked up to most. There isn't much he can't build, create, or figure out, and his determination and resourcefulness have been an inspiration throughout my life. Growing up, he never let my brother Hunter or me say "can't." No matter the challenge, he taught us to work hard, figure it out, and keep going. My dad is one of the hardest-working people I know. He has spent his life doing everything he can to provide for his family and give Hunter and me every opportunity possible. Whether it was coaching our teams, teaching us new skills, or taking us hunting and camping, he was always investing his time, energy, and knowledge into us. For years, my dad lived in a house full of boys. Between Hunter and me, there was never a shortage of sports, hunting stories, and projects around the house. When Alyssa and Payton came along, he welcomed them with open arms and loved them like family because, to him, they already were. My dad showed me what it means to work hard, love your family well, and always show up for the people you care about. I couldn't imagine this day without him by my side. But if you only take one thing away from this, let it be this: my dad could beat up your dad.