Wedding Party
Jackie Helpling
Maid of Honor
Standing by the bride’s side as her Maid of Honor is the bride’s incredibly special bonus daughter, Jackie. Jackie welcomed Lizzy into her heart and life from the very beginning, allowing her to share in the love of her dad. Lizzy has been part of Jackie’s life since before she turned two, and together they’ve grown into a bond that goes far beyond titles or labels. Lizzy and Jackie share a relationship rooted in creativity, laughter, and intentional time together. They love embracing their artistic sides through crafts and creative projects, planning girls days and special girl lunches, and curling up together for their weekly Harry Potter nights. These moments, both big and small, are where their connection truly shines. Jackie’s openness, maturity, and incredible capacity for love have shaped a relationship built on trust, warmth, and mutual respect. She has embraced Lizzy not just as someone her dad loves, but as a constant, supportive presence in her own life. Lizzy is endlessly grateful for Jackie’s heart and could not imagine this day, or her life, without Jackie standing proudly by her side.
Meredith Niece
Best Woman
Meredith isn’t just Stephen’s Best Woman, she’s his built-in best friend and lifelong constant. Born just a week apart, their bond began at day one and only deepened through years of family gatherings, lake trips, late-night college adventures, and countless memories in between. They’ve stood side by side through life’s highest highs and lowest lows, supporting each other through growing pains, big surprises, and every major chapter along the way. Meredith has always been Stephen’s steady presence, the person who shows up, stays, and somehow makes even the hardest moments lighter. Now, as they both step into new seasons of life and family, it was never a question who Stephen would want beside him on one of the most important days of his life. Meredith’s loyalty, humor, and unwavering love make her the perfect person to stand by his side!
Lexey Falls
Chief Bridesmaid
Lexey is the bride's best friend, a bond that has lasted since 3rd grade. Their friendship has been filled with countless memories of laughter, support, and adventures, growing together through all of life's milestones. Lexey has been a constant source of joy and comfort, always there with a listening ear or a shoulder to lean on through heartbreaks, celebrations, or late-night conspiracy theory rants. Lexey's role is so much more than just standing by her side—she's a true sister, confidante, and the one who knows her better than anyone else (outside of Stephen). Their friendship is a testament to the kind of deep, unwavering loyalty that only grows stronger with time. On this special day, the bride is proud to have Lexey stand by her side, celebrating not only the love between the couple but also the unbreakable bond they’ve shared for over two decades.
LuMyrum Norris
Groomsman
LuMyrum is not only one of Stephen’s closest friends but also a cornerstone in his musical journey. The two first met seven years ago at Guitar Center, a chance encounter that sparked both a lasting friendship and a powerful creative partnership. As the drummer in Stephen’s band, LuMyrum has played an essential role in bringing every one of their musical projects to life. Their connection through music also led Stephen into the Indy Gospel and church scene, shaping much of his path as an artist. Beyond music, LuMyrum is an incredibly loyal and God-fearing man whose faith and wisdom have helped keep Stephen grounded through life’s ups and downs. His steady presence and unwavering support have been a true blessing in Stephen’s life. Stephen had the honor of standing beside LuMyrum at his wedding five years ago, and now he’s proud to have LuMyrum by his side on this special day.
Alyssa McDaniel
Bridesmaid
Lizzy and Alyssa met in 2019 and became instant friends, quickly bonding over their shared love for all things creative and artsy. From the beginning, their friendship has been rooted in imagination, inspiration, and a mutual appreciation for turning ideas into something meaningful. Alyssa’s creativity has played a special role in Lizzy’s life as she even designed the brand for Lizzy’s crochet business, House of Hook, a collaboration that means more than words can fully express! Beyond her artistic talent, Alyssa’s kind heart shines just as brightly. Her deep love for animals is such a reflection of who she is at her core: compassionate, gentle, and full of warmth. Lizzy had the honor of standing by Alyssa’s side as a bridesmaid on her wedding day in 2023, and now feels incredibly grateful to have Alyssa standing beside her on this special day.
Jacob Roberts
Groomsman
Stephen met Jacob within his first two weeks of freshman year at Anderson University, and the two quickly formed a bond that would carry them through college and beyond. From long days on the golf course to countless hours lifting weights, watching sports, and navigating fraternity life together, their friendship was built on shared interests, camaraderie, and mutual respect. They lived together during college and again for two years after graduation. Jacob has supported Stephen through both the exciting milestones and the difficult, defining moments that shaped him into the man he is today. Stephen had the privilege of being part of Jacob’s wedding day in 2022, and that shared milestone is just one of many moments that reflects the depth of their friendship. After years of growing up side by side, it feels only right to have Jacob standing with Stephen as he takes this next step.
Ciara Mendenhall
Bridesmaid
Lizzy met Ciara the very same night she met Alyssa, and the three of them instantly became a little trio. From the very beginning, Ciara’s warm, genuine soul stood out. She is the kind of person who makes you feel heard, supported, and completely yourself. Over the years, she has been a true and loyal friend, always showing up with encouragement, laughter, and her bright, uplifting energy. Lizzy and Ciara share a love for hosting fun gatherings, making memories with the people they love, and turning even simple nights into something special. Ciara is always down for a girls night when one is needed! It has been incredibly special for Lizzy to watch their trio grow, find their people, and build their own lives while still staying so close. Lizzy is endlessly thankful for Ciara’s friendship and truly couldn’t imagine this day without her standing by her side.
Brent Niece
Groomsman
Brent, who also happens to be the Best Woman's husband, quickly became a bonus best friend once Meredith introduced him to Stephen! Their friendship has been filled with unforgettable moments that include college parties, spontaneous adventures, late nights making music in the garage, and trips to Salem to visit family. Even as life and distance have made it harder to see each other as often, the bond has never faded. Brent’s loyalty, easygoing nature, and genuine heart make him someone Stephen is deeply grateful to have in his life. Having him stand alongside on such an important day felt like a natural choice because some friendships are simply meant to be part of every milestone.