Wedding Party
Jonathan Tapia
Best Man
My brother, the one who is always making good jokes and brings joy to the party. Since we were kids, he taught me life is not as serious as it seems. I’ve always admired his outgoing personality and I’d never admitted it to him but he’s pretty fast at soccer! He has a wonderful wife (Abril) and two extraordinary kids: Ana Pau and Eli. He's a wonderful dad, and he's generous with his time when it comes to serving the Lord.
Elizabeth Jackson
Maid of Honor
Whenever anyone asks what my sister is like, I tell them she's like me but better in every way. She is one of the most genuine, patient, kind, and peacemaking women I've ever known. I have so much to learn from her. We shared a room until I was 16 years old and are as close as they come. She served in the church locally after college, then in East Asia, now as an elementary school teacher. She is incredibly generous to those she loves and so hardworking. My sister is my world.
Daniel Tapia
Best Man
My youngest brother, the one with a huge heart and someone who can solve any problem in front of him. Definitely one of the smartest persons I've ever met. I love seeing him so happy with his wife Abi and all the fun trips they take together! I admire Dani for his ability to adapt and shine under any circumstances. He also has a way with words!
Lauren Pursell
Bridesmaid
Lauren and I met in middle school through our church youth group. We bonded singing on the bus headed to church camp, staying up late at slumber parties, and always sharing the goal of having the most fun possible no matter the scenario. It was a blessing to be in Birmingham when Lauren was baptized. She is truly a gift from the Lord, and I'm so thankful for her.
Omar Saucedo
Groomsman
I never thought someone could be my cousin and my brother at the same time, until Omar was born. We’ve shared a ton of memories together, and it’s hard to think of someone more patient and kind than him. I love seeing him so happy with his wife Jen and living the life in California! Abby and I hope to get out there to visit soon.
Sarah Card
Bridesmaid
Sarah and I met at Auburn. We did a lot of swing dancing, traveling internationally, and I love her dearly. We've prayed in tears over our families. She's kept me awake driving back to Auburn in the middle of the night. She encourages me with notes of truth. Sarah is a sweet soul, a lover of children, and a dedicated friend.
Jorge Gonzalez
Groomsman
My best friend since college and my roommate for over 5 years. I'll never forget both of our memorable trips to Europe and all the hours we spent watching ESPN while eating quesadillas and Cheetos! We both love sports, and we've played many hours of soccer and tennis together. His wife Amaranta and his 2 little kids: Andrea and Fer, are the perfect complement to such an amazing guy!
Mandy Johnson
Bridesmaid
Mandy and I met at a group hang in Foy Hall at Auburn eating Panda Express. I asked her to teach me how to use the equipment in the campus rec center, and we memorized scripture together while doing weighted lunges and planks. We stayed up late talking at all hours in the quad, loved a Sonic drive-thru, and took many road trips to Nashville where I would eventually call home. She's an incredible friend, wife, and mother of two. I respect her so much.
Daniel Jackson
Groomsman
Not only is he the best photographer I’ve ever met, but also someone with a big personality who’s able to carry on a great conversation with anyone. I love catching up with him and seeing what new art and creative stuff he's been working on lately. Also, Daniel took our photos when I popped the question (in case you were wondering why they turned out so great!) He was so patient and helpful during the whole planning of the proposal.
Emily Lindsey
Bridesmaid
Emily and I met in college when I was her friend's RA and she was visiting Auburn. We reconnected in Nashville and have made many memories these past few years stalking our favorite Nashville musicians, eating tacos, and tearing up the dance floor to "I Just Wanna Dance With Somebody". Emily has incredible style in her wardrobe and in her home. She has the cutest Pomeranian "Walt" and his energy and love for life is such a good representation of her spirit.
Peter Jackson
Groomsman
The youngest of my future brothers-in-law, the one who loves technology and makes amazing fried taquitos. We had a blast when he came to Nashville to visit. We rode scooters around town and watched Auburn beat Vanderbilt in basketball. His apartment reminds me of mine when I first moved to Mexico city. It's fun being so close as he starts a life in Huntsville. I loved getting to eat with him at his favorite Thai place; it was spicy but delicious!
Sarah Kate Hirst
Bridesmaid
Sarah Kate and I met through Mandy and bonded quickly in Nashville the year before her big move to California. She's serious about her faith and we've had many conversations digging into scripture together. I've been able to visit her several times since the move and it's incredible to see the roots she's established so quickly in a new place. I loved getting to finally meet her precious babe when they were back home in Nashville over Christmas.
Kenneth Jackson
Groomsman
I’ll never forget Kenneth’s suggestions for making the proposal day incredible for Abby (and for me). He and his wife Laura, along with the sweet Bailey have been so supportive of our relationship and have been present in so many important moments of our lives together. Kenneth also took one of the most memorable pictures we'll ever have during the proposal!
Lindsay Merwin
Bridesmaid
Lindsay and I met in Nashville at a game night and reconnected at church. We've celebrate birthdays in a big way and been there for each other when feelings are low. It's so meaningful to have a friend so loyal and consistent. I value Lindsay and the freedom she gives me to always share where I'm really at. Lindsay is an incredible friend.
Stephen Jackson
Groomsman
With such a genuine smile, Stephen communicates what a great guy he is! It was an honor for me to be present at his wedding with Samantha and I’ve really enjoyed spending time with them. Stephen is unselfish and cares about others in ways that not too many people do. It was fun having dinner with them during one of my work trips to Asheville this past fall.
Bailey Jackson
Flower Girl
She is my very first niece and will forever hold my heart. It was so special to celebrate her first birthday, be in Columbus for her first steps, and have her there when Josue got down on one knee. I love seeing videos of her as she grows, walks, and talks more at home in Ohio. I always look forward to the next time we're together so I can remind her which is her all-time favorite aunt. I now have the perfect excuse to buy all the cute clothes in the Target toddler section.
Ana Paula Tapia
Flower Girl
Ana Paula ("Pau") was my first niece, and she'll always have a special place in my heart. She brought such light to our family, and her humility and love towards others are amazing. I love how smart she is, her interest in plants and in science, and how she cares about others and the environment. Pau takes care of her younger sister Elizabeth and enjoys her ballet classes like nothing else. She also trusts the Lord with all her heart despite being so young!
Elizabeth Tapia
Flower Girl
Elizabeth ("Eli") is my youngest niece. She has such a bubbly personality that you'll never get bored being around her. I'll never forget a trip my family and I made to Gatlinburg, TN when Eli was about 11 months old, and she quickly became the life of the party. She always makes me wonder how such a small kid can be so creative and fun! When Abby first went to Mexico to meet my family, it only took a day before Eli and her made such a strong and beautiful connection. They were best friends at the end of the trip!
Wolfgang Degman
Ring Bearer
I had the pleasure of holding Wolfgang when he was a 2 day old precious babe in the hospital. It was an incredible feeling to have such a sweet, tiny life in my arms. Since then, it's been a gift to watch him grow into the toughest, sweetest little man. I love hearing him share new spider facts and show me all his cars and trucks. Josue and I have had the chance to share a happy meal with Wolfgang, chat super heroes, picnic at the park, and time each other on races to see who's the fastest. He's currently teaching Josue to speak Spanish.