Wedding Party
Terra Powers
Bridesmaid
Imagine it is your first day of first grade at a new school. You are a little shy and don't know many people, and as you line up to follow your teacher to class you survey your new peers. You see a girl with blonde ringlets and a colorful outfit, smiling and laughing with others before she approaches you and introduces herself. "Hi I'm Terra! Let's be best friends!" And immediately you feel safe, special, and loved. And then that friendship continues on, even though she moves away when you are only 8-the bond you have forged carries you through grades, then years, now decades. From teaching me how to rollerblade (I couldn't), to showing me how to snowboard (I also couldn't do that), to making me a friendship book with all our photos and notes, to having me as her bridesmaid, Terra has included me in every stage of her life. She is funny, kind, thoughtful, loyal, creative, and brilliant. I have loved seeing her grow in success in her professional life and as a mother to her beautiful kids, Zachary and CJ. Love you forever!
Jesenia Quijada
Bridesmaid
Jesenia Quijada changed my life in my 20's. We met one night at a local diner when she bounced in by herself and we struck up a conversation which revealed that it was her birthday! After a celebratory drink and much merriment we became inseparable, especially after discovering we lived only a block apart on the same street. We had one adventure after another in those days! From late nights to Disneyland trips to art shows to movies in the park to introducing her to her fiancee, there has never been a dull moment with Jes, even over a decade later. She showed me so much about the power of friendship, being true to yourself, and using that for good. Jes, you beautiful tropical fish, your artistic nature, your fierce devotion, your style and your giggle are etched on my heart. Your love for your family and your community make you a beacon of light. We have shared years of laughter, adventures, and growth, and seeing you go on to share your strength in order to help others is so special to me. I love you, b!
Alexandra Gay
Bridesmaid
Alexandra, cousin of Terra, who in a magical turn of events came to our house everyday for daycare and became the little sister of myself and my brother. She brought so much joy and fun into our lives back then, and we grew up together. And trust me when I say, Alex is the type of person you want to have around in any situation: kind, level-headed, considerate, and simply hilarious. From impatiently waiting for her to finish taking a nap so we could play, hours spent with dress-up and backyard Star Wars duels, to seeing her grow into a woman with a heart the size of the moon, who does so much for others, always excels in what she does, and brings an equal amount of sweetness and sharp wit to every function. Her care for the world around her is as inspiring as her beautiful face. Alex, you always understand my heart, and my references. I love you so much!
