Wedding Party
Autumn Winter Watkins
Bride
About Autumn, written by her Maids of Honor: Autumn is the kind of person that can just lighten up the room with just her presence. She’s known for her warmth, the kindest heart, and her devotion to the things she loves. When she’s not planning life’s most meaningful moments, she finds joy in a good book and the company of her beloved cats, Midnight, Mittens and Nutmeg. She is honored to be marrying her greatest love Samuel and sharing this unforgettable evening with those who mean the most to her.
Samuel Michael Wubbena
Groom
About Sam, written by his Bride: Sam is someone who leaves a lasting impression on the people around him. Beneath his calm presence is a man who is funny, a little goofy, and incredibly sweet once you truly get to know him. He has a quiet way of making people feel cared for, and when Sam loves you, there is never a doubt about it. And yes, he is very handsome too, tall with dark hair and blue eyes that can stop you in your tracks. I am lucky enough to witness every day the kind of man and loving cat dad he is, and I could not be more happy to spend my life by his side.
Seirra Maple
Maid of Honor
For six years, Seirra has been Autumn's best friend, though it feels like they have known each other forever. After crossing paths countless times before meeting at Rockford University, it was clear their friendship was meant to be. She is the kindest soul, truly an angel, with a heart big enough to love everyone. She’s been Autumn's constant through every season, and someone her fiancé and their families adore. Be sure to have extra tissues ready for her, because she is a happy crier and will be overflowing with joy on the wedding day as Autumn's Maid of Honor.
Jacob Hildebrand
Best Man
Jacob and Sam have been best friends for over a decade and throughout that time have made a lot of memories together. Sam first met Jacob while playing on the Monroe Center Eagles baseball team in 7th grade, and started to really get to know him during freshman year basketball. They bonded over their similar interests and quickly began growing a friendship that would last a lifetime. Sophomore year of high school these two were inseparable. They were always together after class waiting to go support their friends on the football fields. Their bond has only grown stronger over time, and Jacob is someone Sam knows he can always count on.
Mya Hildebrand
Maid of Honor
Mya is Autumn's baby sister and from the moment Mya was born, she became one of Autumn’s greatest joys and a long awaited wish come true. If you ask Autumn’s mom, Lisa, she will gladly confirm how many times Autumn begged for a little sister growing up. Autumn is endlessly proud of the person Mya has become and the talented artist she is. Mya will always be Autumn’s baby sister, her first wish fulfilled, and one of her closest friends, making Mya's role as Maid of Honor especially meaningful. You will most definitely see Mya on the dance floor at the wedding reception with her big sister celebrating!
Jason Keast
Best Man
Jason and Sam first met in the 8th grade and started becoming close friends their freshman year of high school, quickly bonding over their love of video games. Jason has been a steady presence throughout Sam's life. Not only as a friend but as a coworker, college room mate, and like a brother. Jason is know for his quick wit, kindness, and his lack of fear of bears. He is willing to argue tirelessly that he would win a one on one fight with a bear. What Sam appreciates most about Jason is he stands up for what he believes, his ability's to share a laugh and enjoy the moment, but most importantly his loyalty to his friends. Jason is someone Sam knows he can always count on in a pinch. Sam is extremely happy to have Jason as one of his best men.
Alliya Mejia
Matron of Honor
Growing up side by side, Autumn watched her little sister Alliya become the strong and beautiful woman she is today. Even though Alliya is the little sister, she does not mess around when it comes to protecting her big sister! Alliya is Autumn’s built in best friend and someone she is endlessly proud of, both as a person and as a wife. Alliya's heart is so big that she fosters kittens, and one of those fosters, Mittens, now has a forever home with Autumn and Sam. There is no one more fitting to stand beside Autumn on her wedding day as her Matron of Honor.
Rome Ross
Groomsman
Sam first met Rome when he was just turning six years old and has seen him grow up to be the young man he is today. From being a little guy who wanted to always go to the arcade every weekend with his "sissy" to a young man about to attend high school. Rome really has grown more and more into the role of Sam's little brother too. For Autumn, Rome holds a very special place in her heart as her baby brother. He knows he has his big sister wrapped around his finger, and she would not have it any other way. Autumn and Sam would do anything for him and are so happy to see him standing proudly as a groomsman on such a special day.
Carly Wubbena
Bridesmaid
Carly is Sam's younger sister and has been such a meaningful part of both Sam and Autumns lives. Unlike most little sisters, Carly has always been Sam’s peaceful sidekick as they grew up together. Carly and Sam always pick right back up where they left off when they see each other. Carly brings joy wherever she goes and the bond she shares with Autumn and Samuel means the world to them both. She has always felt like family to Autumn, and it is especially meaningful to have her standing by their side as a bridesmaid as she officially becomes Autumn’s sister too.
Nick Schabacker
Groomsman
Nick and Sam have known each other since their freshman year of high school. Sam admires Nick for his easy going energy, ability to have a good time, and selflessness. He is always willing to lend a hand to those around him without any hesitation. Nick is an excellent friend, father and husband to his family, and Sam is proud to call him one of his groomsman.
Audrey Peters
Bridesmaid
Audrey and Autumn have shared a close bond since childhood, something not all cousins are lucky enough to have. Audrey’s sweet, bubbly spirit lights up every room she enters, and Autumn is incredibly proud of her for the person she is. More than just cousins, their connection feels like a blend of family and friendship, and Autumn is so grateful to have Audrey standing by her side as a bridesmaid.
Nehemiah Myers
Groomsman
Nemo and Sam first met during their sophomore year of high school and have been close friends ever since. Sam admires Nemo for his intelligence, technical ability, and his humor. Nemo and Sam seem to pick right back up where they left off each time they sign on to game or hang out, always laughing and having a good time. Nemo is someone Sam can always count on and happy Nemo is one of his groomsman.
Edie Carlson
Bridesmaid
Edie and Autumn have been best friends for nine years, starting back in their Rue21 days running the store together during the day and then going out when they were twenty one years old at night. During this time, they were inseparable and those moments sparked a friendship that has carried them through many chapters and seasons of life. If you know Edie, you know she is unapologetically herself but also so very sweet, and those are some of the many things Autumn loves most about her.
Christopher LaMay
Groomsman
Sam and Christopher have been friends for many years. He has always been supportive and over the years they have grown closer being apart of their big and loving friend group, spending a lot of weekends together as a found family. Christopher is someone both Sam and Autumn truly care about. His loyalty and friendship mean a lot, and they are grateful to have him standing by their side as a groomsman.
Emily Keast
Bridesmaid
Emily brings joy and laughter into Autumn’s life in a way that feels effortless and genuine. She loves wholeheartedly and shows up without hesitation for the people she cares about, but also even for those she has just met. She has a natural way of making every moment lighter and when she's in the room, is often the reason Autumn is laughing and smiling. Autumn and Sam’s wedding day would not feel complete without the energy, heart, and joy Emily brings as a bridesmaid. If you are looking for a good time, find Emily.
Ali Seiler
Bridesmaid
Ali (soon-to-be-Hildebrand) has been a steady and meaningful presence in Autumn’s life since the day they met. What began through Sam and Jacob being best friends quickly grew into a genuine friendship built on kindness and many shared moments. Known for her sincere heart and quiet strength, Ali shows up with grace and care for the people she loves. She has been there for both Autumn and Sam in more ways than they can count, and sharing this season together feels especially special. Autumn and Sam’s wedding day would not feel complete without Ali standing by their side as a bridesmaid.
Molly Schabacker
Bridesmaid
Molly’s friendship has become incredibly important to Autumn over the years, and she cherishes the many memories they have shared along the way. Molly’s genuine heart and kindness makes everyone around her feel welcomed and valued. She is always a good time to be around and Autumn admires the way she shows up wholeheartedly for the people she loves. She means so much to both Sam and Autumn, and they are incredibly grateful for her love and support not only on this special day, but every day before and after.
Kylee and Blake Nelson
Greeter and Usher
Kylee and Blake are such a special part of Autumn and Sam's lives. Kylee and Autumn became close through their shared friend group, where it feels more like family than friends. Also through book club, where Kylee helped reignite Autumn's love of reading. Blake and Sam have been friends for years and share a bond built on loyalty, laughter, and all the things guys love to do together. Couldn’t think of better people to welcome the wedding guests!
Sophie Wubbena
Mother of the Groom
Sophie has always been the heart of her family and Sam’s biggest supporter. With a natural motherly instinct, she seems to know exactly what her loved ones need, often before they even ask. She puts her family first in everything she does and gives wholeheartedly without hesitation. From the very beginning, she welcomed Autumn with open arms and has shown her the same love and care. Autumn and Sam are endlessly grateful for her and feel incredibly lucky to celebrate this day with her by their side.
Keith Wubbena
Father of the Groom
Keith is an incredible dad and someone both Sam and Autumn deeply admire. He leads with care and unwavering support, always going above and beyond for his kids. Keith looks out for those he loves and wants nothing more than to see them succeed in every part of life. While also smart and endlessly charming, he has a way of making everyone feel like family and brings laughter wherever he goes. With his love for a good conversation and a great story, guests should be ready for a memorable speech!!
Lisa Kasper
Mother of the Bride
Autumn’s mom Lisa has played a very important role in her life. As a single parent, she raised Autumn and her three younger siblings with strength and determination. She has always loved unconditionally, leading with her heart. She is known for her beauty, spirit, and ability to bring joy into a room. She has always supported Autumn’s love for Sam and could not be happier to celebrate this next chapter alongside them.
Marty Kasper
Grandfather of the Bride/Mother's Side
Grandpa Marty is a classic old soul with a lifelong love for hot rods and a deep pride in his kids. While he may be a man of few words, his care shows through the things he values most. Autumn and Sam are grateful to have him included as part of this special day and family celebration.
Donna Kasper
Grandmother of the Bride/Mother's Side
Autumn’s grandma on her mom’s side has always been a source of love and encouragement. Sweet by nature and full of excitement for Autumn and Sam, she holds a special place in Autumn’s heart. Some of Autumn’s favorite memories are of her playing the guitar and singing songs by the fireplace, moments that will always be cherished. As a proud Rockford University alumna, she also served as an early role model who inspired Autumn to pursue her own degree. Autumn feels incredibly lucky to have her love and support as they celebrate this special day together.
Pat Hildebrand
Grandmother of the Bride/Little Sister's Side
Pat has always held a very special place in Autumn’s life. Some of Autumn’s earliest memories are of spending Christmas at Grandma Pat and Grandpa Denis’ home, a tradition that has continued every year since she was little. Although not related by blood, Pat has shown Autumn, Sam, and her siblings nothing but unconditional love and support throughout their lives. She has always felt like family in every way that matters.
Lou Kulpa
Grandmother of the Bride/Father's Side
Nana Lou has always been a source of unconditional love and comfort in Autumn’s life. She would go to the ends of the earth for her family, and for Autumn, she has always been a soft, reassuring hug and a cherished piece of her heart, even when distance kept them a few hours apart. One of Autumn’s long held wishes came true this year when Nana Lou moved to Rockford, making it even more special to have her close and part of the wedding day.
Tim Watkins
Officiant
Uncle Tim has always been someone Autumn deeply admires and appreciates. He is an incredible person and a caring presence within the family. Both Autumn and Sam admire the way he has navigated life’s challenges with strength and integrity, always putting his family first while protecting what matters most. He sets an example of the kind of love, boundaries, and family values they hope to carry into their own marriage.