In the unique bond between sisters, Angela found not just a sibling but a cherished best friend in Natalie. Natalie is 5 years younger but unlike the typical elder-sister teasing, their connection has always been a partnership. They can't imagine life wihtout one another!
Natalie, the younger but wiser counterpart, is not only Angela's sister but also her confidante and reliable companion. The two have discovered the secret to a fulfilling relationship: sharing laughter until tears flow, finding joy in life's simple pleasures, and being each other's most genuine friends.
Katie Coon - Bridesmaid
Angela and Katie kicked off their friendship "comedy-style" in Chicago. Get this – Angela wasn't exactly Team Katie at first. Fast forward to when they got into the same graduate program in WI and, surprise! A night at a bar turned their differences into a barrel of laughs when they discovered they're basically the same person.
Since that epic realization, Katie and Angela have shared an unbreakable bond. Their friendship is so genuine; it feels like they've been besties forever. Now, as Angela ties the knot, Katie stands proudly by her side, a testament to the enduring friendship.
Kelly Williams - Bridesmaid
Kelly and Angela's friendship sparked when they crossed paths in college, both pledging the same sorority. Despite the year gap between them, they connected instantly! Their personalities meshed effortlessly as they both have the same energy. Settling in Chicago after graduation, their bond deepened into an unbreakable sisterhood. Countless nights were spent in fits of laughter (often at Angela's expense) thanks to Kelly's collection of embarrassing photos. Their friendship, built on shared weirdness and mutual support, remains a cornerstone of their lives. Angela is beyond grateful to have Kelly by her side on her wedding day!
Katherine Takiguchi - Bridesmaid
Angela's friendship with Katherine, AKA "Kitten Mew Mew," blossomed in the confines of a college dorm during their freshman year at Purdue. From the moment they met, they became inseparable best friends. With a shared love for BOGO Big Macs, spicy chicken sandwiches, Bob Evans' breakfast, and the sweet melodies of R&B love songs radio, their days were filled with laughter, inside jokes, and a unique language only they could decipher. Their journey has been a rollercoaster of joy and hilarious tales, ensuring that every adventure they embark upon results in yet another unforgettable story to cherish.
Annie Cai - Bridesmaid
Annie and Angela's friendship started on June 3rd, 2019, their first day of grad school. Despite Annie's initial surprise at Angela's “crazy” energy, they quickly became close friends. Known for her unwavering kindness, Annie quickly became one of Angela's closest friends. Through Angela's college struggles, Annie was a constant source of support, showing up with food and lending a hand whenever needed. Over the past five years, their friendship has only grown stronger. Angela is thrilled to have Annie by her side on her wedding day, a testament to their enduring bond and shared journey!
Nikki Coubal - Bridesmaid
A friendship that blossomed in 7th grade in Hobart, IN, Nikki and Angela's story began when Angela, a shy newcomer, found herself standing next to Nikki in the auditorium lineup. Brought together by last names that both started with 'G,' Nikki's first words to Angela were a bold prediction: 'I think we're going to be best friends.' Fast forward to today, Nikki continues to be the life of the party, bringing out the wild and fun side in Angela. From that serendipitous meeting in 7th grade to standing by each other's side on the big day, their friendship has stood the test of time, creating countless memories filled with laughter and joy.
Nicole Johnston - Bridesmaid
Angela and Nicole hit it off back in 7th-8th grade when Nicole moved to Hobart, IN. Angela and Nikki (other bridesmaid) didn't give her a choice – they bombarded her until their duo turned into a trio of unstoppable fun.
From middle school dances to weddings and babies, Nicole and Angela have so many amazing memories together. Angela knows she's got a gem of a friend in Nicole. She's the kind of friend who's got your back 24/7 and won't hesitate to throw a punch (metaphorically speaking) if someone messes with you. With Nicole around, Angela never has to worry – her ride-or-die friend is always there to make life more fun and less stressful.
Will Thompson - Best Man
Adam and Will have known each other since middle school. They bonded over their many similarities (from interests to quirky personality traits). Their mischief has caused distress for their parents at times, but they have also helped each other to develop into the men they are today.
Dave Smith - Best Man
Adam and Dave met bagging groceries and packing shelves at their local grocery store in High School. They found out they were both attending UW-Whitewater in the Fall and chose to be Freshman roommates. Little did they know that would spark an unbreakable friendship.
Amanda Gentle - Groomswoman (& Sister)
Amanda needs little introduction… She is the most wonderful Sister to Adam that he could ever ask for. In fact, she was the one who named him! Although their personalities are vastly different, they will always be the perfect lifelong companions.
Salina Judkins - Groomswoman
Adam and Salina have been partners in crime since Freshman year of High School. They both are not afraid to tell each other how it is. For example, Sal wasn’t afraid to tell Adam that most of the women he dated “were not the one.” That said, she has approved of Angela from day one.
Pete Schroeder - Groomsman
Adam and Peter spent much of their childhood capitalizing on their creativity in the best and worst ways. As a common theme, their friendship helped them to grow equally as much as it got them into trouble. They have seen the best and the worst in each other and admittedly don’t see the difference.
J.R. Ellison - Groomsman
Adam and J.R. have known each other since High School, but it wasn’t until after college that they started getting close. They both have large hearts and compassion for their people that has led to a lifelong bond.
Joe Barnes - Officiant
Joe (Dad of Ring Bearer Matthew) has been a huge supporter of Angela and "Mr. Adam's" relationship. Or as Joe calls him "Mr. Hunk". Joe has known Angela for 8 years now and has seen her grow every step of the way. He and his beautiful wife Thy were some of the first to know about Mr. Adam. They knew once they met him, he was the one for Angela.
Angela and Adam are so grateful for Joe and the Barnes family and are so excited to have Joe tie the knot for them!
Nolan Rider & Matthew Barnes - Ring Bearers
Angela started nannying Matthew and Nolan in Chicago when they were just 3 months old! The boys called Angela "Yaya" when they were unable to pronounce her name and it stuck forever! Yaya and the boys (and now sisters included) have stayed extremely close over the years. From spending combined trips in Ohio together and frequent "Yaya + Mr. Adam trips" to Illinois. Yaya, Mr. Adam and the kids are forever friends! They couldn't be more excited to have them by their side on the big day.
Kahlani Grissom - Flower Girl
Angela's niece Kahlani (Natalie's daughter) is sassy, smart, and ready to rock her role as flower girl! To be honest... She's probably going to be the star of the show! Angela and Adam are so excited to have this sweet little lady introduce them down the aisle.