Katrina is one of many of my dear, sweet cousins. Growing up, I made many wonderful memories with her over various summers when I and my family traveled down to Virginia to visit her, my Aunt Marlene, Uncle Joel, and the rest of my cousins. I fondly recall us take trips into town for ice cream at one of the best local spots in town- Kline’s Dairy Bar. Another vivid memory I have involves us staying up swapping late night giggles and stories with our shared cousin, Bethany, in our grandparents upstairs bedroom in Pennsylvania. We always referred to ourselves as the Three Musketeers (oh wait- maybe that was just me 😅😂) because we were in similar life stages growing up. The last memory I’ll take time to share is how I remember us staying up late at night having deeper theological discussions, as well as dreaming, thinking, and praying about the kind of husbands God might bless us with one day. I might be biased, but neither of us could ask for anything more. God did the best job and knew who was best for both of us. By the way- Katrina is still one of the number one people in my life that I can count on to tell me to be honest about how I’m REALLY doing. A final humble brag on my cousin- years back, she felt God calling her to the mission field to work in the Red Light district in Cambodia with victims of sex trafficking, and she received her Masters in the counseling field in 2024. I’m very proud of her! I have no doubt God will use her tender hearted soul to reach others for him.

Miranda and I both attended the same church growing up as children, and on occasion if my parents went away for the weekend, or if they had to work, I remember days spent playing dress up, board and card games, going on bike rides, or having movie nights. One thing I admire about Miranda is her free spirit, her devotion to her husband, Ivan, and their son Clark. I admire her faithfulness and loyalty to Jesus Christ above all else. Anytime her faith has been tested and forged in the fire, it continues to blossom and grow stronger each time.

I and Kara first met when I and my family started attending the church that her dad pastors. We quickly enjoyed having discussions surrounding theology and God’s word. We’ve shared a few late night hot tub talks solving the world’s problems, and what was my very first “fete en blanc” experience during a beautiful evening out with our mothers on a mother-daughter date, enjoying Charcuterie. Ironically, her dad’s name is “Joe,” and my dad’s name is “Joey.” Kara may not know this, but she truly lifts the mood anytime we’re together. She’s got the best smile that lights up a room, and her faith has remained strong despite various trials regarding the health of her two twin girls when they were first born. I admire her dedication to her family, and her love for the Lord.

Braelyn and I connected almost 5 years ago through our church. She’s always someone I can count on to listen with a sympathetic ear. We haven’t lived a whole lot of life together, but I enjoyed the time we were able to spend a couple summers ago during one of my birthday weekend trips. She even came while pregnant, so kudos to her! Braelyn is tender hearted, strong in her faith, and a friend anyone would be blessed to have. I admire her devotion to her homemaking skills, and she’s always experimenting with something new, in hopes of better serving her family and community with a more wholistic lifestyle.

Cambrya and I have shared many fun road trips, laughs, and tears over shared life experiences that have brought us together. Cambrya is goofy, light hearted, and tenacious. Simply put- she’s a fighter! We have lived so much life together, and have gotten to have so many shared experiences. We even share the privilege of getting married and engaged the same year! I’m thrilled for her and her future husband, and I wish them many years of happiness together.

Chris and I met in college, in one of the most unusual places, the laundry room. Chris has been one of the most important people in my life. Through late-night laughs, countless adventures, and years of friendship, he’s always been someone I can count on! I was privileged to serve as his best man when he got married. It is crazy to think how standing next to a washer one night has now got us standing next to each other at the alter.

There are not enough words to describe how much it means to have my dad stand beside me as one of my groomsmen. He has been my best friend since the day I came into this world and has continued to pour his unconditional love and support into me each and every day. From our endless laughter, to the moments where his quiet wisdom guided me forward, my dad has been a constant source of strength, comfort, and joy throughout my life. He’s shown me what it means to be steady, loyal, and full-hearted. With my dad as a groomsman, I’m continuing a tradition in our family, one he began when he married my mom. Just as he stood proudly beside his father, I now have the honor of having him stand beside me. Sharing this moment with the man who helped shape who I am today is something I will cherish for the rest of my life.

Marion and I go all the way back to our high school and college days. We both met through the Future Farmers of America (FFA) program and have not looked back since. I specifically remember when we spent a whole week in Washington, DC for an FFA leadership conference. That experience brought us even closer, and our friendship has only grown stronger ever since.

As an only child, I had always dreamed of having a brother, and marrying Ashlen gave me exactly that. From day one, Christian welcomed me into the family with open arms, and over time he’s become more than just Ashlen’s brother. He’s truly become my own. I couldn’t imagine this day without him standing by my side.

Aaron has and will always be my childhood best friend. We grew up together, from elementary through high school, playing baseball, running cross country, and even being inducted into the National Honor Society. We shared just about everything growing up, and one thing that’s never changed is our love for NC State. We’ll pull for the Pack any day of the week (Go Pack!). These days, whenever we get the chance to hang out, you can usually find us on the golf course or watching a Wolfpack game. Our friendship has stood the test of time, and I’m truly honored to have him standing by my side on this special day.