Rehearsal Dinner

Champaign Ranch

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception to follow

Our Wedding

Our story began in 2023…with a swipe, a smile, and an app that gave Danielle no choice but to make the first move. (Thanks, Bumble.) To be fair… something about DJ stood out. Maybe it was the warmth in his smile, or maybe it was the feeling that this time was different. Whatever it was, she hit send, and everything changed. At the time, Danielle was working the midnight shift at San Jose PD, and DJ had just finished an incredible season as the defensive coordinator for Hughson High School Football, celebrating a state championship and preparing for his first year of teaching. With Danielle’s night shifts and DJ’s summer break, the timing aligned perfectly, and so did we.Very quickly, we started something we called Late Night Questions - intentional, deep conversations that began at midnight and often carried us into the early hours of the morning. There were no games, no pretense; just honesty, connection, and the rare comfort of feeling completely known by someone new. Our first date was at Huckberry’s in Livermore, and in true rom-com fashion, Danielle’s mom dropped her off. It wasn’t what she imagined dating in adulthood would look like, but it ended up being the perfect, memorable beginning. For our second date, DJ drove two hours to Morgan Hill to pick Danielle up. When he arrived at the house, he met her parents and younger sister for the first time. It was nerve-wracking, but little did he know that he left her family smiling. Our third date came with a quiet certainty. There weren’t any dramatic declarations, but the energy between us had shifted. Danielle, who’s always believed in “When you know, you know”, felt that truth take root. Our fourth date brought us to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, a peaceful day of wandering through sea life and building a memory that would stay with us for years. Nearly two years later, DJ brought Danielle back to that same exact spot… and proposed. It was simple, full-circle, and completely us. In between those moments were chaotic train rides, weekend drives, goodbye hugs, and countdowns. But eventually, Danielle made the move to Stanislaus County, started a new job, and we began the life we’d been waiting to live - side by side. Today, our life is built on the little things: morning coffee (and DJ’s energy drink), sitcom marathons, sideline moments, quiet drives, deep talks, and knowing looks that say, we’re in this together. When Danielle asked her dad what he thought of DJ after meeting him, he said, “You’ll never be bored.” He was right; in the best way. We’re so grateful you’re here! Not just to celebrate our wedding day, but to be part of the story that led us here. When you know, you know. And we knew.

Our Story

Photos

Danielle didn’t have a choice but to welcome me into the world...with a glare and crossed arms. From that moment on, I knew she’d be my best friend. We may have grown up as polar opposites, but somehow that made us the perfect match. She was the balance I never knew I needed.
Dani has always had the most radiant personality and a heart so big and selfless it can’t be replicated. So I knew that anyone who captured her attention had to be extraordinary. Then came DJ. From the start, I realized he wasn’t just someone who loved my sister - he was someone who understood her, celebrated her quirks, and matched her heart in a way I didn’t think was possible.
While I may joke that I always wanted a brother and instantly regretted it when I met DJ, the truth is he’s everything I could’ve hoped for my sister’s partner. His love for Dani is steady, rare, and so genuine. It’s the kind of love you can feel just by being around them.
I couldn’t be happier to stand by Danielle’s and DJ’s side as they begin this next chapter together. And while I’ll proudly hold onto my role as her sister/her as my best friend, I know DJ is her perfect match, and together their future will be nothing short of beautiful.

Brianna Mills

DJ and I met in elementary school, although our friendship didn’t really develop until high school. We always grew up around each other and were probably even on some of the same sports teams, but I hardly remember speaking to him—probably because I was a stereotypical jock and DJ was a not-so-stereotypical jock. DJ and I first really became close friends our senior year. I’m not sure how, but he started at linebacker next to me. I was 230 pounds, and he was 130. He would say things like, “We’re linebacker buddies,” and I would respond with, “Go away.” Call it a bromance if you want, but DJ and I might have an invisible string theory going on. Prior to that senior year, any playing time DJ got was either because I was injured, moved up, or suspended. During those times, just like in the movie Rudy, DJ proved that size didn’t matter on the field, which led to us finally getting to play together our last year. We ended up bonding over a shared obsession of football and playing Madden. Fast forward 10 years, and our string theory continues. We have now coached together for over 5 years, both got hired in the same school year at Hughson High, and now I get the honor of being his best man.

I first met Dani at one of our coaching after-parties. This was a shock to me because I’ve never been able to get DJ to successfully talk to another girl. She instantly clicked with all of the girlfriends and wives, and since then, Dani has fully embraced the world of a coach’s wife. Once I learned Dani had Lord of the Rings posters in her room, I knew she was a perfect match for DJ.

Justice Futch

Sisters by chance, best friends by choice (along with plenty of shared favorite snacks and movie quotes along the way) Amanda has been by Danielle's side since she was born- literally. As the big sister, she helped raise Danielle, and proudly takes credit for turning her into a Lord of the Rings superfan. Their bond is built on years of laughter, late night talks, and enough inside jokes to last a lifetime. Watching Danielle grow into the amazing woman she is today, has been one of Amanda's greatest joys. But seeing her with DJ? That's next-level. From the moment Amanda met DJ, she could see how deeply, he cared and loved for Danielle. He's funny, smart, sweet and truly one of the good ones. Her kids already call him 'Uncle DJ' which speaks volumes in itself. Amanda couldn't imagine a better match for her sister and she couldn't be happier to welcome DJ into the chaos.

Amanda Dailey

Mark first met DJ in 2021 when he began coaching football at Hughson High School. Mark worked with the linebackers while DJ served as the defensive coordinator, and the two quickly formed a strong friendship. Mark admires DJ’s deep knowledge of the game, while DJ appreciates Mark’s honesty and quick wit—qualities that have made their time on and off the field both productive and fun. When DJ began dating Dani, Mark had the chance to meet her and instantly saw how perfect they were for each other. Over the years, they’ve built a bond rooted in teamwork, respect, and plenty of shared laughs, making Mark proud to stand by DJ as a groomsman on his wedding day to Dani.

Mark Foss

Dani and I go way back—I first met her when I was 10 and she was 8, after her family joined our church. Over the last 20 years we grew from church choir buddies into true lifelong friends, the kind who can spend hours on late-night talks, swap paragraphs-long texts, and always pick right back up no matter how much time (or distance) has passed. We’ve navigated heartbreaks, adulting struggles, and everything in between, and I’m so grateful for the laughter and strength we’ve shared along the way.
When Dani met DJ, I knew he had to be someone special—not just because he got the stamp of approval from Mama Mills and Fred, but because of the undeniable happiness and glow he brought out in her. I’m beyond honored to stand beside Dani and DJ on their wedding day and celebrate a love that’s so full of joy, resilience, and heart.

Devyn Noriel

Phil met DJ in 2016 while coaching football at Hughson High School, and their shared passion for the game quickly sparked a lasting friendship. In the off-season, they enjoyed countless hours of friendly competition playing Madden, but some of Phil’s favorite memories come from their weekly coaching meetings with DJ and Coach King, where they would plan both the offense and defense. What started as work sessions soon became a tradition, complete with road trips to scout players and playoff teams. Those long drives, shared strategies, and plenty of laughs laid the foundation for a friendship that has lasted well beyond the football field. He is so happy to have Dani join the Football family and continue to make DJ as happy as he is now! Congrats you two. 

Philip Tubera

Sarah first met DJ many years ago when she was just Sam’s girlfriend, and the Sexton family was a whole new world. A few years later and some friendly “initiations” later, she officially became apart of the Sexton clan in 2017. As the years went by, Sarah often wondered if she’d ever get the Sexton sister-in law she always dreamed of. Then, during a quick FaceTime call, DJ introduced the family to Dani, and Sarah’s hope was sparked. Could this be it? Sarah and Dani finally met in person on a Black Friday morning, out shopping with Robin Sexton. Their connection started with a shared love for Lord of the Rings and Disney, and quickly blossomed into a deep friendship. Sarah is deeply honored to stand by two people she loves so much on their special day.

Sarah Sexton

Matt and DJ’s friendship began in 2016 during the freshman football season at Hughson High School, where they both proudly graduated from. Coaching together quickly strengthened their bond, with plenty of laughs and memorable moments along the way. One that still stands out to Matt is a hilarious fight DJ once had with his brother Sam over a bottle of water—DJ insisted their mom had given them each one, but Sam disagreed. DJ tried to win the water back, ultimately without success, but it became a story they’ve laughed about ever since. Matt admires DJ’s strong work ethic and chose to remain coaching his position players alongside him. When Matt met Dani, he knew right away she was perfect for DJ, and on the field, Matt has often been her “eyes” when DJ couldn’t see the backfield. Today, he’s honored to stand beside them both on their wedding day.

Matthew Gonzales

Hi, I’m Maddie!
I’m the groom’s cousin, but I actually met the bride for the first time in true vacation fashion—poolside in Cabo, surrounded by floaties, frozen drinks, and instant good vibes. What started as a casual hello in the water quickly turned into endless laughs and the beginning of a best friendship I truly treasure.
Since then, we’ve spent countless hours in the football stands cheering on DJ—pretending we know what’s going on and plotting our future podcast, “A Girlies’ Guide to Football.” When we’re not shouting from the bleachers, you can usually find us sipping margs, tearing up a dance floor, and teaming up to lovingly gang up on the groom.
I’m beyond excited to stand beside these two and celebrate a love that’s as fun, fierce, and unforgettable as they are!

Maddie Martin

I first met DJ when he was still in high school, during my very first year coaching at Hughson. He stood out right away—not because he looked like a football player, but because he was our starting middle linebacker. And I know what you’re probably thinking: “Wait… him? Middle linebacker?” Yes. Let me say it again—our starting middle linebacker.

How did he win that job? Well, it helped that right next to him was his best man, Justice Futch, an All-American who took a lot of the pounding. DJ, though—he was the brains. To this day, I don’t think we’ve ever had a linebacker who could read a play better than him.

I later found out there’s a reason for that. His dad told me DJ has a lazy eye—but it’s not a weakness, it’s a gift. He can see things that most people can’t. He sees the whole field, he sees what’s coming next, and he processes it in an instant.

I think that’s more than just a football skill. That’s who DJ is. He’s someone who sees things that others might miss. He sees the good in people. He sees the small moments that matter. And he’s always been the guy you can trust to anticipate what’s needed—whether on the field, as a friend, or now, as a husband.

I can tell you—DJ has always been loyal, steady, and wise beyond his years. He’s the kind of friend who shows up when you need him, and the kind of man who makes the people around him better.

As we celebrate DJ and Dani, I think it’s clear that same vision, that same heart, that same ability to see what really matters—has led him to the love of his life. He doesn’t just see the world differently… he sees her. 

To DJ and Dani- May your vision always guide you, and may your love only grow stronger with every play life throws their way.

Shaun King

It began with the forging of a friendship. Candice has been part of Danielle’s life for well over 20 years now. A wild adventure, coming in and out of each other’s lives as kids then becoming inseparable as adults. She’s seen Danielle through practically every stage of life, and vise versa. There’s no one in her life that knows her quite like Danielle. Someone who’s seen the beauty and the chaos, the highs and the lows, much that was lost to others that only they will ever remember. To know someone that intimately is a gift, a gift that few get to share with a person. But a few years back, a man was entrusted with this gift. DJ was brought into the fellowship to care for this gift. He, too, took the time to know Danielle this intimately. He accepted this gift and eventually that gift became a ring. This fellowship cares for one another and is so grateful to embrace DJ as part of our family. 

Candice Clifford

Dani and I met our freshman year of high school (alllll the way back in 2011). We immediately bonded over Glee, Phantom of the Opera, and Lord of the Rings. 

In the 15 years since then, we’ve gone on many road trips, explicating existential crises and racing moms in Jeeps while blasting HUMBLE. by Kendrick Lamar. I once dressed up as Jacob from Twilight, in a full wolf fursuit, where I howled at the moon while Dani as Bella ran her fingers through my coarse fur. There is a plethora of photo evidence. 

We’ve laughed together, we’ve cried together, joked and wept, but most importantly, we’ve been there for each other with unconditional companionship on our proverbial journey to Mordor. I could not be happier watching Dani and DJ continue build and strengthen the foundation of their relationship as they begin another quest, one undoubtedly filled with just as many laughs, tears, and love.

Joseph Mannino 

Dani and I became friends some would say by total luck, but I know it was definitely the Lord. I am from Hughson and went to high school with DJ, so we knew each other through mutual friends (small town, who don’t you know) well I saw that DJ had a girlfriend from an Instagram, then met her briefly at a playoff breakfast for the team. My husband helps coach as well. Well, the following season came around and I knew Dani was in town and moved from farther away, so I texted her and asked if she wanted to go to the Friday night football game together. We clicked immediately, by the middle of the season we were matching on accident. Literally I drove up, texted Dani, she came out of the house and we were wearing the same exact sweater, a sparkly football sweater of course. But our friendship has been a total blessing, and I’m so excited and honored to support Dani and DJ as they get married  and prepare for the rest of their lives together.

Shelby Bloom 

I first met Dani while we were both working at SJPD. SHE made the decision to sit next to me in the back row of our "Records Academy" and what started as a work connection quickly turned into a solid friendship. Over the years, we’ve bonded over everything from late-night conversations to heated debates about our favorite fandoms - most notably our shared (and correct) opinion that Star Wars is far superior to Lord of the Rings.

Dani is one of those rare people who brings energy, humor, and unwavering loyalty to every friendship. She’s the kind of person you can call at 2 a.m.; whether it’s for advice, a laugh, or to argue over the best lightsaber duel in cinematic history.

Of course, no friendship is without its legendary stories. Ask me sometime about how she got me kicked out of a Justin Bieber concert (a story she continues to deny with expert-level gaslighting).

I’m incredibly honored to be part of this celebration and to stand by someone who’s been such a meaningful part of my life. Can’t wait to see what adventures lie ahead for Dani and DJ!

AJ Obiniana 

Wedding Party

Q + A

Hampton Inn & Suites Sacramento-Elk Grove Laguna I-5

Hilton Garden Inn Sacramento Elk Grove

Comfort Inn & Suites Galt - Lodi North

Travel

Things to Do

Registry

We invite our guests to dress up formal attire. This is an evening celebration, and we encourage elegant gowns, refined cocktail dresses, and suits or tuxes. Come ready to dress up and celebrate with us!

Danielle & DJ

Danielle & DJ

D&D

Wedding Day

4:30 PM

Ceremony

5:00 PM

Reception to follow