McKenna and I have known each other for sixteen years, but it feels like a lifetime. We met when we were nine through a mutual friend, and to be completely honest... we didn’t like each other at first. Over time (and probably through a lot of eye-rolls and sass), we became inseparable. Now, I can’t imagine my life without her. She’s not just a friend—she’s family. She's my rock, my source of honest advice, and the person who never fails to remind anyone around her that she's the smartest person in the room (and okay, most of the time, she really is). She’s fierce, brilliant, endlessly supportive, and one of the strongest women I know. The fact that we get to be each other’s maid of honor, just months apart, is something truly special. It’s a full-circle moment that I’ll treasure forever. I’m so lucky to have her right beside me on my wedding day, just like she’s been there through every other chapter of my life.

Morgan and I have known each other since grade school, and from the very beginning, our friendship has just clicked. She’s that kind of friend where everything feels easy—natural, comfortable, and always genuine. We’ve grown up side by side, shared countless laughs, late-night talks, and even a home during our college years (where we somehow managed to stay sane and even closer than before). She has one of the kindest hearts I know. She’s always there—loyal, supportive, and solid—no matter what’s going on. I know without a doubt she’s on my side, just like she knows I’m always on hers. What makes this time even more special is that we’re walking through such an exciting chapter together—she’s getting married just a few months before me! It means the world to have her by my side, just like she’s always been, not only as my bridesmaid but as one of my truest friends.

I met Amanda through McKenna when they were living together in Duluth, and even though it's only been a few years, it feels like she’s been part of my life forever. She’s one of those rare people who makes an instant impact—someone who just gets it, and gets you, too. Amanda is easily one of the most selfless people I’ve ever met. She’s always the first to hype someone up, the one cheering the loudest for everyone else, and the steady, reliable force who holds us all together. We lovingly call her “The Dad” of our group—not just because she always makes sure we survive our chaotic nights out—but because she genuinely looks out for all of us like family. She’s become such an important part of my life, and I couldn’t imagine this day without her. I’m so grateful for the friendship we’ve built and all the memories we’ve made (and survived) together!

Kitri has been in my life since I was fifteen, when she started dating my brother Jaylen, and from the very beginning, she’s been the big sister I never had. Over the years, our relationship has grown into something so special—she’s not just family by marriage, she’s family by heart. Kitri has always been a steady voice of reason and honesty in my life. She’s the person I go to when I need real advice—the kind that’s thoughtful, wise, and sometimes hard to hear, but always exactly what I need. She tells the truth with love, and that’s something I admire deeply. Watching her grow from Jaylen’s high school girlfriend into his wife, and now the incredible mother of their two beautiful children, Kinnley and Miller, has been one of the most meaningful parts of my life. She’s strong, grounded, compassionate, and fiercely devoted to the people she loves—and I’m so lucky to be one of them. Having her be a part of my wedding day is an honor I’ll always treasure.

Jamie is Jake’s sister, and while we’ve only known each other for a couple of years, she’s been supportive of our relationship from the very beginning—even if that support sometimes comes with a healthy dose of sibling sarcasm. In true sibling fashion, she’s always quick with a joke about the age difference between Jake and me or a comment about how I still have time to “escape.” (Spoiler alert: I’m staying!) What I’ve come to love most about Jamie is her sense of humor, her loyalty, and the way she’s welcomed me into the family with open arms—and the occasional competitive game night. From drinks and darts at the bar to teaming up against the boys during family game nights and holiday chaos, she’s become someone I truly enjoy being around and someone I’m excited to call sister. I can’t wait to keep building memories together and to have her there with us on such an important day.

Chloe is my younger cousin and a true bundle of goofiness and personality. She never fails to make me laugh, whether we’re tipping each other off paddle boards at our grandparents’ lake or spending the day out shopping and wandering around town together. I’m so excited to have her as my junior bridesmaid—not only because it means more time laughing and making memories, but also because now that I’ve moved closer, I get to watch her grow up right by her side. Having Chloe involved in this special day makes it even more meaningful, and I can’t wait to share these moments with her.

I met Matt during our first year of college, and now, fifteen years later, he’s still one of the most important people in my life. Back then, he was basically my unofficial third roommate—he had a near-permanent spot on my dorm room couch. By sophomore year, we made it official and lived together, setting the stage for years of unforgettable (and occasionally questionable) memories. If you overheard one of our conversations or watched how we interact, you might honestly assume we don’t like each other. The sarcasm, the relentless roasting—it’s all part of the charm. But somehow, that dynamic has always worked for us. Beneath the banter is a friendship built on loyalty and trust, through the ups, downs, and all the in-betweens, he’s always been there. I had the honor of standing by Matt’s side as his best man, and there was no question in my mind who I'd ask when it came time. He’s more than a best friend—he’s family—and I wouldn’t want to do this day without him.

Rog and I started off on opposite sides of the field, playing against each other in high school. But it wasn’t long before we ended up teammates in college, and I quickly got to see what everyone always talks about—his ever-present smile, upbeat attitude, and the way he can lift the mood of an entire room without even trying. After college, life had a funny way of bringing us even closer—I moved into an apartment and found out he lived just a couple doors down. From that moment on, hours of gaming, golf outings full of fairway divots (and, let's be honest, a fair share of time in the bunkers), and countless hangouts became the norm. Rog is one of those rare people who seems to always be the smartest, kindest and most thoughtful person in the room. Having him as a groomsman means having someone by my side who's not just a great friend, but one of the best people I know.

Jon and I go way back—like little league baseball back. I’ve had the chance to watch him grow from the quiet kid in high school (seriously, we could count his words at practice on one hand) into one of the most selfless and thoughtful people I know. We reconnected again in college, teaming up once more, and eventually even lived together. Through all of it—early mornings working side by side at the golf course, long summer days filled with road trips and ball games—we built a friendship that’s stood the test of time. Jon is the kind of friend who doesn’t ask for the spotlight but shows up for the people he cares about without fail. I’m proud of the person he’s become, and I know that when the little hair we have left finally turns gray, those memories we’ve made will still bring a smile to my face. Having him stand beside me on this day means more than I can say.

Jaylen is the older brother of my soon-to-be wife and also the husband of Kitri—so from the start, he’s been part of the package deal. Though it's been more recent that we’ve started to get to know each other, it’s clear that he’s someone who leads with quiet confidence and a deep love for his family which is something that I admire. As we officially become brothers-in-law, I’m looking forward to building an even stronger relationship—not just as family, but as friends, whether it's through our mutual love of watching sports or sharing a few rounds out on the course. Having him stand beside me on this important day is meaningful, and I’m excited for everything that lies ahead as we continue to grow that bond.

Leo is my soon-to-be brother-in-law and the younger brother of Jordyn, and even though we’ve only recently started to get to know each other, it’s been clear from the start what an easygoing and genuine person he is. He’s the kind of guy who keeps things lighthearted and fun, always making sure everyone around him is having a good time. Whether it’s late-night pizza and teaming up against his sister in Mario Kart, or cracking jokes during board games, Leo’s humor is infectious—and somehow, he manages to keep us all laughing no matter the situation. I’m excited to have him as a groomsman and look forward to growing our relationship not just as family, but as friends who can share plenty more laughs together.

Joe has played a meaningful role and been a steady presence throughout Jake's life dating back to his time at St. Scholastica. Starting with coaching through college ball and summer leagues, their relationship only strengthened after transitioning from coach and player to coaching together for a decade. More than just a mentor on the field, Joe has been a role model to Jake in every sense. Someone Jake has looked up to for guidance in the way he carries himself both professionally and personally. When Jake and Jordyn got engaged Joe welcomed her with open arms from the start, and it's an honor for them to have Joe officiating over their special day.