Bekah and Joy met in college by both playing percussion in the college marching band - however, their friendship was deepened by the hours spent catching Joy up on all the movies and TV series that she missed in high school! From Lord of the Rings to Harry Potter and more, the hours spent as friends and then roommates (both in college and after college) forged a bond that's unforgettable. Bekah brings a passionate and vivacious presence to any room, with a side-splitting sense of humor, fierce loyalty to her friends, and a love for reading to rival anyone (ask her how many books she read this year - the answer might shock you).

Allison and Joy met in their freshman year of high school - first at a library event, then in a shared class. However, their friendship grew leaps and bounds through their shared experience in the high school show choir. Through all the ups and downs of high school, Allison and Joy forged a friendship that has lasted long after graduation day - bonding over shared memories, time spent in nature, movies, and games. Allison is always a kind and encouraging face to see, whether you need a shoulder to cry on, someone to nerd out with, or someone to just laugh with about life.

Of all the bridesmaids, Joy's known Abi the longest - since about 20 minutes after Joy was born! Growing up, Abi and Joy had lots of time together, from going to dance classes together to Joy tagging along with Abi's high school events. Despite the 10 year age gap and a distance gap, Abi has been an encouraging presence in Joy's life from afar. Since adulthood, Abi and Joy have grown closer, enjoying shared time on family vacations and phone calls to catch up. Abi currently lives with her family in South Carolina, and loves dance, 4 wheeling, and boating with those she loves.

Alex and Joy also met in Marching Band in college (though they very nearly were freshman roommates!). However, their friendship wasn't just formed on the band field - it was grown in shared ministry classes and late night homework study sessions. In college, Alex was always a friend who was willing to lend a helping hand (or simply share space to motivate us both to be more productive). She has a vibrant personality that brings energy to any room and works to include everyone. She loves music, youth ministry, and all things Jane Austen - oh, and coffee is a must!

Jordan and Joy have been friends for over a decade! They met in 7th grade and grew closer throughout high school, sharing a love for music, animals, and later being in Marching Band together. While she's unable to be part of the wedding in person, she and her husband are so excited to celebrate the birth of their first baby boy in November! She's so full of life, energy, and encouragement, and always looking for ways to make the world a better place.

Mitchell has been by the groom’s side through thick and thin. Born as brothers, their bond has grown into something even deeper—a relationship rooted in unwavering love, respect, and loyalty. From childhood adventures to adult challenges, Mitchell has been a constant source of strength, support, and laughter. A true competitor at heart, Mitchell thrives on anything that brings out a challenge—whether it’s sports, video games, or a spontaneous backyard rivalry. He brings a passionate, energetic spirit to everything he does, matched by a loyalty that never wavers. He doesn’t just show up—he gives it his all, every time. Over the years, Mitchell and the groom have built a friendship forged in endless inside jokes, late-night talks, sibling debates, and shared wins and losses. Their brotherhood has stood the test of time, and Mitchell remains one of the groom’s closest allies and most trusted friends. To know Mitchell is to know someone who will always have your back and bring the fire—win or lose.

Ruben and the groom met as randomly assigned roommates during their freshman year at NIU, and quickly became best friends. Over the years, they’ve supported each other in pursuing their passions and discovering their callings. Ruben has always been more than a friend—he welcomed the groom into his family, making him feel like an adopted member. Their bond is built on countless laughs, late-night conversations, and a shared love for all things nerdy. From deep philosophical debates to childish bickering over movies or games, their friendship is as genuine as it is entertaining.

Abner has always been the kind of friend you can count on for a good laugh and a great time. He and the groom have bonded over countless board games, deep dives into film and television, and laugh-until-you-can’t-breathe moments that are now legendary. With a sharp wit and a gift for storytelling, Abner has a way of turning the ordinary into pure comedy—whether he’s reflecting on his own life or hilariously observing the world around him. But beyond the jokes, he has a rare talent for listening. He hears people deeply, offering advice, empathy, and understanding without hesitation.

The groom and Vicente first connected through Ruben, and it didn’t take long before they were hanging out at group events and family gatherings. Vicente is a driven and hardworking guy who runs his own company, but he still makes time for the things he loves—riding his motorcycle, staying competitive in any sport or game, and spending time with the people who matter most. With a naturally stoic presence that can flip to laughter in an instant, Vicente brings a unique energy to every room. And if he’s giving you a hard time, take it as a compliment—he only messes with the ones he’s truly comfortable around. Loyal, sharp, and always down for a good time, Vicente is someone you definitely want on your team (unless you're playing against him).

Cammi and Jacob Bodine went to college with Joy, sharing classes, music ensembles, and study sessions together. However, their friendship deepened during the time they served on staff together at the same church in the Chicago suburbs. They're a dynamic duo of joy and laughter, and enjoy talking about anything from fantasy football to deep theology!