Through resiliency, love and sacrifice, my Mom dedicated her life to raising, loving and providing for me. Without choices that she made, the life I have wouldn't be possible. I am eternally grateful to her for her role as a mother and for the relationship we've built. On our wedding day, between helping and crying, I hope she knows that her mission to give me a great life is complete and that her mother would be so proud of the choices she made.

There aren't words to describe the impact of this man. The lessons he taught me, the time he made, the friendship that only grows with time. I could write a book on how much his love, wisdom and understanding have impacted me. On our wedding day, after the nerves have subsided, I hope he is proud of the man he chose to be and understands that he isn't marrying us because he got his officiant license, but because his love got me to this day.

This guy. Since meeting almost 17 years ago, he has been the most impactful friend I could have ever asked for. Almost two decades of trips, concerts, late nights, YouTube videos, sleepovers and memories have already given me a lifetime of memories and happiness. I can never repay Drew for teaching me how to enjoy life and for being the best brother I could've ever asked for. Knowing that we will always have each other gives me comfort that few things possibly could.

Michael Hart, where to start. There is no one else I'd rather stay up late endlessly sharing my goals, struggles, successes and unreasonable plans with. He has unconditionally supported me, dealt with me as his roommate for 2 years, travelled the country with me, and is the only person on this planet who might genuinely understand me. I don't know why you did, but I am forever grateful you decided being my roommate in college was a good idea.

Rob has such a special place in my life. He's the only person I take music recommendations from and the only reason I enjoyed working at Arby's. He, without knowing, has pushed me to accept uncomfortable things about myself and has put up with my BS for way too long. Thank you for always being willing to listen to me, to be the person that makes me go do things. I'm lucky to have a friend that I feel so comfortable being myself with.

Lee didn't ask to be friends with his brother's roommate, but here we are. We've hung out about once a week for 7 years now, enjoying cold... beverages and "fresh air". Lee, your positive attitude, ability to create conversation and genuine interest in people have encouraged me to be better every week. Thank you for being someone I know I will be close to for the rest of my life.

Colton was originally a friend-through-association thanks to Rob, but has since become one of my closest friends. He's someone who wants to bring others into his passions and thoughts while being genuinely curious and interested in others. His comfortability with himself and authenticity pushes me to pursue the same in myself. Thank you for being my friend and for always being down for anything.

Working together at Arby's and OSU might've scared Rico away to Colorado, but he didn't get away that easily. He is someone who has persistently shown he is there for me and creates an environment of adventure, closeness and comfortability. Rico, I am so grateful for your influence on me to be more fearless, take risks, and to live life to the fullest

There is no one else that understands me quite like my mom. From the start, she chose being a mom as her highest priority, which is a sacrifice I will be forever grateful for. I learned to love from her full and unconditional love. Through every single joy and challenge in my life, she has been there to love, comfort, and support me. This day is no different. I couldn't be more excited to share in the immense joy of our wedding day with her.

If you've ever wondered where my humor and excitability come from, look no further. My dad is not only one of the people I have the most fun and laughs with, he is also a man of love and sacrifice that I know I can depend on at all hours of the day and night. I’ve learned from him how to put myself aside and work hard for those I love. I'm so thankful to have him by my side for the inevitable wedding day mishaps, but most importantly for our shared laughs and tears.

It started with making fun of our literature professor on walks home from class. We've grown up, and grown much closer since then. From walks, to living together, late nights studying, and nights out, to three hour phone calls, and traveling around the country, Anya is the rare friend that I am perfectly comfortable and happy doing absolutely anything with. I know she will always be by my side, not just on the big day.

Since middle school, Yasmeenah has always been someone I can rely on. When you go through some of life's biggest changes together and come out on the other side still friends, you know it's real. Yasmeenah is confident and authentic in every moment. Her fearlessness pushes me to believe in myself and take the worthwhile risks in life (like quitting your job to pursue a new career). I'm a stronger person because of her.

Our once PTO moms became best friends back in the early 2000s, so we go waaay back, but it wasn't until we were adults that we really connected as friends. Being three years older, I always saw Rachel as a kid growing up, but now she is the one teaching me how to let loose, have genuine fun, and keep a positive outlook on life. She is a friend who helps me live life to the fullest every time I'm with her.

Being an English teacher isn't an easy gig, but Lauren made it worth it to get up and go to school every day. I may have left teaching, but I refuse to leave my teaching soulmate and genuine friend with it. Lauren knows how to have a great time and bring everyone else along with her, but is also a great listener and incredibly empathetic. She is one of the few people who really knows my heart and cares.

Sojin has a special place in my heart forever. She taught me how to have a vulnerable friendship with a woman that I truly respect and admire. I looked up to Sojin from the moment I was placed on the same Young Life team as her. Her bravery, honesty, and genuine compassion helped us grow a bond of love for and acceptance of one another. I aspire to be more like her every day.

Ashley is not just my favorite cousin, she's a true friend. I always wanted a sister growing up, but I got something better in Ashley. She has been there for me throughout my entire life, and has always stood firmly in my corner no matter what. Ashley’s endless love for others and for life itself is hard to find. She has taught be to love, and be loved, on a deeper level. Our friendship is irreplaceable to me.