Gina and I have been friends since we met in Mrs. Quinn's kindergarten class, and it's amazing to think back on how far we have come since that very first day. The memories we share are some of the most important things in my life, some of the highlights being: playing on the St. Gen's playground, writing letters back and forth, sharing Lisa Frank stickers, celebrating birthdays together, sleeping over at the Philadelphia Zoo, and living through many, many awkward phases and styles. I am grateful beyond words for the bond that we share, and for the adventures that have continued over the years. Gina is like a sister to me and Grayson, and we are so blessed to have her in our lives.

Nic and I have been friends since elementary school. Throughout middle school and high school, we cemented that friendship with Airsoft, Halo 2, far too many viewings of Fight Club, and other assorted shenanigans. Although our paths in life have diverged, with me going to college and moving to D.C. and Nic joining the Marines and working as a firefighter in our hometown, our friendship has remained as strong as ever. I'm honored to have him standing next to me today and have full confidence that he will be able to repel any kidnapping attempts made by rival clans.

Josh has been a constant companion to both Marissa and myself. I met both of them on the same day at the first editorial meeting of our college newspaper. After a trip to New York City, several late nights in the newspaper office, and a spontaneous decision to jump into a fountain in the middle of a lightning storm, we knew our friendship would be a lasting one. After graduation, Josh and I both moved to D.C., where we've kept our friendship strong through our mutual love of Dungeons & Dragons and The Bachelorette. When Marissa and I made the transition from friendship to something more, Josh was right there to support us. He's been with us every step of the way, and our wedding wouldn't be complete without him.

It's rare to know someone as special as Jenne, and I'm so thankful we met in the first days of college at GCC. She is the kind of rare person who "just gets me," whether it be through our similar senses of humor, or through relating over the many the ups and downs of life. I know I can always rely on her, which is a trait I value deeply. From Beans on Broad, to swing dancing club, pulling all-nighters, drinking copious amounts of coffee, living in Zerbe, sharing a closet, "naturing" (hiking), sharing a chicken tender wrap while walking to the BR (you remember the night), and so many more memories, I am so blessed to think back on all the years, experiences, and laughs we have shared. I'm honored to have her as a part of this special day.

George is my nephew, but in age and affection, I consider him more as a brother. Over the course of my life, I've watched him evolve from a bratty little kid into a confident and fun-loving guy who asks me for life advice, shares memes with me, and introduces me to hip new music while we chill at bonfires. I may be Uncle Grayson to him, but someday he'll be Uncle George to my children, and I'm proud to have him representing my family in the wedding party.

When we first met at college, Nate and I remained mere acquaintances for several years. Fortunately, after several trips to the bar, a few deep conversations, and a shared all-nighter to write the papers we'd been putting off, we ended our senior year as close friends. That friendship continued when we both moved to D.C. after graduation and helped each other through the difficult transition from college to the real world. Nate has introduced me to some wonderful music, supported me through some tough times, and helped me grow spiritually. I'm honored to have such a fun, smart, godly man standing at my side.

Steadfast, kind, loving, strong, fun-- these are just a few words I could use to describe Tara, a friend for whom I am always grateful. We've been friends since kindergarten when I knew her simply as "the girl who loved Winnie the Pooh," and our memories throughout the years continually make me smile. As children, whether we were playing on the playground, hanging out at my house after school, or going to gymnastics, I always looked forward to our time together, and this has only increased as we have gotten older-- although now we're able to plan trips to the Bahamas rather than to the mall! I appreciate and will always need Tara's gentle kindness and support in my life, and I am forever blessed to have such a sweet and lifelong friend.

Meghan and I have been friends since high school, and it's hard to express how much I appreciate her presence in my life. First of all, there are few people who can make me laugh as hard as Meghan can, and that is a characteristic I value deeply. I remember our first conversation in high school (over AIM, may it rest in peace), when I realized the depth and hilarity of this seemingly-quiet girl. I value Meghan's insight and kindness, the conversations we have, and the solid advice she always shares. I speak for Grayson as well when I say that we love her, and are so grateful for her friendship.