Jarie came into Sam’s life when she unexpectedly showed up to her church in 2022. Both being newer believers at the time, the two bonded quickly over their faith in God. Sam cherishes this friendship, and she knows she can tell Jarie anything, and she will faithfully point her back to Scripture. She’s the type of friend every Christian woman should hope to have. Sam greatly misses their laughs and encouraging times together.

Max’s best man is also his only brother. Judah was an answer to prayer when he was born as Max had continually asked the Lord to provide him a brother when he was young. The two have gotten much closer as Judah has gotten older and have been happy to once again be near each-other as Judah came to college this past year. He is a hilarious, sincere, and serves the Lord well. Max is very proud of him and honored to have him by his side.

Nicole and Sam met through church back in 2019, and the two grew closer over the years. Nicole is a steady and loyal friend, who lights up any room, and has the gift of making anyone feel comfortable and understood. During Sam’s last week in Florida, Nicole made her feel loved by making sure she wasn’t spending it alone, and she’ll always remember that.

Max’s cousin Matt is a reliable and devoted friend. While they grew up together, they really didn’t become close until they became roommates in their first year of college. The Lord has kept them close since then and has bonded them through their love for the state of Michigan and Detroit sports. They have done everything together and have seen the Lord faithfully guide them both over the past few years. Max was just recently Matt’s best man (when he married Sam’s bridesmaid Cassidy) and is thrilled to have him be a part of the party.

Paige and Sam met through church in 2019, but their friendship really began to blossom when they became roommates in 2022. She’s always been a strong voice of reason when Sam is in emotional turmoil, and she’s just a joy to be around. Paige is a reliable friend, and Sam trusts her with her life. She also jokingly refers to her as “Mom.”

“Sass” also became a close friend to Max during his freshman year, as he lived down the hall from Max and Matt. He is by far the smartest and has the best facial hair between the three of them and is one of the most reliable and dependable people Max knows. Sass has been a continual source of help over the years and is a patient, kind, and steadfast friend. Him and his wife Kara are good encouragers to both Max and Sam.

Being one of Max’s younger sisters, Britta and Sam haven’t known each other long, but Sam is very fortunate to have her so close by. She’s welcomed Sam with open arms into the family, and she’s been instrumental in helping Sam feel at home in Greenville. Sam always looks forward to being around Britta. Together, they annoy Max with their singing and hyper moods.

“Smits” came on the scene early in Max’s freshman year of college. Their mutual love for baseball and laughter shows at the surface, but Smitley’s constant encouragement is a large part of why Max came back to Greenville after their graduation in 2020. They became close through leadership and ministry opportunities over the years, and Max was adopted as an honorary sibling after moving in with the Smitley family for a year. They now work together every day as supervisors at BJU. Smits is a loyal and humble friend.

Cass and Sam met through Max, as she’s married to Max’s groomsman Matt. When Cass knew Sam wanted to move to Greenville, she graciously offered her spare bedroom to her. Cass is a thoughtful, easy-going friend who’s always seeking ways she can help. Sam is very grateful to have her and is excited to grow together throughout their lives.

Jon and Max began their friendship working together in the Welcome Center at BJU during his second year in college. Max was a constant third wheel for Jon and Anna (his now wife) early on and loved every minute of it. Jon has been a steady encouragement through the years and is a great example of what it looks like to be a hard worker and have stable joy in Christ.

Ashley and Sam also met in 2019, and the two have become better friends as they’ve gotten older. Sam admires Ashley’s confident faith in God and her ability to lay aside her own desires to do what is right. Sam is blessed by her friendship, and always leaves their time together feeling so encouraged. She’s thankful to have Ashley around, as she's studying at BJU.

Max met “Jonesey” in their first class at college – Greek at 8AM. They have had a strong bond ever since. They have been co-workers, roommates, and world travelers together. Jonesey speaks the truth in love and is faithful to the spread of the Gospel. Max doesn’t recall this, but apparently, they made a pact to both be in each-other’s weddings. Max stood by Jake a few years back and is now happy to have him return the favor.

Jessa is Max's youngest sister. Sam had the pleasure of spending 3 weeks with the Buraks over Christmas break where the two became fast friends. Jessa is so thoughtful, genuine, and funny, and Sam can't wait to gain her as a sister.