Melinda Matthes - Matron of Honor
Melinda and I go way back-- all the way to my birth. We've gone through many adventures including walking across Spain together and venturing to Bloomington once a year to support our favorite team. Melinda has come a long way from bullying me to being my Matron of Honor.
Brittany Fahringer - Bridesmaid
Brittany and I met at Marian and ate lunch everyday together during freshman year, she also fed me during Covid when everybody else shunned me. She's a good one for that.
Courtney Weiss - Bridesmaid
Courtney started dating my brother when I was in high school and is mom to three of Rachel's nieces and nephews. She is always willing to offer advice and answer any and all questions Rachel might have, and in a timely manner! (ahem Melinda). It seems like Courtney has always been a part of our family and she is excited to officially add "Uncle" to Alex's name.
Julia Martinez - Bridesmaid
Julia is the sister to the groom, and is all the things that Alex isn't-- well-spoken, organized, and a great planner.
Julia managed to put up with Alex for approximately 28 years of his life and is excited that Alex has somebody else to annoy for the rest of his life.
Clare Strotman - Bridesmaid
Clare and I met in college when we would have long late night study sessions together and get nothing accomplished. Clare was glued to my side the first time I met Alex (and the reason that he wasn't able to get me alone to ask for my number). She's spunky, pretty funny, and always late (but will be on time to the wedding, she promised).
Sam Brandle - Best Man
Alex appreciates Sam's sporadic comments, jokes, and endless home improvements projects. He loves his dog Obi with all his heart and even has matching sweaters with him. Sam is from Pike County and bonded with Rachel over their love of Rural King. Sam is a former boy scout so if you need Tums, a first aid kit, or an energy drink during the wedding he will be ready.
Lucas Jirgal - Groomsman
Lucas had the pleasure of being friends with both Alex and Rachel before they met each other. He is kind of the reason that Alex and Rachel met (but don't tell him that). Lucas enjoys wearing skin tight leotards and biking.
Sam Weiss - Groomsman
Sam is Rachel's only brother. Sam and Alex bonded over fine whiskey, bourbon, and teasing Rachel at her expense. He loves to make fun of Alex but has also consistently asked Alex everytime he saw him the last three years-- "when are you guys going to get married?"
Derek Sanders - Groomsman
Derek and Alex met through the Indy Catholic/ St. John's community. They would go out on Sundays after 7pm mass and have "family dinner" with friends from Church. They bond over dogs, local brews, and finances (if you are approaching the age of 65 he would love to talk to you about your retirement and future plans)
Matt O'Neal - Groomsman
Matt and Alex met through a mutual friend. They share a lot in common including crazy work stories, Roncalli memories, and teasing the best man. Matt is like a generous older brother to Alex with a pool and a hot tub that he lets Rachel and Alex use all the time.
Jacob Reiber - Groomsman
Jacob and Alex go back to their days of St. Jude, even though Jacob didn't arrive until third grade. They played football on the playground everyday and baseball through high school. They both enjoy watching the Colts even though Jacob is a long time Patriots fan ( Don't hold that against him ). Their dads are great friends, coaching their sons on the same baseball team. Additionally, if Alex goes to jail for whatever reason, Jacob is on speed dial as his lawyer.
Gabriel Weiss - Ring bearer
Gabriel is the youngest nephew to Rachel and screamed in what could only be interpreted as excitement when asked to be a ring bearer.
Susie Matthes - Flower Girl
Susie may be skeptical of Alex but she still said "yes" to being a flower girl after only repeatedly asking her for months.