Who is Lauren? From the moment we met, I knew that God had purposefully brought Lauren into my life to walk alongside me through this beautiful journey. She is a true gift—a warm, silly, and kind soul who has become more than just a friend; she’s become a sister. Lauren has the kind of heart that is always selfless, always putting others before herself, and she has consistently been there to uplift and encourage me. Whether it's through her words of wisdom or just her presence, she always points me back to Jesus and reminds me of what truly matters. When I prayed about who would be my right hand during this season—someone who could make this time joyful, fun, and full of laughter—Lauren was the answer. She is the one who makes everything brighter, and I’m so blessed to have her by my side through it all.

From the very beginning of our friendship, Kayli was on a side-quest of playing cupid—little did I know, she was the matchmaker behind Darius and I! I am eternally grateful for the role Kayli has played in my life, not only as a friend but as someone who has impacted me in countless ways. Kayli is kind-hearted with the voice of an angel, always ready to be there for her friends and family. She is a strong woman of God, whose faith and strength inspire me every day. Kayli has this incredible ability to challenge you out of your comfort zone, encouraging growth in areas you didn’t even know you could grow. She is talented, wise, beautiful, and an absolute treasure of a friend. I am so thankful to have her by my side on this journey.

My sweet Melanie has a way of making every day brighter. The Lord’s light shines so clearly through her, and she has the kindest, most genuine heart. One of the things I admire most about her is her incredible gift for connecting with and loving kids—they are naturally drawn to her warmth. And let me just say, her laugh is one of a kind—it’s the kind of laugh that makes you laugh too, filling the room with joy. Melanie is not only funny and full of life, but she’s also always ready to have a good time and enjoy the moment. She's also a gamer-chick and is genuinely one of the coolest girls I've ever known. She’s been such a wonderful friend and a true blessing in my life, and I’m so thankful to share this journey with her.

Where to begin with Katrina? She is hands down the life of the party! Her free-spirited nature and optimistic outlook on life are truly contagious. Katrina always sees the glass half full, and that refreshing perspective draws people to her, making everyone feel welcomed and loved. I’ve had the honor of watching her grow and witnessing how the Lord has used her powerful testimony to inspire others and expand His kingdom. Though she’s youthful in spirit, Katrina possesses a wisdom beyond her years. Her vibrant personality and uplifting energy light up every room she enters. I cherish every church activity we’ve shared, every trip we’ve taken, and all the late-night Sonic dates that have brought us closer together. I’m so grateful to have such a wonderful friend by my side to make this season of life, and this special day, unforgettable and filled with joy.

Savannah has such an angelic spirit, and from the moment our friendship began, I could see how beautifully she reflects God's love. Our friendship started at a time in my life when I deeply needed Godly women around me, and Savannah made me feel welcomed, accepted, and loved at a time when I was still very new to the group. She truly has a gift of making others feel at peace, and she helped me embrace the excitement of a new journey ahead. That’s just who she is—always willing to connect with and encourage others, guiding them in ways that help them grow. Savannah’s beauty radiates both inside and out, and every time she sings, you can feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in such a powerful way—it’s an honor to witness. Her servant’s heart is evident in everything she does, and her life inspires me in countless ways. I’m beyond excited to have her by my side on this special day, as we celebrate not just this new chapter, but the beautiful friendship we’ve shared.

Kaydence is one of the most down-to-earth, genuine friends I have. We met at church as 9th-grade girls' group leaders, and right from the start, I knew she had a heart of gold. Whether it's rescuing a stray cat, dreaming up all the castles we want to visit, or being the perfect candy-eating partner-in-crime, Kaydence is always up for whatever adventure life throws our way. Although she walks with such strength and peace, I do love the playful back-and-forth yelling we do during game nights as we try to beat the boys (we’ll get them next time too!). Kaydence has this way of keeping life spontaneous, fun, and full of laughter. I’ll always think of her when "Monday Morning Faith" plays in the car or when I pass by an open field—because, in my mind, I’ll forever see us frolicking through it, laughing together, carefree and full of joy. I’m so blessed to have a friend like Kaydence who has shown me how to live for the Lord with joy and embrace the beauty in the spontaneous moments along the way.

I’ve been blessed with many great friendships in life, but none as meaningful as the one I share with Nate. He was one of the very first people I connected with when I came back to church at Lighthouse, and since then, we’ve been through it all—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Even though life can get busy and we don’t always speak every day, Nate has always been there for me, a constant source of support, wisdom, and brotherhood. He’s more than a friend; he’s family, and I’m beyond grateful to have him standing by my side as my best man on this special day.

When Cole and I first met, we hadn’t known each other for long, but the moment we started talking, it was like we’d been friends for years. It was clear that God had a hand in bringing us together, knowing we’d be able to walk through new seasons of life side by side. I’ll never forget the first time we shared a great laugh at Guadalajara—though I’m still convinced he gaslit me! That’s the thing about Cole: no matter what’s going on, he has a way of putting a smile on your face and making everything feel lighter. I’m thankful for the laughter we’ve shared so far, and I know there are many more great moments ahead of us.

What started as what I thought would be a mentorship quickly became so much more. From the moment I met Cody, he made me feel welcomed and at ease, providing a peaceful space where I could just relax and recharge, especially during one of the most challenging seasons of my life. One of the things I value most about our friendship is how he consistently challenges me to grow in my faith. Whether it’s through his advice, encouragement, or just his example, Cody pushes me to be better. Our bond is unshakable, and I know I can always count on him for guidance (even if it’s laced with his "ancient wisdom"). I’m beyond grateful to share this journey of life with him, and to have him by my side on such a special day.

Danny and I became best friends on what was supposed to be an awkward road trip—except it turned out to be anything but awkward. From the moment we hit the road, we truly bonded, and our friendship grew stronger than I ever imagined. We even shared a season as roommates, which brought us even closer. At one point, it felt like we could read each other’s minds—we had that telepathic connection going on. What I admire most about Danny is his genuine heart and loyalty; he's the kind of friend who shows up, no questions asked, and you know he's got your back no matter what. The bond we’ve built is unlike anything else, and I can honestly say I’ve gained a brother for life. I’m incredibly thankful for the friendship we share, and I know it will last a lifetime.

Jathan is a friendship that was truly God-ordained. From the start, he’s been a steady presence in my life, sticking with me through every season, especially during my single season, and now as I approach this new chapter of marriage. One of the things I admire most about him is how he’s always down for a gym session and how he pushes me to be better, even when I need that extra boost of motivation. Jathan is a light in any dark place and embodies what it means to be a man of God. His selflessness and heart of service are qualities I deeply respect, and I’m beyond grateful to have him in my life. I’m blessed to call him a friend and a brother.

Logan and I always share a good laugh, and he's someone who can bring out my youthful, silly side in the best way. Whether it’s cracking jokes or just being ridiculous together, there’s never a dull moment with him. What really stands out about Logan, though, is how he’s stepped up to be an incredible father and husband at such a young age. His commitment and love for his family truly inspire me, and it motivates me to want to be the best father I can be when that day comes. I’m grateful for all the late nights, hangouts, and memories we’ve shared that have built this friendship into something so special. Logan has been a true blessing in my life, and I’m thankful to have him by my side on such an important day.