Connor and I go way back—to when we were just 15. He semi-successfully taught me how to drive stick shift, showed me how to make a proper pizza, and to this day, he’s still the person who would drop everything at the drop of a dime if I needed him. He also calls me nearly every day on his way home from work (half of which I forget to return). To think we’ve been best friends for more than half our lives is crazy—but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Oh boy… where do I begin? Autumn and I didn’t really get to know each other until she moved back to my hometown (Johnstown) and we started school together. From that moment, we were inseparable. I spent nearly every day after school at her house—we had wild parties and unforgettable memories—and I even dragged her to Virginia with me when I moved. Since then, she’s built a beautiful family with Miss Adelaide and Mister Sawyer, who also call me “Uncle.” We’ve seen it all together: the good, the bad, and the absolute best. I’m beyond honored to have her beside me on my big day.

Clare is my baby cousin (I’m older by a month, thank you very much), and we’ve been side by side since the beginning. From biting her bald baby head, to standing beside her when she married Ben, to watching her become the most incredible mom to little Charlotte—it’s been a gift. Clare is one of the strongest, smartest, and kindest women I know.

Shean has been one of my closest cousins since day one. When I’d visit Virginia, we’d cruise around on longboards through his neighborhood, and when I officially moved there, he was the first person I lived with. Watching his kids grow into the most adorable (and wild) little humans has been such a joy—I’m blessed to be their “Uncle.”

Amanda has truly watched me grow into the person I am today. She’s been one of my biggest supporters—cheering me on through it all. We became incredibly close after I moved to Virginia, and now she’s one of my ride-or-dies. From late-night gossip sessions to unforgettable nights out on the town, I couldn’t be happier to call her one of my best friends.

Thayne and I met almost three years ago… on Xbox! Before his wedding, I flew out to Las Vegas to officially “meet” in person, and the rest is history. Our Snapchat streak has never let up, we still FaceTime to check in, and somewhere along the way I learned what a cattle guard was. Meeting his wife, Chalei, his son, Brantley, and the rest of his family was an amazing part of that trip. I’m honored to have him standing by my side.

Bow came into my life shortly after I returned to the United States from Malta, and we’ve been inseparable ever since. From global adventures to late-night meals and meaningful heart-to-hearts, Bow has been a constant source of love, laughter, and unwavering support. A true friend and one of Matthew’s biggest cheerleaders — I’m so grateful to have Bow by my side on our big day!

Courtney is my oldest and one of my dearest friends — a friendship that began in our neighborhood when she moved in from Texas and quickly became a whirlwind bond. Her larger-than-life personality (true to her Texas roots) has always kept me grounded. Though we’ve spent most of our friendship in different states and even countries, distance has never dimmed our connection. She’s a lifelong friend in every sense of the word.

Jeanine is a kindred spirit whose adventurous heart gives mine a run for its money. What’s bonded us over the years is our shared love for spontaneity — always ready for a last-minute trip, a new experience, or just a moment of laughter in the unexpected. Through life’s highs and lows, our friendship has only grown stronger. She shines brightest near sunshine and water, and I can’t wait to see that radiant glow standing beside me on 9.13.25.

What began as a connection through our shared university years quickly grew into a deep friendship — from roommates to best friends. With the voice of an angel (truly, I wouldn’t be surprised if it were insured!) and a heart as generous as they come, Shannan somehow manages to give her all to her students, friends, and family — as if there are three of her. Through every wild adventure and unexpected turn, she’s never left my side. I’m so grateful to have her with me on this day.

Just when I thought my adventurous streak had peaked, along came Stephanie — a kindred soul and a perfect match in our shared love of wine and wanderlust. We often joke that we cross paths more often in the skies than on the ground, but whenever we do find ourselves in the same country, the laughter, stories, and memories flow effortlessly. With her infectious spirit and magnetic personality, Stephanie has not only enriched my life, but brought so many wonderful new friends into it as well.

Tina and I have one of the most memorable “how we met” stories — definitely ask us over a drink! What started as a neighborly connection quickly grew into a deep and meaningful friendship. We bring out the best in each other: Tina reminds me of who I am at my core (in the most grounded and graceful way), and I like to think I helped inspire her sense of adventure — including her very first passport in her 60 years! She keeps me balanced, makes everyone around her smile, and I’m so lucky to have her by my side.