Sara & Matthew
Wedding Party
Ron McAlister
Father of the Bride
In honor of my father: Daddy- I wouldn't be where I am without your love and affection. You've shown me not to settle for anyone who treats me less than how you treat mom and for that I thank you because it led me to Matt. I always admired your strength and your love and your work ethic and I like to think that that's quality I sought out in Matt as well. Tyler, Matt and I are so lucky that you were in our lives and we cherish the amount of time we got to spend with you. We couldn't have chosen a better guardian angel if we tried. While we wish you could be at our wedding in person, we know you'll be there in spirit. Love you to the heavens and back!
Bonnie McAlister
Mother of the Bride
Mom- words can't describe the impact you've had on me. Everything you've taught me...how to be a mom, how to run a household, how to put my family before myself....I can't imagine having a better mother, or a better grandmother for Tyler. You've inspired me to always reach for bigger and better things while not losing sight of everything I already have. You have taught me a lot about self-respect and respecting others, and so many other lessons that I can't wait to impart upon Tyler and our future daughter (because Matt is determined to have one). Thanks for always being there- by phone, in person, by letter, no matter what time. I love you so much.
William Higgins
Father of the Groom
Every thing I do for my family, I think 'this is what a father does, this is what my dad would do'. You've always taught me to work hard and provide, stand up for what I believe in and to think before I act. I appreciate all you do for us and I'm so glad you can share in our special day. Love you, Dad.
Marilyn Higgins
Mother of the Groom
You've always been someone who would do anything to make sure those you love are put ahead of yourself and some of my best qualities come from that side of you. You and Sara have both saved my life in so many ways, and there have been so many times where I see your qualities shine through the type of person she is. I've always had you to turn to when I needed you, and I hope you know that I don't take that for granted. Tyler, Sara and I are so lucky to have someone with your compassion and commitment to family in our lives, and we're so happy you'll be there on our big day. Love you, Mom.
Erika Eber
Maid of Honor
Erika- you and I have been best friends since we met at work 6 years ago! You've known Matt since high school. You're the one that introduced us in that lakeside store and then brokered our romance just days later and you've been there for us both ever since. We have had so many adventures together, both pre-boy and post-boy- some amazing, some sad, but all full of love and support for each other. Our kids were even born a week apart (unplanned! how in sync do you have to be to manage that?!) and I am grateful that Tyler will have someone like Johanna to grow up with! I believe that we're more than best friends, we get each other on a fundamental level that is so rare to find now in days and I am so grateful we did. Thank you for sharing in our special day! I love you always.
Tommy Tross
Best Man
T-baby! Couldn't think of a better choice to entrust the title of Best Man to than you. You've always been the type of friend that I could talk to about things I'm dealing with, be honest with and who just seems to understand it all cause we've been through a lot of the same. You've always been straight and sincere with me and we've never had any big problems with each other because I think we're both the type to just stay out of the BS and get along with everyone. I trust you with the title of Best Man and it should be obvious why. I love you, man!
Danielle Neeman
Bridesmaid
Danielle- You've been one of my best friends since we went to SU together! We met when you were just a cute freshman taking my Beginner Hip-hop Class! You were always the best in the class (shh- don't tell anyone!) We quickly became fast friends and when it became clear that our personalities and senses of humor just gelled I knew we'd be friends for the rest of our lives. You've been there through some of the toughest struggles of my life and I like to think I've been there for yours too. No matter how long we go without talking or what country you're in, we can pick up wherever we left off. I couldn't ask for a better person to stand by my side on the best day of my life. Love you!
Rob Sweet
Groomsman
Where to begin... Probably when we were like 6 or 7 years old. You were always my right-hand guy (and cousin) growing up so now that we both started a family of our own, and you moved away, I can't think of a better reason to drag your ass back to town than to stand next to me while I tie the knot. We grew up quick but nothing will change the amount of history we have in each other's lives. Can't picture this without you. Love you, Cuz.
Liz Miller
Bridesmaid
Liz- you and I have been close since high school. We met through your cousins and I was so thrilled when you transferred to my school the next year! We've had a lot of laughs, a lot of adventures, and did a lot of growing up together. I've always been able to rely on you- for a good time, for an ear, or for a shoulder to cry on. I love that whenever I come home (the infrequent times I actually make it down there) you always welcome me back like no time has passed. Thank you for being you- because you're awesome- and for agreeing to stand beside me on my wedding day! I love you chicka!
Jesse Manitta
Groomsman
Whenever someone asked me over the years who I'd have in my wedding party you were always one of those people. How real of a friend you are to me has never changed over the years. We've always picked up right where we left off, even if there has been big gaps in between seeing each other. You've always been around when I needed you and you've been such a big part of my life, so it only makes sense that you're there with me on one of the biggest days of my life. I wouldn't have it any other way. Love you, dog.
Randi Higgins-Leubner
Bridesmaid
Randi....my future sister-in-law. I can't wait to be a part of your family and I am so excited that you are a part of our wedding! It's been amazing getting to know you and Emmett these past few years. You've taught me so much about being a good mom, a strong person, an excellent Aunt, and an amazing friend. I'm not sure whether you know this or not, but Matt credits you for his sensitivity, kindness, and respect of women so for that I have to wholeheartedly thank you because I have an amazing man to share my life with all because he looked up to an amazing big sister. I can't wait to see what other memories we'll get to make over the coming years! I love you sister!
Rick Reyes
Groomsman
Sometimes there are those friends you meet and they don't care about what what you can give them or you can do for them. They're just genuine people who are the type you want having your back. And Reyes, you've always had my back, trusted me and been a true friend since the day I first met you in junior high (rockin' FUBU and spending too much time with Ireland cause he was your only neighbor for miles). We have so many ridiculous stories and memories but this isn't the platform, nor is there space. Just know that I wasn't going to walk down the aisle without you behind me. Love you, brawther.
Rebecca Noaman
Bridesmaid
Rebecca....My brother brought you into my life, but you're my sister now in your own right. Everything you've done for me, my family- words can't describe how thankful I am. When Sean died you didn't have to stick around and do as much for us as you did...as you still do, but the fact that you did just shows what kind of inspiring person you are. You are so appreciated! I love being around you- your energy, your positivity- it brightens up any room you're in. You're amazing- an amazing mom, an amazing friend, and an amazing sister. Love you!
Victor Wack
Groomsman
Vic, I'm so glad we have gotten the chance to meet and become like family over these last few years. I don't have the memories with you that I have with some of the guys on this list but we have made some good ones already. I'm so grateful for the way you've welcomed me into your home, and given me the trust that isn't always easy for a brother to give to his youngest sibling's boyfriend. We've gotten to know each other pretty well and I hope in time that we'll be even closer as I officially join the family. Love you, bro.
Frances Winig
Bridesmaid
Frances- you and I have been friends since grade 2. You are my oldest friend, the person I've known longest in this world outside my family. You've always been the calm to my storm, my sweet voice of reason. We have had so many late-night sleepovers, early morning swimming lessons (you were the only reason I dragged my butt out of bed that early on a Saturday), long talks, and birthday parties. You've always been a great friend and I hope you know how much I appreciate how much you and your family have been there for me and mine in the last few years. You're not just my friend, you're my family. I'm honored that you'll be by my side this day. All my love!
Joey Manitta
Groomsman
JoeMan! Always my main hype-man and someone who had to put up with me for a long time before we eventually became close friends ourselves. Joe, you've never been someone I've butted heads with and we both always seem to have a blast when we're together. We knew each other through Jesse but we became friends through different avenues and that's how you both ended up on this list. You're a stand-up guy and someone I know will make mine and Sara's day even more unforgettable. Thanks for sticking around. Love you, homie.
Kristen Miguel
Bridesmaid
Kristen- we haven't known each other as long as some, but our friendship began when my relationship with Matt began. You've always been very important to Matt and his family, but I hope you know how important you've become to me too. I've come to know you as a kind, generous, smart, funny, and loving individual and I admire your beautiful spirit! I truly enjoy our talks, our nights out, and the moments we've shared since we met. I feel like I can truly count on you. I'm excited to be able to raise our children together, to grow as friends, and to have many more adventures to come.
Ben Ireland
Groomsman
I'Lan... You and I were like brothers through junior high and most of high school until you were tragically thrust into a new life, leaving behind this small town, only to be reluctantly called back 15 years later for your original best friend's wedding. With some of the mishaps and adventures we've gotten ourselves into we could probably write a pretty good book but I think for now we'll just see what's next to come and maybe add another chapter in April. Sometimes I wish you never left but for the most part I think that leaving Marcellus was really the best thing for you, and it's enough for me that you would make the trip back and be here to support Sara and I. Love you, kid.
Tyler Higgins
Ring Bearer
Our baby boy. I'm so glad we didn't do this the conventional way because then we wouldn't get to have you be a part of this day with us. We're so incredibly lucky- we couldn't have asked for a better little nugget! Love you Baby Boy!
Emmett Leubner
Ring Bearer
You have already become someone that Tyler looks up to and takes after, and you'll always be someone I think of like a son of my own. We're so proud of the young man you're becoming and we're excited to make you a part of this special time for us. We love you, Emmett!
Annabelle Young
Flower Girl
Annabelle- My cutie patootie little cousin! You're so cute and sweet and good with Tyler. I'm impressed all the time with how smart and generous and kind you are. You are such a special, beautiful little girl! We love you sweetie! Thanks for being a part of our special day!