Our Wedding Party
Erin Collins
Matron of Honor
Erin and I met slanging steaks at J. Gilbert’s Steakhouse in Des Peres, MO in 2011. After a Grouplove concert and many Sugar Free Red Bull fueled shifts together, our bond was solidified. A million inside jokes, matching tattoos and 11 years worth of daily texts and Instagram messages later, Erin is my chosen family and big sister (insert dancing twin emoji here 👯♀️). She is the sun and I couldn’t imagine anyone else as my Matron of Honor.
Jennifer Schilke
Bridesmaid
Jennifer and I (aka Fer and Bit) spent a majority of our high school and college life working and growing up together at D.Rowe’s in Columbia, MO. I cannot imagine these years without Jennifer’s undying support and care, as it played a crucial role in my growth into the person I am today. It’s difficult for me to describe how much our friendship means, so I will default to the wise Meredith Grey: “The ties that bind us are sometimes impossible to explain. Some bonds defy distance and time and logic; because some ties are simply... meant to be."
Ashlee Utt
Bridesmaid
Ashlee and I met 10 years ago while working at J. Gilbert’s Steakhouse in Des Peres, MO. Sharing loves of scary movies, all things Disney and rock concerts, “Double E” has become one of my dearest and most supportive friends. She is also my favorite dinner date when a vent sesh, a shoulder to cry on or just some old fashioned girl time is needed. Despite how busy she is with being an amazing momma, elementary librarian and getting ANOTHER graduate degree, she always makes time for our friendship. I’m so grateful for her.
Cameron Sisler
Bridesmaid
Cameron and I met while working at Alsana in 2018. As office neighbors, I probably spent more time in Cameron’s office than my own. Though she may not know it, Cam has been my rock and voice of reason for our entire friendship as she is always willing to show up and provide love, understanding and giggles. Though Cameron is only 6 months older, when I grow up I aspire to be a badass strong woman and beautiful friend like Cameron.
Rebecca Stites
Bridesmaid
Rebecca is Jarred’s baby sister and momma to our two ring bearers, Brooks and Rory. In fact, we met the day she brought home her first baby, Brooks, from the hospital. Now most would not welcome a stranger into their home on such a special day, but Becca did with open arms. She has made me feel part of the Shaner family since day one and is one of the kindest humans I know. I am so excited to officially become her sister.
Michelle DuMontier
Bridesmaid
Michelle is married to Jarred’s brother and is also momma to our beautiful flower girl, Margot and junior groomsman, Sully. We got to know each other while on family FaceTimes during the pandemic where Michelle always made an effort to to include me in conversations and connect with me. We share a similar zest for life and she has always made sure that I am welcomed and a part of the Shaner family fun. I am excited for more fun times to come and to officially gain sweet Michelle as a sister.
James Shaner
Best Man
I met James when I was born. Without him I honestly don’t know who I would be today. James was kind and patient when I was wild and unruly for which I’m grateful. No matter how busy he became becoming a husband, father, Major and surgeon he always makes time. Even with nearly lifelong friends I couldn’t imagine having anyone else be my best man. (I did it for him 16 years ago)
Aaron Holman
Groomsman
Aaron and I met when I was six months old. Being nextdoor neighbors we became fast friends and have remained that way. We have literally been through everything together from things like learning how to ride a bike to him becoming an amazing father of three. I was lucky enough to meet one of the best humans I know as an infant and this day wouldn’t be the same without him.
Joe Freeman
Groomsman
Joe and I met when I switched to catholic school in the 7th grade. We have been inseparable ever since. From high school football to being each others plus ones at all our friends weddings in our twenties, joe has helped me make the best of every situation. And while his stature may fool you he is the sweetest dude ever , and he always shows up. I owe him a lot and proud to have him as one of my groomsmen.
Dorian Grady
Groomsman
Dorian, my brother from another. Dorian and I met freshman year at mizzou. Even though I left after that year for flight school (and more “adventures”) and we haven’t really lived in the same place since, we have remained close. Dorian lifts up those around him and I’m lucky enough to be one. I’ve learned more about life from him than anyone and I couldn’t imagine this day without him.
Tim Taylor
Groomsman
Tim and I met playing adult kickball, haha. Ever since then it was like we were old friends. Tim has a way of making everyone an optimist and that has affected my life in the most positive way. He cares and I’m grateful for that. Everyone will have a better time because he is sharing this day with us!
Chris Bone
Groomsman
Chris and I met through sports as kids and became quick friends when I switched to catholic school in the 7th grade. We have lived a lot of life together and while him living in a different city and becoming a dad and husband has cut down on how much we get to do that now, it’s still just like old times every-time we get to. This day without the “bonester” wouldn’t be complete.