Julia has been my best friend since she moved here in Grade 5, and from the very beginning, we just clicked. From laughing through class in elementary school, to growing up side by side, she’s been part of every chapter of my life. She was the first person to know about Connor (and the one I told my parents I was “hanging out with” when it was actually our first date), and the first to meet him too. She’s been there through it all, the big moments and the everyday ones that mean the most. Whether it’s long drives, beach days, coffee runs, sushi dates, or just running errands together, she’s always up for an adventure. Having her stand beside me on this day means more than I can put into words. 💛

Brock is Connor’s younger brother, and he’s always been such a big part of our lives. We got the joy of living together for six years in the early days of our relationship, and I never quite knew if I was coming home to a Nerf gun fight, cookies baking, or some kind of chaos. Somewhere in between were fishing days, long drives, movie nights, late nights in the backyard, and spontaneous runs for ice cream or snacks. He’s always been there, consistently. Connor describes Brock as “handsome, tall, loyal, and kind-hearted… although, according to Connor, he’s unfortunately not number one in smartest or sexiest, because that title is already taken, by Connor himself. (In his opinion, of course.) Connor also adds that, "he does, however, have a slight tendency to spend a little too long in the hockey showers… Take that how you will.” In reality, he’s one of the funniest, most easygoing, and genuinely caring people we know. Honestly, every time we’re with him becomes a new favourite memory. Having him stand beside Connor as his Best Man means so much to both of us.

My younger brother Andrew, is officiating our ceremony, which feels both very fitting… and just a little bit risky. He’s known me my entire life, which means he has plenty of stories (and material he could use against me), but thankfully he’s agreed to keep things mostly appropriate. In all seriousness, he’s been a constant in my life, steady, supportive, and always in my corner. Having him stand up there with us, not just as my brother but as the person marrying us, means so much. I truly couldn’t imagine anyone better to share in such an important moment. 💛

Harper and Sarge, have been by our side through it all. From the quiet days at home to the chaotic ones, they’ve been constant companions, always ready for an adventure, a cuddle, or, most importantly, a treat. They’ve seen us at our best and our worst, never judged us, and somehow always known exactly when we needed a little extra love (or a reason to get outside and go for a walk). Harper brings the sweetness and spice, while Sarge keeps things interesting with his personality and charm, and together, they make our little family feel complete. Having them here with us today means so much. It just wouldn’t feel right without them.

Kaylee, our niece, has been such a special part of our lives from the very beginning. She grew up closely alongside Brock and Connor, so when Jen came into the picture, she naturally became close with her too. She always fit right in, like she’d always been there. Over the years, we’ve shared so many memories together. From building forts and baking to camping trips, hiking, and fishing, we’ve loved all the time we’ve been able to spend together, and watching her grow into the person she is now. She’s not just our niece, she’s someone we truly love spending time with and feel so lucky to have in our lives. Now at 13, Kay is funny, spunky, and always down to hang out (on her terms). She brings so much personality, humour, and energy into our lives, and keeps us on our toes in the best way. On the big day, she’ll be stepping into her most important role yet: Sarge’s official service animal, helping guide him through the day… because he’s blind and very easily distracted by treats or pets. Sarge, however, is less impressed about being assigned a human (or having his pet-access blocked) and has been known to protest accordingly, usually by trying to bite her butt. We’re so lucky to have her by our side for this day. Watching her grow up has meant so much to us, and it means more than we can put into words to have her standing with us on such an important day.

We also want to give a special shoutout to our cat, Earl, who can't make it to the weekend… mostly because he declined the invitation. He’ll be supporting us from home, likely sleeping, knocking the TV over again, or pretending we don’t exist. Despite that, he’s such a big part of our lives. He’s there for the quiet moments, the cozy nights, and all the little in-between times that make our house feel like home. In his own way, he’s always close by. It wouldn’t feel right not to include him, after all, Earl runs the house.