My parents are passionate foodies and adventurous travelers, the kind of people who can tell you exactly where to find the best bowl of noodles in Seoul or the most mouthwatering tapas in Spain. For them, travel isn’t just about seeing new places, it’s about sharing incredible meals, creating lasting memories, and bringing people together through unforgettable experiences. They’ve always encouraged me to be the best version of myself, even when the path wasn’t easy. Whether I was working long hours as an electrician or navigating challenges as an automation tech, they never stopped believing in me, and kept pushing me toward something greater. They made it possible for me to pursue my education, helped cover my university expenses, which allowed me to become an electrical engineer. From family trips to Korea, China & London, to rollercoaster rides at Universal Studios (which my dad bravely endured despite the nausea), to New York getaways for musicals, my childhood was filled with adventure. And of course, my mom was always the first in line to battle the crowds and get us the newest Harry Potter books on release day. They’ve helped shape every chapter of my life with their love, generosity, and endless enthusiasm, and I couldn’t be more grateful to have them by my side as I begin this new one.

Where do I even begin? My mom has been so much more than just a parent to me; she’s my rock, my role model, and over the years, she’s also become my best friend. We’ve been through a lot together. After we lost my dad, everything changed. Grief has a way of testing everything and yet, my mom never wavered. She stepped into every role, becoming both mom and dad with a strength that still leaves me in awe. She held our little world together while holding space for my pain and her own, never once letting me feel alone in it. Her strength, her determination, and her willpower are things I carry with me every day. And if I grow to have even half of those qualities, I’ll know I’m doing something right. She’s also the most patient, empathetic person I know, the kind of person who meets people where they are, who listens deeply, and who makes you feel safe, seen, and unconditionally loved. And if you’ve met her, you already know she’s the kindest soul in any room. She’s always up for an adventure, the first to make you laugh, the first to offer a hug, and somehow always the one holding the group together while the rest of us are spiraling. She brings fun, warmth, and heart to every moment without even trying. She’s the glue, the joy, and the steady presence that grounds everything and everyone around her. Somewhere along the way, between life’s highs and lows, all the late-night talks and quiet mornings with her Gospel music, my mom became my best friend. She’s the one I call when I’m excited, when I’m anxious, or when I just need to hear her voice. She’s been by my side for everything that’s led me here, and there’s no one I’d rather have with me as I step into this next chapter.

There is an empty chair at our wedding, but my dad’s spirit, strength, and love fills the entire room. He spent 14 seasons showing the world his grit and determination as a running back and fullback for the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks. Off the field, he was even braver, standing up to the NFL in court to fight for players' free agency. But to me, his greatest legacy wasn’t his career; it was the way he made everyone feel loved and always laughing. He was a gentle giant with an endless sweet tooth, a trait I proudly inherited, and he could make anyone smile with his goofiness. Even though he can’t walk beside me, I carry his memory in every step I take, every laugh we share, and every bite of our favorite Lindt Truffle chocolates. I miss him more than words can say, but I know he’s here in spirit; smiling, laughing, and almost certainly sneaking a few desserts when no one’s watching.

Kenzie and I have been inseparable for over 16 years. What began as a childhood friendship quickly grew into a sisterhood; a bond rooted in trust, loyalty, and the kind of love that time and distance can’t touch. Even as life has taken us in different directions, me in Canada, her in Hawaii, our connection has remained one of the most steady and meaningful parts of my life. Over the years, Kenzie has shown up for me in every possible way. She’s been there for the wild moments and the quiet ones, for the chaos and the calm. She made my 21st birthday in Vegas unforgettable. When I needed to move back home from Kansas after my first year of college, she dropped everything to help me, no questions asked. Even back in high school, during our Mock Trial days, she was right there helping me prep my speeches, running lines with me late into the night, and giving me pep talks before I stepped into the courtroom. And when I won the Outstanding Attorney Award, her cheers were the loudest in the room. She believed in me long before I knew how to believe in myself, and that’s something I’ll never forget. Now, I get to watch her in one of her most incredible roles yet: being a mother to two amazing little boys, Quinn and Ollie, who I’m lucky enough to call my nephews. Watching her become a mother has only deepened my admiration for her. She’s loving, grounded, and the kind of person who shows up for the people she loves, time and time again. Kenzie is the kind of friend who listens without judgment, loves without condition, and shows up without being asked. She has been part of nearly every chapter of my life, cheering me on, holding me up, and sometimes just sitting quietly beside me when words weren’t needed. Kenzie, thank you for being my safe place, my forever friend, my sister in every way that matters. I couldn’t imagine taking this next step without you by my side, just as you’ve been with me all along. Here's to the next chapter and to you, for being such a beautiful part of my story.

Sam and I didn’t always realize how much we had in common. But over the years, through shared interests in Kung Fu, musical theatre, and a mutual love of adventure, we went from simply being siblings to becoming close friends and trusted confidants. Now, he’s not just my older brother, he’s one of my closest friends and most trusted advisors. From planning unforgettable trips across Ireland and Amsterdam, to helping me pull off an elaborate proposal (including secretly coordinating a photographer and convincing Brie to “dress up for brunch”), he’s been the behind-the-scenes MVP more times than I can count. He currently lives in London, working as a spoken voice coach, a role as refined as it is fitting. But don’t be surprised if you spot him singing and dancing his way through the streets like life is his stage. His energy is infectious, his presence unforgettable, and his heart shines even brighter than his theatrical flair. I couldn’t be prouder to have him as my best man.

Alahna and I first met when I was 12 years old. From the very beginning, our friendship felt easy and natural, like we were always meant to be in each other’s lives. But what makes her story in my life so special is that it didn’t end with friendship. Her family didn’t just welcome me in, they truly took me in. I became part of their family, and as someone who always wished for sisters, suddenly having three felt like a dream come true. Those moments, those bonds, shaped so much of who I am today. Alahna has walked beside me through some of the most difficult times in my life. She was there when I lost my dad at just 13 years old, one of the hardest and most defining moments of my life. Her presence, her quiet strength, her ability to hold space for my pain while still offering comfort… that’s something I’ll never forget. She’s one of those rare people who knows how to show up, even when the right words don’t exist. Today, she’s not only an incredible friend but an incredible mother to three beautiful children, Liam, Sidney, and Alïana. Watching her raise them has been nothing short of inspiring. In each of them, I see parts of who she is: her strength, her compassion, her ability to lead with both heart and wisdom. And in little Alïana, I see that fiery spirit and sass that makes Alahna who she is; bold, grounded, and unapologetically herself. Alahna, thank you for taking care of little Brie. Through joy and heartbreak, growth and change. Your love meant more to me than you probably know, and I feel incredibly lucky to have you standing by me now.

Brent and I met in elementary school, but things didn’t really kick off until Grade 8 when daily bus rides turned into daily laughs, and eventually, a lifelong friendship. He’s smart, geeky, a little weird (in all the best ways), and hands-down one of the funniest people I know. We bonded over backyard street hockey, late-night neighborhood adventures, and beating Halo games on Legendary difficulty in a single night, because why not? We’ve survived metal mosh pits together and even flew across the ocean for the Wacken Music Festival, armed with nothing but backpacks and questionable decision-making. He’s quick to give you advice, quicker to lend a hand, and somehow even quicker to give you a spoon when you least expect it. He’s my best friend, one of my most trusted advisors, and I’m lucky to have him standing beside me, though I’m still keeping an eye out for surprise cutlery.

Every great love story needs a loyal sidekick and ours just happens to have four paws, a wagging tail, and a love for plushy toys and TV. Meet Tonto, our ride-or-die and the real heart of our little family. From our very first adventure together to cozy nights at home, Tonto has been there for it all, watching our love story unfold one tail wag at a time. He’s been there since day one, through mountain getaways, new homes, lazy Sundays, and big life changes. While he sadly won’t be able to join us at the wedding (his tuxedo didn’t quite fit), we know he’s celebrating in spirit and probably enjoying a treat or two in our honor. Tonto’s message to you: “Even though I can’t be there to walk down the aisle or sneak snacks off your plate (something about ‘no dogs on the guest list’—rude), I’ve been part of this love story from the beginning and I’m so proud of my humans. I’ll be celebrating from home with my favorite toy and a pup cup in their honor. Now go have a doggone good time!”