I'm Derek's adventurous, fun-loving best friend since our freshman year of high school. You can only imagine the events which made us into the men we are today. He is my Chewbacca and I'm his Han Solo. I can get him in and out of hairy situations, all under 20 parsecs!

My name is Akiko. I have been Kelly’s very good friend since we worked together at the public library. We enjoyed sharing stories and having great laughs at work. Off work, we bonded over documentaries, spontaneous Tacoma events, concerts, and many memorable trips to Las Vegas. I have been Kelly’s confidante through big life moments and small joys. As Maid of Honor, Kelly says I bring calmness, passion, and a lifetime of inside jokes.

Hello there! I met Derek at our work when he first started his career and I was the head of the training program. I am honored to serve as the officiant and a groomsman — both roles that, thankfully, requires far fewer physical demands and bullets than my time in the Army. After years of military service taught me discipline, leadership, and how to keep a straight face during absolute chaos, I transitioned into the law enforcement and business world, where I now help people solve problems that don’t involve having to return fire, hopefully. Known for my humor, ability to stay calm under pressure, and questionable morals, I'm thrilled to help guide this ceremony!

Hey there, I’m a longtime friend of Kay. About me? Well, education has always had a chokehold on my heart. I’ve worked in the field and now I’m pursuing higher education in psychology, mostly because I’m endlessly fascinated by people. Why we do what we do, how we heal, and how we somehow keep functioning on caffeine and hope. Learning feels less like a task and more like a lifelong side quest I willingly signed up for. I try to show up for the people I love in ways that actually matter. I give my time, my support, and what I’ve been told are elite-level hugs. The kind where you feel your nervous system power down a notch. I can’t fix everything, but I can absolutely hold space and probably bring snacks. Not much makes me happier than live music. There’s something about standing in a crowd, feeling the bass in your ribs, screaming lyrics like group therapy with better lighting. And when I’m not out chasing that high, I’m perfectly content curled up playing cozy games with the people I love(or myself…mostly myself), building tiny pixel farms or imaginary worlds and pretending that’s not also a form of emotional regulation. It absolutely is.

Hi, I have known Derek since middle school and the rest, as they say, is history. I enjoy going to sporting events, going to see live music, gaming, and traveling with my wife!

Hey there! I have known Derek for over eight years now. He is one of kindest and most compassionate people I have ever met. The moment he told us (myself and my counterpart, Nick, aka the best man) about Kay our collective friend group told him "whatever you do, don't mess this up!" Kay is such a shining light and watching them fall in love has been absolutely beautiful! I feel so honored to be a part of their big day, I cannot wait to celebrate this next chapter with them! And of course, to ensure Derek "doesn't mess this up" on behalf of the entire friend group :) So much love to you both during this exciting time!

Hello, I go by Anthony or Tony, whichever you prefer. I have been friends with Derek since the day I walked into a door our freshman year of high school, so I like to think I make a good first impression!

Hi, I am the sister of the bride, I remember the times when my mom and I used to go to all my sisters' plays and they were a lot of fun. I am truly happy to be a part of this wedding and I wish the bride and groom the best.

Hello, I’ve known Derek for 12 years, and for 8 of those years we were roommates—so I’ve had a true front-row seat to who he really is. He’s one of the most loyal and genuine friends you could ask for, and someone who somehow always has a joke ready—usually the groan-worthy variety. I love going to comedy shows so it was almost like living with my own personal comedian. I love everything about music. I enjoy listening to music, singing, and playing instruments like drums, guitar, and bass. During our time living together, I was still practicing and learning how to play my electric bass. Derek endured many practice sessions and questionable musical progress. That kind of tolerance is the mark of a great friend. All kidding aside, I’m incredibly grateful for his friendship. I'm really excited that Derek met Kay and feel they will be great partners and "roommates."

Hi there, I am the sister of the groom! I enjoy going to Las Vegas, watching hockey games (both WHL and NHL), and jamming out to my favorite music! I am so excited to see these two celebrate this special day and seeing our family come together for "The Baby"!

HI, I met Kelly in college. I am excited to celebrate the couple with all their loved ones. What am I about? Outdoor adventures, amateur gaming, eating lots of food, dancing and enjoy every day to the fullest!