My Father Sam Strickland Sr It’s not every day that your best man is also the man who raised you. My father has been so much more than a parent—he’s been my role model, my rock, my teacher, and my biggest supporter. He’s shown me what it means to work hard, to stand tall, and to keep your word. His strength, wisdom, humor, and yes—even those well-timed ass-whoopings—have all shaped me into the man I am today.I’ve watched him handle life with dignity, lead by example, and love his family with everything he has. He’s the type of man who will give you the shirt off his back, but also tell you when you’re being an asshole.Having him stand beside me today isn’t just an honor—it’s one of the proudest moments of my life. If I can grow to be even half the man he is, I know I’ve done it right. I’m grateful beyond words to call you my father and my best man.

Darius—better known as D Block or Don Jefe—has been my right-hand man since our school days, all the way through college, and right up to now. From classrooms to late-night talks, from wild—and I mean WILD—memories to real-life lessons, we’ve been through it all together.He’s more than just a best friend—he’s family. Over the years, we’ve shared the kind of bond that’s built on loyalty, trust, and a ridiculous amount of inside jokes no one else would understand. Having him beside me on this special day isn’t just an honor—it’s another chapter in a brotherhood that’s been years in the making.

Anytime and everytime you see Craig please say “GO HOME CRAIG’ Craig isn’t just a great friend—he’s a brother and a brother in the fire service and one of the best fishermen I know. We’ve shared long shifts, early mornings, and even earlier casts.We’ve faced challenges side by side, both on and off the job, and that kind of bond runs deep. His loyalty, steady presence, and sense of humor have meant a lot to me over the years. With blood sweat and tears I'm Proud to have him standing with me on this special day—not just as a groomsman, but as a life long brother.

Christian (aka Doc) – or as Alexis likes to call him, “Grandpa” is a wise old soul with a quick wit and a heart for service. He’s not just a brother firefighter; he’s the one who talked me into joining the department in the first place. Calm under pressure, sharp as ever, and always ready with the right words (or the right joke), Doc has been a guide, a mentor, and a trusted friend through the years.We’ve shared more than our fair share of unforgettable memories—especially back in our days working for the Police Department—stories that could fill a book, and probably get us both in trouble. Having Doc stand with me today is an honor. I’m grateful beyond words to have him by my side on this special day.

Terrell—aka Rell—is more than just my DJ Roadie; over the last years, he’s become a close family friend and a brother. From spinning tracks to sharing life moments, we’ve built something bigger than music. His energy, and heart make him someone you can always count on. I’m honored to have him standing with me on this Special day—not just as a groomsman, but as family.

Gavin—better known as Dr. Dibble—is the guy who keeps us all moving… literally. As a skilled physical therapist, he knows how to fix just about anything that’s sore, stiff, or broken—except maybe our sense of humor. We became close while working together in the police department, where I had the honor (and occasional challenge) of being his Field Training Officer. It didn’t take long for us to go from coworkers to great friends, sharing countless laughs, inside jokes, and memories along the way.Beyond his expertise and dedication to his work, Gavin is one of the most loyal, dependable, and good-hearted people you could ever hope to have in your corner. I’m proud to have him standing beside me today—not just as a groomsman, but as a lifelong friend.

(aka The Pole Dancer) Mike’s nickname says it all—he’s a lineman for PSEG who knows how to work those poles like a true professional. But beyond the laughs and the inside jokes, Mike is one of the most hardworking, dependable, and solid guys I know. He’s the type of friend who will show up when you need him, offer advice when you ask for it, and crack a joke when you need a laugh.Mike is also married to my best friend Cali, which means he’s basically stuck with me for life—and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’m proud to have him standing with me today, not just for his skill and humor, but for the friendship, loyalty, and good energy he brings to the crew.

(aka DJ Kezzy) Mehkai isn’t just one of the best DJs and MCs you’ll ever see—he’s also my cousin and one of the most unforgettable personalities you’ll ever meet. Whether he’s behind the mic or just hanging out, he has a way of lighting up a room with energy, laughter, and good vibes. Beyond the music and the hype, Mehkai is one of the hardest-working people I know. He’s taught me a lot about the art of DJing and the dedication it takes to be great at what you do. He’s family by blood, brother by bond, and someone I’m proud to have bringing his trademark energy to this special day. There’s truly no one better to have keeping the party alive.

(aka bub or bubbie) Mike isn’t just my wife’s twin brother—he’s also become a brother to me. From the start, he welcomed me into the family with open arms kinda (and some classic twin-level sarcasm). Over time, we’ve shared laughs, memories, and a few competitive moments. I’m honored to have him by my side on this special day —not just as family, but as a friend.

(aka “The MVP of Mingle”) Bryce Reed is our nephew and junior groomsman who’s as chill as they come. When he’s not busy watching football or cheering for his favorite team, he’s out here single and ready to mingle! Always laid-back and full of good vibes, Bryce is bringing the fun (and maybe some flirting) to the big day—truly the MVP of mingle. His game plan? Score big on the dance floor and maybe win a few hearts along the way.

Victor, as I call her, is my “Goobest man of all time.” She’s the most kind, gentle, and loving person I know, and we share the same family values, which has made our bond so strong over the years. She’s also incredibly understanding, always listens to my crashouts, offers lots of support, or offers guidance when life gets complicated. Victoria has a way of making every moment feel special ,whether we’re laughing until our bellies hurt, sharing our dreams, or leaning on each other through life’s challenges. Her warmth, patience, and love have been a constant in my life, and I feel so lucky to have her by my side. I couldn’t imagine celebrating this day without her standing with me as one of my Maids of Honor sharing in all the joy, laughter, and memories of this special moment.

Lex has truly been like a little sister to me since 3rd grade, our story goes all the way back to GEMO soccer practice, when she watched Sam get chased by that dog. From that hilarious moment on, we’ve built a friendship full of laughter, memories, and love. Lex is a ride or die to the fullest extent of the term and is the reason I am here today with Sam. She convinced me to go on a date with him because “what if it works out.” Lex and I have seen the hardest and best parts of life together, and we have been a part of so many important moments in each other's lives, and having her by my side as one of my Maids of Honor on this day feels like everything has come full circle. I couldn’t imagine celebrating this chapter without her.

Taylor and I have known each other my whole life LOL! My big sister Taylor has always chartered her own path and led the way for my brother and I. She has always been the biggest supporter of Sam and I, and from the early days Taylor knew Sam was the one for me, with a photo to prove it. The love and support over the last 6 years of mine and Sam’s relationship made it an easy choice to have her in our wedding party. I know she has Sam’s back on calls but she's always had my back throughout life and for that I am forever grateful. We are so happy to have her standing by our side for our big day.

Kelsey, my brother’s wonderful wife, and my amazing sister in law has quickly become such an important part of my life. From the moment we met, her warmth, kindness, and genuine spirit made me feel like she was already family. I’m also so grateful to her for keeping my brother in check as a true lifesaver! She’s the kind of person who you can call with questions because she always has answers and I can always count on her to show up, when I need her! She is also the awesome mom of our bubble boy! I feel so lucky to have her standing by my side as a bridesmaid on this special day, sharing in all the joy and memories of this celebration.

Shani holds a special place in my heart because she is my husband’s one and only sibling. Over the years, we have become so close and I am so lucky to have her as a sister in law! We go way back to our Gemo soccer days, sharing memories, adventures, and countless moments of laughter and I mean laughter that leaves your cheeks hurting and your stomach aching. She’s always down for a good time, and as she always says, “It’s Shot O’Clock!” From dancing at prom, to the Sloppy Tuna, Shanice makes every event a good time. Her energy, fun spirit, and love for life make every moment with her unforgettable. Whether we’re reminiscing about old times, creating new memories, or just going to Trader Joes, Shanice brings joy, laughter, and love wherever she goes. I feel so lucky to have her standing by my side as a bridesmaid on this special day.

Cali, my husband’s best female friend, has become such a special part of our lives. From the moment we met, her warmth, and kindness made it easy to see why she’s such an important person to him and now, to me as well. She’s always there with a listening ear, a helping hand, or a perfectly timed joke that will bring a smile to your face. She's a great sounding board for crazy ideas, like getting a puppy and an even better brunch date. Over the years, we’ve shared laughs, memorable moments, and plenty of stories that we’ll never forget. I feel so lucky to have Cali standing by my side as a bridesmaid on this special day, celebrating not just our wedding, but all the joy, love, and memories we’ve shared along the way.

From my first day at Oysterponds, I knew I would have Em in my life forever. She is one of those people who feel like sunshine when you meet them. Emiliath or wifey, has been a constant source of love, laughter, and encouragement in my life. We share so many memories together, from our first beer, to heart-to-hearts and all those crazy car rides in her Buick La Sabre. She’s more than just a friend; she’s family. Emily has been by my side through life’s ups and downs, and her kindness, loyalty, and fun spirit make her truly one of a kind. I feel so lucky to have her standing with me as a bridesmaid on this special day.

I’ve known Erbear since I was about 10 years old, when I decided to join her Girl Scouts troop. From the very beginning she’s been my true ride-or-die. We’ve shared more than our fair share of crazy, adventurous stories, including the unforgettable time spent together as roommates in New Orleans. Sometimes we laugh together, and other times we cry together, but no matter what, she’s always been there. Erin is the friend who can sit with me through life’s toughest moments. She’s been such an important part of mine and Sam’s journey, as she was in our very first picture together at Lucharitos. I couldn’t imagine this day without her unwavering love, and support by my side.

KDawg, my former co-teacher at Greenport, has become like a little sister to me over the past couple of years. The three years working with her were an absolute pleasure, filled with laughter, teamwork, and countless memories that I’ll always treasure! Whether it was being in the trenches while teaching kids how to read, shopping, or hyping me up to go indoor skydiving, KDawg is always my number one good time gal. She’s the kind of friend who’s always there to lift you up, share a laugh, or simply be present when it matters most. Kristin’s kindness, patience, and playful spirit have made a lasting impact on my life. I feel so lucky to have her standing by my side as a bridesmaid on this special day, sharing in all the love, laughter, and memories we’ve created together.

Dobbz felt like home from the moment I first met her. She helped me navigate life's tough moments and I will be forever grateful for her. Lexi and I have survived Coach Mollie, Wilkes, Rodanos and driving across the Northeast coaching camps together. From our freshman year until now Lexi has always been there ready to lend a helping hand or to give words of encouragement. She's the type of friend who would give the shirt off their back or share their umbrella with you. She's the best roommate and teammate a girl could have and I am so grateful to have her for my big day.

Paigeypoo has been like a little sister to Sam and myself since birth, and our bond goes way back. No matter where we went growing up, Paigey was always close by following in our footsteps. From Drake in 2012 to now Paige has always been there with Sam and I. The easiest choice Sam and I ever made was having her be part of the wedding party, because she can fit in on both sides! Her kindness, humor, and unwavering support make every moment brighter, and I feel so lucky to have you standing by my side as a bridesmaid. Paige, we got your back for life, and we can’t wait to share in all the love, laughter, and memories of this special day together.