Katrina and I met during our time at SIUC in Carbondale, and our friendship began in the most unexpected place, an elevator. At a time when I was struggling with being away from home, her light and energy pulled me out of a dark place. From that moment on, my life truly started to shine. Katrina is everything, sunshine on a rainy day, a steady source of strength, and the kind of friend who loves without judgment. She's been my biggest cheerleader, my safe space, and my chosen sister. I couldn’t imagine walking down the aisle without her by my side as my Maid of Honor. She has made every season of my life brighter, and I’m beyond grateful to have her next to me for this new beginning.

With Katrina’s friendship came one of the best introductions of my life, her incredible roommate, Sam. I had no idea that meeting her would mean gaining one of the most important people in my world. From spontaneous trips to Disney World, South Carolina, and Michigan, every adventure with Sam is full of laughter, fun, and unforgettable memories. Our shared love for Taylor Swift is just one of the many things that bond us. Sam is the kind of friend who makes you feel seen, supported, and endlessly loved. Her vibrant spirit, fierce loyalty, and calming presence have brought so much joy into my life. I’m beyond honored to have her by my side as I walk into this new chapter.

I met Francesca when we were both working in HR at BP in Chicago, and from the start, we bonded over our high ambitions, love for good food, and just being great company for one another. Francesca has this incredible calm energy, she’s the one who can talk you off the ledge when life feels overwhelming. When we're together, we’re usually in tears from laughing so hard. One of her favorite sayings is, “Don’t start, Diana,” which always cracks me up because she says it with that perfect Fran tone. She’s always down for an adventure, and honestly, Francesca is the Beyoncé to my Taylor Swift, elegant, powerful, and always bringing the vibe.

Jackie and I met while working in HR at BP, and what started as a workplace friendship quickly turned into one of the most meaningful relationships in my life. We bonded over our love for quaint coffee shops, dogs, and , let’s be honest , some really good trash TV. “My 600-Pound Life” nights with Dr. Nowzaradan commentary? Iconic. Jackie is the kind of friend who will hype you up on your best days and stand firmly beside you on your worst , even if you’re completely wrong (she’ll still fight for you, then tell you about yourself later with love). She's a true cheerleader in every sense of the word, the one you want in your corner always.