Zackery Jakeb Ruggles

Welcome

Good afternoon, everyone. My name is Zack, and it’s my absolute honor to stand here today as we celebrate this marriage but before we begin, we’d like to kindly ask everyone to settle and take a moment to turn off your phones or any other devices. This will be an unplugged ceremony, so we can all be fully present in this special moment. Thank you for your understanding

Thank you all for being here to celebrate this special day with Heather and Rayden. I have the immense honor of officiating this ceremony. Rayden and I have been best friends—basically brothers—since middle school, so for about 8 years now. I’ve had the privilege of watching their relationship grow from freshman year onward. It’s been amazing to see their love develop into what it is today, and I’m so excited to share this moment with all of you.

Opening remarks

When Rayden and I first met back in junior high, we became close friends by riding the bus together every day. Those bus rides were where we really got to know each other, and it didn’t take long for me to realize that Rayden was someone special—someone you could share anything with, with a heart full of passion and a knack for making people smile. Over the years, our friendship has only grown stronger, and it’s been incredible to see Rayden become the person he is today.

When Rayden met Heather, it quickly became clear to everyone that she brought out the very best in him. Their connection was one that anyone would admire and aspire to have. Together, they have a love that is genuine, passionate, and strong

Couples story

I remember the first time I met Heather—it was on their first Valentine’s Day together. When Heather walked into Rayden’s parents’ place, I was quite confused and worried, as she seemed much younger than I expected. Rayden had mentioned she was short, but I didn’t anticipate her being quite this petite. It wasn’t until Heather walked in that I realized I had first met her younger sister, Riley. Heather immediately made a great impression with her polite attitude and joyful demeanor. It was clear why Rayden was so taken with her, and it didn’t take long for everyone to see how perfect they were for each other. Over the years, it’s been wonderful to watch their bond grow stronger. Whether they’re playing a cooking game together, enjoying a meal at Texas Roadhouse, visiting the aquarium, or simply spending quality time, they truly complement each other. Their relationship has flourished through moving in together and sharing trips with each other’s families, and it’s been inspiring to watch their love deepen and evolve.

Personal Anecdote

As a close friend to both Heather and Rayden, I’ve had the privilege of being part of so many special moments in their lives, which is why it means so much to me that they asked me to officiate today. One memory that really stands out is our first Christmas party. Heather and I put the party together, and I stayed over the week before to help with the preparations. During that time, I got to spend quality time with both Rayden and Heather, separately and together. It was a unique opportunity to see how they live and interact with each other in their day-to-day lives.

When the party day finally arrived, everything fell into place, and it was an amazing time. Heather did an incredible job hosting, and when it came time for the group games, Heather and Rayden ended up as partners. They worked so well together that they won our first annual Christmas party! That night was a perfect example of how naturally they complement each other and how strong their connection is. It’s moments like these that remind me how fortunate they are to have found each other

Declaration of Intent

Now, Heather and Rayden, as we stand here among your closest family and friends, I want to ask you both to solidify your commitment to each other.

Rayden, do you promise to stand by Heather's side, to uplift her in her dreams, to share in her joys, and to face life's challenges together? Will you love her, support her, and cherish her as your partner and best friend, from this day forward and for all the days to come?"

(Wait for Rayden's response.)

"Heather, do you promise to walk alongside Rayden, to support him in his goals, to celebrate in his happiness, and to navigate life's ups and downs together? Will you love him, encourage him, and treasure him as your partner and best friend, from this day forward and for all the days to come?"

(Wait for Heather's response.)

Earlier today, Heather and Rayden shared their personal vows with each other in a private moment.

(Zack takes the rings and displays them up to the audience and places each in the other hands)

These rings are symbols of the vows you’ve shared with each other and the love you hold for one another. They serve as a reminder of your commitment and the promises that will guide you throughout your lives. Just as these rings have no end, so may your love be endless and ever-growing.

(To Rayden)

“Rayden, as you place this ring on Heather’s finger, repeat after me: ‘Heather, with this ring, I give you my heart, my love, and my lifelong commitment.’”

(Rayden places the ring on Heather’s finger.)

(To Heather)

“Heather, as you place this ring on Rayden’s finger, repeat after me: ‘Rayden, with this ring, I give p you my heart, my love, and my lifelong commitment.’”

Pronouncement

By the power vested in me, and in the presence of your family and friends, I now pronounce you husband and wife! Rayden, you may kiss the bride.

Introduction of the Couple

Ladies and gentlemen, it is my great honor to present to you, for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. Austin