David Simon

Dear family and friends,

I want to first thank all of you for venturing out today to celebrate with us the union of Brendon and Alyssa.

First and foremost, I want to acknowledge those who could not be with us today. Alyssa's dad - David Dooms, Brendon's stepbrother - Aidan Coleman, and Brendon's grandma - Glenda Callaway. I am quite certain they are all just as excited as we are that you two are getting married.

Cloudy with a chance of Meatballs. I know what you are thinking, what an odd way to start a wedding. But that's how it starts. Something that seems so innocuous at the time but will leave a lasting impression. That is how this story begins. Brendon and Alyssa were introduced to each other through mutual friends back in May of 2019. That introduction was the catalyst to what led us here today. Here is where the Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs comes into play. That was the mystery first date Brendon came up with. It is amazing how something as simple as snacks and an outdoor movie projection of Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs at Exploration place can leave such a lasting impression. There was no need for anything over the top or fancy, all that was needed was something as real as the connection they had for each other. And that has been the story of their relationship ever since then. From that point forward Alyssa and Brendon were inseparable. Moments rooted in the little things, laughter, shared adventures, and the way ordinary moments feel extraordinary just by them being together.

Today, Alyssa and Brendon stand before you ready to make a lifelong commitment to one another. This ceremony is not only a public declaration of their love, but also a promise. A promise to grow together, face life's joys and challenges side by side. And to always, first and foremost, choose each other.

Marriage isn't about grand beginnings, or perfect plans. It is about building a life and partnership out of the everyday moments. Choosing to show up. To live, to laugh, and most importantly...to support one another.

As their family and friends, you have all been part of this journey. With your unwavering support, cheering them on and sharing in their joy. Today you are not just witnesses to the vows they are getting ready to take, you are part of an enduring love story that surrounds them and strengthens their greatest adventure yet. A life as husband and wife.

Having gotten to spend some time with my future daughter in law, it is easy to see how we find ourselves here today. I could not think of a better companion for Brendon as they navigate all that life has in store for them. Thank you Alyssa for being the foundation that you and Brendon will get to build this amazing life together.

So, Brendon and Alyssa. When life throws you those curve balls, and it will. This is the moment I want you to reflect back on. A time when everything was right, and there was nothing but love and joy in your hearts. If you can always come back to that feeling, there isn't a thing in this world that you can't face together.

(Poem Reading)

Brendon and Alyssa will now exchange rings and share their vows.

*(Brendon places ring on finger and recites vows)*

Do you Brendon take Alyssa to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and bad, for richer or poorer, pledging yourself to her as long as you both shall live?

*(Wait for Confirmation)*

*(Alyssa places ring on finger and recites vows)*

Do you Alyssa take Brendon to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and bad, for richer or poorer, pledging yourself to him for as long as you both shall live?

*(Wait for Confirmation)*

By the authority vested in me by the State of Kansas I now pronounce you husband and wife! You may kiss your bride.