ELEUSA - MOTHER OF THE BRIDE

My mother. My best friend. My rock. The woman who has shaped every part of who I am. From the moment I entered this world, she has been there—offering unconditional love, unwavering strength, and a kind of motherhood that is as fierce as it is gentle.

Last year, life reminded me just how fragile time can be. We had a scare that shook me to my core, and in that moment, I realized something deeply: I cannot imagine walking down the aisle, building a home, or becoming a mother myself without her by my side. Her presence in my life is not just comforting—it’s vital.

This past year, I’ve watched her grow into an even stronger version of herself, and I have never been more proud of the woman she continues to become. The way she cared for me in my early years—the sacrifices, the laughter, the late nights—echoes through everything I do now. I carry her in my heart, and on my wedding day, I will carry her love with me every step down the aisle.

SILVIA - MOTHER OF THE GROOM

My mother, Silvia, has been one of the greatest gifts in my life. She is my guide, my steady hand, and the heart that has shaped who I am. Through every chapter—school mornings, long nights during illness, life’s tough lessons, and moments of pure joy—she has always shown up with grace, wisdom, and love that knows no bounds.

Her strength is quiet but powerful; her care is constant, whether it’s in a comforting word or a warm embrace. I carry so many beautiful memories with her, and I know that even greater ones are yet to come—especially when I imagine her as a grandmother, passing on the same love she gave me.

One of the greatest joys of my life has been watching the bond between her and Julia grow. She welcomed Julia not just into the family, but into her heart. Their love for each other is something I cherish deeply, and it fills me with gratitude every single day.

Mom, I love you more than words can say. Thank you for being my everything.

NATALIA Z. - MAID OF HONOR

Natalia has been one of the greatest constants in my life. She was one of my very first friends when I moved to the U.S., and from the moment we met, it was like our souls just knew each other. Some of my most vivid childhood memories are with her—riding the school bus, having endless sleepovers, and dancing until we were breathless and the world felt like ours.

As we’ve grown, our friendship has only deepened. The sleepovers may have turned into late-night FaceTimes, and the dance battles may have evolved into spontaneous twerking at brunch—but her loyalty, her strength, and her heart have only become more extraordinary with time.

Natalia is not just my best friend—she’s my rock, my role model, and now a gifted and compassionate Physician Assistant. Her brilliance astounds me, but it’s the way she uses her knowledge to care for those she loves that humbles me most. I’ve come to her countless times with every medical worry imaginable—and she always answers with calm, with wisdom, with love. When my mom underwent heart surgery, it was Natalia who stepped in—not just as a friend, but as her medical provider and guardian angel. The care she gave my mother will never be forgotten.

There is no one else I would rather have by my side as I step into this next chapter. Natalia, you have been with me from the beginning—and on this day, and every day after, I am so thankful to walk through life with you.

NATALIA F.

Natalia was my very first friend in the U.S. We met on the very first day of school in August 2006—two little girls in a new world, unknowingly beginning a bond that would last a lifetime. From that moment on, she became more than just a friend—she became my family.

It’s no surprise people often assume we’re cousins. We may not share blood, but we share something even stronger: a chosen connection, one that filled the void of having no extended family around. In each other, we found our people.

We’ve grown up together—through family trips and poolside BBQs, sleepovers and school dances, concerts and raves, Sundays at church and nights that turned into mornings. We’ve seen each other through every season, and through it all, Natalia has remained the same—loyal, fun, full of heart, and always just a phone call away.

Watching you become the incredible mother you are now fills me with so much pride. You are strong, nurturing, and full of love in everything you do. I am honored to have you standing beside me—not just on my wedding day, but in every chapter of this beautiful life we’ve built together.

CAROLINA

Jessie and I have known of each other since high school. We weren’t close then—not friends, not enemies—just two people navigating a huge school, whose paths didn’t quite cross. But life has a funny way of bringing the right people together when the time is right.

Years later, out of nowhere, my DMs were suddenly full of kind, thoughtful messages from Jessie. And just like that, a beautiful friendship was born—one that’s grown through honesty, loyalty, and a deep mutual respect.

As adults, it’s not always easy to build lasting friendships. Life gets loud—schedules, work, family, responsibilities—it can all feel like too much. But Jessie is the kind of friend who shows up anyway. No matter what. Her heart is big, her loyalty is real, and her presence is grounding. She’s sweet, selfless, and happens to be the best nurse in the world (I will debate anyone on this).

I’m so grateful our paths finally did cross—and that I get to call you my friend. Having you by my side on one of the most important days of my life is a gift I’ll never take for granted.

DAVID - BEST MAN

My brother. My bro. My best man—not just for the wedding, but for life. David and I have walked through this world side by side, through every high and every low. We’ve argued, we’ve laughed, we’ve tested each other’s patience—but at the end of it all, there’s never been a question: we are each other’s keepers.

Five years apart may not sound like much, but in sibling time, it’s a lifetime. And being the older brother, I’ve always felt this instinct to protect him, to guide him, to try and give him the head start I never had. It's not always been easy, but it’s been one of the most meaningful parts of my life. Watching him grow into the man he is today fills me with pride I can’t even put into words.

David brings light and energy wherever he goes. Life is louder, funnier, more real when he’s around. And there’s no one else I’d rather have standing next to me on this day. I love you, bro—now and always.

LUCAS - GROOMSMAN

I met Lucas on Memorial Day Weekend in 2023, during what was Julia’s and my first solo vacation together in Pompano Beach. It was one of those weekends that just felt right from the start. Lucas rolled up in his badass Camaro, took us to a local sports bar, and we spent the night eating good food and watching the Heat play. From that moment on, we clicked.

Since then, we’ve shared a lot of great times—whether it’s been hanging out at our place or hitting the town, Lucas always brings good energy. He’s generous, laid-back, and just an all-around great guy to be around.

As my soon-to-be cousin-in-law, I already feel lucky to call him family. There’s no doubt in my mind—we’re going to have one hell of a time at the wedding and a lot more memories to make in the years ahead.

HUGO - GROOMSMAN

Hugo, Julia’s brother, was someone I met virtually many times before I ever met him in person—countless FaceTime calls gave us the chance to connect across continents. Even from a screen, I could tell he was kind, thoughtful, and genuinely protective of his sister. When we finally met, I was blown away—not only by how fluent his English was, but by how natural and easy it was to talk with him.

From day one, Hugo was welcoming. As someone who’s always treated Julia like a queen, he made it clear that he expected nothing less from the man she chose—and I deeply respect that. When I visited Brazil, he opened his home and his heart, making it one of the best trips I’ve ever taken.

Also, fun fact: we’re both die-hard Star Wars fans—though I’ll admit, Hugo’s obsession is on a whole other level. I’m honored to call him family, and even more honored to have him as a groomsman on this unforgettable day.

VANESSA RAMIREZ - DJ ENTERTAINMENT

Vanessa is more than just our DJ—she’s family. She’s my cousin for life, and one of the most genuine, fun-loving souls I know. I have amazing memories of sleepovers with Mark, Vanessa, and Naomi—moments full of laughter, music, and connection that have stayed with me through the years.

Vanessa was actually one of the first people to know I was planning to propose to Julia. She helped me brainstorm the perfect NYC moment, even joining us for an unforgettable day in SoHo—shopping, laughing, and grabbing lunch with Mark. That day is a core memory, and it means the world to us.

Now, she’s taking on an equally epic role—keeping our friends and family on the dance floor all night long. With Vanessa in the booth, it’s not just going to be a party—it’s going to be a night no one forgets.

-Camilo

BUFFY - RING BEARER

Buffy is already a huge part of our lives and holds a very special place in my heart. She’s full of love, strength, and spirit, and we know she’ll be absolutely thrilled to take part in our wedding day.

It feels only right that Buffy will deliver the ring to her Mommy—me—so I can give it to my new Daddy. We’re so happy to have her by our side as we start this new chapter together.

-Julia