Ben & Madina
wedding • Anaheim, CA • sunday, April 27, 2025 • 5:00 PM
wedding • Anaheim, CA
Sunday, April 27, 2025 • 5:00 PM
Team Bride
Chloe
Matron of Honor
I met Chloe during my time in Dallas, and honestly, the fact that we became friends is nothing short of a miracle. We’re two wildly different people from completely different worlds, yet somehow we clicked. Over the years, we've been through so many milestones together, proving that opposites really do attract—at least in friendship.
Chloe is strong, unapologetically hilarious, and the kind of friend who makes “long-distance friendship” look easy. Even if months go by without talking, the moment we reconnect, it’s like no time has passed at all. Whether it's laughing at the most ridiculous things or being there for the serious stuff, Chloe’s been a constant in my life, and I’m so grateful to have her by my side on this special day.
Khusbu
Maid of Honor
Khusbu and I go way back—like teenage years back, when we bonded over Bangla school. Fun fact: her Bangla is amazing, while mine is... still elementary. If I can get through a sentence without sneaking in an English word, it’s a minor miracle.
Our friendship leveled up when we became college roommates, and honestly, our apartment owes its survival to Khusbu. Without Khusbu, our apartment would have been an unlivable biohazard. Beyond her cleanliness wizardry, Khusbu always made time to plan amazing friend dates and unforgettable trips, proving that she’s as thoughtful as she is practical.
Khusbu’s loyalty and no-nonsense personality have shaped me into a better version of myself. She’s the kind of friend who tells it like it is but always has your back—whether you want the advice or not. I couldn’t imagine my special day without her by my side, keeping me grounded and making me laugh all at once.
Our friendship leveled up when we became college roommates, and honestly, our apartment owes its survival to Khusbu. Without Khusbu, our apartment would have been an unlivable biohazard. Beyond her cleanliness wizardry, Khusbu always made time to plan amazing friend dates and unforgettable trips, proving that she’s as thoughtful as she is practical.
Khusbu’s loyalty and no-nonsense personality have shaped me into a better version of myself. She’s the kind of friend who tells it like it is but always has your back—whether you want the advice or not. I couldn’t imagine my special day without her by my side, keeping me grounded and making me laugh all at once.
Kristine
Bridesmaid
Kristine and I go way back to our college roommate days, where I quickly learned two things: she’s fiercely protective of the people she loves, and if you wrong her, she’ll cut you off without a second thought. Back in my young and dumb college days, my less-than-stellar decisions caused a rift in our friendship. But, against all odds, I’m probably the only person who’s ever managed to claw back our friendship. The plan to get her addicted to my mom’s beef also helped the process.
Kristine is extremely guarded and incredibly selective about the people she lets into her inner circle, which makes being part of her life feel even more special.
We’ve shared countless memories together, including some unforgettable trips, I still vividly remember the way Kristine drove in Miami. Through it all, Kristine has proven time and again that she’s fiercely loyal, hilariously witty, and always there when you need her—tough love included. I’m so grateful to have her by my side on this special day!
Kristine is extremely guarded and incredibly selective about the people she lets into her inner circle, which makes being part of her life feel even more special.
We’ve shared countless memories together, including some unforgettable trips, I still vividly remember the way Kristine drove in Miami. Through it all, Kristine has proven time and again that she’s fiercely loyal, hilariously witty, and always there when you need her—tough love included. I’m so grateful to have her by my side on this special day!
Cecy
Bridesmaid
Cecy and I met at my previous job, and from the start, I knew she was someone I could count on. She’s incredibly hardworking and dependable, and honestly, without her help, I don’t think I would have survived that job.
Our friendship grew through deep conversations about family, life, and—my personal favorite—her initiation into the tradition of “Refresher Fridays.” Cecy is the kind of person who will always show up for you, even when life isn’t going her way. She has an unshakable sense of integrity and consistently strives to do what’s right, no matter the cost.
I feel so fortunate to have such a supportive and genuine friend like Cecy by my side on my special day!
Our friendship grew through deep conversations about family, life, and—my personal favorite—her initiation into the tradition of “Refresher Fridays.” Cecy is the kind of person who will always show up for you, even when life isn’t going her way. She has an unshakable sense of integrity and consistently strives to do what’s right, no matter the cost.
I feel so fortunate to have such a supportive and genuine friend like Cecy by my side on my special day!
Rabiyah
Bridesmaid
Rabiyah and I go way back to our days in California, but we didn’t really become close until I moved to Dallas. Ours is another unlikely friendship—when I first met her, I’ll admit I wrote her off as a drama-filled high school teen (sorry, Rabiyah!). But then we reconnected in Dallas and discovered our shared taste in music, the rest was history.
We also bonded over our mutual disdain for Dallas—no matter how much fun we had, we were always Cali girls at heart. She’s the rare combination of someone who knows how to have an amazing time and has a heart of pure gold. With Rabiyah, I truly feel like I’ve hit another friendship jackpot, and I’m so excited to have her by my side on my special day.
We also bonded over our mutual disdain for Dallas—no matter how much fun we had, we were always Cali girls at heart. She’s the rare combination of someone who knows how to have an amazing time and has a heart of pure gold. With Rabiyah, I truly feel like I’ve hit another friendship jackpot, and I’m so excited to have her by my side on my special day.
Erika
Bridesmaid
Erika and I met at a previous job, and from the very beginning, she made going into work feel like anything but work. Not only was she an incredible coworker, but her talent and creativity are unmatched. Erika has an amazing eye for detail and design that can turn even the most ordinary things into masterpieces.
Our friendship grew over a shared love of food and countless after-work social events that always ended in laughter. Erika is the kind of friend you can always depend on—whether you need help with something or just a listening ear. She’ll always be there, judgment-free and ready to support you no matter what.
I’m so lucky to have someone as talented, kind, and dependable as Erika standing by my side on my special day!
I’m so lucky to have someone as talented, kind, and dependable as Erika standing by my side on my special day!
Rosemary
Bridesmaid
I met Rosemary through Ben’s cousin, Kevin, and from the start, it was clear just how sweet and kind she is. Her warmth and generosity are evident in the way she treats Kevin and Ben’s mom, which immediately made me admire her.
Rosemary is super laid-back, and I’m especially grateful to have a partner-in-crime who also isn’t Vietnamese—so we can share those “completely lost” moments when the family dives into Vietnamese conversations.
What stands out most about Rosemary is her unwavering sense of support and her courage to stand up for what’s right. I’ll never forget how she handled a very intrusive situation with a distant family member—graceful and firm all at once. I feel truly blessed to have her in my life and to call her family. I couldn’t be happier to have Rosemary by my side on my special day!
What stands out most about Rosemary is her unwavering sense of support and her courage to stand up for what’s right. I’ll never forget how she handled a very intrusive situation with a distant family member—graceful and firm all at once. I feel truly blessed to have her in my life and to call her family. I couldn’t be happier to have Rosemary by my side on my special day!
Amira
Jr. Bridesmaid
Amira, my princess, my love. These past 14 years have been an incredible journey of learning and growing—for both of us. She has an unmatched talent for driving me completely insane one moment and melting my heart the next.
Amira is fiercely strong-willed (a trait that, I’m told, might resemble my own personality—imagine that!). Not only has she already surpassed me in height, but she’s also on her way to becoming an amazing young woman. I couldn’t be prouder of the person she’s becoming, and I’m so excited to have her play such a special role on my special day.
Amira is fiercely strong-willed (a trait that, I’m told, might resemble my own personality—imagine that!). Not only has she already surpassed me in height, but she’s also on her way to becoming an amazing young woman. I couldn’t be prouder of the person she’s becoming, and I’m so excited to have her play such a special role on my special day.
Marowa
Bride's Sister
Marowa and I have been partners in crime since the beginning—though I clearly tested her loyalty early on when, as a newborn, I “helpfully” spoon-fed her body cream with a butter knife (to the point it came out of her nose). From that moment, it was obvious she was destined to be my ride or die.
If there’s one thing everyone agrees on, it’s that Marowa is the better sister between the two of us. She’s infinitely kinder, more patient, and always seems to have the calm guidance I need to navigate life’s challenges. Watching how she manages her life and her kids inspires me every day to strive for more patience and grace in my own life. So while all of this is true, let’s not forget one very important fact: I did rescue her from drowning in the pool when I was 15. Just saying—heroic sister points definitely count for something!
And, of course, I can’t forget her husband, Zamil, who is as much a part of this family as she is—always supportive, thoughtful, and the perfect complement to Marowa’s incredible energy.
No matter what, she’s always been there for me, helping me become a better version of myself. I couldn’t imagine this day without her (and Zamil) by my side, just as they’ve been with me through so many other important moments in my life.
And, of course, I can’t forget her husband, Zamil, who is as much a part of this family as she is—always supportive, thoughtful, and the perfect complement to Marowa’s incredible energy.
No matter what, she’s always been there for me, helping me become a better version of myself. I couldn’t imagine this day without her (and Zamil) by my side, just as they’ve been with me through so many other important moments in my life.
Team Groom
Bao
Co-Best Man
Bao is a man of many talents—an enigmatic force in my life who lives by his own rules, or “Bao-gic,” as we like to call it. In college, he was our very own Iron Chef, constantly experimenting with new dishes and never repeating a recipe once he’d perfected it. One of my fondest memories is our summer TP game (IYKYK!). Though he’s steadfast in his beliefs, if you come armed with facts, he’ll genuinely listen and might even change his stance. Bao is one of the few who truly embraces all my quirks, recognizing the heart and soul I pour into others. He’s always been a guiding light, offering honest advice and unwavering support whenever I’ve needed it. Now, seeing him with his wife and two children, I see a man who’s truly happy and content but still striving for the best for his family. That’s exactly what I envision for myself and my future family, and I know Bao will be there to help in any way he can. Through it all, he’s treated me like a brother, welcoming me into his family—something I’ll always be grateful for.
Chris
Co-Best Man
Chris and I first met in college as roommates, though you wouldn’t have guessed we’d become so close from how we started—especially since, as a freshman living with two upperclassmen, Chris got stuck with the worst setup in the room. We barely talked that first quarter, but by the end of it, we’d formed a tight bond with each other and the other friends on our floor. Chris made the mistake of living with another roommate the following year but quickly realized the error of his ways and we finished the rest of our time at UCLA as roommates —brothers for life. We’ve taught each other so much: Chris showed me the sacred difference between outside clothes and home clothes, and I taught him that communication is the key to any relationship. From using “Wedding Dress” as our bedtime song to cracking up over the dancing string Chris brought me as a souvenir from Europe, we’ve racked up countless unforgettable memories. I’m beyond thrilled to add his wedding day to that list.
Henry
Groomsman
Henry and I have a colorful history that started in college—ironically, I met his roommate before I ever got to know him. I’d have never guessed our friendship would grow into what it is today. We share a spirited rivalry, hating to lose to each other in anything and basking in every single victory we have—no matter how big or small—yet we always maintain genuine love and respect. Henry has been there for me at pivotal moments: when I was planning my proposal, he volunteered—on almost no notice—to drive from OC to Northridge to help me pull off a magic trick and set everything up. I thought I could handle it solo, but without his help, there would have been no way I finished in time. I'll never forget the Vegas trip where he convinced me to sleep in our rental car in a hospital parking lot during a scorching summer night, something we still laugh about it to this day. Through it all, Henry has shown continuous support for my relationship with Madina, and I only hope I can be just as supportive in his quest to finally beat me in StarCraft 2!
Andy
Groomsman
My bond with Andy truly solidified during an epic, whirlwind boys’ trip to Japan—my first trip abroad with a friend. A highlight was the Pokémon Café, where Andy, in a moment of questionable judgment, gave me full ordering authority. Four entrées and seven sugary drinks later, I casually polished off five of them, much to Andy’s astonishment. Our friendship hasn’t been without playful twists: not long after we met, I “stole” Kevin from him, but we all stayed tight-knit. Later, when Andy was ready to become a homeowner, I performed an auspicious initiation that sealed his successful bid. Our bond is defined by adventure, humor, and unwavering support—qualities I’m especially grateful for as Andy and I share yet another milestone together.
Chance
Groomsman
I met Chance in my first year, and our lives crossed in so many ways. He was part of both my friend group with Access and Bao/Henry’s group, and it always felt like we were meant to be lifelong friends. Some of my favorite memories are from our late-night group game sessions in college, our never-ending NBA 2K matchups (CLE vs. POR, every time), and the time he surprised me by showing up to support my first half marathon. I’ve never been great at accepting or asking for help, but with Chance, I don’t have to—he just knows and has always been there for me. Somehow, he’s been present at every irrational confidence moment of my life—my 1v1 against Charlie, my “volleyball is not a real sport, I can totally spike a volleyball over the net” moment, my shooting contest against Mary, and most recently, my attempt at a sub-2-hour half marathon. This time, he gets to see me clinch the title that truly matters—building a life with my perfect partner.
Meehan
Groomsman
Meehan isn’t just my brother-in-law—he’s the one who introduced me to the love of my life. He’s also the family’s ultimate giver, always putting others first and showing up when it really counts. When he’s not being the nicest guy ever, he’s busy crushing me in Mario Party—but he does it so graciously, I can’t even be mad. He’s also the only one who consistently translates the family’s Bangla conversations for me so that I’m not left out—something his sister sometimes forgets! Meehan keeps everyone laughing and makes me feel completely part of the family. He’s a multi-talented individual on track to become a doctor, yet his greatest gift is bringing people together. I’m so thankful to have the opportunity to include him in one of the highlights of my life.
Jason
Groomsman
Over the past few years, Jason and I have grown closer, forging a bond that means the world to me. I was honored to stand by his side on his wedding day—a celebration that showcased his knack for making everyone feel included, just as he’s done for me since childhood. At the end of his big night, I took the wheel to whisk the newlyweds off to the afterparty, but a “quick pit stop” at their hotel turned permanent when Jason promptly dozed off—so much for the afterparty! Whether he’s juggling major projects at work or cheering on the Dodgers, his perfect pitch for life reminds me of those backyard games of catch with Dad. Above all, I know we’ll always make time for each other and be there through every high and low. I couldn’t be happier to have my brother right by my side on such an important day.
Kevin
Groomsman
Kevin is my cousin and the guy I can always count on—just don’t ask him to do an airport pickup! A savvy businessman forever hatching his next big idea, he still finds time to help family—whether it’s driving everyone home after a festival, hauling a door frame, or offering unwavering support in a pinch. He never wants anything in return…unless you count building him a new computer every two years, which basically doubles as R&D for his latest venture. Although he’s younger in age, he’s older in rank, he’s shown me that family is everything. As I begin this new journey with my wife, I’m grateful for Kevin’s reminder to never lose sight of what matters most. Through it all, he’s been my rock, proving that even the busiest businessman can be the most devoted cousin anyone could ask for.