A letter to Jessica and Dustin…

My name is Monica, and I'm the maid of honour tonight, but more importantly, Jessica's best friend since we were 13 years old. As the years have passed, Jessica and I have shared so many highs and lows together. Two decades of friendship is an amazing achievement, and I'm so honoured to stand here tonight and share in the joy of this amazing couple.

Marriage isn't perfect, but it can be beautiful when you truly work as a team to make sure that you are each other's safe space and ultimate support system. That's what makes a partnership strong, regardless of bumps along the way. And Dustin, I've seen you do exactly that for Jessica since the very beginning. You love her, care for her, protect her. They bring out the absolute best in each other.

My heart today is overflowing with joy as I see two people so deeply in love and ready to begin their journey together as one. I have had the privilege of watching my daughter grow into wonderful woman we celebrate today. Through all the laughter and all the tears, being her mother has been the greatest gift of my life. Marriage is not only about joy and happiness. It is also about patience, kindness, and the strength to walk hand in hand even when the road becomes difficult. It is about supporting and understanding each other every single step of the way.

Welcome, everyone, to the wedding of Jessica and Dustin in the most gorgeous setting. It's clear that you are surrounded by the love and support of all of those closest to you.

Six and half years ago, I spotted a tall and a handsome man at the bar. Awestruck and unsure how to approach you, my friend took fate into her own hands and pushed me into you.

Jessica, who knew a night out on the town and a little shove would have led to this day?

Our connection was instant, and it didn't take long for me to know that I had met the man of my dreams.

From the second we met, your beautiful blue eyes and playful smile stole my heart.

Your thoughtfulness and your charismatic presence made me fall head over heels. Our sense of adventure was matched. No road trip was too far. No mountain was too high to climb, rain or shine.

I always remember our first trip together. We'd only just started dating. During that trip, I realized you were my soulmate, my other half, and the person I wanted to spend the rest of my life with.

With you, I can be my true self. You understand me for who I am, and you love me for who I am. You have supported me and encouraged me throughout the years, and together we have achieved things I didn't think were possible.

Over the last six years, we built a life together. I'm so proud of what we've accomplished together and the life we created. Having you by my side makes everything better. You're my everything, and being chosen by you is the honour of my lifetime.

I'm so lucky that you have chosen me to spend forever with me, and I feel blessed to be marrying such a handsome, accomplished, fun, and devoted man. I can't wait to build our home together and explore more places with Zoe and Minko. I promise you that I will be your partner, your best friend, that I will prioritize your happiness and your dreams, that I will love you, cherish you, support you, and stand by you always.

Jessica and Dustin, it is a privilege to bring the two of you together today in marriage. I now pronounce you husband and wife. Dustin, you may now kiss your beautiful bride.

Here's the real truth about Dustin. He's the best person you could want in your corner. But when it matters, he's there. That's the kind of brother and now husband that Dustin is. Some people say marriage is about compromise, but I disagree. Marriage is about collaboration. It's just the two of you against the world. Don't ever let anyone or anything get between the two of you and your goals. Dustin, you found somebody who makes you better, makes you happier, and shares your love of life's adventures. Jessica, welcome to the family. We couldn't have hoped for a better partner for my brother.

Over the years, I've come to admire so many things about Jess. She's got this incredible work ethic. She's got an unbelievable sense of humor. And the two of us have had the absolute privilege of seeing this love story unfold over the past few years. And right from the get, it was clear something very special was happening. Their partnership has been truly inspiring, and we really couldn't be happier to be standing here celebrating you both today, watching this milestone with two of our closest friends who truly bring out the best in each other. Please make some noise and help us welcome the brand new legally bound duo, Dustin Tate and Jessica Karban.

When Dustin came into Jessica's life, I knew something was different. The world seemed brighter. Laughter came easier. There was a new spark in my daughter's eyes. The kind of spark that only true love can create.

As Dustin's mom, I am most grateful that he has found his soulmate and that they have committed to sharing the rest of their lives together. As I look at you today, I am overwhelmed with emotions. I am so incredibly proud of you, the man that you have become. You are honourable, kind, loving, compassionate. You are full of integrity. I know that Declan would be very proud of you today as well.

To my wife, Jessica. You're absolutely stunning, gorgeous, radiant. You're everything I could have ever asked for in a partner, wife, and co-cat-parent. I hope today was everything you wanted. You've made me the happiest man alive, and I'm so proud to now be your husband.

Over the years, I had privilege of watching Jessica grow from a curious little girl into a woman that she is today. Dustin, you have married somebody very extraordinary. From the very beginning, we saw Dustin, a man of kindness, integrity, and warmth. Someone who makes Jessica feel safe, loved, and cherished. That's all a father would ever want. May your marriage be long, joyful, and blessed in every way. Na zdrowie!

Through our life together, I promise to treat you with patience, kindness, and love. Most importantly, I promise to see you for who you are every day. My beautiful, smart, caring wife, who I'll stand by through everything life has to offer and will cherish every minute we have for our forever.