David's Wedding Party
John Kwak - Best Man
David and I met in 2017 at an Asian LGBTQ advocacy group in DC. Being new to the city, I was primarily there to meet new acquaintances. Little did I know that I’d end up meeting one of my very best friends, let alone be playing a part in his marriage! There are so many amazing things to be said about David, but his loyalty and dependability to his friends and loved ones really stand out. We’ve gotten into a lot of shenanigans and created unforgettable memories throughout the years. What I love most about David is that he’s always up for any kind of adventure, no matter how big or small. When Kenny entered David’s life, I knew right away something was different. His body language and how he spoke so fondly about Kenny indicated that something special was unfolding right before us. And when I met Kenny myself, I was able to see firsthand why they connected so well. I'm not easy to impress when it comes to meeting my friend’s potential partners, but let’s just say I feel as if I have added another best friend to my life! I am fortunate to call both my dearest friends.
Mary Ann Santos - Groomswoman
Hello, I’m MaryAnn, David’s only (and obviously favorite) sister. I’ve had the privilege of knowing him his entire life. We technically “met” the day he was born, but I never had to be a big sister; David has been independent from the womb. I’ve always been so proud of the way he juggles life with confidence, heart, and a million moving parts at once. Seeing him with Kenny makes that pride even greater. They truly balance each other and constantly lift each other up in all that they do. They bring out the very best in one another and are incredibly deserving of the beautiful life they’re building together.
Bryan Hong - Groomsman
David and I met at Nellie’s through our friend, John, a decade(!) ago. Reflecting on our friendship, I recall special moments that affirmed the DMV area becoming home for this native Michigander: conversing on Rehoboth drives, helping me move into DC, and grabbing unplanned lunches during shared trips.
I’m elated that David found Kenny, and I’m confident their mutual dedication and encouragement, expressed in many different ways, will only strengthen their growing home. About me, I work for the DC Inspector General as a senior auditor. When not adding to my Pokémon collection, I enjoy TV binges and fishkeeping!
Melissa Kang - Groomswoman
David and I met through family LOL technically he is my mom’s first cousin and we’re second cousins. We’re about a month apart in age, spent our childhood together and was/are referred to as “the twins”. David and I have a close relationship and have had a tradition of sharing a meal together for each other’s birthdays. I am one of David’s biggest fans. I am always Team David because he is always in my corner supporting and encouraging me. What I LOVE about David and Kenny being together is how much they both feel like home from the beginning. They are both so loving, generous, hard working, kind, and thoughtful. I adore how their love makes me melt! The same reasons Kenny loves David are the same reasons David loves Kenny! They take such great care of each other and make an incredible team! Xavier agrees for sure because he gets double the love!
Kenny's Wedding Party
Justin Sherwood - Groomsman
I first met Kenny as “The People’s Diva” on Twitter (RIP) circa 2011. I was immediately taken by his charm, wit, and confidence. We finally met in person in NYC in 2014, and thus began an enduring sisterhood that has seen us as fellow travelers through Hong Kong, Singapore, and Australia. Now, quite unexpectedly, we’re settling down as Sister Wives in the Mid-Atlantic, following a decade-long manifestation. Upon his nuptials to David, my hope for Kenny is that he maintains his indomitable spirit, appetite for adventure, and penchant for collecting lovely-as-they-are-useless objets d'art.
Tilman Robinson - Groomsman
Kenny and I met on day 1 of high school, both assigned to the same Form Group with our lovely English teacher whose name I will never remember (but I’m sure Kenny does). We shared a mutual love of lower brass instruments before Kenny quit to become fabulous full time. One can’t be fabulous and play the euphonium. Over the next decades our friendship has remained something to be treasured, spanning a mutual love of Björk tattoos and a healthy mistrust of most of the women I have dated. And though our locations and lifestyles mean that I see Kenny less IRL than I see my dentist, I count him amongst one of the few I can count on. Kenny has found in David a true life partner. Observing them embracing the romantic sublime in their relationship has been a joy to behold.
Justine Williams - Groomswoman
Kenny and I met through work, in a tiny trilateral office, where his blunt honesty immediately drew our personalities together — probably because we share that trait. What you see is what you get with both of us. We bonded over life’s heavier chapters, our delicious drama, sharing stories, and love. From Kenny’s very first dates with David, the way he spoke about him — certain, softened, and impressed — I knew it was real. I loved watching their story unfold. Finally, we set up a double date between Kenny, David, Samie, and I. The four of us jived so well and our friendship continued to strengthen. David is so kind, patient, and easy to talk to. You can feel the love between them when you’re with them. As a friend, all you can ask for is to see your friend fall in love with someone who loves them equally.
Glen Ang - Groomsman
I met Kenny through family. He is my brother, after all. Like most siblings we’ve had our share of ups and downs, but our relationship has grown much closer over the past few years and (at the time of writing) I couldn’t be prouder to call him my brother. Separated geographically for most of our adult life, I’ve admired the person Kenny has become from afar (don’t tell him I said that). Independent, reliable, generous, and most importantly honest – you always know where you stand. Whilst I haven’t had the chance to spend time with Kenny and David together in person, I can tell how happy David makes him and how well they complement each other. If you had told me two years ago Kenny would be getting married, I would have said “TO WHO?!”. Jokes aside, I am so happy the two of them have found each other – I have never seen Kenny happier (or happy). That is a compliment to David. I look forward to celebrating their special day with both of them.