Rich & Emily

Rich met Nate one September afternoon as they were both moving into dorms at college. Rich and Nate quickly became friends and have had all sorts of crazy adventures through the years. Rich is grateful that Nate will be standing next to him on this special day.

Rich met Hitesh while working at Microsoft as they shared an office. One day Rich asked Hitesh to go to a University of Washington football game and the two quickly became good friends. Whether driving the "death trap" Audi in the early days or enjoying days in Leavenworth recently, Rich could also count on Hitesh for an adventure and an awkward moment or two. Rich is happy that "Happy" will be able to participate on this special day.

Rich met Jason not that long ago when Emily invited Rich back to meet her family for Thanksgiving last year. Rich felt that he was able to easily connect with Jason and Rich looks forward knowing Jason better as the years go on. Rich is happy that Jason is able to be a part of the special day.

Rich has know Anya since the day she was born, literally. "Rich uncle" and Anya have had some good adventures; however, Anya still said no to being the flower girl when asked. Rich thinks it might be due to the scariness of his truck's VROOM VROOM and is hopeful she will come around to accepting the position of flower girl after some bribes of candy.

Jelani will be 3 when he takes up his position as ringbearer! Jelani loves playing the drums (anything can be a drum), anything that can be "turn on" (cars/planes/Rich's motorcycle), and teaching his little brother, Tarik, new things. We can't wait for Jelani to steal the show with his cuteness. :)

Emily's father has been an incredible pillar of support throughout her life. She remembers as a kid thinking her Dad was the strongest man in the world and that he could fix anything! She is truly blessed that she has never had trouble picturing God as a father-like figure as her father exhibited such godly characteristics and led his family faithfully over the years.

Emily's mother has such a deep caring and servant-like heart. She loves providing for her family and friends, through food and especially music! Emily has learned so much from her mother, from how to chop different vegetables, to countless Bible and silly songs. Emily is grateful that she had such an amazing mother to teach her about Jesus and love her tirelessly!

Rich fondly remembers the great road trips with his father even though Rich was forced to listen to medical conferences on tape. Rich is honored to have such a great man as his father is thankful for the example that he set for what a father and husband should be.

Rich remembers the great love and care that his mother showed in raising his sister and himself. She was tough at times but it helped mold Rich into the man he is today. Rich is honored to have such a great mother.

Originally from Zambia, Boyd joined the Epp family in 2009 (Erin and Boyd met on an African mission trip). Boyd has truly enriched the family with his humor and his huge heart for Jesus and people. Emily was very happy when Boyd “approved” of Rich after the first weekend they met. Boyd has been very involved in Rich and Emily’s relationship so far, and they are ecstatic that he is performing the ceremony! In Boyd’s words, here is why he became a minister: “I felt the call to ministry at a young age. My passion is to empower people with the grace, word and love of Jesus. I have been honored to pastor a church, and also be involved in raising up others as disciples. In Idaho, I oversee the religious activities in all prisons. I am blessed to have this honor.”