We first met back in September 2013 at Bo’ness Recreation Centre, when Joanne returned from a summer working in the US to discover that Michael — freshly graduated — had somehow taken most of her shifts. After a few months of working together (and clearly surviving that), we officially started dating in the December and have been inseparable ever since.
Over the years we’ve squeezed in adventures from Crete to Copenhagen, Berlin to Budapest, attended plenty of gigs, food and drink festivals, and taken as many trips as possible with our furbaby, Jorah. After nearly ten years together, Michael finally proposed in Capri in 2023 — proof that good things really do come to those who wait — and we can’t wait to celebrate this next chapter with the people who’ve been part of the journey all along.
Father of the Bride
Joanne’s dad, it was one day in June 2023 when I received this request from my daughter :
"To Dad
It seems only yesterday l was your little girl. I was the apple of your eye and you were my world. You’ve made my life so wonderful. Full of memories, laughter and love. I can’t thank you enough for all that you’ve done and all that continue to do for me and for us.
It would make me the happiest bride alive to have you by my side.
We’ve been on many walks together, but I have a feeling this may be my favourite.
I love you x"
No doubt I could not refuse such a request and I only wish her mother could be there to share this special day. Love you both x
Mother of the Groom
On 6th June 2026 I will be the proudest mum when my two wonderful sons, Groom Michael and Best Man Paul stand side by side.
Joanne has been a special part of my family for many years now, we can often be found sampling some fine gins together, and I can't wait till she officially becomes my daugher in law.
Father of the Groom
Michael's dad.
Youngest of five boys.
Tried a variety of sports over the years. Didn't acheive greatness in any.
Best friend, fellow romantasy addict, and co-owner of our matching badass dinosaur tattoos. We have been best friends since high school. We’re both book-obsessed, music-loving, and unapologetically passionate about everything we do. Over the years, we’ve laughed until we cried, faced life’s plot twists together, and cheered each other on through every new chapter. I couldn’t be prouder to stand beside her as she marries the love of her life (even if he doesn’t have bat wings)
I'm so happy to be part of auntie Jo and uncle Michael's special day.
My auntie Jo has always been someone I laugh my heart out with, and seeing her so happy makes my heart feel full. I'm excited to cheer for her and uncle Michael as they start this new chapter together. I'll always remember being part of this beautiful day.
I’m so excited (and slightly shocked) that Joanne has trusted me to be her bridesmaid, considering I’m the mildly awkward friend who treats Jorah like her real nephew (because he is?) and will probably have snacks hidden somewhere in my dress. That being said, being asked to stand beside Joanne is an absolute honour and I can’t wait to celebrate her and Michael’s love story
I met Joanne back in our Body Shop days and have been friends since. We have shared so many fun memories and I have received lots of unsolicited feedback; as is Joanne’s speciality. Meeting Michael made complete sense and it was so obvious that they were a perfect match. Two beautiful souls who could drink most under the table. Thank you for all the karaoke nights and fragile coffees in the morning. I wouldn’t change anything about Joanne, and being her friend feels like a special gift.
Catch me by the band, requesting Babybird.
We met in first year of high school, when fate (and a seating plan) put us side by side in English. From throwing paint on the art room walls, being adopted by each others families, and charity walks which left us with more blisters than medals! We’ve shared laughter, tears, and countless chapters of life together, usually with a drink or two in hand. I couldn’t be happier to see her marry the love of her life!
Best Man
Michael's brother and best man. Michael was delighted to learn he was going to have a little brother, presumably because he now had someone to practice his WWE wrestling moves on.
Best Dog
Woof
I met Michael at high school and I would like to think we have matured slightly since then.
Mick's long term associate and friend. A beer drinking, overthinking, hand shaking, memory making son of a buck. Wouldn't say boo to a goose.
Likes: Wrestling, medium rare red meat and room temperature Magners
Dislikes: Pina Coladas, heartburn and getting caught in the rain
I have known Michael since primary school and we have always been close friends.
Michael's lucky to have made it here as he always says I lead him astray but it does always lead to a memorable occasion.
Do you remember that time you passed out on a night out?... Neither do I