I had a tough time narrowing down the field of suitable gentlemen to serve as groomsmen for our wedding. Who am I kidding? With just a few really good friends and a healthy sample of male relatives, deciding who would accompany me on the alter was pretty simple.

The choice of Best Man was also pretty easy, since Josh was my best friend, roommate, and eternal bachelor (just a little joke) at Berkeley, and we continue to stay in contact despite the fact that he's wasting away up in Northern California. Plus, by electing him Best Man, I get to watch him squirm when he is traditionally bound to give the first toast.

The choice of the remaining groomsmen is both fitting and symbolic. My older brother Charles, in many ways, was my best friend growing up since our closeness in age meant we did a lot of things together. He will also symbolize the link between me and my family during the ceremony.

Similarly, I spent a great deal of time with JB, Crystal's brother, as my relationship with Crystal grew. Almost seven years later, we have become like brothers. He will also serve to symbolize the link between me and my new family during the ceremony.