Meet the Groomsmen…
Mike Garcia
“This is Mike, Alvin’s future brother-in-law. I have had the pleasure of knowing Alvin for over four years. To me, he is a genuine person, a good friend, and someone I already consider family. I have countless good memories of the times we’ve spent together. As I reflected on it, I realized just how much time we’ve shared, most of it filled with laughter and cheer, as we’re often on an adventure with the girls.
If I had to pick one memory that stands out, it would be the short camping trip to Boulder Bay last October. My father had just passed away, and Alvin invited me on a wilderness getaway with him and his homies, Jando and Ish. I really appreciated that trip—it gave me the space I needed to breathe and reset. I think that’s when I truly started to see Alvin as more than just Gwen’s fiancé; I began to think of him as a brother.
It’s rare, in my experience, to find goodhearted people you can truly be vulnerable around. Alvin is one of those people. Thank you, Gwen, for finding him.”
Javier Metoyer
“There are so many great memories that I could share about my relationship with Alvin. From sharing the same love of cooking to our love of travel, there’s so much that we bond over.
Myself and my now wife had the opportunity to spend a weekend living with Alvin on a trip to Portland. It started with him as a friend who was down to split the cost of an AirBnb, to a brother who I would have forever.
We really got to know one another and strengthen our bond. I realize there’s not much Alvin won’t do for people, which made me want do the same for him. I’ve learned so much from him. Alvin is one the most genuine, trustworthy and loving people. His care for others is unmatched.
I am proud and honored to call Alvin not just my friend, but my brother. He deserves nothing but the best which he found with Gwen.”
Ismael Betancourt
“February 11, 2024 - Alvin and I decide that now that the rains have come and gone in San Diego, it was time to take advantage of the sunny crisp air and go hike Cuyamaca Peak. As we drove up the Sunrise Highway, I point up to the top of peak and tell Alvin, "Oh look there's snow at the top! But don't worry, we hike up a road and it's probably been salted by now." Boy was I wrong! What was promised to be a casual 6 mile hike on a road turned into trekking on 12" - 24" inches of snow up the entire way wearing the wrong shoes and the wrong... well everything. Other people may have not even done the hike. I probably would have even turned back on my own, but Alvin's attitude was so nonchalant and casual, just ready for the adventure. It was one of the only hikes that was just the two of us and we laughed, talked, fell a couple times, laughed even more and took time to enjoy the icicles forming in the trees. It turned out to be one of my favorite hikes because of the fact that I had a friend with me that knows how to take things in stride, has a calming positivity about him, and is ready to take anything on. I truly appreciate our friendship and have nothing but love, respect, and admiration for the man.”
Erwin Argana
“Alvin is a true good guy!. He is a kind of friend who is always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He offers support whenever it's needed most. There was a time when I didn't have a car and he kindly lent me his for a week. Alvin's kindness shines through gestures, making him the best friend anyone could ask for.”
Alan Joseph Julio & Rodolfo Julio Jr.
“Our brother is more than just a sibling he's our closest confidant and a constant source of laughter and support. Through thick and thin, he's always there with a helping hand and a genuine smile, making even the toughest situations feel a little lighter. We share a deep bond built on countless childhood adventures, inside jokes, and unwavering loyalty, knowing that no matter what life throws our way, we'll always have each other's backs. His presence in our life is a true blessing, and we cherish every moment we spend together.
Our parents always said 'stick together, watch each others backs' which was easy when it was just us kids. Now, as the family grows, 'sticking together' sometimes looks like navigating holiday dinners and agreeing on vacation spots. But even with the occasional disagreements about whose turn it is to do the dishes, the sibling bond remains a powerful force. We are excited to welcome our new sister Gwen to the family!”