Russell-Berens

Samantha Jane Russell and 2nd Lt. Tyler Joseph Berens were married May 8, 2004, at Lynwood Baptist Church. Dr. Derek Staples performed the ceremony. Musicians were Wendy Dirden, cousin of the bride, and Sarah Goeke, both of Cape Girardeau.

Parents of the couple are Dr. and Mrs. John Russell and Mr. and Mrs. Paul Berens, all of Cape Girardeau.

The bride was escorted by her father.

Maid of honor was Julie McGowen, and bridesmaids were Rebecca Mattes; Andrea, Jenna and Mia Russell, sisters of the bride, all of Cape Girardeau.

Christian Berens of Cape Girardeau was his brother's best man. Groomsmen were Joe Essner of Hermosa Beach, Calif., Joe Rash of Oran, Mo., and Joshua Berens of Chicago, brother of the groom.

Flower girl was Sarah Wheeler and ringbearer was Riley Berens. Sarah is the daughter of Paul and Kathy Wheeler of Springfield, Ill., and cousin of the groom. Riley is the son of Joshua and Lisa Berens and nephew of the groom.

Following the ceremony, the dinner reception was held at Deerfield Lodge.

Mrs. Berens received a bachelor of science degree in advertising from Southeast Missouri State University. She was a marketing assistant with Red Letter Communications.

The groom received a bachelor of science degree in business administration from Southeast. He is stationed with the U.S. Air Force at Hurlburt Field, Fla.

The couple will be leaving the Cape Girardeau area in November.