Audrey & Manar
Wedding Party
Khouloud Bustami
Mother of the Groom
I am so excited to celebrate Manar and Audrey's love with you all on July 31st in beautiful Carmel Valley. A mother wants nothing more in life than to see her children loved and content, and when I see how Audrey and Manar look at each other, my heart is beyond full with happiness. I love the twinkle in their eyes and their beautiful smiles when they communicate with one another. It is just everything for me. Marwan loved Audrey from the day he met her, and I know he will be doing the Macarena with us in heaven on their wedding day. See you on the dance floor!
Wendy McPhee
Mother of the Bride
For me, this is one of those over-the-moon times when I can be both proud and extremely happy for Audrey and Manar and their once-in-a-lifetime love. I know if John, Audrey's father was still with us, he would feel the same. Experiencing the joy of seeing their relationship blossom over the years, I appreciate both their commonalities and their differences. I know these traits will strengthen their relationship and get them through the upcoming chapters of their lives. We are fortunate, as family and friends, that we can come together to witness and celebrate this union. Thank you all for being a part of such a momentous and special day!
Natalie Waltz
Officiant
I met Audrey nearly seven years ago at work. She instantly lit up the place with a kind of infectious energy you can’t remember life without. From day one, she felt like family. Little did I know she would in fact become mine. Manar has been my best friend for as long as I can remember. From our Montessori and power ranger days to working together decades later – we told each other everything (or so I thought). You see, Audrey and Manar were dating right under my nose for MONTHS. Early on in their secret romance, friends of mine would always comment on what a “perfect couple” they made when they saw them together. I would so confidently explain, “Oh you don’t get it. They’re best friends. Practically cousins.” I’ve never been happier to be so spectacularly wrong.
Olivia Ley
Maid of Honor
Audrey and Olivia met in first grade at Ross Elementary school when they were 6 years old. There are a lot of things Olivia is glad she grew out of since then- hair scrunchies, Backstreet Boys, white mid-calf length socks- but, luckily her friendship with Audrey never went out of style. From elementary school plays, being elected co-presidents, winning a national crew championship, to graduating from Princeton- they have been at each other’s sides for all the major adventures. In no small part due to luck, or “fate” as Audrey would say. Olivia has had the incredible privilege of being Audrey’s best friend for the past 25 years. As one of the most kind, loving, effervescent humans, her friendship has been the gift of a lifetime. Olivia is so thrilled Audrey has met her match in Manar.
Adnan Akil
Best Man
Manar and Adnan have been debating whether the East or West coast is “better” since they were 10 years old. They met on the west coast roughly 5 years earlier when their parents (who are siblings) introduced them to each other as “your cousin.” Their relationship grew through summers spent on either coast, from Audubon camps in NJ learning to “walk like Native Americans” to long bike rides around OC and later in life traveling through Europe, where in Amsterdam Manar learned he can feel short. Now, Manar and Audrey are starting the next chapter of their lives together. The expanding of both families in an amazing way and ensures that no matter which coast has the best pizza and bagels, there will always be an amazing family that makes wherever they are, home.
Adam Akil
Best Man
Manar and Adam are cousins, who are actually more like brothers. Their adventures began during childhood and haven't weened since. At an early age, Adam looked up to his cousin Manar, both physically and metaphorically. The two grew very close as kids and even closer as adults. Some of Adam's dearest memories with Manar are camping in the desert, traveling to NYC and Hawaii, riding sketchy go-carts, and dressing up as Disney princesses at the hands of their older sisters. All in all, their relationship has always been one that's filled with laughter, love, good times, and reassurance that both are there for one another even during times of hardship. Adam is honored to have Manar as his best friend, inspiration, and role model and can't wait to share this new milestone.
Ailie Kerr
Bridesmaid
Despite disliking most people, Ailie is one of Audrey’s biggest fans. They met in high school when by some miracle they had every class together. What began as group projects and embarrassing drama productions quickly became a friendship that has lasted across years and miles. If you have ever called Audrey and her mailbox was full it’s because of Ailie's excessively long voicemails about nothing, everything, and how much she loves Wooster. Ailie is excited to add Manar as another BFF for life because despite disliking most people, she's also a huge fan of Manar.
Emily Moran
Bridesmaid
Emily doesn't remember the exact moment she met Audrey but it must have not been too bad because they've remained friends for a quarter of a century! Emily and Audrey first met in the first grade and they have been through thick and thin since. They have grown up together and apart but have always found their way back to each other. Emily is very excited to celebrate Audrey and Manar and have Manar in the half-century or more of memories together.
Emily Livingston
Bridesmaid
Emily first met Audrey Wooster at 13 years old playing in a tennis league. (Yes they played competitive TENNIS). They initially bonded over their mutually mediocre tennis serves, but couldn't have predicted the 15+ years of friendship and lifelong memories that would follow in high school, college, and through their roaring 20’s! Emily couldn’t believe how lucky she was that the only person she knew entering college was Audrey! They went on to summit half dome together, circumnavigate the island of Oahu, and graduate college - all the while communicating in their trademark “Pee-wee Herman” voices, which could be easily recognized across campus. Emily will forever lean on Audrey for comedic relief, relationship advice, and creative inspo, and can’t wait to watch Audrey and Manar wed!
Niveen Rasheed
Bridesmaid
Despite what it might look like, Manar is not Niveen's twin brother. The Chronicles of Badgey (Audrey) and Bean (Niveen) started back in freshman year at Princeton. Audrey and Niveen were in Wilson dining hall where Audgey sought Niveen out because of her fresh kicks, beginning their best friendship. Of course, Audrey tells it the other way around. With a friendship built on silliness and swag, Audrey has even become an unofficial Rasheed sister. Audrey and Niveen's memories are countless, such as balling out in Napa on a family vacation or bailing on friends to stay home and make dance videos as grown adults. But now, most of Niveen's favorite moments include Manar and Audrey because together their silliness and fun are infectious. Niveen is so happy to welcome Manar as part of the tribe.
Katie Hsia
Bridesmaid
Audrey, "Audge" loves small, miniature-sized things. Think mini-skillets that can only fit a single egg or teacup pigs. Lucky for Katie, she is, compared to Audge, very miniature. Audge and Katie met during sophomore year of college and pretty quickly fell in love (sorry Manar). By junior year, they were living together. Audge's humor, willingness to break into a dance party, and bear hugs (lifting Kaite off her feet), all got Katie through college and the many years after. From pretending to be canned wine influencers, watching scary movies, to talking about the latest SCOTUS ruling, some of Katie's most cherished memories are with Audge. Katie is incredibly honored to stand by Audge's side as she marries the love of her life, who lifts HER off of her feet, literally and figuratively!
Lauren Polansky
Bridesmaid
Audrey and Lauren first met in high school when Audrey was a young Marin Rowing stud and the Queen of Redwood. Audrey is the friend that always puts a smile on your face (whether it be with a beautifully illustrated hand-drawn card or silly impersonation) and is a consistent source of inspiration with her endless resilience, hard work, love, and creativity. From Marin, to Princeton, to New York, and back to San Francisco these past 13 years have been truly magical and Lauren can't wait for all that is yet to come! Lauren couldn't be more thrilled that Audrey has found such a perfect partner in Manar, someone who matches her comedic banter/sense of adventure and challenges her thinking while supporting her dreams. "I love you both with all my heart -- congratulations my dear Audrey!" ❤️
Sona Gevorkian
Bridesmaid
Whenever strangers see Audrey and Sona together, they immediately assume that the two, dark-haired Amazons must be sisters. Though that is technically incorrect, it’s not TOTALLY wrong. Sona and Audrey’s paths crossed when Audrey was in New York, visiting her brother Stuart from Princeton, and Sona was but a twinkle in Stuart’s eye. They spent the night galavanting and karaokeing, which was a fitting way to kick things off, as every minute spent with Audrey is a party. A decade since that fated evening, Sona and Stu have become life partners, their kids Adrian and Charlie have won the aunt and uncle lottery, and Sona has gained the sister (in “law”) she always wanted but never had. Audrey is every kid’s dream babysitter, the best, most creative story teller, cookie artisan, coach, and cheerleader. Manar is the most fun and the best sport, having become Adrian’s fart scapegoat since the day they met, and Charlie’s perpetual makeup model. As a couple, Audrey and Manar are the kindest, sweetest, most genuine, silliest, funniest, down for whatever, whenever people you will ever meet. Here is to a lifetime of family vacations, adventures, and heated game nights. Love you both so much!
Ali Diab
Groomsman
Although Manar is my brother-in-law (I’m married to Manar’s sister, Nora), I’ve actually known Audrey for twice as long as I’ve known Manar! In fact, I had the honor of pushing Audrey around in her stroller at my brother and sister-in-law, Mary Jane’s wedding in the mid-1990s. And no, that wasn’t a typo. What can be said about these two that hasn’t been said so many times already? They are literally mirror images of each other: the most painfully, excruciatingly--I might even say unbearably--kind, positive, honestly heartfelt, and warm couple of people that you will ever meet in your life. And I can say that having both lived around and worked with both of them for many, many years. They simply are the best, and it was just a forgone conclusion that the Universe would conspire to bring them together as it has. I just feel fortunate to have biologically and evolutionarily found myself in their orbit. And now they're both family, so they're stuck with me forever, which I simply could not be happier about. I love you both to the moon and back (and maybe a couple of times around each, too).
Ryan Samaan
Groomsman
Manar and Ryan both attended Servite HS, but didn't become friends until reintroduced by a mutual friend years later. Manar and Ryan’s friendship grew quickly, and neither had to wonder again; what are the teams? They have played countless hours of music, lived together, traveled innumerable miles, eaten amazing food, and enjoyed too many bad movies to count. Manar and Ryan explored SF with their closest friends and never had any disputes (except when Ryan accidentally ate some of Manar’s organic eggs, for which he is still very sorry). Through 18 years of friendship, Manar has been a constant source of laughter, with his "Digiorno", as well as a source of level-headed advice, and inspiration to work harder and strive for more. Ryan can't wait to celebrate Manar finding his match, Audrey.
Josh Laureano
Groomsman
Josh met Manar the summer after freshman year at Servite. One of their first conversations was about the meaning of Manar’s name: Lighthouse. His name was perfectly apt, as Manar could make Josh laugh—or anyone, for that matter. Their relationship seemed to be characterized by a drive to make the other laugh. Josh came to call Manar’s style of absurd jokes “artisan dumbness" which he loved. They also both have a passion for music. From their first show together seeing The Chariot to Frank Ocean at FYF, they would always find time to slow dance in the pit. Josh also loves to jam with Manar (Manar covering Mary Had a Little Lamb). After spending years sitting on the sidelines of other weddings, Josh is thrilled that Manar will finally get his very own with the wonderful, Audrey Wooster!
Chris Avila
Groomsman
To best understand the Manar + Chris story, we have to turn back the hands of time to 2002. They were young men, preparing to embark on their 1st year of high school at the prestigious Servite. They first ran into each other in summer school. Yes, they had mandatory summer school before their freshman year and it was Manar’s mom who introduced them! Their relationship can best be described as big brother, little brother. Chris literally + figuratively always looked up to Manar and his larger than life personality. He radiated positivity and joy that you had to love. In 2011, Manar + Chris became roomies - the 925 Leavenworth era. Over the course of 7 yrs, Manar was the big bro- responsible, kind, caring, fun, + encouraging. Congrats Manar & Audrey! Cannot wait to celebrate your love!
Danny McCollough
Groomsman
Danny & Manar first met in a very hot room in San Mateo. Danny recalls, “it was a very probing experience.” Manar had questions like, “Tell me a little about yourself.” While Danny did his best to answer semi-honestly, what he couldn’t comprehend was the magnitude of that moment. As it turned out he was interviewing for a job + life-long best friend. Over the past 8 years, they have been colleagues, found trapped in elevators, cannonballing into neighboring pools, creating fake words, dancing in the office, trying diets (aka chia seeds), pretending Manar was an NBA player to skip a restaurant line...The list is endless. Laughter got the friendship rolling, and a much deeper connection ensued. They learned they could lean on one another, challenge each other & hold each other accountable.
Ray Ontiveros
Groomsman
Ray is ecstatic + humbled to be Manar's groomsman. Ray fondly remembers his first memories of Manar's cackling laugh in Servite's quad, his hearty laugh was always adored! Manar and Ray’s friendship developed after their rambunctious teenage years, with the earliest memory of helping Manar move to SF. Even in different cities they've kept their close bond through shared values and memories. From trips to the snow, spontaneous flights to NYC or LCD Soundsystem dance circles their moments have included their love for music + sweet dance moves. Ray is thrilled to share Manar’s greatest day when he gets to marry Audrey Wooster. He still remembers them laughing and singing in the car at the top of their lungs and thinking, Manar really found someone special. I love my friends. Lets go!
Adrian Miles
Page Boy
Audrey has loved watching her favorite nephew, Adrian, grow up and quickly tower over her. (He's even giving Manar a run for his money). Audrey and Manar have had so many fun moments with Adrian, and particularly love exploring new places with him. Whether that be the great outdoors during their various camping trips or the virtual worlds in their movie and game nights together. They are so excited to have Adrian join them down the aisle!
Leila Diab
Flower Girl
Manar and Leila have always had a special relationship as she’s Manar’s first and eldest niece. There’s never a shortage of good times when these two are together, whether building forts in the upstairs den, or having Tete Khouloud throw Manar “in jail” when Leila felt like it as a child. Leila’s grown up to be one of the brightest young ladies with a huge heart. Today you can find her winning championships across the country as one the country's top equestrian show jumpers. We’re so thrilled to have Leila be part of the ceremony and cannot wait to celebrate!
Nadine Diab
Flower Girl
It’s never a dull moment when Nadine’s (aka The Dunz or Nadoonerz) is around, whether it's making fun of Manar or finding opportunities for an impromptu wrestling match. You can always count on Nadine to bring sweetness, fun, and love to any gathering. She’s a beast on the soccer field, a lover of all things anime, and jumps at any opportunity to dance her face off with her friends and family. Audrey and Manar are so excited to bring that energy to the dance floor come this July!
Charlie Lewicki
Flower Girl
Audrey remembers the moment Charlie was born. She finally had a niece! Watching Charlie grow up, master her accents and impersonations, and out style us all, and give Manar makeovers has been such an amazing experience for "Auntie Audge". Audrey and Manar are both so excited to have Charlie join her down the aisle on this momentous day!
Samira Alfi
Flower Girl
Samira is one of the sweetest girls you’ll ever get a chance to meet and not mention that Audrey is her number one fan. As one of Manar’s youngest cousins and basically niece, she’s filled with laughter, tons of love, and an infectious smile. Manar and Audrey are so excited to have her as flower girl!
Leya Alfi
Flower Girl
Leya aka “The Don” is Samira’s younger sister and mob boss of our family. She loves to eat, have a good time, and knows how to get both with just a simple stare. You’ll likely see Leya with a snack in her hand and dancing in the middle of the dance floor. We love you so much, Leya and cannot wait to see those moves this summer!