Wedding Party
Caitlin "Whole Package" Andrew
Bride
She is the “Whole Package,” my nickname for her—and one she continues to live up to every day. Honestly before her, I didn’t even get why love songs were a thing. Now, I can’t hear one without seeing her smile and imagining her next to me. She brings a joy and passion to life that’s hard to describe. Whether she’s caring for the beluga whales and Pacific white-sided dolphins she trains at SeaWorld or rating cinnamon rolls at new reading spots, Caitlin makes the ordinary feel magical. She knows me better than I know myself—sending Tiff’s Treats before I can ask, giving perfect gifts (Popcorn maker. SodaStream.), and leaving the kind of post-it notes you save forever. She lets me monologue until she ends it with a kiss. She’s steady, sweet, adventurous, and always the one cheering me on and walking beside me. It took 12 years of living in San Antonio to find her—turns out, she was just around the corner. I’m so grateful to the Andrew family for welcoming me in. Her parents, Doug and Donna, have shared their beautiful ranch in San Marcos, and her brother Tom and his wife Becca have embraced me as Uncle John to their girls Alma, Grace, and Ellie—our flower girls. Oh, and she’s an All-American swimmer, in ASU’s Hall of Fame, and the most beautiful woman I’ve ever met. She really is the Whole Package.
Dr. John "Grumbles" Soltau
Groom
He does “Grumble” on and off throughout the day and as such, it quickly became his nickname. One he continues to live up to every day. John is a walking masterclass in self-improvement. Whether it’s in the gym, at work, or just brushing up on something obscure yet fascinating (ask him about his Duolingo streak), he’s always in pursuit of growth—with the intensity of someone who once read a motivational quote and decided to become it. Decisive to his core and self-aware almost to a suspicious degree, John somehow manages to balance ambition with introspection. He can make a major life decision before I’ve finished reading the menu—but will still pause mid-monologue to ask, “Should I stop now?” with sincerity. Some of my favorite moments with John happen during our kitchen dinners—just the two of us, no phones, no distractions, no topics are off the table. It’s when he really opens up, sharing whatever’s on his mind from the day with this rare mix of honesty and heart. He is my tireless cheerleader, my sounding board, and my most passionate believer—even when I struggle to believe in myself. As much as he loves the finer things in life (yes, that includes cigars and very expensive whiskey), he does it all with a quiet elegance that never veers into pretentious territory. It’s his unwavering ability to make me feel completely safe, protected, and wholly seen that continues to steal my heart, one decisive, grumbling step at a time.
Amy
Maid of Honor
Caitlin met Amy in 2009 when she started working at SeaWorld, and from day one, she’s been a force in Caitlin's life. Amy is the kind of friend who tells it like it is, no sugar coating, just honesty and love. She’s been an incredible mentor over the years and has helped Caitlin see things with clarity and perspective. Outside of work she’s always up for an adventure no matter what it is. Amy brings energy, truth, and unwavering support wherever she goes, and Caitlin couldn’t imagine this day without her.
Neal
Best Man
Neal and John met in 2009 at the Texas State Triathlon Club and have been like brothers ever since. Now a pilot with the Air National Guard based in Pittsburgh, Neal has flown across the world—and he and John have traveled it too, from riding through Vietnam to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro together in Africa. Neal is the kind of guy you can always count on. Loyal, grounded, and tough as nails, he’s the friend who shows up—no matter what. He’s also a world-class athlete, having tackled multiple Ironmans and ultramarathons with grit and grace. Add in the fact he could have walked off a J.Crew catalog, and you’ve got the total package. John couldn’t imagine standing up there without him.
Emily
Bridesmaid
Emily and Caitlin first crossed paths in the fall of 2011 when Emily joined the team at Orca Stadium, and it didn’t take long for them to click. They bonded over a mutual love of handstands, celebrating every holiday, swimsuits, sunshine, and geeking out over the latest whale or dolphin research. What started as a friendship built on shared passions has grown into something even deeper as they have grown as individuals. Emily’s joy, curiosity, and wholehearted spirit is felt by everyone around her. Caitlin is so lucky to have her join in the festivities on this special day.
Dan
Groomsman
John met Dan in 2019 at King William District CrossFit in San Antonio—the gym Dan owns with his wife, Janelle. Since then, their friendship has been forged through heavy lifts, fine cigars, good whiskey, shared playlists, and the occasional discussion over leather-bound books. Dan is the kind of man who leans into life. His drive to grow—as a husband, father, business owner, and friend—is relentless and inspiring. He faces challenges with grit and the heart of a champion, and his example has played a huge role in John’s own growth over the past few years. It’s rare to find someone who pushes you to be better just by being who they are—Dan is that kind of friend.
Laura
Bridesmaid
Caitlin joined Laura working with belugas in 2010 but it wasn’t until a few years ago that their friendship truly began to grow. Laura is the person you want on your trivia team - sharp, insightful and always surprising you with what she knows. She is wise beyond her years and brings a calm, grounded presence to every situation. Laura has a quiet strength that is easy to admire and is one of the many reasons Caitlin is thankful to have her by her side.
Mike
Groomsman
John and Sexy Mike have been close friends since they also met through the Texas State Triathlon Club in 2009. Since then, they’ve floated rivers, hit Wurstfest and rocked at festivals; including the unforgettable moment Mike introduced John to the chaos that is GWAR. Mike is a true Renaissance man: an Austin-based artist, salsa and ballroom dancer, real estate entrepreneur, and one of the most creative, mechanically inclined, and insightful people John knows. Whether he’s teaching a dance class or designing his next big project, Mike brings a spark of curiosity and originality to everything he touches.
Bill
Officiant
Fireman Bill lives in Austin with his wife Jamey and his two children. He has been one of John's closest friends since they met in the Texas State Triathlon Club back in 2009. Over the years, they’ve gone on some great adventures, from hiking in Big Bend and rocking out to Whitesnake at the Majestic, to wearing ridiculous matching costumes and never missing Bill’s annual boat party, which has been going for 15 years straight. What really makes Bill special is his positive energy, huge smile, and the way he makes people feel better just by being there. He brings joy and warmth into every room—and he’s got a killer voice when singing. Having him as the officiant was one of John’s top priorities, and once you hear him speak (or sing), you’ll understand why.