Wedding Party
Meredith Russell
Matron of Honor
Carissa met Meredith at her new job the week the world shut down in March 2020. Meredith was her supervisor and intimidated Carissa s in her white vest. Throughout all of the chaos, and power of trauma bonding, the two bonded over their similar senses of humor, dog children, and so much more.
Jamie Nakhle
Best Man
De Wet met Jamie when Esther was writing a paper on Smitty’s- Jamie’s mom’s ice cream shop. The mom’s discovered that the two would be on the same soccer team. Their mutual love of soccer sparked a lifelong friendship. De Wet enjoyed visiting Jamie during his time at App and later became roommates when the two both moved to Raleigh. There are not many childhood memories that do not include Jamie.
Emily Ann Reece
Bridesmaid
Carissa probably met Emi within a few days of being born. Emi was less than pleased to welcome a younger cousin into the world but eventually came around. The two grew up playing dress up while dancing to the Backstreet Boys and eventually did the same at UNC parties. Emi has always been like a sister to Carissa.
Pieter Van Zyl
Officiant
De Wet had no choice other than to meet Pieter the day he was born. From a young age, their relationship can best be described as “competitive” and Esther has the emergent medical bills to prove it. To this day, they always know when the other is starting a round of golf- and will likely discuss their stats after the round is complete. De Wet was the officiant for Pieter’s wedding and this is Pieter’s time for “payback!”
Katelyn Morgan
Bridesmaid
Carissa met Katelyn sophomore year of high school and discovered that opposites certainly do attract. However, it soon became clear that they were not so different. They have survived high school, prom, living together for 4 years at UNC and much more over the last 15 years!
Jacob Thompson
Groomsman
De Wet has known JT since elementary school and has always been in awe of his athletic abilities. (There is certainly an element of jealousy there!) JT went to NC State the same year as Pieter so De Wet got to know him during their time in Raleigh. The two are constantly making game plans for sports betting… Stay tuned for their next big win!