Teresa & Christopher
Wedding Party
Betty Wilke
Matron of Honor
Betty is my big sister and original best friend (after my Mom). She created math homework for me in kindergarten, told me I should know how to spell by now when I was in 1st grade, and made me brush my teeth and work-out with her every night (I'm pretty sure I was the only 2nd grader with a 6-pack in my class). She also let me borrow her clothes (sometimes) and threatened to beat-up any kids that were mean to me. In all seriousness, I'm so lucky to have her as a big sister. She has been my second Mom, role model and best friend all my life, and I feel so fortunate to have a bond with her like no other.
Earl Manlangit
Groomsman
Earl has been one of my longest and most loyal friends. I have known him since my freshman year in high school, which come to think of it is over half my life now. We were a part of a small tight knit group, that used to refer to ourselves as if we were family members (Earl was my brother in case anyone was asking). Most of my high school memories include Earl, whether it our senior trip to Mexico, or the many school events we participated in. I have had the honor of being in Earl's wedding party, and I have been blessed to be named Godfather to his first born (Miles). I couldn't have asked for a better "brother" these last 17 years, and I am excited to have him a part of this important moment in my life.
Molly Som
Bridesmaid
Molly is my sister-in-law and the only other person besides Krystal Recor I've accidentally referred to as "my sister" (before she was even engaged to my brother) which says a lot about how I feel about her. She's warm, thoughtful, generous, rule abiding and the perfect addition to our family.
Andrew Viray
Groomsman
If you ever needed someone to join you on a random adventure or trip, you could always rely on Andrew. One of the many things I admire about Andrew is he doesn't leave an experience pending, he goes out and does it. He has probably gone to more countries than most have gone to other U.S states. He has a knack for always making trips memorable. Two of my most favorite memories of Andrew was 1) him responding to the Canadian border police's question of "how did you become friends?" with the answer "love", and 2) him questioning a waitress in Arizona if she was a true Patriot's fan. I had the pleasure of living with Andrew for a few years, and I couldn't have asked for a better friend during our post college years.
Nicole Amador
Bridesmaid
Nicole is my outgoing, energetic future sister-in-law with a big heart. There's never a dull moment when Nicole is around. She's the life of the party and makes sure things are always fun and light-hearted. I met Nicole when she was 17, so she'll forever be a little sister to me, and I can't wait to make our sisterhood official!
Anthony Ciak
Groomsman
I have known Anthony since our time in high school but, didn't really get to know him well until we were at Shoreline C.C together. One of my regrets was not becoming friends with him and our friend Nate sooner. One of Anthony's best characteristics is knowing how to make people laugh, though sometimes it is unintentional. He never takes life too serious which I love, and he's always been there for me when I needed someone to talk to. I am excited for everyone to see some of Anthony's most famous dance moves on display during the wedding.
Krystal Recor
Bridesmaid
Krystal and I have been best friends since 1st grade. We played "Caterpillar" (a game we made up where you roll over the other person while inside your sleeping bag), basketball and volleyball together. When she moved to California our freshman year in high school, we took turns visiting each other every summer. Whenever I'm in southern California, we always make an effort to see each other, even if it's a 2 hour drive. She's a sister from another mister. No matter how much time passes, nothing changes between us because we have a special bond. I've always known who she was, and she's always known who I am, even when we were 6 years old. We've always talked about being in each other's weddings when we grow up, and now it's finally happening! :)
Mussie Tesfaldet
Groomsman
I met Mussie in college while we were attending Shoreline CC. He had class with a group of friends of mine, and was quickly absorbed into the group. I haven't been able to get rid of him since ;) One of the things Mussie and I have always connected on is our Nerdom of all things Football and Halo, but I will let him hold the trophy on the latter. He and I would get into these random back and forths that never made any sense yet were witty and would annoy anyone who didn't understand. This would result in uncontrollable laughter afterwards. There is never a dull moment with this man, and I am honored to have him as one of my groomsman.
Yung Trieu
Bridesmaid
Yung and I met our freshman year of high school and have been best friends ever since. She isn't afraid to be open, vulnerable and let people in which is why it's so easy to get to know and fall in love with her. We've been through a lot together, and I wouldn't have it any other way. I couldn't imagine not having Yung standing by side on my wedding day.
Christian Prom
Groomsman
I met Christian while I was working at AT&T. He and I became instantly close during our time working together. That friendship quickly turned into food eating competitions and Madden drinking games, and that fateful night where he and I missed an important work meeting haha. One of the things I will never forget about Christian was how quickly he made me feel like I was a part of his family. Good thing too since we will now be cousin-in-laws from here on out. If it wasn't for Christian, I would have never met my beautiful soon to be bride, Teresa.
DanaLee Camacho
Bridesmaid
Dana is one of my oldest and most loyal friends. We met in 2nd grade and lived in the same neighborhood in Lacey. I remember walking to her house in the morning before school to watch Sailor Moon, and hanging out at her house after school, eating lumpia and singing TLC karaoke. I am so proud of the woman and mother Dana has become and life she has built with her beautiful family. Even though she's lived outside of Washington most of our adult life, there's never been a distance in our friendship.
Robert Som
Groomsman
Robert is one of the most unique individuals I have ever met in my life. His passion for reciting rap songs, never wanting the party to end, and competitiveness always puts a smile on my face. I met Robert through Christian who were living together at the time, and just like Christian, Robert quickly made me feel like I was a part of their family. We are 2 of a group of 4 who own season tickets to the Seahawks, and that alone has added tons of memories that he and I have experienced. I am excited to be a part of the Som family, as he is like the brother I never had, but will soon get.
Diana Chow
Bridesmaid
Diana is one of the most multi-faceted people I know. She has a huge heart, unrelenting morals and loyalty, and she also knows how to let loose and have a good time (which we did a lot of in our early twenties). I had some of the best times of my life with Diana, respect and admire her so much, and am lucky to have her as a friend.
Khanh Doan
Groomsman
Khanh is one of my groomsmen and our officiant because we wanted someone close to both of us to "marry us". Khanh also has a great sense of humor so we thought he'd keep the ceremony fun, light hearted and non-traditional (like us). In addition to being funny, Khanh is one of the most caring, generous and outgoing people we know which is why we and everyone that meets "Mr. Popular" loves him ;) . He's one of our best friends, and we're lucky to have him in our lives.
Ariana Camacho
Flower Girl
Ariana is Dana's smart, fiery and adorable daughter, and my goddaughter and soulmate. I grew up the youngest in my family, so connecting with kids hasn't always been easy for me, but Ari and I are like twins. She's a tomboy and a girly girl at the same time like I was. She has hulk t-shirt, I've been called "Baby Hulk". The list goes on...
Miles Manlangit
Ring Bearer
Miles is the wonderful and handsome son of Earl Manlangit, and my Godson. He is known as the "Goat", loves garbage trucks, and has an awesome baby photo that makes him look like Felix Hernandez.