Christine & Jacob
Wedding Party
Abigail Smith
Best Woman
Simply the BEST. From growing up walking between houses, watching the stars as we tried to sleep on my mom's dock in the summer, and eating way too much after school ice cream, to growing into "adults" and continuing to take on adventures together whenever we can, our friendship has come a long way. Abby has the ability to find humor in even the most dire of situations. She has been my support, my motivator, a commiserator about all things wrong in healthcare (and the world), and that voice in my head reminding me that it's ok to look out for myself sometimes too. I admire most her unwavering commitment to being authentically Abby. I cannot wait to grow old together and skip down a beach in matching sweatsuits with this one... Jacob and Wes obviously will be our photogs.
Alex Kenton
Best Man
A bonafide renaissance man with a heart of gold. Alex and I became fast friends stumbling around Rome during study abroad and spent every day together at our first post grad jobs in Seattle. A man of many talents and skills, he is still down to earth and one of the most caring and loyal friends you could ask for. Although we live thousands of miles apart, Alex always keeps me in the loop, whether for his next themed party, river float, or night out on the town. His commitment to his friends, genuine spirit, and unstoppable ability to bring joy to others makes him truly one of a kind. I am so proud to have him as my best man for this momentous day.
Bebe Unruh
Bridesmaid
My god am I lucky to have a sister like Beebs. She is the only one I know who will look at me and die laughing after I almost launch her 8 year old daughter into a tree on a snowmobile. She is so caring, always making sure I feel included and loved, a true role model to me. We have had many a crazy adventure together, from Orcas Island exploring and inventing street kayaking, to getting crazy (maybe a little too crazy) at Howl at the Moon. I am so lucky that she came into my life, and since has brought some of my favorite little ones into it too (granted hers are just a small fraction of the gaggle of kiddos to which i'm lucky enough to be Aunt Christy).
Melissa Kucharski
Groomswoman
My sister, confidant, and oldest friend. Nobody knows me better or has had to put up with me more than Lu. She has been there for all of my missteps and successes and I always look forward to the next time we can be together. She is an example of strength, resilience, and passion to myself and to others. I am so thankful for this amazing person and blessed she is my older sister. I could not be more proud of her and take great joy in knowing she will be up there with me as I take this next step.
Kate Howard
Bridesmaid
Although we attended the same high school, I don't think Kate and I said more than about 2 sentences to each other until we moved into the legendary *Collegian* together our sophomore year of college. It is that year that Kate forced Jacob to become friends with us, which consisted of attempted "parties" (difficult in a dorm room), a lot of pizza, and even more SVU (shout out to Mariska). Her approach to dishwashing may have been a point of contention between us, but it didn't stop us from having unforgettable adventures together. Kate is one of the most impressive, strongest, and caring people that I know, I could not ask for a more loyal and loving friend. From that first day in the Collegian, she made it clear that we weren't just friends, we were family, and for that I am so grateful.
Ryan Piela
Groomsman
Although he has known Christy longer, it only took a few beers and sunny Seattle afternoons for Ryan and I to become best friends. After joining Christy in the move to NYC, I was lucky to already have Ryan here as he was completing his MBA at NYU. Ryan has become family, keeping us grounded through a couple of wild years and whenever we felt a little too far from home. He is truly the best company and I always look forward to the next time we get to hangout. He officiated our Hampton elopement in June of last year and I wouldn't have him anywhere else than by my side when Christy and I get married in front of all our family and friends.
Francis Jackwitt Tempest
Bridesman
From being neighbors in the collegian to shenanigans in PDX and beyond, I wouldn't have made it through college in one piece without him. Frank was somehow my ticket into U of O rugby team parties and at the same time the voice of reason during college. Luckily we were able to stay friends after his graduation and have many more adventures (maybe too adventurous sometimes). He is intelligent and analytical, while still being able to be an exceedingly protective, loyal and considerate friend. I am forever impressed by him and so thankful that my quiet, goofy neighbor -- that killed every plant he ever owned -- was willing to share some whiskey with the weird girl next door all those years ago.
Katharine Dwyer
Groomswoman
Former Potter House mate at Oregon and one of my closest friends, some of my greatest adventures and biggest laughs have been with Katharine. Even though we live on different coasts it does not take long for a quick phone call to become a two hour catch-up. Now a talented architect in San Francisco, Katharine is still the quirky Potter House leader and squirrels greatest ally. She is a part of some of my greatest memories to date and I am so happy she will be a part of this one as a member of my wedding party. I look forward to the many more great memories to come.
Laura Gunning
Bridesmaid
Laura is 1/2 of the dynamic, talented, and oh so musical Gunning duo, but in high school, Laura had the car, so Laura had the power. We spent most afternoons together, helping each other with homework, and raiding the freezer for cookie dough. I don't think there was a paper I wrote in high school that wasn't edited (and improved) by Laura. I'm so lucky that after we've both moved around for college and jobs, we are able to stay in touch. Laura can light up any room, never takes herself too seriously, and has this ability to make those around her feel so very loved. She gives the BEST hugs, and is never not down to watch a movie and snuggle on the couch. I am so lucky to call her a friend, even if I may irritate her with my inability to take a good picture with her... ever.
Pat Moran
Groomsman
The pizza enthusiast and racket sport aficionado, you will not find a more passionate person than Pat. A former college roommate, Pat was my adventure partner and sometimes troublesome influence. A man of the world, Pat has lived in more places than most but never makes you feel like you do not hold a special place in his life. He puts in the work for everything he does and its why I value our friendship so much. I cant imagine taking this next step in my life without him by my side and I look forward to the next adventure.
Morgan Gunning
Bridesmaid
Morgan is 1/2 of the dynamic, talented, and oh so musical Gunning duo. Growing up we lived five houses away from each other until about age 7, when her family moved, but we weren't apart for long. In high school Laura was the driver, and as the younger sister, Morgan was at her mercy... so whether she wanted to be or not, Morgan was stuck with me. I am so grateful for all that time together, because I couldn't ask for a better friend. Someone willing to listen, give advice, and always there for a hug when I need it. You won't be around Morgan long before you realize she has the most intelligent and captivating sense of humor. She's also the resident expert playlist maker (i still have many a mix CD), so if you need the skinny on the hippest music or some excellent oldies, she's your girl.
Alex Johnson
Groomsman
My introduction into the Oregon lifestyle, Alex showed me how to take advantage and appreciate living in the PNW. Whether exploring a new campsite off a local logging road or watching every Colorado Rockies game, Alex was a quiet force at the Potter House. I will always appreciate Alex's kind and curious perspective, wise beyond his years, and consistent willingness to chat over a couple of beers or take a bike ride though town. There are few better things than spending time with Alex and I am sure sharing this special day with him will be no different.
Phil DuChamp
Bridesman
And Phil! The best oldest brother I could have asked for. He may have a tough exterior, but once you get to know him you'll realize he's a big softie. I learned quickly that Phil is often quiet, but that I wanted to listen closely to what he has to say, because if I didn't I was missing the funniest joke in the room. His dry humor and quick wit made Jacob and Phil fast friends. He has always made me feel welcomed, loved, and like I belong, for which I could not be more thankful. There is no one with whom I'd rather find a random bar, research the age of the earth, discuss existential questions, and buy overpriced pies in NYC.
Evan Rood
Groomsman
The man who can make me cackle like a fool with just a look or a simple leg snap. Evan and I were inadvertent roommates for my final year in college. He was the last voice I heard down the hall as I went to bed each night. It was not hard to become friends with Evan and I was lucky enough to have him under the same roof making up songs and keeping an eye out for the shoeless landscaper. An unbreakable spirit and generous soul, Evan never fails to make you feel good. His creative wit and and warm sense of humor are just the start of a long list of the things I love about Evan. I am so glad he will be a part of this special day.
Nelia Njoku
Bridesmaid
My favorite sister who is shorter than me ;) Nelia is always there, the person I call when I'm in a true crisis, and always makes time to talk me through it. She is a role model and a friend, and she keeps Bebe and I in line when we "unexpectedly" find ourselves in Howl at the Moon. She's the best person to celebrate wins with, and countless times has been my personal cheerleader. Not to mention we always have a blast when we get together, especially when playing "Take a sip". I'm so lucky she came in to my life when she did, and I can't wait for many more years of reunions at Dad's, adventure trips to Hawaii, and *hopefully* exploring Colorado to come.