It all started in 2020 on the sunny shores of Atlantic Beach, where fate—and a certain fiery redhead—set a plan in motion. Iesha had no idea what she was walking into that day. She had been invited to the beach by her friend Meredith (a.k.a. "Red," as Angelo calls her), a feisty, no-nonsense, matchmaker-in-disguise who had been Angelo’s best friend for over 20 years. Iesha and Meredith had met through Leadership Craven in 2017, a program for community leaders in New Bern. They hit it off immediately, forming a friendship built on shared ambition, laughter, self-growth, and a love for the beach. So, when Meredith casually invited Iesha to the beach for a relaxing day with her and her boyfriend (now husband) Nate, it seemed innocent enough. It wasn’t until Iesha was already en route that Meredith dropped the surprise: "Oh, by the way, my best friend Angelo will be there too." Little did they know, Meredith had been scheming all along. Now, here’s the twist—both Iesha and Angelo were dating other people at the time, which meant nothing romantic happened that day. Instead, they had a great time, enjoying the ocean breeze, laughing, and unknowingly stepping onto the path that Meredith had been quietly paving for them. Fast forward to 2022: Both single. Both thriving. And somehow, the universe (or let’s be real—Angelo) orchestrated their reconnection. Iesha was in Atlanta for work, and Angelo—who definitely didn’t just “happen” to be there—made sure their paths crossed. He saw his chance and took it. They met for dinner and ended up walking and talking at Chattahoochee Food Hall from 6:30 PM to 2:30 AM. That’s EIGHT HOURS of conversation—clearly, there was something special. As Iesha left for D.C., Angelo wasn’t about to let distance get in the way. He called her up and asked her out officially. Ever the realist, Iesha hesitated—long-distance relationships are no joke. But Angelo, with the confidence of a man on a mission, simply said, “Let me worry about that and figure it out.” And true to his word, he has pursued her ever since. Over the past 2.5 years, their love has only grown. Iesha’s daughter, Elenie, has given Angelo the official stamp of approval with a simple but powerful endorsement: "Mom, keep this one!" The three of them now form an unstoppable trio, complete with their own group chat, hilariously named “Crumbl Cookie Karen Kartel”—a name that needs no explanation for those who know them well. From family adventures to international travel, they’ve built a life full of love, laughter, and unforgettable experiences. And now, their biggest adventure yet—their wedding in Bali—is a celebration of that journey. To everyone traveling across the world to celebrate with them, they are beyond grateful. And if you think this trip is exciting, just wait—they’re already plotting their next destination. #GrantingAGroveInBali
What date do I need to RSVP by? Please RSVP by July 1, 2025. If this not possible, please contact Iesha or Angelo directly.
What is the name of the Bali Airport? Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar International Airport - (Airport Code DPS)
What documents/vaccinations will I need before flying to Bali? 1. Travel & Entry Requirements Passport validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. Visa: Most travelers (e.g., from the U.S.) can get a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for ~$35 USD; valid for 30 days and extendable once. Vaccinations: No mandatory vaccines, but recommended ones include Hep A, Typhoid, and Tetanus. Refer to the CDC for details (just copy and paste this link) https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/indonesia Travel insurance: Strongly encouraged in case of illness, theft, or unexpected delays.
What will the weather be like in October? Average daily temperatures during the month of October ranges between 75-88ºF (24-31ºC). October is in between dry season and rainy season. While the rainy season starts, there will still be a good amount of sunshine per day. Expect the occasional rain shower, especially in the afternoons or evenings. Be prepared with a light jacket and/or poncho. Humidity is generally high in Bali.
The villa is located in Canggu Gang Manu Villa No 6 Kecamatan Kuta Utara Bali, Indonesia 80361
Ways to get around in Bali? The equivalent to Uber and Lyft are companies like Gojek and Grab. Another option is to use a taxi company like Bluebird- otherwise, some taxi companies might overcharge. Scooters or other transportation rentals are also an option if you an international driver's license. For more details, copy and paste this link: https://internationaldriversassociation.com/?transaction_id=10222a34082ef2e74b4d1bfa9062cf&affiliate_id=62285&offer_id=13
What is the exchange rate in Bali? $1 is 16,000 Indonesian Rupiah (basically, the US dollar goes very far!)
What meals are covered during the trip? Meals are on your own with the exception of the dinner reception on the evening of October 17, 2025.
What lodging is covered throughout my stay? Lodging is covered by the bride and groom at the designated villa listed above for the following dates: October 13-18. Check-in on the 13th is at 2PM and Check-out on the 18th is 11AM. You are more than welcome to secure your own lodging in the area either before or after the celebration dates to extend your vacation time. Room assignments are on a first-come first-served basis. This is a shared space that can sleep up to 30 people.
What is the attire for the trip? Please wear a Sienna-colored top on October 16, 2025, for group photos throughout the day. (Hint: It's the same color as your invitation.) Ideas on what to pair it with are denim, tan, white, or black bottoms, whatever you’re most comfortable in. No specific attire is required for the other days of the trip.
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