Our sisters were convinced that Karin and I would hit it off great if they could just get us to meet. They tried a few times over the years to introduce us but things never materialized. Karin and I had each heard about the other — that said, we were both content serving Jehovah God and happy in our singleness. Years later we did end up in the same room together, however the circumstances were far from ideal. Karin’s dad passed away and although I didn’t know her personally, I was good friends with her sister and brother-in-law so I came to the funeral to support them. That’s when we finally met in Houston for the first time! Honestly, I was surprised that she initiated conversation and was so engaging. Why you might ask? Well, in my defense — I was told that Karin wasn’t one to go out of her way and approach a guy since she was happy being single. At the time, I was living in Florida and working remotely for Bethel on the Ramapo Project. A few months after meeting Karin, I was invited to New York full-time to support Ramapo. Although my focus was on the project assignment, I never stopped thinking about her. I called after hearing that she hurt her shoulder and was recovering for an extended period. Throughout my time at Bethel we stayed in touch and I got to know Karin a little better whenever we were around mutual friends and family. Fast forward — I was in New York coming up on 2 years and made the decision to go back into the field. There was really only one place I was interested in landing, Houston. It was always Houston or bust. Why Houston? Easy—because Karin was there 😊. As the kids say, I shot my shot and the rest….will become history with “Nurse Gorgeous” 💗 on August 2, 2026!
4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
4:45 pm - 5:45 pm
6:00 pm - 10:30 pm
Hotel
Located near the Woodlands Mall about 20 miles from IAH (Bush International Airport). Explore nearby spots like the Hughes Landing, Market Street and Cynthia Wood Mitchell Pavilion.
Hotel
They are located just north of Houston between Spring and The Woodlands. About 20 minutes from IAH (Bush International Airport). 10 minutes from concerts, festivals, and family fun at The Woodlands Market Street. In house garden grille serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Flight
There are two airports serving the greater Houston area, IAH (George Bush International) and HOU (Houston Hobby). IAH — Houston’s primary airport. Located 22 miles from downtown. Major international hub with plenty of airline options. Generally better than (HOU) on price, airline and non-stop options. IAH is also closer to the provided hotel options and is a good bit closer to the ceremony and reception venue than HOU.
Flight
HOU— Houston’s secondary airport. Hobby is a big Southwest Airlines hub. Located 7 miles from downtown. Generally better than (IAH) on speed, ease of navigation and has shorter security lines.
Rental Car
Renting a car is a great way to travel around Houston before, during and after the wedding — especially if you plan to explore the city or surrounding areas! We suggest booking a car rental at one of the airport locations that you will fly into, IAH or HOU.
Best Man
I’ve known Mando for years. He’s truly one of the few people who has seen me at my best and lowest. I can still recall us pioneering and eating struggle meals together. His family is my family. Mando is that friend who stuck closer than a brother! It’s no exaggeration when I say he has the biggest heart that I know. A man that would “not” give you the shirt off his back— because he needs it, so that he can carry you on his. I’m honored that he is now and will forever be my best man!
Groomsman
San Diego will always be my second home and Key is a large part of that. We met there and he very quickly became my guy! He brought me into his circle and treated me as family from the start. We’ve served closely together in a number of ways. Funny thing, Key is younger than me yet I’m the one who has always looked up to him. I love a LOT of people but I don’t know that I respect anyone as much as him. I’m honored to have Kelan serve as a groomsman!
Groomsman
Dwayne and I go waaaay back — like his mama forcing him to share his cheese crackers with me as kids and me eating them ALL (or so he claims) way back! D was there with me while I was coming into the truth. From running around as young boys in the “Sip”, playing in every football and basketball tournament we could find, to D raising a beautiful family and now serving as a groomsman in my wedding. Here we still stand!
Groomsman
Big bro aka “Ole Ray Gibson”. Mark and I served closely together for years. He was always the mature voice and sounding board that I needed. When I saw things the right way, he reassured me — when I needed some readjustment, he kindly provided it. Mark has always been a stabilizing force for me. The things I’ve learned from Mark still live as a core part of me. So it only seems right that my big bro is by my side on this special day!
Groomsman
PrimeTime and I became boys from the start. I don’t know that anyone ever befriended me so quickly. Whether is was a game of monopoly or sequence that lasted til 2 AM or a much needed word of encouragement — Slime has always come through. I’ve told Micha that he was meant to be the best of us. It’s been my great honor to see that come true! There was no question that he would be standing with me on one of the happiest days of my life!
Matron of Honor
It’s been said that having a big sister is like having a best friend that you can’t get rid of! Angie has been all of that and more. She’s my steady guiding rock, my greatest supporter, my voice of reason, and loyal defender. As one of my biggest confidants, Angie is my human diary. I truly thank Jehovah that she’s not simply by my side — she’s always on my side.
Bridesmaid
What do you get when you mix New Orleans charm, a huge heart, and warm personality? Allie —my sista from another mista! She was Angie’s friend first but has become my fourth sister, forever. You’d be hard pressed to tell where her family ends and mine begins. I will always cherish her as my sister and friend!
Bridesmaid
Jo Ann was the little sister that I didn’t like much growing up. At times, sibling rivalry would rear its head and it seemed like we fought all of the time. However, that has definitely changed. I’m convinced that my little sister is part superhero—she has the ability to see around corners and through walls to find what is best for me even when I can’t see it myself. Jo Ann has truly been a blessing to have as a sister and stands as proof that Jehovah God loves me!
Bridesmaid
There is no question that my baby sister, Erin, is the sweetest of the Thorpe girls! I want to be like her when I grow up. She has a smile that could light up the darkness of space but somehow even that smile pales in comparison to her huge heart. I am so proud of the woman that Erin has become and will always be eternally grateful to her for taking such amazing care of our mother.
Bridesmaid
In a crowd full of strangers and uncertainty, Machelle is the familiar and calm face of reassurance that I find myself searching for. We have a friendship that goes back to the days of dial up internet — no it really does! We’ve been girls since the age of 16. I’m amazed and so thankful to Jehovah that she has put up with me all of these years. Machelle has been a staunch supporter, another voice of reason, and has never hesitated to put me in check when needed. She has helped me through some of the toughest moments in my life. I value Machelle’s friendship more than she will ever know.
Discovery Green is a 12 acres park located in the heart of downtown Houston. It includes a 1 acre lake for kayaking and sail boating, interactive fountains, public art installations, concerts and numerous free events.
We know you want to look your best! Any styles that fall in the cocktail or semi-formal range will work just fine. Gents — ties are optional. Ladies — dresses, skirts and dressy slacks are welcome.
Houston is known for hot and humid summers and August is the peak of summer heat! Expect daytime highs in the 90s and at times well over 100 degrees with the “heat index”. Make sure to pack light, breathable clothing — Ladies, prepare accordingly for the “hair challenges”! August is typically drier than other summer months but afternoon thunderstorms are common. August also falls in the middle of “hurricane season” so we’ll keep the FAQ section posted with updates on any developing tropical systems. *Note* — Due to summer thunderstorm activity, flights into Houston may be delayed or even cancelled due to weather related “ground stops’’. If at all possible, it’s wise to avoid flying in on Sunday since you may experience a prolonged flight delay or cancellation.
Our ceremony will start promptly at 4:00 PM (CST). Guests may began arriving anytime after 3:00 P.M. (CST). We highly encourage everyone to arrive at least 30 minutes beforehand to ensure that you have time to park, find a seat and relax before the ceremony.
Due to limited seating, we are only able to accommodate those guests who have formally been invited on your wedding invitation. If you received a plus one, they will appear under your name when you RSVP. If the named guest(s) included on your original invitation cannot attend “in person” we kindly request that you “do not” invite anyone else in their place.
Yes, children are allowed but only if they are included on your wedding invitation. Otherwise, we kindly ask that you make arrangements for family or friends to watch the little ones!
The ceremony and reception will be held “indoors” at the same venue. Plenty of self parking will be available onsite. There will not be a valet option. In addition, we have already provided ALL vendor service providers and employees with a “20% prepaid tip” so please do not feel obliged to tip them for services rendered.
Directions to the venue can be found by clicking on the “map” button located in the “Schedule” section or our Wedding website.
During the ceremony — we kindly ask that everyone put their cellphones and cameras away, relax and just enjoy the moment. We’ve hired a professional photographer so you can take in this special period distraction free. Before and after the ceremony — feel free to capture some beautiful memories but please be respectful of our professional photographers and avoid blocking their views and holding up phones/cameras for extended periods of time. Thanks in advance for helping us create a beautiful and memorable ceremony!
We’re going with an Italian styled dinner that will include: - Spaghetti Puttanesca w/marinara sauce - Gourmet Lasagna - Roasted Seasonal Vegetables w/grated parmesan cheese - Caesar Salad - Warm Rolls w/butter
We want you to enjoy dinner! If you have any dietary restrictions (i.e. vegan or vegetarian) please let us know when you RSVP and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.
There is no arrangement for hotel shuttles to provide transportation to the venue. We encourage you to drive. You may also consider carpooling with other guests who have been invited “in person”. If you choose the carpool route, unfortunately we are not able to coordinate those arrangements for you.
There are two airports serving the greater Houston area, IAH (George Bush International) and HOU (Houston Hobby). Please see the “Travel” section of our Wedding website for more information. systems. *Note* — Due to summer thunderstorm activity, flights into Houston may be delayed or even cancelled due to weather related “ground stops’’. If at all possible, it’s wise to avoid flying in on Sunday since you may experience a prolonged flight delay or cancellation.
We have coordinated with a couple of hotels to provide rooms. Their information is provided in the “Travel” section of our Wedding website. You may also consider Airbnb options. If you plan to spend a little time in Houston before and/or after the wedding you may opt for accommodations closer to the city. Otherwise, you can look at options closer to the actual ceremony and reception venue.
Your presence alone — is the single greatest gift that we could ever expect on our wedding day. Several of you have expressed that you’d like to get us something. To keep things simple, we’ve created a cash fund. A link to that is included under the “Registry” section of our wedding website. We are very grateful for any modest monetary gift that your circumstances allow you to give. For those that still prefer to deliver a card or gift in-person — there will be a designated table at the wedding venue where you may place those items.
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