Wedding Party
Allison Soukup
Matron of Honor
Laura’s sister-in-law by marriage, but “seester” by heart. From the moment they met, Allison felt like the sister Laura had always wanted (sorry, Jeff—she’d trade you in a heartbeat). Laura was honored to stand by Allison’s side as a bridesmaid and even gave a speech on the fly—no notes, just love. Allison is kind, funny, wonderfully weird, and has a heart big enough to fit a whole beach house… which she actually found for Laura’s bachelorette party in Newport Beach, complete with a Disneyland day and all the perfect touches. She’s the reason Laura and Erin are now obsessed with the Fourth Wing series (a miracle, considering Laura’s usual “meh” attitude toward reading). Whether they’re swapping book theories, watching trashy TV, or just being there for each other, Allison is the kind of person who makes life better—one flauta, one laugh, one sisterly hug at a time.
Kristina Hawkinson
Bridesmaid
Affectionately known as “Kiki,” she’s Laura’s one and only cousin—and someone who’s always felt more like a little sister. Laura was there the day Kiki was born, even sneaking into the maternity ward to meet her. Despite being total opposites—Laura the tomboy, Kiki the girly girl with a flawless eye for fashion and makeup—they’ve always been bonded. Their bond is built on years of memories, like dancing together at a family dinner in Maui in 2009—until Laura had to scoop Kiki out of the way of her dad’s enthusiastic (and questionable) dance moves. Sundays with the Soukups were filled with pool time and competitive rounds of Tripoly, where Kiki proved she’s also a killer card shark. And don’t let her sweet smile fool you—she’s a pool shark too. The first time Laura played her at Kiki’s house, she got hustled hard. From pudding shirts to quick wit, their friendship has always been filled with laughter, love, and shared memories. It was never a question that Kiki would be by Laura’s side on this special day, ready to make even more unforgettable moments together.
Nicolle Anderson
Bridesmaid
Also known as “Noodle,” became one of Laura’s closest friends after a chance meeting at a Portland Pride pre-party in 2019. Instant connection, jello shots, and one hilariously terrible photo later (which still lives in Noodle’s phone), their friendship was sealed. She’s THE soccer nerd and the reason Laura became a proud Portland Thorns fan—season tickets and all. If there’s a soccer question, Noodle’s got the answer, probably with stats and a tactical breakdown. The nickname “Noodle” started as a joke involving a wooden chest and a tipsy misreading, but it stuck so hard that some people didn’t even know her real name. She’s bougee when it’s time for fancy dinners and good food, loyal when it matters most, and always the first to show up when Laura needs a friend. Whether in person or over the phone, they provide each other a space where they can be fully themselves—no masks, no judgment, just mutual understanding. She has a brilliant mind, is a fiercely loyal friend, has one huge heart, and someone Laura can always count on to show up, listen, and make her laugh when it matters most.
Karisa Lemoncelli
Bridesmaid
Twik and Twil—yes, that’s what Laura and Karisa called themselves. There were a lot of twins in their sorority pledge class, so they dropped the “n” from “twin” and added their first initials. From that moment on, they were a dynamic duo, known for their legendary pranks and nonstop laughter. Their favorite target? Their beloved Big, Diana Edwards. One time, they moved every single item from her room—desk, chair, decorations, everything—and set it all up inside her closet. When Big returned from class, she was already waiting on the stairs, ready for revenge. She caught Twik, but Twil managed to escape… only to be chased down the street moments later. Twik is more than just a mischief-maker—she’s one of the kindest, funniest, most loyal people Laura knows. Their friendship is built on years of shared chaos, inside jokes, and unconditional love. After Big’s passing in 2021, Twik and Twil leaned on each other through grief, even getting matching tattoos to honor her memory. Twik’s energy? Best summed up by a bachelorette moment involving a flauta, a duffy boat, and uncontrollable laughter—pure chaos, pure love, pure Twik.
Michelle Cook
Bridesmaid
One of Laura’s sorority sisters and ultimate partner in crime. From chasing each other down the street to late-night food runs involving Wendy’s, Taco Bell, and McDonald’s (yes, all three), Michelle was always down for chaos and camaraderie. She’s a Texas-born badass with a take-no-BS attitude, but also one of the most loyal, loving friends you could ask for. Whether defending house decorations during Homecoming or rallying the frat boys for backup, Michelle always had Laura’s back. She’s brilliant—like PhD-from-Scotland brilliant—and currently works at the University of Notre Dame. She even helped bring a 9/11 memorial 5K to Orange County. Michelle and Laura share a love for sports, Big Time Rush concerts (three and counting), and Hallmark Christmas movies. She’s so beloved that Laura’s mom jokingly refers to her as “my favorite daughter”—a running joke that never fails to make them laugh. She’s the kind of friend who makes life louder, funnier, and infinitely better. She is truly a legend.
Katie Stebbins
Bridesmaid
Katie is one of Laura’s sorority sisters—two grades ahead and always a few steps deeper into the antics. She lived just outside the house, but their bond was solidified through hungover calls, Gatorade runs to the Superette (aka The Ette), and futon TV marathons. Katie loves to give Laura a hard time, but she’s also the kind of friend who’d do anything for her. She even invited Laura to her bachelorette party, which doubled as Laura’s first-ever cruise. Laura was often Katie’s DD, which led to unforgettable moments—like the time Katie tripped between two parked cars, pinballed off both, and landed with a groan. Laura, unfazed, told her to get up and get in the car… and she did without missing a beat. They’ve seen each other at their worst and their best, and through it all, Katie’s laugh remains iconic—so contagious that Laura’s laughed along without even knowing why. She’s smart, sarcastic, full of antics, and fiercely loyal. So much so, Laura’s family named one of their golden retrievers after her. Enough said.
Courtney Clausi
Bridesmaid
Erin met Courtney in the most unexpected way—through Courtney’s dog, Maverik, at a Thai restaurant in Hawaii. One conversation led to a Fourth of July party invite, which somehow turned into a friendly wrestling match (yes, alcohol may have been involved). From that moment on, they were inseparable. Through every high and low, Courtney has been a constant source of laughter, loyalty, and late-night talks. She’s the kind of friend who shows up, stands strong, and always brings the fun—making her the perfect addition to the wedding party.
Mary Wiltshire
Bridesmaid
Mary started off as a work acquaintance in the Army, but it didn’t take long for Erin to realize she’d found a forever friend. What began with professional admiration for Mary’s grit, smarts, and “get-it-done” attitude quickly turned into a friendship full of deep chats, endless laughs, and a crash course in pop culture. From Love Island drama to Pop-mart treasures to Thai TV shows, Mary somehow knows a little bit about everything—and she’s always ready to share it. She’s Erin’s go-to for hard truths, hilarious takes, and unwavering support. Basically, if you need someone who’s wise, witty, and always in your corner, Mary’s your girl.