Maid of Honor
Nicole and Mandy met in Charleston through work when Mandy was just starting her career and learning her way around a brand-new city. At a company party, they quickly discovered they were both from Charlotte and had both attended UNCC - and from that moment on, the friendship was instant. Between playing games at home & at the bar, nonstop laughs (& sometimes cries), and an immediate connection, the two became inseparable. Nicole has been Mandy’s rock through not only the loss of her mother, but has stood by her side through every high and low of adulthood with unwavering love, support, and care. Nicole’s friendship is the kind that feels rare, effortless, and forever and Mandy is beyond lucky to have her as her Maid of Honor.
Bridesmaid
Sarah is Mandy’s oldest sister, and even though they’re 5 years apart, people constantly mistake them for twins thanks to how much they look and sound alike! Sarah is the true definition of a big sister. From driving Mandy to school, encouraging her to join cheerleading and student council, sharing her clothes (well… Mandy mostly stole them), and picking her up from parties (sorry, dad), to even opening her home to Mandy after college with her husband Nick, Sarah has always been one of Mandy’s biggest supporters and role models. Sarah has played such an important part in shaping Mandy into the woman she is today, and Mandy is so lucky to call her both a sister and a best friend. Mandy also proudly holds the title of “Panda” to Sarah’s 3 beautiful children, Poppy, Benny, and Lily, who you’ll spot running around and bringing extra joy to the wedding weekend!
Bridesmaid
Lyndsay is Mandy’s longest and dearest best friend or as they like to say, soulmates! With 22 years of friendship and counting, these two have truly grown up side by side. Mandy met Lyndsay in 4th grade after moving into a new neighborhood, where Lyndsay happened to be friends with one of the neighbors. From the moment they met, they instantly clicked and have been by each other’s side ever since. Together, they’ve been through every stage of life imaginable - from elementary school kids, awkward middle schoolers, high school memories, college roommates, young adulthood and the way to where they are today. Lyndsay is the kind of friend who somehow always knows exactly when Mandy needs her, thanks to what they call their “soulmate senses.” No matter where life takes them, these two are forever friends through and through and will most likely end up as little old ladies surrounded by far too many Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
Bridesmaid
Beth is Mandy’s second oldest sister, and with only 2 years between them, the two were absolutely inseparable growing up. From sharing bunk beds and creating dance routines in the basement to playing video games and riding motor scooters around, Beth and Mandy built the kind of childhood memories that never really fade. To this day, whenever they’re together, they instantly revert back to acting like they’re kids again. Beth has always been one of Mandy’s most grounding and nurturing support systems - someone who can lovingly keep her centered no matter what life throws her way. Mandy credits much of her earthy, free-spirited side to Beth and is endlessly grateful to have such a kind, calming, and genuine soul not only as a sister, but as one of her closest friends.
Bridesmaid
Shannon is Michael’s sister, and even before Mandy met Michael, her sister Sarah joked that one of the biggest perks of possibly marrying him would be gaining Shannon as a sister and she was absolutely right. Shannon has that perfect “older sister energy,” much like Sarah, even though she’s younger than Michael (sorry, Mike). From the very beginning, Shannon welcomed Mandy with open arms, making her feel like family right away. The two quickly bonded over one of their favorite shared things to do: lovingly making fun of Michael. Mandy is incredibly grateful to have such a supportive, warm, and fun sister-in-law, and she’s so excited for all the lifelong family memories still to come.
Bridesmaid
Jenna is Mandy’s youngest sister, and like Mandy and Sarah, they’re 5 years apart. While growing up under the same roof came with its fair share of “wardrobe negotiations” (and yes, a few too many fights over clothes), the two have come a long way since then and now share a much deeper understanding and appreciation for one another. These days, Jenna and Mandy love laughing together over their chaotic lives and comparing whose is more unhinged at any given moment. Jenna has a naturally sweet and nurturing soul, and Mandy never takes that kindness for granted. Watching her little sister grow into such a thoughtful, caring woman has been one of Mandy’s favorite parts of life.
Best Man
Where to even begin…my original Ride-or-Die. Michael and Matt "Fundy" met back in high school and have been causing trouble ever since. What started as high school classmates hanging out quickly turned into a close friendship that’s as strong today as the day it started. From playing rugby together Senior year of high school, to rowdy Friday nights & weekends with high school friends (many of whom are part of our wedding), and various road trips to that crimson college in the state of Alabama (I refuse to call it by name, love you mean it). As one of my closest friends, we have been lucky enough to experience a lot of life adventures together.
Groomsman
Michael and David first met back in Elementary School and later re-united in High School. David, in addition to others, often hosted the parti- “get-togethers” where all of us would gather for weekend shenanigans. David with played lacrosse with a few others in the wedding party, and has been there from the very beginning. This man will make you shake your head and laugh, and sometimes I wonder how we were lucky enough to make it this far together, yet here we are. We have confided in each other at times, and laughed even more times at stupid stupid jokes. He’s quick with a joke, and makes true friends wherever he goes. Very proud to have him standing by me on our big day.
Groomsman
Michael and James met back in high school and James is in just about every great story and memory our friend group has. James has always like being outside and his birthday camping trip to Bryson City, NC a few years ago was one of our travel highlights. If you hear him start cheerfully barking to himself in the fall, don’t let that worry you. There’s a good chance the Georgia Bulldogs just kicked off, and he’s a pretty big fan. James has a huge heart and that man’s laugh lights up the room every time, and I’m proud to call him a friend.
Groomsman
I probably shouldn’t tell the “full” story of how we met, but let’s just say Jason & Matt were roommates for a short period of time, and I kind of woke up on their couch one morning. We were sort of friends immediately. And that's the kind of friend Jason is, unconditional friendship and genuine great dude. Jason and I also live together for a little while, and it was a time for building a friendship that we'll never forget. Known by some by his nickname “MAC” (I’ll let him explain that one), Jason is a man of many projects, and is always tinkering with something motorized. By the way Jason, let me know if you need me to help you pick up another scooter…
Groomsman
George "Buddy" went to high school with Mike, and like a lot on here, is one of the originals. The first time I went out of the country was with Buddy and Max, to Colombia of all places, and it was awesome. Since then, we’ve seen Amsterdam & Switzerland, and a trip to Belize with a friend group. We have seen lots of Sunday Panthers games, concerts, and music festivals. Fitting to his nickname, he is a genuine good buddy.
Groomsman
And finally, our buddy Alex. Alex was also on the high school lacrosse team. Venker hosted his fair share of aforementioned “get-togethers” and was always at the forefront of shenanigans. Always a big heart and a welcoming laugh, this man cares deeply about all those around him. I am particularly proud to share that my friend Alex is a United States Army Veteran, honorably serving for 6 years of active duty, retiring as Sergeant. We salute you buddy!