Wedding Party
Kelly Carlson
Maid of Honor
Morgan and Kelly met freshman year of college at Westmont and have been inseparable ever since. From living together through college and much of their 20s, to traveling the world side-by-side, their bond has only grown stronger over the years. Whether it's a deep dive into self-help books, podcasts, full moon parties, a beach day, a new foodie adventure, or dancing at concerts, Kelly is always up for creating lasting fun and memories! There’s hardly a memory in Morgan’s life that doesn’t include Kelly, and she couldn’t imagine walking down the aisle without her by her side.
Austin Rusack
Best Man
Austin and Jake first met in kindergarten at Laguna Blanca, the school where they would remain classmates through their senior year of high school. Growing up, they became fast best friends, building tree forts and running around outside. Once Jake moved back to Santa Barbara after college, they picked right back up where they left off. Austin has become an integral part of Jake's life and he can't imagine anyone better to stand next to him on his wedding day.
Brooklyn Jervis
Bridesmaid
Morgan met Brooklynn when she transferred to Westmont their sophomore year, and the friendship took off fast—quite literally. The two traveled the world together for four unforgettable months during a college study abroad program. Since then, they’ve shared homes, countless memories, and a deep, sister-like bond. Brooklynn has a gift for pulling Morgan out of her shell and leading the charge on spontaneous adventures and incredible experiences.
Brian Shaw
Groomsman
Jake and Brian were lucky enough to meet at just three weeks old, and have been a part of each others lives ever since. Growing up together was filled with constant outdoor adventures like fishing and hiking. This love of nature lead to both Brian and Jake going through Boy Scouts and becoming Eagle Scouts. Even though Brian now moves around the country (and world) with the Air Force, the friendship has stayed strong, and whenever they get together it's like no time has passed at all.
Marissa Mckeague
Bridesmaid
Marissa is Morgan’s longest-standing friend and one of her most cherished relationships. She’s been there through it all—from the angsty teenage years to the wild college days, into adulthood, and now by Morgan’s side as she becomes a wife. The two have traveled the world together and created a bond that runs deep, rooted in years of shared memories, laughter, and growth. Despite time, distance, and all of life’s twists and turns, their friendship has only grown stronger. Marissa is a constant source of love, support, and light... a true soul sister in every sense.
Zack Friedrichsen
Groomsman
Zack and Jake met through Austin, Jake’s best man, and what started as a casual hangout quickly turned into a solid friendship—and a standing appointment. Zack became Jake’s go-to barber, and somewhere between fades and fresh cuts, their bond deepened. Over the years, they’ve shared epic group adventures, long road trips, and countless laughs. Zack has been a steady presence in Jake’s life, always showing up with good energy and even better stories. He’s not just a friend, he’s family.
Laura Lauritzen
Bridesmaid
Morgan and Laura aren’t just cousins—they’re lifelong best friends. From spending every holiday together growing up to traveling across Switzerland and Ireland during Morgan’s study abroad program, their connection has always been something special. Over the years, their relationship has only deepened, even as they’ve stepped into new chapters of adulthood. Morgan has had the joy of watching Laura get married and become a mom to our sweet flower girl, Olivia. Through it all, Laura continues to be a source of unwavering love, laughter, and support.
Jack Balentine
Groomsman
Jack is Morgan’s brother and quickly became one of Jake’s friends when they met over the holidays in 2020. From the start, their energy just clicked—both being Tauruses probably didn’t hurt. Their friendship is built on humor, curiosity, and a shared love of sending each other ridiculous YouTube videos—usually involving some over-the-top building project or an epic fishing trip they swear they’ll do one day. Jake’s not only gaining a brother-in-law, but a buddy who always keeps things fun and light.
Katie Rusack
Bridesmaid
Morgan met Katie through Austin, Jake’s best man, and they clicked instantly. What started as a fun connection quickly grew into a deep, soul-sister level friendship. Over the past five years, Katie has been a constant source of love, support, and laughter. The four of them—Katie, Austin, Jake, and Morgan—have adventured near and far together, creating unforgettable memories along the way. Morgan feels incredibly grateful for their bond and lucky that their partners were best friends first.
Nick Balentine
Groomsman
Nick is Morgan’s younger brother and met Jake during the very first holiday season of their relationship—over a classic family dinner followed by an unforgettable ziplining adventure. Since then, Jake has had the chance to watch Nick grow into the thoughtful, driven, and kind young man he is today. Now a college sophomore, Nick still makes time for family, whether it’s a spontaneous camping or fishing trip, or a quick hello during a weekend visit home. Jake has always admired Nick’s heart and humor, and feels lucky to have him not just as a brother-in-law, but as a friend he genuinely looks forward to hanging out with.
Olivia Lauritzen
Flower Girl
Our darling flower girl, Olivia! Born on Valentine’s Day in 2024, she’s already the definition of love and joy. Olivia is the beautiful daughter of Morgan's cousin and bridesmaid, Laura Lauritzen and Chris Lauritzen. Though she may be the tiniest member of the bridal party, she’ll be making a big impression as she toddles down the aisle bringing smiles (and maybe a few happy tears) to everyone watching.
Greg Coyle
Officiant
Greg and his wife Shawn are longtime friends of Jake's mom. Greg met Jake in 2003 in Puerto Vallarta and loved getting to hang out together — especially their slingshot target practice. Since then, Greg has delighted in keeping up with Jake’s life and accomplishments through Judy. Greg has officiated weddings for loved ones over the years and is excited to be part of Jake and Morgan’s big day.