Matron of Honor
Paige’s best friend, not from college but also kind of from college. We lived together sophomore year, never spoke, but have not gone a day without texting since 2018.
Groomswoman
Tommy’s cousin and the wedding party member who’s known him the longest. Has a life-size cutout of Queen Elizabeth II in her classroom. Used to drive Tommy to Sonic or Taco Bell after high school, now flies around the world traveling with him.
Maid of Honor
Paige’s best friend from UNC. Always Mary Tyler or MT, never Mary (upon pain of death). The managing editor at The Daily Tar Heel to Paige’s editor-in-chief. Mom to Chuckles. Has arms of steel.
Groomsman
Tommy’s brother with whom he shared a bedroom for more than a decade. Founding Taco Bell Party Group member, water color artist and Franciscan brother.
Bridesmaid / Matchmaker-in-Chief
Paige’s former copy chief at The Daily Tar Heel. In college, Paige purchased not one but two Betta fish for Alison to keep on her desk at the DTH: Swimmy Carter and Gerald Fjord. Both were given viking funerals. (Bonus: Also a dear friend to Tommy from the Roanoke Times!)
Groomswoman
Tommy’s sister. Aspiring to send the best see a chug, send a chug video. If she’s late, it’s because she saw a dachshund and had to stop for a photo.
Bridesman
Husband to Alison, which is how he entered Paige’s life. Known as the group chat dad. (Bonus: Also a dear friend to Tommy from when he would visit Alison in Roanoke!)
Groomsman
Tommy’s high school friend and co-founder of the Taco Bell Party Group. Probably checking the Ohio State football score on his phone.
Bridesmaid
Paige’s college friend and fellow political science survivor. Introduced Paige to the cohort of writers that would lead her to also befriend Katie and Serena. Paige once wrote a story about Tabby that landed her on the front page of the DTH.
Groomsman
Tommy’s high school friend. Father of two cats, one dog and one human. Would rather be outside, hiking or taking photos.
Bridesmaid
Worked with Paige at The Daily Tar Heel in college, but infamously kept to herself. Reconnected with Paige through their shared love for writing and books, and is Paige’s partner in HomeGoods shopping.
Officiant
Tommy’s college friend and the voice of UNC women’s basketball. Once referred to Tommy as “the future” of the student newspaper and voted by Paige as “favorite friend of Tommy’s.” Can tell you what he had for lunch on this day 12 years ago.
Bridesmaid
A dear friend and fellow Durhamite who Paige met through a writing group she joined. Known for her impeccable taste in wine and champagne and for always being game for a party. Ask her about her books!
Groomsman
Roommates with Tommy for a year at Elon. Once went to the same bar together three times in one day. Now lives in downtown Durham, throws darts and checks on the cats when Tommy and Paige travel.
Bridesmaid
The baby! Praveena started as a student at the DTH (editor-in-chief, class of 2022!) but quickly became a dear friend to both Paige and Tommy. Known for calling Tommy “flamingo man” for a solid month when Paige and Tommy first started dating. Only call her Praveena if she's in trouble.
Groomsman
Tommy’s college housemate on Somers Avenue and San Francisco sports writer. Once repeated “Just take those old records off the shelf” for the entirety of a karaoke song. Somehow, wasn’t removed from the bar.
Bridesmaid
Paige’s partner in Downtown Durham adventures and nail salon visits. It was her wedding where Paige met Tommy, so even though Paige didn’t know her yet, clearly their friendship was meant to be. Known for taking two sips to finish a Surf Club green tea shot.
Groomsman
Tommy’s friend from Texas. Shares an office with Gregg Popovich and a house with Ringo the dog. Always up for a brewery, sporting event or debate about whether San Antonio is the best city in the country.