Elizabeth & Andrew
Wedding Party
Sarah Bowers
Matron of Honor
Sarah is my older sister; she’s been there from the beginning. Without her I’d be stuck with my two brothers! We haven’t always meshed in the past, being eight years apart (I spent most of my younger days going out of my way to annoy her), but now that we are both older I’m grateful to have her. Being the only bridesmaid that is married (as well as being a teacher), she’s been able to help me navigate the potential minefield that is wedding planning! I’m happy that she is here to guide and stand with me in support of my next adventure.
Kelly Bornemann
Best Woman
Kelly once told me that we are "siblings by birth, but friends by choice". Nothing could be more true as we have been best friend since she was born, even though Mom says that I tried to throw her out one day. Since then, she has grown into an amazing woman with a fierce drive to better herself, as evidenced by the fact that she ran her first, and what I assume won't be her last, marathon. I could ramble on about all of the qualities that make her a great person and friend, but I can sum it all up in that I couldn't have asked for a better sister or friend in life. I am proud and excited that my best friend will be able to stand next to me and celebrate my new adventure!
Bridget Savitske
Maid of Honor
Bridget has been my best friend since pre-k; she is almost like a sister to me. Not many people can say that they have a lifelong friend, but I can proudly say that I do. We rode horses together growing up and still share that passion. Bridget is currently on track to graduate from UGA’s veterinary program, and I couldn’t be more proud of her having seen the effort she has put in and stress that she has endured up until the final stretch. I have enjoyed watching Bridget develop into the kind, hardworking, and genuine person she is today. I am honored to have her stand by my side to support me and celebrate this next stage in my life.
Jon Tate
Groomsman
I met Jon when I moved to Florida in 7th grade, where our friendship started over our shared view on girls and sports and our mutual hatred of the dreaded language book homework. Jon has been there for me throughout all that life has to offer. He has been the rock I could count on during tough times and always is there with the advice that I need to hear (might not always be what I want to hear). He can find humor in any situation and genuinely strives to bring cheer to the world. What's left to say but ... Go Navy, Beat Army!
Erin McCloud
Bridesmaid
Erin and I met on a farm in Powder Springs, GA where we both learned how to ride horses (to an extent). We both started out in the same sport (3-Day Eventing) but went our separate ways in the horse world as Erin dabbled in some Western riding and eventually landed herself in the Dressage world, where she is currently pursuing her career as a trainer (totally jealous)! I’m so thankful for the adventures we had growing up and still have into our adult lives. Visiting Erin at her farm and continuing to ride with her are some of my favorite moments, and I’m glad that she can be here for this memory.
Kenneth Douglas
Groomsman
It was by chance that I met Kenneth, and his wife. While in college, I went to a local spot to watch a friend's band and happen to sit at the same table as them. We all instantly became friends and have been since. He taught me how to fall down a mountain (skiing), with falls so impressive, the ski patrol felt obligated to comment (somewhere there is a video of this). While I can't get behind his passion of hurtling himself down a mountain, whether it is on skis or a Huffy bicycle (don't get him started on all of his mountain bikes), his compassion for others and drive to excel in what he does inspire others and provides a great example for his kids.
Samantha Cook
Bridesmaid
I met Sam at my first post-college job at a contract packaging company. She was in Procurement, and I was in Operations. An opportunity in Operations opened up, and before I knew it I had the best new coworker on my team! My favorite part of working with her was all the pranks we’d pull on each other! We have both moved on from that company and can now laugh at the crazy experiences and even crazier bosses that we encountered. I hope one day we will be able to work together again. I’m thrilled she can spend this special day with me!
Michael Dwyer
Groomsman
I met Mike when I checked on board NMCB 23 (my first command in the Navy). As young officers, we helped each other navigate the perils of the senior leadership ... and the chiefs. As a testament to our friendship, I let him talk me into volunteering for a deployment to Afghanistan where we were able to share the welcome festivities together. Mike is a solid friend who never does a task for selfish reasons. His greatest strength is his family and I am lucky to have a friend like him in my life.