Bride
Yep, it's really me - in all my glory :)
Groom
The one, the only, the owner of far too many Rachel bequeathed nicknames
Matron of Honor
She walked into the wrong / my science class on the first day of seventh grade and that's all she wrote...
Matron of Honor
By the time we finally met (at the ripe old age of 22 and 19 respectively), we bonded instantly. Destined to grow old together, I'll be bold as brass and speak for us both when I say we could not be happier.
Maid of Honor
Whilst I'll always be able to say I've known her the longest - thanks to my years being more advanced than hers - in the end, it matters not. Jenna will forever be a cherished best friend whom I've had the honor to know and grow with.
Rabbi & Beloved Bridesmaid
Alexandra, my soul sister, has not only been our invaluable confidant throughout the wedding planning process, but will be donning multiple hats - and making it look easy - as both our officiant and my bridesmaid.
Bridesmaid
Bumbling and bickering since the 1st grade, never without hugs or humor, I am delighted that my darling Schwartzie will be by my side when I say my vows.
Bridesmaid
My wise counsel, who seems to know instinctively what I am going to do before I know myself; I count my lucky stars to have had 35 years with cousin Becka in my corner.
Bridesmaid
And then there are the friends you could sit beside til Kingdom come, meeting on a park bench to excitedly exchange thoughts, ideas, and stories - always stories. We circled each other throughout adolescence, occasionally landing - happily - in each other's orbit. Yet it wasn't until adulthood that our friendship reached full bloom. Better late than never, and how good it has been.
Bridesmaid
The sweetest of sister-in-law's, the spectacular Erica. Yes, I am cognizant that our relationship was not engineered by chance. We met through Erica's love for my brother, Andrew. Nevertheless, it was through Erica's innate sensitivity and warm embrace that I was never made to feel like a mere "in-law" and I treasure her accordingly. I cannot wait to be the shamelessly "cool Aunt" come May!
Bridesman
The first time we met: you (or someone very near and dear to us both - I'm still not sure) poured vodka into my dog's water dish and frankly, I was not impressed. Thank goodness you stuck around and changed my mind. A fierce friend, who - though I may grouse about it - never sugarcoats and never indulges my lame excuses when my behavior is, shall we say, less than stellar. Conversely, he's the first to applaud my successes and champion my passions. Davey - you're one-of-a-kind, kid.
Bridesman
Eternally energetic, you will always be just Jordie to me (but hey, at least I used your actual adult name here and in the - pardon my lack of ceremony parlance - wedding "program" - I'm maturing). I can't even begin to tell you how glad I am we met, or how grateful I am for your friendship these past ten years. Suffice it to say your talent for understanding people and dexterity when it comes to navigating people problems knows no bounds. I may joke that you are my U.N., my diplomat, but don't think for a moment that I haven't been humbly taking notes and admiring you every step of the way.
Bridesman
We both attended Goucher College and while college is often fertile fields for life-long friendship, alas it was not for me. Fortunately, I was given a second bite at the apple when we connected as two twenty somethings trying to figure it out here in the city. Only then could I genuinely call Aussie my friend. A true blue, fantastic friend at that.
Best Man
Let's go back to the very beginning, a very good place to start. Our epic bromance began on the day our parents brought us to the same Gymboree class...and the rest is history.
Best Man
Having Josh as a brother is far more than good fortune. My brother is my lifeline - my greatest supporter and deepest sympathizer - my faith in him is immeasurable, my gratitude for our renewed bond is beyond expression. I would not be here without the love of my little brother and well, let's just leave it at that. Josh, we are so, so happy to be able to call you family.
Groomsman
I was over the moon, though I did not realize it at the time, to have received the ultimate of endorsements: The Andrew Citron Hug. I cannot thank you enough for your graciousness as you have welcomed me into the family.
Groomsman
Together with Jon we spent so much of our time as kids playing on Pal Drive. What a fitting street name that was for one of my oldest friends.
Groomsman
Master and Commander of all things BBQ. My Poker partner-in-arms. The finest drinking buddy I could ever ask for. These superlatives barely scratch the surface for you, the most steadfast of friends.
Flower Girl
At four years young she is spirited and sweet - a superstar in the making - three cheers for Petra!
Ring Bearer
Petra's brother, at the tender age of three Vaughn is already an individual in his own right. A wee gentleman in the making, please clap your hands for all the vibrance that is Vaughn!
Ketubah Signer & Witness
For superlatives, please see above.
Ketubah Signer & Witness
For superlatives, please see above.
Marriage Certificate Witness
Bedecked in a French smocking dress, young miss Caroline bewitched me from the very beginning. After cooly but calmly explaining, on our first day of 1st grade / Kindergarten, the legal and moral reasons why she did not and therefore would not stand for The Pledge of Allegiance, I was hopelessly hooked; I still am.
Marriage Certificate Witness
When it comes to being the silliest of geese, Alex has no equal. But more notably, she is the most endearing of friends.
Grandma Extraordinaire
Granny Extraordinaire
Mother of the Bride
The penultimate mother of the bride, who has not only endured my calling her Babsie for the last twenty years, but will continue to do so for the duration of this loving tribute. My cup runneth over with gratitude and appreciation for this wonderful, whirling dervish of a woman. Yes, anyone familiar with our relationship knows that it has run the gamut from joyous to challenging and back again. Regardless, Babsie - you have been the most important influence and trusted person in my life. Perhaps that's why our love is fiery - fierce - our passions high. Thank you for always being the Mom I need. I love you.
Father of the Bride