Rachel & Noam
Wedding Party
Dakota Taylor
Bridesman
It all started back in sophomore year at La Canada High School. Dakota was the new kid in town, and we found ourselves sitting next to each other in algebra class. In no time, we hit it off and unknowingly began a friendship that has now spanned over 10 years (and counting!). Since graduation, Dakota and I have grown up together, witnessing each other through life's highs and lows. From grueling high school swim team practices to adventurous camping trips, visiting each other on opposite sides of California during college, and indulging in way too many late-night Taco Bell runs, we've shared countless memories. We even reconnected in San Francisco as roommates, where we shared some of our most unforgettable moments together. Through it all, Dakota has been a constant presence in my life—always there when I need him, and always by my side. I'm so excited to continue having him as my best friend and partner in crime!
Herki Anto
Groomsman
I first met Herki in 2020, during the height of the pandemic, through his wife Sarah. From the start, we hit it off over our shared love of music, movies, stand-up comedy, and a good cocktail. Over time, Herki became one of my closest friends and my go-to concert buddy—especially for those shows that were a little too "emo" for Rachel or Sarah. When Herki and Sarah lived in San Francisco, we saw each other almost weekly, making so many unforgettable memories. From an impromptu trip to Las Vegas, unforgettable nights at Gestalt with Fernando (also a groomsman!), to a hilariously disastrous trip to see Louis CK in Stockton, Herki has been a huge part of my life. Now that he and Sarah have moved back to Europe, it truly means the world to have them both here to celebrate with Rachel and me. Having Herki by my side on this special day is a reminder of all the amazing moments we’ve shared, and I’m incredibly grateful to have him as part of this celebration.
Clare Chang
Bridesmaid
I met Clare during my first big college internship at Hulu, where I found myself sitting next to her desk. We instantly bonded over our shared Taiwanese heritage, a love for traveling the world, and a mutual obsession with "The Amazing Race." We also quickly discovered a shared passion for trying out new restaurants, visiting art museums, and even playing strategic board games like Catan (though our partners may say we can get a bit too competitive at times). Though we now live in different cities, Clare and I continue to stay connected and remain close. Whether it's just chatting about random things throughout the work day or being there for one another during hard times, Clare has become not just one of my closest friends, but truly a sister to me. Clare and her husband, Ross, have been unwavering supporters and constant cheerleaders of mine in my career and in life. I was honored to stand by Clare as one of her bridesmaids at her wedding, and I’m beyond thrilled that she’s now standing by my side on this special day!
Shiv Kaul
Groomsman
I met Shiv during freshman year at UC Davis. At the time, I was a bit too focused on studying (and spending way too much time in my dorm), but Shiv and I quickly bonded over our shared dislike of our housemate. As the months went by, our friendship grew stronger, built on a mutual love of politics, movies, TV shows, concerts, and—of course—a good cocktail. Shiv became someone I saw multiple times a week throughout college. Whether it was grabbing a drink, venting about classes, or just hanging out, he was always there. Looking back, I honestly can’t imagine getting through my four years at Davis without him. He was a reliable friend, always ready to listen or offer support, and played a big part in making my college years memorable. Although Shiv now lives in India, we’ve stayed close through regular FaceTimes and texts. As I take this next step in life with Rachel, it wouldn’t feel complete without Shiv here to celebrate with us. I’m beyond grateful he made the journey all the way from India to be part of this special day.
Natalie Fowler
Bridesmaid
I met Natalie during our senior year at Pepperdine University, where we both studied Advertising. We instantly clicked and shared a bond that only grew stronger after graduation, when we found ourselves living together as roommates in our first apartment in Venice Beach. During that time, we created so many fun memories—Disneyland days, cozy movie nights with massive bowls of popcorn, and countless evenings out dancing at bars around Santa Monica. Those years were filled with laughter, adventure, and all the joy that comes from a friendship that feels more like family. Since I moved to San Francisco and Natalie moved to Santa Cruz, our friendship has continued to grow, fueled by weekend get-togethers and spontaneous trips whenever we can. I can always count on Natalie to brighten my day and bring a spark of spontaneity, adventure, and pure joy into my life. She is a constant source of positivity, and I’m so lucky to have her by my side, especially on this very special day.
Fernando Solis
Groomsman
I first met Fernando and his wife Lia in 2020 through some of their best friends, Sarah and Herki (also a groomsman!). Over the past few years, Fernando has become one of my closest confidants and most loyal friends. Whenever life has thrown a challenge my way, Fernando has always been there to listen and offer support. Our friendship has been built on more than just deep conversations; we’ve also had a blast together, bonding over our shared love of music, concerts, and great food and drinks. When Fernando, Lia, Herki, and Sarah all lived in the city, they quickly became my go-to crew for almost anything, and we found ourselves hanging out almost weekly, making countless memories. Although Fernando and Lia have since moved to Florida and settled into their new home, I feel incredibly lucky to have them both here today to celebrate with Rachel and me. I couldn’t be happier to have Fernando standing by my side as one of my groomsmen.
Lilo Wong-Samuels
Bridesmaid
Lilo and I found each other over 5 years ago, right before COVID changed everyone's lives forever. Though shy at times, she is a sweet and loyal girl. Lilo is a well traveled kitty and roommate. She has always been by my side, living in Los Angeles, Seattle and now, San Francisco. She is a cat who will always have a special place in my heart. Unfortunately, Lilo will not be in attendance at the wedding but is an honorary Bridesmaid and will be there in spirit!
Mai Tai Wong-Samuels
Groomswoman
Mai Tai is the latest addition to the Wong-Samuels family and came to us on January 2024. This curious but affectionate girl has added a new connection to our relationship. Although she likes to bother her sister Lilo, Mai Tai makes up her mischievous behaviour with endless purrs and cuddles. We're so happy to have adopted Mai Tai, marking another big moment and memory in our lives. Unfortunately, Mai Tai will not be in attendance at the wedding but is an honorary Groomswoman and will be there in spirit!