Matron of Honor
Clarissa and I spent our childhood summers together at the Kings River; putting on fake tattoos, going on early morning ski rides, and competing over who made the best s'mores. While we had very different passions to chase as we grew up, we somehow grew to love many of the same things as adults. Today we chose to adventure together; spearfishing, backpacking, canyoneering, sleeping in a yurt and summiting mountains are just a few of the many adventures we've shared. These trips are never short on good drinks, food, or laughs. My friend is a true rockstar in every sense of the word and I'm lucky to have her helping me run the show.
Best Man
We met at soccer tryouts when we were nine years old. Adrian introduced himself and we began passing the ball back-and-forth, laughing and talking story. This routine continued through our high-school years and even now as adults. We share the same passions in life and we continue to push each other into new outdoor pursuits. If we're not planning the next adventure, we're comparing notes about outdoor gear, techniques and reliving stories of the one that got away. Adrian's outgoing personality and keen sense of humor keeps everyone in the room howling with laughter. As someone that has been there for the good, the bad and the ugly and always seems to keep everyone positive through it all, Adrian was the best man to have my back.
Bridesmaid
Randi and I met at our first club soccer tryouts when we were ten years old. She was one of the few players that wasn't from Upland but it didn't take us long to become friends. We shared the drive to win no matter what and a love for water skiing all day when were weren't on the field. Randi was the first friend I brought to the Kings River with me and one of the few people I've ever enjoyed a double ski ride with. Randi ended up transferring to Upland High School and over the years found we several ways to get in and out of trouble together. Even through college we found time to keep in touch with our busy soccer schedules. No matter how much time passes between our hangouts, it seems like no time has passed at all. Watch out Nicaragua, we will be on the loose once again!
Groomsman
Robby and Brent grew up across the street. Our crew was together all day, everyday, playing outside and finding new ways to have fun. Robby, the eldest of the crew, always had a sense for adventure. He would bring a crazy idea to the crew, we'd encourage him thinking that some excitement would ensue and he would get to work. A few days later after tinkering he would create his plan. One day he had an idea to build a zip line from tree to tree in the neighborhood. We all laughed, thinking... sketchy! The next day when we got home from school, we found a zip line stretching 80 feet from tree to tree with Robbie harnessed 30 feet up. Sketchy idea complete! Now a commercial airline pilot, when Robbie's around, please fasten your seat belt!
Bridesmaid
Mara and I met thanks to Clarissa. She considered us her two "athletic" friends but she never imagined us getting along so well. I met Mara when Clarissa brought her to the Kings River during one of our yearly camping trips. We were about 12 years old and instead of competing with each other like Clarissa thought, we became and unstoppable team with one another. It's a good thing that Clarissa is a good sport because most of the time Mara and I ended up driving her crazy with our wild ideas. I enjoy that Mara is as competitive as I am at every game we play. Even when things are not a game, we find a way to make a competition out of it. No idea is ever too crazy for her and I couldn't imagine going on this wedding adventure without her.
Groomsman
Another part of the childhood crew and the younger brother of Robby, Brent has been there since day one. Brent, a bit more reserved than his brother, is a canny observer with a witty sense of humor. Growing up, Brent and I would spend hours outside skateboarding, trying to learn new tricks. One particular summer, while their Mom's home was being remodeled and stacks of fresh 2x4's and sheets of plywood were neatly stacked on the side of the house, we decided we needed a new ramp. We discussed design, drew plans and by Sunday afternoon we were jumping off our new ramp! We all howled in laughter at the pissed construction crew on Monday! Moments like these made our childhood and Brent kept us laughing throughout!
Bridesmaid
I've always thought that a sign of a good friend is a good nickname. This is exactly the case for my friend Cobb Cobbler. We began our teaching careers together at Summit Intermediate seven years ago. After a couple of years of teaching together Cobb told me she wanted to go to the climbing gym with us. I didn't think she was serious but eventually she made it to the gym. I wasn't sure if she was having fun but she went back many more times. Eventually I had Cobb climbing outdoors, fishing, backpacking, and peeing in the wilderness. We have had lots of adventures together over the years and Nicaragua will be one more to add to the list. Make sure you wish her a Happy Birthday on our wedding day!