Maid of Honor
Claire and Chelsea met within the first few days of Freshman year at UNC-Charlotte. We were both apart of a learning community, where you took classes and lived around people in similar majors. Although immediate friendship didn’t spark back then, when we moved into our first off-campus apartment and found we were neighbors a few doors down our relationship blossomed. We shared many sushi dates, too many bottles of "chanty" and binged watching shows. Later we lived in Claire's condo together before she set off on her assignments as a traveling nurse. I've always admired Claire's ability to jump into a new situation and make the best of it. Claire has always been a loyal friend and devoted christian that keeps me grounded no matter how many miles away.
Best Man
Shane Gorth and Martin Decker began their friendship in early 2005. They bonded over many hours of video games and conversations around the table at Giaky’s parent's house. Shane bummed rides from Martin throughout college giving room for long conversations about life philosophy, girls, how the internet was constructed, and shoebox money. They spent the summer days hunting for pools and the nights partying, not much about that has changed. Martin was humble enough to provide Shane shelter for several months in Austin, TX in exchange for use of Shane's GTO--biking in Texas summers to work will make a man do crazy things. Shane has always been inspired by Martin's journey through this world and the man he has become. When you see him tell him to do a Martin size shot with you.
Bridesmaid
Our friendship grew over tacos and tequila at the Mexican restaurant we worked at during college. I have many memories of staying up late drinking wine and arguing politics until we had out talked ourselves. Renia is also from a country town outside of Charlotte, but I remember the first time visiting her house saying "WOW you really live out here, you have goats!" We love Renia for her huge heart, cheeky humor and ability to make any situation fun.
Groomsman
Spencer is Chelsea younger and “wiser” brother, currently located in Wilmington, NC. He is finishing his Master's in Aquatic Ecology. So, If you want to know anything about fishery and wildlife he's your man! We've had many adventures with him including whitewater rafting, hiking and beer festivals. Spencer loves to debate about anything and everything, so be sure to find him on the day if you’re up for a good conversation (that’s if you can keep up!)
Bridesmaid
Mary Elizabeth is Claire's younger and more stylish sister--Claire would agree. We lived together in the condo where she let me feed her nightly and practice my mothering skills on her. We've shared many venting sessions, reorganizing rooms and trashy reality TV marathons. Mary is one of the sweetest people I've ever met. She is always ready to give an honest opinion (even when you don't want to hear it), which makes her an excellent person to ask for advice. When we became roommates it was the beginning of a great friendship.
Groomsman
Shane and Eric met in business school as they studied for their masters in drinking. They bonded over the study of operational efficiency and making fun of their classmate Arun. Eric is known for his stupid decisions such as eating nearly 100 Taco Bell chalupas in order to win an Xbox, even though the amount of money to buy the chalupas cost about as much as the xbox. It was always hilarious to see him eat his cold chalupa since Taco Bell isn't anywhere close to Carnegie Mellon. These types of decisions lead to the nickname "Dumb Eric". Eric isn't really dumb at all, he is smart, super wise, and one of the friendliest people Shane has ever met--even if some of his choices are questionable.
Bridesmaid
Darrie and I met long before Shane and I started dating, Shane and Darrie were friends from high school. She has an infectious laugh and can always crack us up with her silly jokes. Darrie and I have found deeper connections through the years as we've both grown up and become mothers. In the end, we both like having a great night out, but our children now come first and there is nothing we would change about that.
Groomsman
Mario and Shane have been friends longer than anyone else in the party, meeting in Shane's 9th-grade Algebra II class. They bonded over many hours of video games and conversations around the table at Giaky’s parent's house. Mario was an inspiration for Shane returning to school and recently graduated with a law degree from Emory University. The two have shot tens of thousands of rounds of ammo together. If you want to have a good laugh tell him you are a Democrat from up North or out West that just moved to Charlotte.
Junior Bridesmaid
Our beautiful niece! She brightens our day with her SnapChats and video calls (we are unsure how she gets signal on Hoth). Maya is a great volleyball player and slime enthusiast. She is growing up to be an awesome young lady. Ask her about her adventures in Montana!
Flower Girl
Our beautiful 2 year old daughter with the sweetest soul you ever did meet. She will be the one twirling around on the dance floor!
Officiant
Giaky once told Shane that the first memory he had of him was Shane telling him to "F*** off" in the hallways of their high school. Chelsea and Giaky were neighbors in college and the reason Chelsea and Shane became friends. Over time he has grown close to both of them. Giaky and Chelsea shared several laughs and frustrations because of Shane's less attractive attributes as a roommate and boyfriend. It seems fitting that Giaky officiate the wedding as he is a great friend of both of them. Giaky is looking to do more weddings, so please reach out after the ceremony if you need a wedding officant.