Julie & James
Wedding Party
Rachel Darwicki
Maid of Honor
I have known Rach since 6th grade. We went to middle school, high school, and ultimately nursing school together. We have lived together for five years, and during that time become like family. Nobody has seen me at lower lows or higher highs than Rachel, and thank God for that, because I’m not sure if anyone else could have kept up. She will forever feel like a piece of who I am, and I’m so thankful for her.
Elisa Torell
Bridesmaid
Elisa is James’ sister and the extra gift I didn’t know I was getting. I have learned while getting to know Elisa that she asks the best questions. She is a deep well of peace and joy, and she’s so easy to talk to that you could easily feel like you’ve known her all your life. Elisa is so kind and full of life, and she bravely challenges herself to new things. We have been known to sign up for obstacle course races together or take tennis lessons taught by old hippies. She’s the sister I never had, and truly such a great friend.
Marisa Smith
Bridesmaid
I met Marisa in sixth grade and we have been friends ever since. I always knew her as “Missy” but we’re sophisticated adults now so I try not to call her that. Sometimes I just cut to the chase and call her Mimi and nobody’s feelings get hurt. Marisa has always been effortlessly cool, and such a good time. As we got older I also learned that she’s poised and has great taste haha. I love my witty friend that can be so funny but also deeply caring. To know her is to love her.
Sarah Stafford
Bridesmaid
Sarah and I have been friends since middle school, and have had some really amazing times together growing up. She is a good friend and I’ve grown to see that she’s extremely loyal. Sarah would give you the shirt off of her back or go to the emergency vet for you if you couldn’t make it. (Sounds oddly specific because that’s exactly what I’ve seen her do). I am lucky to have grown up around someone that is as committed to her friends as Sarah.
Clare Callahan
Bridesmaid
Clare and I met when we were in the sixth grade and decided we liked each other so much that we wound up living together in Athens. Clare is one of the most tenacious people I’ve ever known, and it has been a joy to navigate life with her. She has some of the best stories I’ve ever heard and the only person who’s been to more places in the world than her is my Jamesy. I am so glad to know Clare, she makes me better.
Emily Bornstein
Bridesmaid
Emily and I met at Piedmont where we both work. She is a breath of fresh air and she understands me when a lot of people can’t. She listens without judgment and gives me the space to grow and become better. That’s a really good thing too, because a few years ago we trained for a half marathon together and she listened to me prattle on for mile after mile about James Torell from Georgia Lung and how I thought I was probably going to marry him somehow.