WEDDING PARTY

CASSIE - MATRON OF HONOR

Neither of us remembered our first meeting—in 2012 at a christian retreat the summer before I started at the University of Wisconsin - Platteville. Years later, I found notes from that week and realized we’d sat at the same workshop table. At Platteville, we really “clicked” after I moved to Morrow Hall in my second semester. Late nights on the hall floor, Bible study, making mailboxes for positive messages, and pranking the guys’ wing cemented our friendship.

Cassie and I understand the challenges of distance—even when I’m in the U.S., we’re four hours apart—but we’re committed to showing up for each other, even when it’s hard. She’s my processing partner, someone who knows the good, the bad, and the ugly. Her wisdom helps me re-center, and her joy in the little things inspires me. Despite our different backgrounds, we’re on this journey together, sharing where we’re at and finding comfort in how our lives, though unique, often share similar struggles.

REINAERT

Both Reinaert and I were getting fed up with Facebook Marketplace while searching for co-housing. He was overwhelmed with applications for an apartment he wanted to share on Drabstraat, and I was messaging people who never responded. Thankfully, I decided to follow up two weeks after my initial message, which led to a 30-minute video call. During the call, I learned a few things about Reinaert: he’s an introvert, has a sister (and a brother), loves board games, and—most importantly—had two cats, Kumo and Momo. It sounded like an ideal setup to me.

When I arrived in Belgium, Reinaert became an incredible source of support, helping me navigate the culture and transition. He’s been patient, kind, and non-judgmental—especially during my burnout—and I’ve come to appreciate his steady presence. We’ve also learned to respect each other’s different perspectives, even when it comes to political opinions. Over the last 3 years, we’ve had countless conversations—some deep, others completely random (like scrolling through a seemingly endless list of 2024 movies and realizing only a few seemed worth watching). Whether I am working from home or coming back from the office, I’ve always appreciated his listening ear and do my best to be there in return.

SARAH

Though Sarah and I haven’t spent a lot of time together yet, I’ve come to admire her strength, intelligence, and grace. She’s someone who can navigate challenging situations with perseverance and maturity while still staying true to herself. Sarah’s adventurous and fun spirit makes her a joy to be around, and her take-charge attitude is always delivered with kindness and thoughtfulness.

In our shared journey of marrying into the same family, I’ve found a wonderful ally in Sarah. She inspires me to stay grounded, keep boundaries when needed, and approach even the most perplexing situations with compassion and understanding. I couldn’t be more grateful to have Sarah standing by my side as I say “I do.”

MELINA

I met Melina on William and my fifth date, and since then, she has been present for so many of our key memories—often capturing them in beautiful photos for us. Melina has a vibrant energy and a warm heart. She always makes sure that those around her feel welcomed, cared for, and included. Her enthusiasm and excitement for William and me have meant so much, and her constant support of our relationship has been truly special.

Over the past few years, Melina and I have shared so many unforgettable memories—like loving life at Tomorrowland—and have supported each other through life’s highs and lows. Her fun-loving spirit, loyalty, and positivity make her such a joy to be around.

EDWARD - BEST MAN

Edward isn’t just my older brother—he’s the guy who made sure I always had a place at the table, even if that table was surrounded by his much cooler friends. Born on October 6, 1992, Edward has been paving the way for me since day one.

Our bond started on an athletics field, a basketball court, and anywhere else we could turn competition into camaraderie. Sports may have been our first connection, but over the years, our adventures expanded beyond athletics to epic travels and, let’s just say, “cultural exploration.” Whether it was discovering new cities, swapping stories over a pint in London, or turning an ordinary night in Copenhagen into an (un)forgettable adventure, Edward’s been my partner in crime and inspiration through it all.

He recently completed a trip around the world, proving he’s not only a master of adventure but also a walking reminder that sibling-calls are mandatory no matter the time zone. Edward, thank you for the endless laughs, memories, and the perfect mix of guidance and chaos—you’ve earned the title of Best Man a thousand times over.

AUGUSTIN

Augustin hails from the charming village of Louveignée, but it didn’t take long for our paths to cross and for him to leave a mark on my life. We first met in an introductory class before our big business school adventure in London, and from that moment, it was clear: this was going to be a friendship for the ages. Naturally, we decided the only logical step was to live together in London—and what a decision that was.

Our time in London was so unforgettable that we decided to double down and do it all over again in San Francisco for the second part of our dual degree program. From brewing beer to late-night laughs (and maybe a few tears), Augustin became the co-pilot in one of the most exciting journeys of my life. Together, we embraced every challenge, pushing each other to grow into better versions of ourselves.

What I admire most about Augustin is his unwavering determination to take life into his own hands. No matter the obstacle, he’s always up for the adventure, ready to turn a hurdle into an opportunity. Augustin, thank you for being more than a friend—for being a brother, a motivator, and proof that the best decisions in life often start with a “why not?”

JULIUS

Julius and I go way back to high school, where we bonded over something few students could relate to: studying Greek. Although he’s two years younger, the small group of Greek students meant our paths naturally crossed, and I couldn’t be more grateful for that.

Julius has been a pivotal figure in my life. He’s the kind of friend who encourages you to step into the spotlight and embrace who you are. With his support and friendship, I found the confidence to grow from a quieter, more reserved version of myself into someone who’s ready to take on the world as my own person. His knack for bringing people together has often made him the glue in friend groups, and he’s been a constant, grounding presence in my life ever since we met.

We share a passion for good whisky, Ireland, and conversations that go far beyond the surface. Some of my best memories are with Julius in Ireland, where we turned pubs into second homes, bantered with locals like we’d known them for years, and somehow left with more friends than we started with. Whether it’s whisky-fueled debates about life or late-night escapades that belong in a novel, Julius brings a sense of adventure to everything we do.

Julius, thank you for your friendship, your wisdom, and for always inspiring me to be my best self.

XAVIER

When I was living in Copenhagen, Julius asked, “Have you met Xavier? Can I bring him along?” At the time, I hadn’t—but by the end of that trip, I knew I’d met someone who would become a lifelong friend.

Some of our best memories are from nights at Sioux, a tiny club in Ghent with a questionable playlist of 90s hits and just enough space to dance terribly. It didn’t matter—those nights were legen - wait for it - dary. Xavier has always been the Barney to my Ted, bringing the fun and pulling me out of my head when life got heavy. Whether it’s a night of laughs, ridiculous banter, or a wild adventure, he’s the guy who reminds me to suit up and just enjoy the ride.

What I admire most about Xavier is how effortlessly he connects with people. He’s invited me into his world without hesitation and accepted me, flaws and all. Over the years, we’ve grown; sharing goals, ambitions, and plenty of high-fives along the way.

Xavier, thank you for being the bro everyone dreams of, a friend everyone needs, and proof that the best adventures start with, “Have you met Xavier?”