Annabelle & Phil
Wedding Party
Pam Puthoor
Bridesmaid
Abelle & I went to medical school together and then I tricked her into going to residency together and being roommates. She got me through the toughest years of training with lots of laughing (mostly at each other). She was my first friend to meet my now husband Derek, and she is still his favorite (isn't she most people's favorite?!). Derek & I live with our daughter Sona & dog Belukha in Vermont, we are excited to be relocating to Minneapolis. I'm happy that although Abelle tried to go as far away from me as possible, I am going to be cutting that distance in half. She has been a huge support to me and is one of the first people I go for advice. I feel privileged to be her friend and I'm excited to celebrate this wonderful woman and the very intelligent man who snatched her up!
Colin Glynn
Best Man
A long long time ago... I can still remember how Phil and I would sit around at school waiting for our parents to pick us up after dark. And I knew if I just had some guile, this thing we had could last a while. And maybe we'd be buddies outside of school. The cold wind it would make us shiver, as we did the homework we'd soon deliver. Then on through college and Bolton Hill, it turns out I was right about Phil. So I can't remember if I cried when I heard the news he'd soon take a bride. Something touched me deep inside, the day his lonely road died. So bye bye, to that bachelor lie. I'm coming to his wedding, and it better not be dry. Us good old boys will be drinking whiskey and rye, cause he'll soon be reborn, as a we not an I.
Christina Ching
Bridesmaid
I first felt the warmth of Annabelle’s kind spirit as she gave me reassuring encouragement as I performed CPR on a plastic mannequin prior to starting fellowship at Vanderbilt. There were only two of us in the CPR class (or maybe my memory only selectively remembers it being the two of us – a credit to how special Annabelle makes you feel!) and immediately I wanted to be friends with her. I spent 2 years with her in Nashville before moving to Columbus for my first real grown-up job in 12 years as a pediatric urologist. She was my running buddy – we ran the Nashville marathon together and have done other (shorter) races together. She has supported me through life transitions – flying to Italy for my wedding there. I feel so fortunate to get to celebrate her momentous occasion!
Josh Lieberman
Groomsman
I moved into my freshman dorm and discovered my neighbor was a whip-sharp, rail-thin, blue-haired fellow named Phil. We both had guitars, were interested in science and medicine, loved languages, and shared a birthday! Since then, we’ve each pursued the longest possible training paths we could imagine, supported each other through good, bad, and ugly, and built one of the most important friendships of my life. Phil and I eventually grew up and found brilliant partners who balance us. It’s been such a joy for me and my wife, Nicole, to get to know Annabelle. We’re thrilled that these two have found each other and look forward to many more adventures, yoga, and laughter together.
Mariel Marlow
Bridesmaid
Annabelle and Mariel met when they joined the CDC Epidemic Intelligence Service in 2015. Though assigned to different teams, they got to know each other better while deployed to Brazil as part of the Zika response, over many a caipirinha. At the same time, Phil and Annabelle's relationship was growing and Phil still owes Mariel for all her support and encouragement (jk, it was always going to work, Mariel just wants to feel included in the story). But what sealed the deal on their BFF story was traveling cross country in Annabelle's manual Honda Fit (with Mariel's future fiance who invited himself) and camping for 2.5 weeks, along her journey to join Phil on the west coast. Best. Trip. Ever.
Joe Schmaus
Groomsman
I’ve known Phil since high school, where we did band and debate, we were very cool. In college, Phil convinced me to join the sailing team. It was a lot of fun at the time, but more importantly, I think that’s why my wife started dating me. Thanks Phil! I live in Fort Worth, Texas with my wife and daughter where I flight test helicopters. No I’m not a pilot, I sit in the control room like those guys at NASA. Texas can be a little hot in the summer, so I’m really looking forward watching Phil officially settle down in one of the most pleasant places there is.
Yuna Rapoport
Bridesmaid
Yuna and Annabelle first met in Nashville on a blind girl date thanks to Elisabeth Pordes. Yuna, per protocol, showed up late. By now experienced with blind girl dates, Yuna knew a good thing when she saw it. Annabelle had it all - brains, fun, and the height Yuna was oh so lacking. In Annabelle she saw a potential rock climbing partner, someone to help her get the things off the high shelf, and a close friend. Their friendship evolved over the climbing gym, fine dining, and conversations on porch stoops. In fact, Yuna attempted to invite herself along the fateful night when Annabelle and Phil met on their own blind date, insisting “it was a group event!” Luckily Annabelle objected, Phil and Annabelle’s love affair evolved without any assistance or intervention, and here we are today!
Matt Fowle
Groomsman
Hi I'm Matt. Phil had to write this blurb for me, because all I gave him was: "I'm so bad at this sorry. 'Hi I'm Matt and I like computers'. Can you send me examples?" Phil sent examples, but Matt never quite wrote any more. Nevermind - for the legends of the adventures of Matt and Phil resound through the ages, from ill-advised and ill-digested New Year's ski trips in the rain, to biking 150 miles to Pittsburgh and back in 2 days (on Phil's second date with Annabelle). Wedding on!!
Jen Wolford
Bridesmaid
I remember seeing Abelle's name on the residency Match List, thinking "wow, that's quite a name and from Latrobe!" We met on her first rotation (a decade ago!) and have been friends ever since. Through many nights/weekends working together, I learned to be a better doctor- be it through her clinical prowess or her kind patient compassionate perspective. Our trip to Oaxaca holds a special place in my heart. Gratefully, even though we booked a hotel in the wrong city for our arrival, took dramamine and woke up in a dark bus garage, and signed up for surf/diving lessons from a shirtless guy named Tito - we returned safely to the U.S! I'm grateful that she stood beside me for my wedding (married a man from Latrobe - I LOVE THAT PLACE!) and honored to stand in support of her and Phil.
Richard Bourne
Groomsman
I know Phil from college, introduced by Joe Schmaus. We ended our first year scared half to death in a grocery store soda aisle near Six Flags. Later I basically lived with Phil for a year, or at least in a house right next door. We drifted after college, me to Asia and Phil back to Baltimore for more school. Never one to let med school keep him from living life, Phil took out a few extra student loans to visit me in Beijing and ended up with a chimpanzee hand transplant. When Annabelle first came to LA, she and Phil dropped by my house. She brought me leftover, fermented worm larva stew and then tried to say she was not a nice person. Other than bringing people horrible bug soups, I’ve found that not to be true, and she seems to be a perfect match for Phil.
Heideh Matterson
Bridesmaid
Dropped in the tornado of internship, I can't recall when I met Annabelle. By the time we were on the same team, we were good friends holding back giggles at inappropriate times. Already a Yinzer, she taught us all the cool things to do in Pittsburgh. But, more importantly, she remains one of the most kind, empathetic, open-minded, and supportive friends I've ever had. Her sense of humor is witty, silly and just the right amount of self deprecating, solidified by the most wonderful laugh. After residency, life took me to London where I married my soccer-loving, cycling enthusiast English hubby after years of being apart. We settled in NYC and now we are a family of 4 with a fun & chaotic life. I am so happy for my amazing friend to marry an amazing man. Let the party begin!
Jason Gradin
Groomsman
I first met Phil in our all-boys catholic high school. When we weren't memorizing college-level trivia or being ostracized by gen pop, we were often in the art room, drawing yet another arrangement of old fruit. Our art teacher was an uncouth eccentric who would interrupt valuable fruit drawing time with tales of beating up conscientious observers as a Nam-era MP, or how best to draw the human penis. Valuable life lessons we still use to this day. Phil and I also went to college together, but our paths have since diverged very much. But over these years... decades - Phil has always insisted we stay friends. So I am very much looking forward to this entire wedding. Phil and Annabelle are two of my kindest and dearest friends, and I wish you both the very best.
Jamin Burdett
Usher
I remember first getting to know Phil in middle school orchestra. We played the same little-known instrument, in the same little-known town, and our contretemps for first chair were mostly friendly. 25 years later, I’m willing to concede he was maybe half a notch better at playing the euphonium. By no means am I saying this to be gracious in light of his impending nuptials. Nope. That is definitely *not* what’s happening. You know what, let’s just move on. Phil and I remained friends despite his decades wandering in the wilderness, because he’s the kind of guy for whom K.I.T. is more than a yearbook cliché. Phil, I’m proud of you and all you’ve accomplished, I love you like a brother, and I’m absolutely thrilled to welcome Annabelle to the tribe. Cheers!
Bill Anderson
Usher
Soon into our intern year, Annabelle went from being a co-resident to my often goofy, but always supportive, motivating, and inspiring, adopted French sister. Annabelle clearly cannot get enough of the Andersons in her life as she also lived with my sister. Nowadays, our “family reunions” are typically celebrated over gobbleritos. Annabelle was my unexpected guide to so many first adventures in my life — traveling out of the country, skiing, navigating a road bike in a city, and my first (almost) exposure to Ebola. And somehow, I managed to survive. Annabelle introduced me to Phil when they visited me on an “epic” ski trip to Colorado, where I currently live. I quickly realized Phil was Annabelle's perfect match — both on and off the slopes. I am so excited to celebrate with them!
Greg de St Maurice
Brother of the Bride
Greg. Annabelle's brother. Older brother, even if I do look younger XD When I first met Annabelle, I carried her by the skin of her neck to show her off because in pre-school I learned that that's how cats carry their babies. Now she's a dog person. Go figure. If you find yourself waiting in line near me, tell me a story that involves my favorite things: travel and food or drink. Extra points if you include a recipe or a restaurant recommendation. You can find me on Instagram at g_d_s_m
Marc de St Maurice
Brother of the Bride
I was born kicking and screaming on a lonely morning just before the eighties hit Wall Street like a brick of coke. Though Annabelle appeared later in my life, I feel like I have know her from birth (hers). Growing up with Annabelle during the decade of Reagan and junk bonds was an experience to be had. She is like a sister to me, and I can unequivocally say that I have taught everything she now knows about Nintendo and pogo balls. In all seriousness, I am truly glad that she has found a partner in Phil,🍾.
Loute de St. Maurice
Mother of the Bride
We were blessed with two boys. And Arthur was sure we would have another one. Surprise Annabelle arrived! We were very happy. Then Arthur was worried: "I did not know little girls were so special." Maybe he spoiled her but not too much. Anyway her brothers would bother her quite a bit so she is okay. We are happy to welcome Philip into our family.
Barbara Slavinsky
Mother of the Groom
I met Philip for the first time on an ultrasound. He was moving around so much that the tech couldn't get a still picture. He kicked while I taught Spanish, slept, studied. And this guy never stopped, and uses his energy for so many good things and some fun, too. I had wanted daughters instead of sons, and then was pleasantly surprised. Besides, maybe one day they would give me "daughters". Well, I just loved Annabelle in the first 5 minutes we met. I couldn't be happier for me - er, for Philip - for her charm, intelligence, kindness, and achievements. I am honored to have her as my daughter-in-law. No pressure on having grandchildren, BTW. No pressure. Absolutely no pressure. Did I mention no pressure on grandkids?
Jose Brazio
Musician and Father of the Groom
I first met Philip on April 3, 1983, in a delivery room at Stanford University Hospital. As you might have surmised by now, I am Philip's father. Since then I've had the pleasure of seeing Philip develop into a really nice gentleman, albeit with a somewhat accelerated metabolism. (In less formal words, occasionally he can become a little of a pain in the neck, so to speak, but usually easy to take care of.) A couple of years ago Philip turned up in Portugal in the company of a delightful young lady, Annabelle her name, and it did not take too long to get the feeling that the two seemed to have been born for each other. I will therefore be very happy to be present at a soon-to-take-place celebration sending them off into a lifetime of earthly bliss.
Chris Greenman
Musician
A decade back, Chris and Annabelle hung in the attic of Menlo, pretending to study for Ace, but really just watching indi-flicks and contemplating how to get home in the snow. From the tundras of Rochester to the urban garden of LA, Chris went, landing at Cuban eatery (named for a French chateaux) for questionable drinks with Phil. Phil and Chris share a love of cigars, but have differing opinions on approach: scalpel versus needle to achieve the best cure.
Kate Diaz
Reader
Kate and Annabelle met in medical school in Rochester, NY. They were founding members of the Menlo Place dinner & running club which kept them happy & healthy even while studying a lot. They have shared many adventures including running the Cleveland & Twin Cities marathons, going on safari in the Okovongo Delta, and countless late night talks (usually with cheese & wine). Annabelle is godmother to Kate’s daughter Grace (6 yrs.) and has promised to teach her the secrets to speaking French and being a smart, active, successful, happy woman! Kate can’t wait to meet Phil (beyond his video clips from the bachelorette party) & celebrate he & Annabelle’s love in July!!
Sahar Kohanim
Instigator of Honor
It’s an honor to be included in Annabelle and Phil’s website. They are two of the most special, kind, selfless, genuine people I know. I met Phil over 14 years ago when we were both medical students. He taught me many basic life skills like how to parallel park in Baltimore. He is like a little brother to me. Annabelle and I met in Nashville when we were stuck in biostatistics class together. My foot was in a cast and her arm was in a sling, so we instantly connected. She is brilliant and beautiful inside and out, but also has such a big heart and is so selfless and kind. I knew with statistical certainty that they would be the perfect match. I tagged them on a salad dressing recipe on Facebook and the rest is history!!!
Katie Rizzone
Officiant
Katie has developed urticarial reactions to dogmas, preferring to live by the Golden Rule. Her favorite church is the Narrows in Zion. Katie first met Annabelle the summer before their MPH at Vandy. In fact, they met at least 3 times before AB realized it. Katie first met Phil through social media after AB causally mentioned she was going on a first date with him. Katie obviously immediately hunted down Phil’s page and determined he did not have a phenotype of an ax murderer. Katie lives in Rochester, NY in an old house that seems determined to keep life interesting. She is married to someone who tolerates her idiosyncrasies well and they have 3 children, Ben, Sam & Violet. They parent well together by doing a lot family singalongs to the Stones’ “You Can’t Always Get What You Want”.
Arlo
Spirit Animal
I first met Annabelle and Phil when I was living in Inglewood at a neat hotel with lots of other dogs (where they shaved me and made me take nasty medicines, but at least I don't have fleas and worms anymore). Now I live at their house and my main job is to make sure invaders don't come in. I also take care of sidewalk trash by trying to eat it. They're pretty good at snuggling and giving me treats, although there are a lot of rules. It seems to amuse them to make me do things for food. Which, you know, no problem. I do think I've finally taught them to play throw and tug o' war properly. Anyway I'm looking forward to eating treats and trash and generally being a nuisance at the wedding!