Wedding Party
Sarah Van Brunt Schmitz
Maid of Honor
Clare's sister, with her infectious guffaws that can be heard 'round the world, never leaves a person hanging on the dance floor or misses a chance to have an in depth conversation over a margarita. Sarah taught Clare important life lessons like how to paint nails without smudging and how to give a finessed "I'm sorry!" wave after cutting someone off on the road. Together they have walked and talked for thousands of miles in a post-dinner tradition. She has been a constant source of love and support since the very beginning, and Clare is honored to have her come all the way from Zurich to be her Maid of Honor.
Andy Wells
Best Man
Andy. Andrew. Drew. Carrots. Doctor. These are just a few of the nicknames Brendan's Best Man answers to. But to Brendan, the most meaningful appellation has always been: Brother. Sharing a bedroom growing up, Brendan and Andy were peaceful and collaborative at all times, never fighting, never interfering in each other's lives, and never uttering a spiteful barb. In fact, it could be said that Andy's success in the medical field, his virtuosic piano skills, and his optimistic demeanor stem directly from how he was treated by his three older brothers. In short, Andy has been an example of strength and perseverance to those who know him, and a source of pride and love to Brendan.
Emily Van Brunt
Bridesmaid
Since meeting at a golden-themed birthday party (which also happened to be the same night Emily met Ted, but this is Clare's wedding site, so her meet cute takes precedence here) their relationship has remained...golden. Emily's quick humor, deep well of compassion, and their shared love of cooking have been a cherished mainstay in Clare's life. She bakes magazine-worthy delights, and will furnish a table with flowers both grown and arranged by herself in her own chicken-inhabited back yard. Goals!
Kevin Wells
Groomsman
The eldest Wells Brother, Kevin has played a foundational role in Brendan's life. Why does Brendan listen to old rock? Why does he cheer on the Hokies? How did he learn to refrain from arguing with his parents (okay, that one didn't fully take)? The answers are the same: Kevin Wells. Kevin is a man of integrity, a natural leader, and a great neighborhood football quarterback. At least when he throws it to Brendan.
Kylee Van Brunt
Bridesmaid
The Van Brunt family lucked out with the addition of Kylee. She is delightful and incredibly thoughtful, but will also slay you at the bowling ally, surprise you with her knowledge of Genuwine lyrics, and outwit you at almost any board game. Kylee is a person who will ask you questions about your life and genuinely (genuwinely?) listen and care about what's going on. She is a noticer: she will notice when help is needed, when something is your style, and when good things happen and need celebrating. She is a treasure, and one Clare dearly appreciates.
Jack Wells
Groomsman
The only Wells Brother who dared venture further west than Brendan, Jack is a man of courage and adventure. Equally comfortable training AI to take over the world, spending a summer in France without knowing the language, or living in a war zone "for work", Jack can turn any challenge into a strength. Jack has earned Brendan's respect through experiences such as these and many more. He's always made himself available to listen and provide sage advice to Brendan, even to the extent of correcting Brendan's French. Quel mec, quel frère!
Emily Taylor
Bridesmaid
Emily and Clare were roommates while they studied abroad in Barcelona, and quickly established their status as "lifers." Though her East Coast residence means they are more often than not apart, they have hopped flights together and have had adventures all over the globe (and they have plans to add many more to the list!). There is an endless list of things Clare loves and appreciates about Emily, but a few are her open ear, her strong sense of empathy, and her deep loyalty to her loved ones. Together, they have brought down the average ages at Bed and Breakfasts, various historical sites and museums (with relish), and never miss an opportunity to walk obscene distances in new cities. Clare is so grateful for her friend for life!
Sean Black
Groomsman
Whether flying a helicopter for the Marines or a plane built by his father-in-law, Sean is the kind of pilot we all wish for when the emergency door falls off mid-flight. A friend of Brendan's since their days at Paul VI High School in Fairfax, VA, a roommate for all 4 (ahem, 5) years at Virginia Tech, Brendan would not be the man he is today without the camaraderie, laughter, and integrity of Sean. They played on the same flag football team, the wildlyy successful Earholes, while at Virginia Tech, with Brendan running the offense and Sean the defense. Fraternities trembled in fear when we took the field against them. Some even let us beat them. Sean represents Brendan's Virginia cohort in the wedding party, and so will have big shoes to fill. However, there is little doubt he will rise to yet another challenge and pass with, dare it be said, flying colors.
Mary Herrmann
Bridesmaid
Mary and Clare met at summer camp and became pen pals (Mary's address was one of the three addresses Clare had memorized, the other two being her own and 1600 Pennsylvania Ave). As one of Clare's oldest and dearest, Mary possesses the treasure trove (lock box) of stories and pictures of the braces, butterfly clip, and Teen People-fueled era of Clare's life. Mary enjoys IPAs, Early 2000s jams, time with her family and friends, and spending nights on chaise lounges outside on November nights.* Mary has been a true champion for Clare, always giving encouragement and support. Laughing with Mary is one of Clare's favorite things! *These comments have not been verified. You should ask her.
Aaron Thuringer
Groomsman
Brendan and Aaron met one summer volunteering as mentors for an Arizona high school leadership program. Their first conversation consisted of dumb jokes and football talk. Needless to say, they've been friends ever since. Over the years, they've watched hundreds of hours of sports, sipped hundreds of cans of Miller Lite, and told the same inside jokes hundreds of times; each instance a memory! Aaron has been a close friend and confidant to Brendan through the many stages of his adult life. We even once talked about it. Aaron will represent all of Brendan's Arizona friends in the wedding party. So, if you see him at the ceremony in flip flops and a tee, that's just desert living. The rest of you don't have that excuse.