Wedding Party
Carol Tran
Best Woman
"Cousins are our first friends." My first and best friends were indeed my cousins. Carol both embodies and is my connotation of the words "cousin" and "family." She's known me my entire life, so we've collectively gathered a lifetime of memories growing up. My first car-bound adventures in the world were in her blue Camry, once upon a time. She's introduced me to so many new, memorable experiences including but not limited to travel, music festivals/events, my first Coachella in 2012 and so much more, which has inspired me to be fearless and adventurous. Carol has always set the example of being nourishing, being good to those you love, especially family. From her, I learned generosity (we'll often physically make a scene over the check - I've taken a short break btw, Carol!), selflessness, unconditional love. She sets a very high bar in being the best cousin, aunt and friend, whom I can only aspire to be as great. She represents one of the rocks in my life, which is where I draw inspiration from to serve as a rock for those I surround myself with. She's always been there for me in my best and worst times. A challenging life lesson arose many moons ago, but she stepped up and helped me learn from it and recover. I am forever in her debt for this and a lifetime of her grace, a debt which Loanie will incur through our union! I'd write more about you if I had more space, but Carol, we love you dearly. We are both incredibly grateful and blessed to have you in our lives.
Lisa Nguyen
Maid of Honor
Christopher: I fondly reminisce the first times meeting Lisa, bonding over great food. We were sad that she moved to Seattle, but are ecstatic that there she had found a love of a lifetime. She's also known as Leesuh (I was introduced to her thinking this is how she spells her name). Loanie: It IS spelled Leesuh! Leesuh is the definition of carefree, supportive, and genuine friendship. It doesn't matter if we just had coffee yesterday, or if I haven't seen her in 221 days. I know if we're hanging out, good food (and/or coffee and/or ice cream) and amazing conversation will be involved. To think it all started at San Jose Community Church, when I was serving as a youth leader. Leesuh was the one keeping me in line. It was those spontaneous 9pm epiphanies that compelled us to all gather at Anh James' house to borrow his wagon and BBQ tools, rush to the nearest Safeway and load up on firewood, hotlinks, marshmallows and the like, then weave our way down to Santa Cruz for impromptu-but-equally-as-urgent bonfires. It's all the Seaside ham and cheese croissants, Thai tea and sand between our toes. All the coffee adventures and church projects. All the late night conversations that were rudely interrupted by the early mornings. It's her always-calm demeanor, adventure-ready attitude, that made this choice the easiest. So fortunate to have Leesuh as my Maid of Honor (a decision that was comically solidified many, many years ago) and so excited to introduce her to all of you!