David Witkop
Melissa Shebat
David Witkop
Melissa Shebat
January 30, 2025
How We Met
Our story unfolds in the spring of 2021 at Red Rocks Church in Austin, TX. David was part of the worship team where he merged his talent on the drums with his love for Jesus. Melissa was a regular attendee and quickly became part of this community where she met some lifelong friends. Our worlds collided in the church lobby. Our initial conversation was brief and tentative, yet there was an undeniable spark. David continued to approach Melissa in the lobby, sparking conversation. The interest deepened and David quickly asked her out. Smitten, Melissa accepted, and their first date surpassed all expectations. It was an evening full of laughter and the joy of discovering lots of mutual interests. Time seemed to stand still for hours as we continued to talk while the restaurant closed around us. In the days and weeks that followed, our relationship quickly blossomed. We found someone we could both be profoundly deep and delightfully silly with. During the next two years on our dating journey, we savored countless joyful moments together and steadfastly stood by each other through challenging times. Our reliance on family and community support and a shared faith in Jesus empowered us to navigate life's complexities, emerging even closer on the other side. We are truly each other’s best friends and soulmates. We have a love that is deep, joyful, and filled with the kind of understanding and laughter that comes from truly knowing and cherishing one another. There is no better feeling than marrying your best friend!
RSVP
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Schedule
Saturday, October 26, 2024
Rehearsal Dinner
5:00 pm
1711 Clubhouse Rd, Reston, VA 20190
Cocktail
Rehearsal for the wedding party starts at 3 PM, followed by a rehearsal dinner at 5pm to celebrate David and Melissa!
Sunday, October 27, 2024
Ceremony & Reception
3:00 pm - 10:00 pm
1133 Reston Ave, Herndon, VA 20170
Reception to follow: Raspberry Plain Manor 16500 Agape Ln, Leesburg, VA 20176 Black-Tie Optional
Registry
Amazon Registry
Travel
Flight
Washington Dulles (IAD)
Washington Dulles (IAD) - closest airport to the ceremony and reception. Washington Reagan International (DCA) - a bit further but another great option
Train
Washington Metro
The D.C. Metro serves the greater Washington, D.C. area, connecting key locations such as Dulles Airport, Reston, Tysons, and prominent sites near the National Mall. It offers a convenient way to navigate the region and explore its many attractions.
Hotel
The Westin Reston Heights
Hotel Room Block Link
Hotel
Hampton Inn & Suites Herndon-Reston
Hotel Room Block Link
Hotel
SpringHill Suites Herndon Reston
Hotel Room Block Link
Things To Do
Reston Town Center
Local town center near the hotels for all things food, drinks and shopping!
National Mall
Stroll through the heart of Washington, D.C. and see iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol. A walk here, especially in the evening when the monuments are lit, is truly unforgettable.
Smithsonian Museums
Explore the world-renowned Smithsonian museums such as the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of American History, and the National Museum of Natural History. Admission is free!
Georgetown
Enjoy charming cobblestone streets, upscale boutiques, and waterfront dining in one of D.C.’s oldest and most historic neighborhoods.
Arlington National Cemetery
Pay respects and witness the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This deeply moving ceremony is a must-see. This happens every hour, on the hour, regardless of weather.
International Spy Museum
Dive into the intriguing world of espionage at the International Spy Museum in Washington, D.C. This unique museum offers interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and immersive simulations that reveal the secretive lives and skills of spies. Perfect for history buffs and adventure seekers alike, it's an exciting exploration of global intelligence and espionage.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C., offers a profound and moving experience as it preserves the memory of Holocaust victims. Through powerful exhibits and personal narratives, the museum educates visitors about the horrors of the Holocaust and promotes understanding and vigilance against hatred, prejudice, and genocide. A visit here is not just educational but also a solemn reminder of the importance of human rights.
Museum of the Bible
Discover the fascinating history and impact of the Bible at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C. This innovative museum features immersive exhibits, ancient artifacts, and interactive experiences that explore the Bible's narrative, its unique stories, and its profound influence on the world. Whether you're interested in history, art, or culture, the Museum of the Bible offers a rich, engaging experience for all visitors.
Old Town
Discover historic charm with a visit to Old Town Alexandria, featuring well-preserved buildings, a plethora of unique shops, and waterfront views. Don't miss out on trying some local seafood!
Mount Vernon
Tour George Washington's beautiful estate, gardens, and museum. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the life of America’s first president. This estate is also located on the Potomac River.
Stone Tower Winery
Stone Tower Winery offers a stunning, family-owned estate that focuses on producing high-quality wines. The winery sits atop Hogback Mountain, providing breathtaking views. Visitors can enjoy a range of tastings in their elegant tasting room or on the expansive outdoor terraces.
Stone Tower Winery
Bluemont Vineyard
Wedding Party
Hannah Shebat
Matron of Honor
It’s hard to imagine the Shebat family without Hannah! She truly feels like a sister to me, and I couldn't envision this special day without her right by my side. She became my first friend in Austin when I moved here seven years ago, back when she and John were just dating. I am beyond grateful that John met her and married her, because now I get to have her in my life forever. Hannah is loyal, incredibly fun, and her love for Jesus and others is truly inspiring. She's snazzy, goofy, loving, and the best dog mom to my favorite fur babies, Flizzard!
Daniel Witkop
Best Man
Words cannot describe how thankful I am for Daniel and I's relationship that has been formed through years of brotherly conflict on and off the basketball court, international trips full of adventure, endless amounts laughing from dead-pan humor, and most importantly, a shared love for Jesus. Despite being 3 years younger than me, I am constantly looking up to Daniel for his maturity and Christ-centered wisdom that far exceeds his age. I am so excited and honored to have Daniel standing beside me at the altar and to continue growing deeper in our friendship through the rest of life's big moments.
Quinn Shebat
Bridesmaid
Quinn and I go way back to high school, where she and my brother became high school sweethearts. I am beyond grateful to have her in my bridal party. It was definitely high time Chris put a ring on it! Quinn is loyal, steady, and kind—but watch out when she's playing games; she's a Pictionary savant. Having grown up with only brothers, I feel incredibly blessed to now have a sister in Quinn. She's the perfect addition to the Shebat squad!
John Shebat
Groomsman
As a fellow Austin, TX resident, I am very thankful to not only gain a brother-in-law, but also a fast friend in John. After racing down the ski slopes, playing on the same basketball team, and wrestling with his two doodles, I have realized John and I share the same love for competition and physical activity. John is genuine, kind, humble, and makes you feel like you're the only person in the room while talking to him. I'm ecstatic to have John as a groomsman, brother-in-Christ, and brother-in-law.
Sarah Witkop
Bridesmaid
Marrying David not only brings me a loving husband but also the wonderful gift of a sister in Sarah! I feel incredibly fortunate to be gaining another sister. Sarah is kind, selfless, and full of love. Above all, her devotion to Jesus is wholehearted and truly inspiring—it makes you yearn to deepen your own faith. Sarah has always felt like family and I can't wait to make it official!
Chris Shebat
Groomsman
I naturally gravitated towards Chris even from the first time meeting him. Chris's cool, calm, and collected demeanor makes everyone feel welcomed and anybody that has had a conversation with Chris will be able to recognize his genuine interest in the other person. I am able to relate with Chris over a shared appreciation for the skills gained and the long-hours worked at Big 4 accounting firms and I have so much respect for his level of determination and drive that has kept him there for all these years. Thanks for welcoming me so well into the Shebat family, Chris!
Jeannie Suddreth
Bridesmaid
Jeannie is one of my truest, longest, and most steadfast friends! We've navigated countless life changes and transitions together, and she has always been right there by my side. As a child who was always on the go, eager for the next fun adventure, Jeannie was my constant companion. We share countless childhood memories, from crafting dollhouses to secretly devouring entire pans of brownies without my mom’s knowledge. Jeannie holds a special place in my heart, and I've always imagined her as a bridesmaid ever since I was a little girl. Now, we get to make that dream a reality!
Mike Shebat
Groomsman
If you ever need a story told in the most entertaining, animated, and hilarious way, Mike is your guy. When Mike is in the room, you're always in for a good time. With Mike's charismatic personality, incredibly strong work ethic, and sharp intellect, it's no wonder he has built an incredible successful startup company. At the same time, I have had the pleasure to get to know Mike enough to see the loving, goofy, and fun person behind the CEO title. I am excited to join a family with you in it, Mike!
Camille Jewell
Bridesmaid
Camille is the kind of friend who will drop everything to fly halfway across the country to be with you—through the highs, the lows, and everything in-between. She loves Jesus faithfully and always guides me back to Him. Camille is truly one of a kind. Her loyalty and warmth light up every room, and her ability to listen and truly understand makes her an irreplaceable part of my life. Her empathy is unmatched! We've laughed till our sides hurt, cried on each other's shoulders, and supported each other through every pivotal moment. As we've grown and evolved, our friendship has only deepened. I am so blessed to have Camille by my side.
Opi Abeysekera
Groomsman
I had no idea that the person I met on Roomi (roommate finder app), would quickly evolve into one of my best friends. In exchange for being the #2 go-to hand model for his Austin Food Heads Instagram account, I have gained a workout partner, co-worker, and neighbor that will without a doubt be a lifelong friend. Opi is loyal, kind, selfless, determined, and always dependable. With Opi's wedding a month before ours, we are so grateful to be going through this season at the same time as him and his fiancèe, Nicolette, and we can't wait to continue to do life with them right around the corner.
Tess Barns
Bridesmaid
My true soulmate. How did I go all these years without meeting Tess! The moment we crossed paths, it felt like destiny had finally brought us together. Tess and I instantly clicked, as if we were long-lost sisters reunited at last. She's more than just a friend; she's a cherished gift in my life. With Tess, I can be unabashedly myself—silly, quirky, and entirely genuine. Her presence brings a sense of steadiness and authenticity to every moment we share. And let's not forget, she's hilariously witty! Whether we're sharing belly laughs or offering support through life's ups and downs, Tess is always there, unwavering and available. I'm endlessly grateful for her friendship and the special connection we share.
Payne Ruhlman
Groomsman
Payne started as a neighbor on my dorm floor freshman year of college then turned into a roommate the following three years, and has been my best friend ever since. Although our meaningful touchpoints have moved from weekly post Mill Ave conversations to monthly Zoom calls and annual trips to see each other, I am truly grateful to continue to have him in my corner through all of our life stages. We both have a tendency to take a joke too far, but that same boundary-pushing aversion also leads us to push each other further in our professional careers, our relationships, and most importantly, our faith. Payne is one of the least filtered, hardest working, smartest, and caring person I've had the blessing of knowing. Payne is a paramount part of my wedding party, and can't wait to have him up there with me.
Margaret Manifold
Bridesmaid
Margaret is truly my ride or die. I can always rely on her to give her honest opinion and keep things real. Steadfast and consistent, she provides a rock-solid presence no matter the situation. Not only is she a fashionista queen, but she's also genuine and down-to-earth. Her authenticity is what initially drew me to her. The first night we met, we had a raw, vulnerable conversation, and we've been soul sisters ever since. She has a special way of making everyone feel included and valued. My life in Austin simply wouldn't be the same without her. We've created countless fun memories, from boat days on the lake to leisurely walks around Town Lake, to relaxing over a glass of wine at Zilker Park. She's my spontaneous counterpart, always ready to drop everything and dive into the next adventure. I am beyond grateful to have her as both a friend and a sister in Christ.
Bryan Bartolome
Groomsman
BEEEEEJ! If you don't know Beej, you are no more than one degree away from him. His well-connectedness is a testimony to his genuine desire to make people known. Not known in the sense of being recognized, but in the sense of being seen and heard at a soul-level. My relationship with Beej started as anyone's does with little to no time spent on small talk and directly into a 3 hour conversation at Hold Out Brewery in Austin. Beej serves on the worship team with me at church, is my go-to pickleball partner & opponent, and leads the small group of guys that I meet up with on a weekly basis to call each other deeper in faith. Beej has played a huge role in my life in Austin and it's only fitting to have him play a huge role in my wedding.
Erin Donnelly
Bridesmaid
Rinny! Where do I even begin? We go way back to receiving Christmas cards from each other's families before we'd even met (shoutout to our moms being friends in college first) to finally connecting on our first day as freshmen at Virginia Tech and becoming fast friends. From that moment, I knew our friendship would be lifelong. Erin is fiercely loyal, always there for me through thick and thin, no matter what. Erin's wonderfully silly and weird side never fails to light up a room. As roommates and sorority sisters, we've shared countless memories that I cherish deeply. Every moment spent with Erin is a reminder of how much she means to me. Her friendship is a constant source of support and fun, and I only wish we didn't live halfway across the country!
Jack Peterson
Groomsman
Jack and I became friends starting all the way back in elementary school rec league basketball and it is no surprise that we've stayed friends all this time. In fact, our relationship has only grown over the years. From middle school club basektball, to high school tennis, to long-distance college friends, to post-grad Euro backpacking, to fellow Austinites, to joining him in the sales engineering career path, Jack has been a steadfast friend through it all. With Jack getting married to his wonderful wife, Allie, having his first child, Court, and the second one on the way, I will continue to look to him for wisdom and advice in the coming life stages. I can't wait to have Jack standing by my side at the wedding.
Marian Amini
Bridesmaid
Marian is the epitome of fun and loyalty, bringing joy and laughter wherever she goes. Her consistent support and fabulous personality make her an invaluable friend. Down to earth and genuine, Marian and I quickly became fast friends and shared two wonderful years as roommates. She has stood by me through thick and thin, always present during the ups and downs, and was a constant source of strength and companionship throughout David and I's dating years. I am incredibly grateful to have Marian by my side as a bridesmaid.
Paolo Pascua
Groomsman
After unknowingly playing against each other in high-school basketball, Paolo and I's relationship started in college at ASU and has continued into our lives in Austin. We share a love for outdoor activities, satirical humor, culturally authentic foods, and being deeply engrained in our communities. Paolo takes community to the next level. Few people exemplify Jesus's teaching of loving your neighbor as yourself better than Paolo. Whether it is helping out with a move, organizing a party, or cooking a meal, Paolo will always selflessely drop what he's to doing to help his neighbor. Paolo was there from the beginning of Melissa and I's relationship (literally in the same circle where I asked Melissa out for the first time) and it was only fitting that he played a crucial role in organizing and taking pictures during our proposal. Paolo is an incredible friend and I'm so grateful to have him part of the wedding.
Katie Abt
Bridesmaid
I couldn't have made it through engineering in college without Katie (and her husband Kevin, lol). From crying over exams to pulling all-nighters, to celebrating at the Pike house (another shoutout to Kevin), we've been through it all together. Katie is not only incredibly sweet but also a blast to be with. The year she lived in Austin holds a special place in my heart. It was such a sweet time to experience post-college life together, even if just for a bit.
FAQs
Question
What Should I Wear?
Answer
Black-tie optional: Tuxes and gowns are welcome, and so are suits and evening dresses.
Question
Do You Have Any Hotel Recommendations
Answer
Please check the “Travel” tab for hotel room blocks we have reserved.
Question
Is Transportation Being Provided?
Answer
Transportation will not be provided. Please Uber/lyft or rent a rental car. The ceremony and reception are about 20 min from each other.
Question
When Are RSVPs Due?
Answer
Please RSVP by October 6th, 2024.
Question
Are Kids Invited?
Answer
Invitations will be specific. We hope you understand and take this evening as a night off to celebrate with us!
Question
Can I Bring a Guest/Date?
Answer
If you received a plus one, your guests name is listed on your invitation and will appear under your name when you RSVP. Otherwise, we would love to keep the wedding as an intimate event with close friends and family.
Question
Are you registered? Where?
Answer
Please refer to our registry tab on our website for our registry items. They are either through Zola or will direct you to the company website.
Question
Is there parking for the ceremony or reception?
Answer
Yes, there is ample parking.