Lauren & Pierce
Wedding Party
Ariel Stern
Maid of Honor
Lauren and Ariel first met each other over Facebook in the summer of 2009. So, when Lauren saw Ariel in person on the first day of ninth grade at Pace Academy, she ran over excitedly to introduce herself as the person from the internet. Ariel had no idea who Lauren was. Luckily, they've moved past this social faux pas and have remained close ever since. Lauren happily self-identifies as an adoptive Stern daughter, and likes to spend time with Ariel's family to pretend she's not an only child for a little while.
Kevin Linger
Best Man
Pierce and Kevin were first year hall mates at UVA. Since then, they’ve supported one another through life’s milestones and a shared affliction: excruciating basketball fandom. You’re not really friends until you get Wizards season tickets together, or plumb the depths of the term “Embrace the Pace.” They complement each other well. Whereas Pierce is verbose, Kevin is refreshingly direct. He’s also a proponent of routine, something Pierce has benefitted from countless times. Meanwhile, Pierce encourages Kevin to enjoy the finer things, leading to a years-long craft beer odyssey and Pierce-prepared meals outside Kevin’s typical fare. They’re both in the, “move with your significant other for grad school” club. As a founding member, Kevin’s guidance was invaluable when Pierce joined. They talk about the future, too. Historically, it’s been retirement accounts, though increasingly it’s their excitement at having found someone with whom to spend that retirement. Pierce was in Kevin's wedding party last year and Kevin has graciously accepted an invitation to return the favor. Lauren and Pierce are ecstatic that he’ll be part of their big day in October.