Rachelle & William
Wedding Party
Mark and Michele Thomas
Brides Father and Mother-in-Love
Let the love you share today grow continually each and every day. Seek the best for each other, encourage one another and build each other up as you have been doing. We are very happy for you two. You have our prayers, love and support, always. May God bless you on your journey together.
Alice and William Bethea Sr.
Groom's Mother and Father
It was probably three or four years ago our son, "Will" mention to us (his parents) that he was talking to a young lady at work. This young lady works on another floor. It wasn't long before the conversation got serious. A year later told the story. It was June 2021, we had the opportunity to meet Rachelle. We were very impressed and delighted in meeting her. Rachelle is a very lovely young lady and we are proud that she is in love with our son. Congratulation and best wishes to you both. May your marriage bring you a life time of happiness. We're thrilled for you and wish you both the best. Love, Alice and Bill
Kaitlyn Howard
Matron of Honor
Hello! My name is Kaitlyn! I have known Rachelle since we were young. We didn't start as instant friends but our parents were friends, and after 20+ years of friendship (and many years of dance and bowling) I consider her the sister I never had. Rachelle is caring, supportive, funny, and always down for an adventure! I am truly blessed to be able to call such a wonderful person a friend and am so excited to stand by her on this special day!
David Caldwell
Best Man
I met Will (Billy) while we were both members of the junior usher board at Brookland Baptist Church in West Columbia, SC. I remember first meeting him at a junior usher board outing and thinking to myself, “this guy is pretty cool” and we have been best friends since!
Sarah Orantes
Bridesmaid
A long, LONG time ago I met Rachelle, ok, maybe not THAT long ago. But, in 2009, I moved to St. Louis, and due to some fortuitous (in hindsight) circumstances, I ended up staying with Rachelle’s parents for a few weeks, and it just so happened to be over her spring break. We met, instantly hit it off, and have been best friends ever since. Basically, a true love story, but for besties! We have had some amazing adventures over the years from my wedding in Mexico, to our semi annual girls trips, to various holiday celebrations, Cardinal games, weekend get always and so much more! She will forever be the sister of my heart. I work in the Maritime Safety Office at NGA (Government), am married to my tacolicious husband Alex, whom I share 5 kids, 2 dogs, and 30 something chickens. The aforementioned individuals basically suck up all of my time, but, when I can carve out a few minutes of peace and quiet, I love to travel, read, craft, and sleep.
Stephanie Oyola
Bridesmaid
Hey all I’m Stephanie , rather be called Steph just Bc it’s cooler in my eyes . I’m a new mom to a beautiful 2 year old girl named Charlie and am also attending SUNY Empire majoring in Psychology . So where do I begin . Memorial Day Weekend I took a trip to Miami and one hot morning I went down to the pool and overhead Rachelle talking about a party she booked and asked her a little more about it and POOF we became friends as if we have known each other for years. I’m big on energy and Rachelle girl you’re an amazing soul . Cheers to new friends xo
Michael Bethea
Groomsman
I met William on April 30th, 1990. I have known him my whole life. We are literally more alike then we would like to admit. I will say that I do look up to him. He is my big brother.
Nancy Jones
Bridesmaid
I met Rachelle through Sarah Orantes, many years back. Our mutual military backgrounds helped us bond quickly, and ultimately Chelle moved up to "Sister Wife status" with my husband Rob--who also adores her :-) We've had lots of adventures together, and the bond stayed strong after she left Missouri. She pretty much organized and ran my bachelorette party weekend and crazy pirate wedding in Turks and Caicos! I work in the Maritime office of NGA (government), am retired from the Navy, and love history and travel. And beer, wine, pizza, and jigsaw puzzles...and pasta. And not being serious!
Everett Bethea
Groomsman
My name is Everett Bethea. I live in Phoenix AZ. I am one of the older cousins of Billy. I've known him literally his whole life. His dad is my Godfather.
Michael and Stephanie Erdley
Officiant and Godparents
We are Rachelle’s aunt and uncle, Godparents, military peers and friends. We have had the privilege of praying for her since birth, watching her grow into the wonderful woman she is today, anguishing with her in the hardest moments life gives you and celebrating with her in the grandest. We cautiously began our relationship with Will after spotting him in the background screen during the family coffee chat. 😊 We grew to know and love him, he is a fine man and loves Rachelle well. We greatly anticipate their marriage and future joys.