We owe a debt of gratitude to many, and we are especially grateful to the members of our wedding party.

The Ladies:

Madeline Brown, Maid of Honor.  Like many lasting relationships, ours began in the summer of 1987 with a shared interest:  matching Fisher-Price lawnmowers.  Now, some twenty-five years later, we’ve grown up, our friendship has deepened, and I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have Madeline as my maid of honor and best friend.  I missed her company terribly when she moved to New Orleans after college, so I joined her there in spirit and found a New Orleanian to marry!

Ellie, Junior Bridesmaid.  Budding flautist, avid reader, and connoisseur of duct-tape fashion, Ellie is the greatest ten-year old I know (or could imagine).  It’s a pleasure to watch her grow up, an honor to be her godmother, and a privilege to have her as my junior bridesmaid.

Elizabeth Insler, Reader.  After the hurricane, Charles joined Liz (pictured below) at Wash. U., where they explored the city and chatted over cafeteria dinners.  Enamored of the city, Charles returned a year later, where he soon began working at the courthouse – that courthouse.  I’ve enjoyed getting to know Liz and her tasty baked goods, and I’m excited to have her as my sister-in-law.

The Gents:

Avi and Joseph Insler, co-Best Men.  Growing up, I never had to look hard to find a friend.  With two brothers, there was always someone with whom to swap baseball cards, throw a football, or play a video game.  Over the years, even as we have grown up, little has changed.  We’ve remained close, still ready to field a question or field a grounder, still ready to swap stories or swap chips around the poker table.  With Avi, there’s his carefree spirit that always makes me laugh.  With Joe, there’s his willingness to help, whether he needs to give a hug or a hand, or lend an ear.  All of which makes me grateful for my brothers and their company.

An honorary member:

No description of our relationship would be complete without a tribute to our side-kick, Bradley, a spunky Cavalier King Charles Spaniel who joined our family in September 2011.  Since that time, he’s brought warmth to our laps, licks to our faces, and joy to our lives.  Here’s to you, Mr. B, the best racquet ball fetcher and frozen yogurt eater we know!