Meet the Bridal Party: Dave (Groomsman)

Margaret says:
Growing up, my brother and I didn't always get along. We usually stayed to ourselves and did our own thing. But in high school our relationship changed. We started to hang out together (probably cause he had his drivers license) and I remember that our usual after school ritual was watching cartoons or Power Rangers then playing Tetris. We both were night owls and I often spent many late nights working on homework. Being the awesome brother that he is, Dave would go out to Taco Bell to pick me up a snack or bring me to Kinkos at midnight. That is probably when I realized that my big brother was an amazing guy (that and when he agreed to be the date to junior prom of four of my friends... seriously).

I knew early on that he was much smarter than me and it didn't help that he made it seem effortless. It was because of his example that I pushed myself to be the best that I could be in school... Nothing like a little family competition to motivate. Luckily he was not as high strung and neurotic as I was because his more laid back attitude gave me some necessary perspective through high school and life. Dave was always surrounded by friends and I don't know one of my friends that didn't love to hang out with my brother. I even remember that when I started school at CMU someone came up to me to ask if Dave was my brother... Apparently his fame spanned all of Pennsylvania (and probably New England as well). I always looked up to Dave because of his charm and wit. He could chat up anybody and seemed to be instantly adored by all.

It's funny that Dave is so protective of me when it comes to the guys I have dated since in all other circumstances he believes that I can hold my own. He is always standing up for me and supporting me in the choices I have made. And for that unconditional love and support, I am eternally grateful.

Margaret and Dave at Halloween

Dave says:
I am Margaret’s brother… thanks, I appreciate all of your sympathy. Growing up with Margaret has been quite the adventure. I knew she would find the right guy in her life, but I honestly did not imagine that it would come so early and easily.

I describe Margaret as a universally concerned, perfectionist, loyal, academic. Her search for knowledge is apparent by her direction into a PhD program. She is loyal to a fault to everyone she believes in. She demands of herself excellence devoting as much of her time and more to deliver beyond expectations. And she concerns herself with everything of the heart. Where she finds an emotional connection, Margaret campaigns for change to make the world better, puts her energies into projects supporting causes such as Habitat for Humanity, and will fight for any political, environmental or personal causes she sees fit.

Eric I believe sees the same things I see in Margaret. I also see in Eric many similar qualities. They have been dating for nearly a decade, but not necessarily living in the same area for probably half of it. He has supported Margaret in her decisions to pursue education. Eric being just as loyal has followed Margaret from city-to-city in this pursuit. They support each other and know how to have fun together.

I met Eric early on in their relationship while they were at CMU. I remember talking to Eric at a party and letting him know what my expectations were of him while he was dating my sister. My sister didn’t quite appreciate what I had said. Looking back at it though, I didn’t have to say anything to Eric. I am happy that Eric has always known how to treat Margaret and also deal with her when she is being Margaret.

Welcome to the family Eric. Take good care of my sister. Margaret, I am very proud of you. Try to move together when the time comes to change cities again. I hope the two of you enjoy the “Big Adventure” you share together throughout your lives.