Jálin, affectionally known as "DJ or Dr. J" has been a part of my life for the last 21 years, as my sorority sister, and friend. Every integral part of my adult life in the last 21 years, she has been there for. We have traveled to various places together including Italy, Mexico, and across this country. Our friendship has always been effortless and she has been a calming presence in my life and I know will be the same as my maid of honor. Jálin is the Senior Community & Engagement Officer for Salk Institute for Biological Studies in La Jolla, CA and is Principal & Executive Producer of Insufferable Academics, LLC.

Natalie resides in Inglewood, CA and is a Higher Ed Practitioner and Equity Coach and is one of my beloved sorority sisters and friends. Every woman needs a sister friend as fiercely loyal and amazing as Natalie. We have said to each other on numerous occasions, we cannot recall the moment we first met all those years ago. What we do know is, we never looked back and have enjoyed so many fun times and memories together. So happy my friend will be with me on this journey as one of my bridesmaids.

Dee Dee and I met in our early college years even though she attended college in SoCal and I attended college in AL. I had no idea when we met, we would be close friends and she would be one of my most cherished sorority sisters. Dee Dee brings joy and a new word you never thought you needed to know every time you see her. LOL. I am thrilled to have her as part of this journey with me. Ardelia is an accomplished educator who lives in Long Beach, CA and the Association President for her union.

Arraba and I met in my Junior year in college when we were introduced and matched to be roommates and she has been one of my best friends ever since. After college, Arraba always resided in AL, and me in CA but it never deterred our communication and ability to remain close friends. We all have that friend that distance means you don't see or speak all the time, but when you do, it's like no time has passed. I was one of her bridesmaids years ago in her wedding, and I'm so thrilled that she will now be mine. Arraba is a mortgage professional residing in Birmingham, AL.

I'm so excited to share this experience with my sister Tameka "Meek" Willams. Our story is a unique one finding each other many years ago and forging our bond almost immediately. We've tried our best to make up for loss times by creating memories of the places we've gone and vacations we've done together. I'm beyond thrilled to have my sister by my side. Tameka is a Certified Nurse Midwife residing in Detroit, MI.

Angela and I met over 22yrs ago when we were tasked to help open the new Nordstrom store in Durham, NC. As fellow department managers, we quickly became friends and ultimately sisters navigating being in a new city as young professionals. I love how our friendship has remained over the years and no matter what's going on I can call on my little sis for support, and a vibrant colorful word that will send me laughing up a storm. Very thankful, to have her as part of my bridal squad. Angela is a Nordstrom store manager, and resides in Upper Marlboro, MD.

Tasha and I met in the same way I met Angela, which linked us forever and cemented her as the big sister I've always wanted. If you were to look up fashionista in the dictionary, a picture of Tasha should be next to it, LOL! Over the years no matter our physical distance "my big sis" has always been supportive, loving, and wise and I love that she is a part of my bridal party. Tasha is a fierce sales and personal stylist at Neiman Marcus and resides in Atlanta, GA

My older brother has always been a beacon of wisdom and a true teacher of life. We share many similarities, making it easy for me to learn from him. His deep understanding of life and its intricacies, and his wisdom, often seem beyond his years. He stands as a model of resilience and determination, embodying the strength of a black man who knows when to forge ahead and when to stand firm. We are part of the "Fabulous Four" — with our two sisters, we share a bond forged in love, might, and divine guidance. My brother isn’t just family; he’s a confidant, a steadfast supporter, and truly, a ride or die. From celebrating highs to navigating the deepest lows, he’s been a constant shoulder I can lean on. Having him by my side on this important day isn’t just necessary; it’s a tribute to every step we’ve walked together.

From the age of seven or eight, Edmund has been a good friend in my life. He’s the one who always knew how to find humor in the smallest things, his laughter ringing sometimes higher than anyone else’s. Our friendship has been a constant through decades, a testament to shared joys and mutual respect. He introduced me to his family from a young age, both immediate and extended, and they all became a cherished part of my world. Our bond has been strengthened by shared values—our faith, our appreciation of family, and our admiration for his father, a man whose legacy continues to inspire both of us. Edmund is that rare friend who never changes, except to grow and improve, and it’s these qualities that make him indispensable not just in my friend group but in my life. Having him stand with me as a best man is a tribute to every moment of laughter and every memory we’ve shared over the years.

Choosing my son to stand by me as I take this step is indescribably fitting. Seth, though quieter than I was at his age, reflects so much of who I am and who I aspire to be. His words may be few, but they carry weight and wisdom beyond his years. Including him in this moment is about more than just fatherly pride; it’s about sharing experiences, imparting lessons, and ensuring he knows he belongs and matters immensely. Seth isn't just part of my legacy; he’s a vital part of my here and now, and I can think of no greater honor than to have him by my side as I say, "I do."

As many of you know Larry is Tosha's younger brother and one of the first family members to even know I was going to propose since I had to stay at his place to make the surprise happen. I'm honored he has agreed to be one of my groomsmen and look forward to us becoming family. Larry resides in the Greater Los Angeles area in Southern CA.

Lawrence lives in Sanford, North Carolina and is the bride's cousin but raised more like her brother. However, not just important to Tosha, but well before I knew Tosha I knew and forged a relationship with Lawrence over the last 15 years. Having a close relationship with the family spending holidays and other memorable moments together. I'm honored and excited to have him be one of my groomsman.

If you ever want a good laugh, then you already know Jeremy is the guy you turn to. I'm really looking forward to having him be apart of the groomsman clan. More than someone you can count on for a great laugh, he is a loyal friend/brother and I'm honored he will be apart of our wedding party. Jeremy resides in Riverside, CA.