Maid of Honor
The Bride's life was forever changed in the year of 1987. From the moment this chick entered the Bride's life, she knew it would be filled with adventure. From the bites as a toddler to the embarrassing bikini moments as a child to the laughter that they share as adults, the Bride is forever in debt to and in love with her Little Big Sister aka the Maid of Honor!
Best Woman
It all began in 2004 in an Africana Studies course at USF. A stoic, but beautiful, GA walked into the full auditorium with a poncho, stockings, and boots (in August in Florida-mind you). She brought several hurricanes down with her, but her independence, beautiful spirit, and sense of humor is what blew the Bride away. The friendship that began then has stood the test of time and the Bride is proud to call her, her Best Woman!
Bridesmaid
2000 will forever be a year to remember for the Bride. This was the year that her "mini-me" was sent from Heaven. Boy, the things that THIS chick has taught the Bride! Joy, laughter, tears, work ethics, pride, and... did it say tears! Yet part of the reason the Bride's heart beats is because of her. The Bride's first child and favorite daughter has had and still has a lasting impact on the Bride and the Groom. And nope, neither one of them would trade her for all the universes that God has created!
Bridesmaid
In 1994, this chick made the Bride a 1st time Auntie. Known for letting anybody know what is on her mind, this pistol comes fully loaded. She is headstrong like her Dad, but that's inherent from being a Graham. She is a loving and caring person that exudes confidence and turned out to be a Beautiful young lady. The Bride loves her dearly and is so proud to have her standing by her for her life-changing day!
Bridesmaid
The initial encounter occurred in 2008 in Cypress House. The accent and "the walk" made the Bride smile. Little did the Bride know that she and this chick would literally live together, practically running a program together from 2012 until the present. The laughter to keep from crying and the late nights blossomed into a beautiful friendship. The Bride is grateful to have found a leader she can believe in, but better yet, a true friend who she can rejoice with. The day would not be complete without this chick by the Bride's side!
Bridesmaid
2010 would be the year that this chick entered the Bride's life. Admittedly, she could not STAND the Bride initially. "Who was that know it all goody-two-shoes that thought she had all the answers?" Little did she know that they would end up best of friends. The Bride's family even call her "Juicy" and some still don't know her real name! Yet the conversations and laughter that she shares with the Bride and Groom are forever stamped in their heart. The big day would definitely not hold the same meaning without her at the Bride's side!
Father of the Bride
This is the first man in the Bride's life. Most people say that she even looks like him and often greet the Bride with "I know you're JD's gal! You look just like your Daddy." This man ensured that the Bride was well taken care of. Some would even say that he spoiled her. To the Bride, he is just a loving Pops that would do anything in the world for her. This is the first man that she loved and the first man that loved her. Even though he will be "giving her away," the Bride will always be Daddy's little girl!
Mother of the Bride
A book could not contain enough chapters to explain what this Lady means to the Bride. From 1981 until today, she is the Bride's first best friend and confidant. The example she set and the love she shows has made the Bride the fantastic individual that she is today. From the sacrifices she has made and the unconditional love that she continues to give, the Bride is forever in debt to her. She is the true definition of God's grace and the epitome of an Angel. If anybody understands what this day means to the Bride, it's this Lady. So do not be surprised if they both shed a few tears of joy!
Grandmother of the Bride
In the year 1925, the matriarch of the Johnson family was born. A whole 94 years later, this lady is still kicking and has more sass than a teenager, the memory of a person a quarter of her years, and the grace that God gave Sarah (Abraham's wife for the laypeople). The Bride learned how to cook by this lady not giving her all of the ingredients to her recipes. She is a praying woman who loves her family. The Bride is forever grateful that her Nana is around to watch her say her vows. And a message to the Groom from her: "Where's my sauce?"
Best Man
Seven years, two days, and one astrological sign later, the Groom's little big bother entered the world. He is a true inspiration to the Groom. As the Big Brother, the Groom took his title seriously. He always wanted to keep himself together so that he could get this Best Man right. The love between bothers is s special kind of love that cannot be duplicated or imitated. It just is! The Groom is the man that he is today because of this Best Man. And yes, the Groom and Bride are both blessed to have him with them as they begin the next chapter in their Love Story.
Best Man
The groom's exact words, "Really not sure how to describe this guy." He has NEVER had a bad day. Even if he ever did, no one would know it. The vibe, energy, and excitement that he provides is unprecedented. If Kelvin is around and you are not smiling or laughing with him or at him, there is definitely something wrong with you. The Groom is blessed to have Kelvin aka Sheree aka Big Ree aka fancy feet aka Aroma-ree aka Whatever rhymes with "Ree" standing by his side on his big day.
Best Man
When you think of historical pairs-peanut butter/jelly, salt/pepper, yin/yang, bacon/eggs, bread/butter-this is the Best Man and the Groom. Growing up, the Groom and him were always together. They were together so much that during their first year of football, they sported the numbers 25 & 26 on their jersey's. The coach said, "I gotta be drunk, on drugs, or both, Stokes and Parsons, to put you two in the game." The Groom's response, "I didn't know you drank and smoke, Coach, cuz I'm playing!" Hence the shining moment of the Quiet Riot and One Man Riot. The Groom and this Best Man continue to their legacy of being together as they stand by each other on one of the most monumental days of the Groom's life.
Best Man
Growing up, the Groom thought this Best Man should have lived in a Bubble. He was allergic to EVERYTHING. You name it-milk, seafood, bee stings, (probably poison ivy and poison oak), and a whole myriad of other things, he reacted to it. Despite all of the hiccups and possible anaphylactic close calls growing up, they survived and have remained best of friends. The Groom is honored to have him standing with him as he says his "I do's" with his Bride.
Best Man
Affectionately known as "Suicide Clyde," this Best Man was notorious for his antics. He earned his nickname due to all of the trouble he got us into at basketball practice.
Best Man
The Groom has known this Best Man for 45 years. In all of those 45 years, he has NEVER let the Groom win an argument. Let it be forever written that even when the Groom has been right (and he has been right for most of them), Robert will NOT let him win any argument! But the one thing that they can both agree on is that this day would not hold the same significance if they did not stand by each other as the Groom says "I Do" to his Bride.
Father of the Groom
This legendary Pompano icon taught the city to swim. His passion for the children of the city was unparalleled. His dedication to kids breathed life into the Parks and Recreation programs, especially the football program. He was even more dedicated to his two sons, instilling in them the importance of family. Although he is not with us in the flesh, we know that he is proud of the Groom and rejoicing with both the Groom and Bride as they become one on their momentous day. #actlikehimlooklikeher
Mother of the Groom
This diva invented the term fashionista before it even became a term. Her flair for fashion carried over to the Groom. She ensured that he was well dressed, well mannered, and well educated. The swag that the Groom has was developed and fostered by this Diva. Her legacy lives on through him. Although she is not with us, the Groom and Bride knows that she is rejoicing with them and proud of their decision to be with one another forever. #looklikeheractlikehim
Auntie of the Groom
In 1940, God laid the path for this beautiful Lady to grace our presence. The Groom's birthday twin (born on the same day 34 years later) wears many hats. She is his Great Aunt, Grandmother, Mother, Big Sister, and Friend. Full of love, sass, and wisdom, this Lady holds a very special place in the Groom's heart. She is always there for him and never is more than a phone call away. The Bride adores the relationship that they have and cannot wait for her to officially be her Auntie as well. And even at the ripe old age of 45, she still doesn't think the Groom is too bright!
Shadow Bride
This adorable little Angel made the Groom a 1st time Uncle. He thinks the world of her and delights in the fact that he is her Uncle Jodie! With a beautiful smile and delicate innocence, this baby is destined for great things. Her Uncle and future Aunt love her dearly and are blessed to have her grace the aisle and dazzle everyone on their special day!
Best Little Man
In 2006, the world was NOT prepared for what was being unleashed into it! This dude came into the world with heavy feet and a voice like a man. Until this very day, his voice booms across everything and he has earned and wears his nickname: Man-man. Even though he can be a complete handful, the Groom and Bride would not trade him for the world. He is a loving and caring kid with a big heart and a mouth to match! The big day would not hold quite the same significance without this Best Little Man at the Groom and Bride's side.
Flower Girl
Since her mom made the Bride jump up and down on her living room sofa, this adorable little girl has been special and loved. The 3rd child in the Stokes' household, this spunky and charismatic Angel brings lots of joy and laughter into everyone's life that she touches. From singing "Boo'd Up" to posing for the camera, to finally liking the Groom, this Baby is definitely the perfect pick to hold the title Flower Girl. To the Bride and Groom, she is definitely a beautiful flower.
Announcer of the Bride
In 2013, an old man came in the world! This little boy has more sense that a man 5 times his age and the mouth of a man 10 times his age. Yet, he is the most intelligent, loving, and cutest individuals on the earth. Affectionately known as "DJ," he made the Bride a 1st time great Aunt. Quick to make a joke about the Groom's head, this little rambunctious kid is a joy to be around. The Bride and Groom love him dearly and are excited for him to take part in their "Love Story."
Honor Attendant
Always faithful and forever ready! This sentiment describes the Bride's 2nd cousin. Just as laid back as she wants to be, but one of the most loving individuals that you will ever meet! This chick is down to ride and ready at a moments notice to go. She will help in any capacity needed. She has been a steady force in the Bride's life since she was a little girl. Who else better to get the Bride together than her big cousin?
Uncle of the Bride/Bridal Escort
Affectionately called Uncle Messy by the Bride, this man is a riot. You are sure to laugh and have a great time ANYTIME he is around. With an anecdote or comic relief for any situation, he is always animated and hilarious. From the time when she was a little girl and watched him glide across the living room doing "The Bird" to the present, the Bride has always admired him. The Groom is very fond of "Unk" as well and has forged a relationship with him. This day means so much more with him assisting with giving the Bride away.
Cousin of the Bride/Bridal Escort
"I challenge you to excel academically!" This is the charge that this cousin gave the Bride. She watched him gather accolades and set himself up in leadership and wanted to mimic that. So, she set out to not only accept his challenge, but to exceed his challenge. He was a driving force in the Bride's journey to make her mark on the academic and professional worlds. The Bride is forever grateful for the seed he planted in her. This is why there was not a question in her mind when choosing someone to escort her down the aisle on one of the biggest days of her life.
Usher
In 2005, the Bride's "Shug" aka "Tee-tee Peanut" was born. You could not tell the Bride that this little chocolate baby with no hair was not the most beautiful thing on the planet. Fourteen years later, she is still one the most beautiful Nieces in the world. The quieter version of her Mother, this young lady will sneak the insults in quietly and have you laughing at your own self. She is a sheer joy to be around! The Groom and Bride are proud to have such a beautiful niece to solidify their big day with her special flair.
Usher
2009 marked the year of prosperity with the arrival of Prosper. Now don't be fooled by his quiet demeanor! He is a great multi-tasker. He can be on his tablet but picking up every detail in a conversation. He will later replay the entire conversation and add his "Prosper-isms" to it. Inquisitive and intelligent, this young man is number 9 and the baby of the Granny tribe. The Bride and Groom love him to pieces and cannot wait to have him share in their day.
Officiant
In 1993, a man entered the Bride's life and changed it forever. She can remember thinking, "This man can PREACH and, Lawd! Can he sang!!!!" Affectionately known as "Pa-pa," the Bride grew up under his spiritual leadership and guidance. He took her under his wing and helped her to build her relationship with God. For years, she has depended on him for prayers and mentor-ship. Third to her Father and Mother, him stating that the Groom was a great guy meant the world to the Bride. Besides, he is like a 2nd Father to her. There could be no other person that the Bride could envision officiating her special day!
Mentors
When thinking of how she envisioned her marriage, the Bride searched her mind. She wanted her marriage to consist of spirituality, prayer, love, laughter, fun, longevity, and realness. In this day and age, there were not too many couples to choose from. Yet one couple stood out! Minister Scott and Cynthia Morrow. The Bride always admired them from a far. When seeking mentor-ship, they did not hesitate to take the couple on. Advising them, but most of all being real with them, the Groom and Bride are better equipped to take on married life because of the help of these two. For that, they will forever be grateful.
Wedding Planner
THE WEDDING PLANNER EXTRAORDINAIRE!!!! More than this, he is the Bride's best friend aka Buddy. He not only knows the "Love Story" but he has lived it with the Bride and Groom. He has been there through the highs and lows, ups and downs, tears and joy. He definitely understands the concept of "Not a Fairy Tale, but a Love Story!" A confidant, prayer partner, listening ear, singing partner... the list goes on and on! The Bride and the Groom loves this guy beyond the moon and back. From keeping the Bride in line, to joking with the Groom, to being a Coordinator-zilla, THIS DAY IS GOING TO BE EVERYTHING because of his ability to take the Bride and Groom's concept and turn it into a vision. Our Happily Ever After would not be complete without him.