Wedding Party
Ashley C. McClary
Matron of Honor
Ashley C. McClary is not only the bride’s Matron of Honor, but also her best friend and sister-in-love. Making things even more fun, she shares the same first and last name as the bride—for now! Ashley is one of the most important people in the bride’s life, and it is truly an honor to have her standing by the bride’s side on this special day. She has been a constant source of love, encouragement, and support, always offering a listening ear and steady guidance. Ashley has also been a strong advocate for a healthy, loving relationship between Dean and Ashley, the bride.
Arika Bryant
Bridesmaid
Arika Bryant and Ashley have shared a close friendship for over a decade. They first bonded while working together in the Coney Island Emergency Department, where Ashley was a newly practicing physician assistant. Their friendship is marked by a rare depth and resilience. One that has remained strong despite time and distance. Ashley deeply admired and respected Arika as one of the few Black medical providers in the emergency department, and her presence was both inspiring and impactful. It is truly a blessing to have a friend like Arika, and having her stand by the bride’s side on this special day is an incredible honor.
Njeri Forbes
Bridesmaid
Having Ashley's future bonus daughter, Njeri Forbes, stand by her side on this special day means more than words can express. She has had such a beautiful impact on my life from the very beginning of Dean and Ashley’s relationship. She is kind and welcoming in every way. I adore her radiant smile and her hilarious, fun-loving personality that keeps us laughing. I am so incredibly blessed to have Njeri in my life and honored to celebrate this moment with her by my side.
Nzali Forbes
Bridesmaid
It is truly special to have Nzali Forbes, Dean's youngest daughter and Ashley's future bonus daughter, stand by our side on this meaningful day. She is kind and intelligent. Nzali has a warm heart and a beautiful spirit. We are incredibly grateful, and it means so much to celebrate this moment with her as part of our wedding day.
Rodney JeanPierre
Best Man
Rodney isn’t just my best man, he’s my brother in every sense that matters. For 40 years, we’ve walked through every season of life together: the highs, the lows, and everything that forged us into the men we are today. Our bond runs so deep that our families are woven together, he’s the godfather to my children, and I’m the godfather to his. Loyalty, love, and brotherhood define this man, and I’m grateful beyond words to stand beside him today.
Conrad Duncan
Groomsman
Conrad and I go back 35 years, all the way to college, through late nights, loud laughs, hard lessons, and unforgettable memories. We were partners in crime in the purest sense: chasing dreams, chasing hoops, chasing life head-on. Even though time pulled us in different directions, some bonds don’t weaken, they mature. Conrad is a stand-up man, a devoted family man, and a brother whose place in my life is permanent.
Elbert McClary, Jr.
Groomsman
Elbert is my future brother-in-law, but more importantly, he’s family by choice and by honor. He is the man my future wife trusts most in this world, and the one who will give her away today, a role filled with meaning, strength, and love. The respect I have for him runs deep, because he has been a pillar in her life when it mattered most. If he matters to her, he matters to me... for life, no questions asked.
Romeo Forbes
Officiant
Romeo is my Dean's in blood, in spirit, and in truth and he’s been by my side my entire life. He has always had my back, always spoken truth when it mattered most, and always led with wisdom, strength, and integrity. Today, he stands here not just as my brother, but as my spiritual counsel and one of the best men I know. I look up to him deeply, and it’s a true honor to have him officiate this union and bless the next chapter of my life.
Kamden McClary
Ring Bearer
My nephew Kam Kam, who made Ashley the “cool aunt.” He is resilient, intelligent, and known for the very best hugs, when he chooses to give them. Lol! A kind soul and the apple of my eye, I couldn’t imagine my wedding…or my life…without him.
Shakirie McClary
Ring Princess
Shakirie McClary is a true sweetheart with a huge heart and a kind, gentle spirit. Her radiant smile and positive presence light up every room she enters. Her resilience is admirable, and I am so incredibly proud of her. She makes me proud to be her aunt, and I am honored to have her as our Ring Princess.