Wedding Party

Barbara

Bride

Nolan

Groom

Jackie

Matron of Honor

The year was 2004, I was in the office at Covington Farms apartments sitting at the computer emailing my husband Rich, who was out to sea at the time. I was in my solitude, thinking of lines to spit to my man to make him feel special. Then, in walks a bubbly 14 year old girl (who reminded me of a younger me), followed by her friend. Full of energy and my first thought was "well that quietness was fun while it lasted" lol. Soon after their grand entrance, my 7 month old son, who was sitting in the stroller beside me, was completely enamored with Barbara. Her contagious energy captured his attention, and almost instantly, he was telling her his life story in baby talk, giggling and showing his two little teefees. Barbara then asked and exclaimed, "Are you a navy wife?" "Because I babysit for all of the navy wives!" That was music to my ears because I was ready to step out in my platform heels, capri jeans, waistbelt, and church blouse. Within days, I met Barbara's mom Murlene, who instantly took me under her wing as her very own child. The love she showed me solidified the fact that we are truly family. Over the years, I've watched Barbara grow into the woman, wife, and mother she is today. I have the distinct honor of calling her MY SISTER! Her adding Nolan and his loved ones (especially Ms. Shay) to the family unit added an abundance of love and appreciation.

Ivan

Best Man

Brother of the groom

Ro

Maid of Honor

Barbara is my right hand and my go to. When I moved to Washington State with my husband and kids, this beautiful soul took me in and we've been at the hip ever since. I know that I can always depend on here for whatever me and my family need. To be alongside her and Nolan for this special occasion is such an honor.

Richard

Best Man

Jenica

Bridesmaid

I am Barbara's little cousin. My favorite memory of Bj was when she and my brother decided to teach me how to ride a bike. She told me to start pedaling and not look back. I kept saying over and over again don’t let go, don’t let go. Every time I said she would say we’re not going to let go ( I trusted her word). I noticed it got quiet and I turned around and she and my brother were at least two blocks behind me. I was so excited that I was riding a bike Bj kept yelling turn around turn around. When I turned around I hit a tree and flew into the bushes. When Bj got to me she was like I told you to turn around.

Jeannie

Bridesmaid

I met Barbara in 2013 when our daughters were still in diapers. From the very beginning, Ava and Cayleenda were inseparable, forming a bond that was so strong and looked so similar that everyone even thought they were twins. My daughter literally refused to play with anyone other than CayCay. I still remember the day a daycare worker almost sent Ava home with Barbara, thinking she was her own daughter. Those early moments and memories are so precious; they always bring laughter and a smile to my face. Barbara, you have been a constant source of light and love in my life. Your kindness, strength, and unwavering support have carried me through some of my toughest times. You’ve shown me what it means to have a true friend, someone who stands by you through thick and thin, someone who becomes family. Nolan is truly lucky to have found such a wonderful wife and partner in life. Together, you create such a beautiful family, lighting up each other’s lives as well as the lives of so many others. As I reflect on our journey together since 2013, my heart swells with gratitude for the countless memories we've created and the bond we've nurtured over the years. You are more than just a friend to me—you are my sister. Your love and friendship have been a gift, and I am so incredibly blessed to have you in my life. Barbara, you are the true definition of when friends turn to family. I love you now and forever, boo.

Ikeshia

Bridesmaid

Shavon

Bridesmaid

Barbara and I met in 2014 at Greater Trinity Church. Can't say for sure how we both came to be like you want to be friends, but it did constitute of a night full of shenanigans. Let's just say, Barbara found out quick, Shavon is a ride or die for real. No games played. All about that action Boss. From there, Barbara and I hung out all the time. Literally was going over to her apartment at the time with my two kids, and would stay over until almost midnight sometimes. We were thick as thieves. During this time is when Barbara told me about Nolan. I call him The Rev. They were best friends at that time. It was her telling me about their friendship that I told her he's going to be her husband. She didn't believe me!!! LOL!!! Barbara and I have been friends literally since the Spring of 2014. Of course life happens and we don't always get to hang out like we used to, however, it has not changed the bond we have. She's been there for me in many ways that others have not. She's always been someone I can confide in about whatever it is that I'm going thru at the time. I'm happy my girl listened to me and now she's about to renew them vows to keep going with their happily ever after. And I love this for my friend!!!! Happy to say that I love and will always be a friend to Barbara. Ain't nobody breaking this bond. ❤

Aneka

Bridesmaid

Hello, my name is Aneka Jennings, and I am honored to be one of Barbara's best friends as well as the godmother to her beautiful children, Levante and Delauno. Our friendship began at church, where I met both Barbara and Nolan. Barbara and I quickly bonded over our shared faith in God and the understanding that none of us are perfect. We’ve always supported one another through the ups and downs of our spiritual journey, never judging, but growing together in grace. One of my favorite memories with Barbara was on her birthday when our group decided to dress up like old ladies, complete with walkers and canes! We went out to eat, laughed the night away, and danced like no one was watching. It's these moments of joy and authenticity that make Barbara such a special friend to me.

Larry

Groomsman

Nolan and I met in September of 2019 at Faith Tabernacle Fellowship church. At the time, I was looking for an opportunity to join the church music ministry as a keyboardist. Immediately upon visiting the church, I was impressed with Nolan, the bassist, and knew instantly that we would be a great fit together. Over the next several years, Nolan and I have grooved together at many different churches and functions. Getting to know him and his family has been a blessing. I have been honored to share the stage with him as musicians, but I am even prouder to call him friend.

Dominique

Groomsman

I met Nolan when we had to attend a summer school camp thingy at an elementary school, summer of 2001, and then met up again 2006 right before my freshman year in high school at Marysville Pilchuck High School and we’ve been brothers since.