Mariah & Charcarus
Wedding Party
Ashley
Maid of Honor
Mariah and I met on March 14, 1993, the day I became her big sister. While I was not too excited to hand over the title as baby of the family, she has definitely remained true to the title since that day. We have shared many memories over the past 27 years—from choreographing dances to early 2000s R&B music as little girls to her telling me about a guy she met. That guy aka Chaq (aka Chef Chaq by me because he cooks the best shrimp and grits!) knew he would have to bring his A-game since he initially saw her in the campus queen edition of Ebony Magazine as Miss Howard. I’m glad to have witnessed firsthand how he still treats her like the queen she is. I know she will continue to reign supreme as she transitions into her new title as Queen of
Cameron T.
Best Man
We met on January 15th of 1998 mere hours after my entry into this world. Dad picked you up and brought you to the hospital and our bond as brothers was sealed. As time passed our relationship evolved and not only are you my brother but you’re my friend. Then you met Mariah and now I have an idea of what life with a sister would have been like. I wish you both nothing but the best and can’t wait to see what all life brings your way. Salute!
Dannielle R.
Bridesmaid
Kristen Mariah Sankey was literally the first friend I made when I moved from DC to Opelika. She welcomed me with open arms like a big sister would. I looked up to Mariah and wanted to do no wrong by her. We’ve been through it all and I cannot do anything but appreciate her! I was so hurt when she left for College but I knew she was destined for greatness! You and Chaq deserve nothing but the best! As cliche as this may sound you two are the perfect match. I admire how they love and respect each other. and it warms my heart every time I see them. I pray for continuance peace and longevity for you all union
Julienne L.
Bridesmaid
Mariah and I could not stand one another when we made the Spring 2014 line of Alpha Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Inc. Our prophytes weren't tolerating any of that. I am so thankful that Osceola and my founders saw it fit for Mariah and I to become twins. There has never been a time when I couldn't call her - from my dating escapades to helping me reconnect with God, Mariah has always been right by my side. I am so thankful that Mariah has been blessed to find a partner in Chaq. A man who moved across the country to support his wife-to-be whether that's helping her cook, clean, study for her boards, and build her relationship with God. Chaq and Mariah are equally yoked.
Meagan B.
Bridesmaid
I met Mariah at such a young age I can't even tell you how we actually met. Somewhere in between church, our after-school twirling lessons, or at my elementary school where her mom taught. Either way, I always knew it was one of those friendships where you know you have each other for life. I am so happy that Chaq and Mariah found each other. I remember when they first met and we were shook in the group chat! Now they are getting MARRIED! I love you guys and I pray nothing but love and happiness over your journey!
Morgan B.
Bridesmaid
Ri and I first met in 4th grade 18 years ago! I went on a field trip with a group Mrs. Sankey taught at school and Mariah came too. I remember having so much fun that day and we have been friends ever since. We have laughed, cried, fought, shared secrets and been there for each other’s triumphs and sad days for 18 years and I can’t wait for the next 18. I am so happy that Ri and Chaq found each other. Their relationship is a beautiful and shining example of mutual love, trust and respect. Chaq treats her like a princess and that is exactly what she deserves! I can’t wait to see them get married!
Nichole O.
Bridesmaid
Work wife! I met Mariah at the start of residency and we have been joined at the hip since. She is such an honest and vibrant sister and friend to me. I met Chaq shortly after and knew immediately they were perfect for each other. I’m really looking forward to this wedding and their lifelong union! Congratulations to my favorite couple!
Sharaya H.
Bridesmaid
I met Mariah on Howard’s campus during our freshman year , but we grew a bond as friends when we became line sisters. There is no one else like Sankey! She can work a room, is an excellent problem solver, professional advice giver , a lo confidant and overall an asset to everyone she meets. Watching her and Chaq grow over the years has been a joy to watch. They have come far as a couple but what stands out to me is how far they’ve come as Individuals. They push each other to be great everyday and that is evident in the fruit that they’ve bore together and as individuals. With God at the center, I know theirs will be a union to inspire everyone in their presence.
Subria S.
Bridesmaid
Ri and I met when I was in the 1st grade and had just started attending Greater Peace. Now if you know Mariah, then you know sis has never been lacking in the friend department and she was honestly reluctant to add more. However, thanks to a nudge from Papa Sankey we have been friends ever since. Through years of scheming, sleepovers, proms and all things Beyoncé, we have now arrived at the moment we have always dreamed of. I am beyond thrilled that Ri has found her forever partner and I must say that Chaq is definitely a keeper. I look forward to witnessing the beautiful life they will build together and wish them all the love
Tyeirra S.
Bridesmaid
Mariah and I met in the 2nd grade, but didn’t become really close until the 6th grade. If you let her tell it, she’ll tell you that she felt bad for me and invited me to her sleepover, but she really knows our friendship was destined! Lol I’m so excited to watch Mariah and Chaq go on this life journey together. I knew Chaq could handle the pressure when he was around our entire friend group and didn’t fold! The way he cares for her is unmatched and everything a friend could ask for in a mate for her bestie! He’s a real one for sure!
Kaneitha N.
Groomsman
I met Charcarus 16 years ago when we were in middle school and since then, our relationship has grown tremendously. We have been there for each other through the most joyous and toughest times. Mariah has brought so much joy into his life and I know this union will be filled with the love in 1 Corinthians 13. I’m more than honored to be his only groomswoman.
Leon L.
Groomsman
I met Chaq spring of 2014 at Morehouse College. We were both business majors and had some overlapping classes, but I didn’t get to know Chaq until that summer. We ended up interning at the same company and both got tricked by Rico into moving on Plantation street in Worcester,MA. (S/O the Woo) Those few months solidified our friendship and set the foundation for our brotherhood. Now, we wear multiple hats in each other's lives (Line brother, designated driver, counselor, financial advisor, etc), but in this moment, the one I’m happiest about is standing next to him as a groomsmen while he enters this next chapter of his life with the woman I know he prayed for and now prays with. Wishing you and Mariah the very best, and I love you both.
Orlando F.
Groomsman
It all started in Worcester, Massachusetts through the Internship program at EMC. The first time that I officially met Chaq was at the intern party. The room was dimly lit but this man could literally lighten the room. Cool, laid back, always cracking a joke, people always naturally gravitate to him. Over the years, he has become one of my closest friends/brother, former roommate, long distance relationship realtor, car buddy, pit master, workout partner, I could go on and on. I couldn’t imagine a better partner for Chaq than Mariah. I’m continually inspired by their love and dedication to one another, from the times where they were over 3,000 miles from each other to now. I look forward to seeing you all flourish as one in this next chapter! #HoustonWeHaveAThomas
Brandon H.
Groomsman
Chaq and I met when we were paired as roommates during our freshman year at Morehouse. We quickly bonded over the unfamiliar environment we found ourselves in. And while we have come a (very) long way from the awkward 17 year-olds we used to be, Chaq has remained the incredible friend I could always count on him to be. From all the times we rode through Atlanta rapping "Mo City Don", to that Thanksgiving we spent together as lonely souls in Boston, Chaq has been with me through all the transformational times in our lives, and I would not be the person I am today if we never met. I'm very happy that Chaq was able to find someone in Mariah who complements him so well, and I look forward to the day when we're gathered to celebrate their union.
Rico S.
Groomsman
Chaq and I met our freshmen year at Morehouse while living in the same residence hall. We went from classmates to coworkers to roommates to fraternity brothers in a few short years that we could write a book about. I have seen Chaq overcome a number of challenges while transitioning from college student to successful professional. I know the source of his perseverance is his faith. It is his trust in God that made Chaq the man he is today and ultimately what led him to find Mariah. Mariah is no doubt the "Fire" to Chaq's "Ice". They balance and support one another while prioritizing their shared faith. It has been a beautiful experience to witness the both of you grow as individuals and together as one. Congratulations to the soon to be Mr. & Mrs. Thomas! See yall at the alter!
Gaelen L.
Groomsman
Chaq and I met during our freshman year at Morehouse College, where we lived across the hallway from each other in LLC Residential Hall. We quickly became friends as we were both majoring in business, and both have the same ratchet sense of humor. Throughout college, Chaq was someone I always knew I could depend on, and we have maintained a strong friendship for the past 10 years. I first heard about the woman Chaq "met through the magazine" while they were dating long distance. When I finally met Mariah in person, I knew what she and Chaq shared was something special. Over the years, Chaq and Mariah have served as role models for me. I'm elated to know that they have found each other and I'm beyond excited to be a part of their wedding day.
Antwan H.
Groomsman
Chaq and I met in 2011 at Morehouse and have been brothers ever since. We’ve laughed together, cried together, and all of the trouble I got into was largely because of him. I couldn’t be more proud of the man I’ve watched him become over the last 10 years. He was one of my groomsmen in my wedding and I’m excited to repay the favor of standing next to him, as he marries Mariah! I remember when he called me and told me about Mariah, I knew then that she was perfect for him. I look forward to seeing their relationship blossom as the years go on!
William W.
Groomsman
When Chaq and I met 10 years ago on the third floor of our freshman dorm “LLC” I had no clue that we had so much in common. We’re from the same city and our families have probably been intertwined longer than we’ve been alive. And we both love a little brown liquor every now and then. God meant for us to be brothers. Chaq has been there for so many pivotal moments in my life that it’s way too much to list. However, nothing beats the fact that he's always been there for me when I have found myself lost and confused. Watching you support me at both my parents’ funerals while also dealing with your own struggles showed me the purest definition of compassion and the boundlessness of brotherhood. That is why you deserve the world and more! I truly believe that you have found it in your Queen.