Maid of Honor
I met Shelby in high school, where Lesly and I recruited her and we’ve instantly became a trio. She’s been my voice of reason on many occasions, my country lovin’ partner, and although always skeptical- down for any idea I may have. The best Maid of Honor a girl could have, I couldn’t picture this day without her.
Bridesmaid
My little sister, born a best friend for life. She’s been my heartbeat, since she was born, and one of the reasons I strive to be the best woman I can be. Strong, brave and funny, I’m glad the Navy allowed her to be by my side on this special day.
Bridesmaid
Lesly, came up to me on my first day of High School and said “ Hi, I’m Lesly we’re going to be Best Friends!”. I thought this little hyper girl was crazy, but sure enough, we’ve been best friends ever since. I can count on her to answer the phone at any time of the day, go dancing with me in the middle of the night, and always keep me smiling. I might regret inviting her to the reception 😊 but I can’t wait to have her stand by my side.
Bridesmaid
More than a friend- we became family since we met. I’ve known her since I was 6, and we’ve stayed in each other’s lives no matter the distance. She’s caring, beautiful and such a positive light in my life. We’ve been each others anchor in life, and I’m grateful to have her stand beside me on this special day.
Bridesmaid
Pronounced Julia-Came into my life in 2014 as my roommate after I moved back to Boston. I never thought I’d meet another lifelong friend, but I’m grateful I did. She’s an incredible soul, a great cook, and always someone I can count on. I’m happy to have her share this day with me.
Bridesmaid
My soul mate on earth. We met in college, where we worked together almost every day for three years. Since then, we’ve vowed to stay in each other’s life, no matter where it takes us. She’s now a wife and a mama to a beautiful little girl, and I’m lucky to call her a friend. This is just another milestone in life, I’m so honored to have her be a part of.
Matron of Honor
So grateful life brought us together in Cincinnati. A fellow coaches wife, a Compton girl living in the country- we speak the same language. Faithful, funny and a caring mother and wife, I couldn’t have asked for a better friend during this time of my life. So grateful to have her as my Matron of Honor on this day.
Best Man
My big brother, my protector, my friend, my road dog, and every other cliché describing an inseparable partner no matter how far the distance. Since I can remember, he has embodied what it means to be the most intimidating goofy person you could ever meet. He taught me about music. He taught me how to throw a football. He taught me respect. He taught me what NOT to do (problems of the first born) but most importantly he taught me what it meant to be proud of someone. My big brother has the heart of a giant and an infectious care for all of those in which he comes in contact. There aren’t enough words to say how great of a person and man he is, but I’m forever grateful the example he has showed all of us. I love him to death and honored for him to be one of my best men.
Best Man
Stephon and I met in history class our freshman year and admittedly, I was more impressed that his dad played for the Bengals more than I was with him. It wasn’t until we began to hangout with “The Clique” that I appreciated him as a person more than his superstar father! (ha ha). After going to college together, he has turned into one of my closest confidants, a great husband, and father. We lean on each other for advice, accountability, and some good ol’ guy talk. Outside of our shared love for cigars and whiskey, we have a shared love for our friends, family, and faith. Truly a good person and I’m honored to have him be one of my best men.
Groomsman
Darius (pictured with our Ring Bearer) and I met at St. X right around freshman year. Ironically, I was not a fan of his during my first year at school but organically we realized we had more in common than we didn’t, and the rest is history. His wisdom, weirdness, and most of all his friendship has helped me grow to this point today and I am grateful to have him by my side. Fun Fact, one of the reason I went to the Louisville to play football was because I promised Darius that I would commit if they offered me- once they did, it was L’s up from then.
Groomsman
Ben and I became friends through freshman basketball as distinguished members of the reserve team (not the B team; get it right). From practicing basketball outside his house to guitar hero jam sessions in his basement, our relationship only continued to grow stronger once we recognized the mutual friends we had (Darius, Stephon, Zip). Over time the care and compassion that not only him, but his family displayed, showed to be totally in alignment with my own upbringing. A dear friend through thick and thin, I’m grateful to have him be a part of this
Groomsman
Juandez is yet another one of my brothers who I wouldn’t have done this day without. If you don’t know Dez’s story, it is one of resilience, overcoming adversity, and self-determination that is still being written. He continues to inspire ME with his initiatives in the community, his love of family, and his compassion towards others. He is one of the most humble, hard-working and caring people that I know. He is the epitome of others before self, and I am grateful to have my little brother stand with me on this day.
Groomsman
Even though Darion is the baby, to me, Chaun was always the one. From watching him take his 1st steps to now DJ’ing full clubs, I’m happy to watch him grow over the years including becoming a proud father. I still owe you back for peeing on me in ’97 through the playpen, but having him here on this special day will suffice as repayment. I’m grateful to have Chaun be a part of this with us.
Groomsman
July thirty something (I can never remember) 1997, I got to hear about Darion James, my baby brother being born and I couldn’t have been more proud. For years I have vowed (though not always the greatest communicator), to protect all of my brothers with my life but especially DaDa. His quietness, his quirky mind, his unconditional love, and random reminder of Ma’s cornbread (that make us both laugh uncontrollably) is why I am grateful to have Darion be a part of this.
Honorary Groomsman
Demarco is my twin (not literally) who was called home early to Christ. Funny, charismatic, and a damn good dad. I love you for life and know that you are here with all of us. I love being your big brother and I hope standing at this altar continues to set the example you challenged me to be.