Wedding Party
Michelle E. Smith
Maid of Honor
In 1974, when I was just 2 ½ years old and the baby of the family, a new baby suddenly arrived. They told me she was my niece—but what did that even mean? All I knew was that I finally had someone “my age” to play with. To me, she was my new little sister, and nearly 50 years later, we’re still rocking and rolling together. We’ve had our downs, but way more ups, bad days, but way more good ones. And now, I’m beyond honored to be her maid of honor. Oh, and she never called me Auntie anyway—lol!
Teresa Fariley
Honorary Bridesmaid
I met you when you were just six years old. Your uncle Butch was babysitting you and Michelle, and instead of waiting for him to finish, I said, “Let’s take them with us to the park or playground!” You both loved it and always wanted to tag along after that. Sometimes, I even became the babysitter. Once I got my license, Lil Verb would let me drive, and sometimes I’d even take her car to pick you and Michelle up from school. Long story short, I’ve been around for a long time—through so many of life’s challenges and exciting moments. Even when I tried to give y’all some space, Lil Verb would call me up, telling me to come ride to the mall with her or visit someone in the hospital. She always said I’d be family no matter what, and 45 years later, that still holds true today.
Michelle Robinson
Bridesmaid
I met Shawn at Blessed Hope, and we instantly connected. Somehow, we linked up with Kyme and later Michelle Abrams, and the four of us stayed close for over 40 years—through the good, the bad, and the ugly. She always has my back, and I always have hers. I don’t play about my best friend—she’s more than that; she’s family. I’m so grateful that God allowed her to be in my life. I love her to the moon and back.
Kyme Shemo
Bridesmaid
I met Shawn in 1986 at Blessed Hope—hard to believe it’s been nearly 40 years! At first, we weren’t drawn to each other (she was so quiet!), but after I grew close with Michelle Robinson, our friendship blossomed. Through the years, we’ve shared more laughs than tears, more hugs than fights. Shawn has always been consistent, caring, and a true ride-or-die. From being one of the first to know she was pregnant with Martez to late-night chili calls and unforgettable trips, we’ve made so many memories together. Coming from a small family, I’m grateful that Shawn’s family embraced me as their own. She is loving, loyal, and forgiving, and I couldn’t ask for a better friend. Though life has created some distance, I’m working to close that gap because life wouldn’t be the same without her. I’m beyond happy that she has found her “person” and the love she deserves. Shawn, I love you, and I’m honored to be your friend. ❤️
Emily Moore
Bridesmaid
I met Creshawn Graves when I joined the choir at Blessed Hope. We spoke casually at first but became closer when she and my brother formed a tight friendship through their church newspaper crew. As we spent more time together, her circle of best friends became like big sisters to me. A little-known fact—Shawn is actually the reason I explored a relationship with my now-husband, her brother BJ. She knew he liked me and encouraged me to consider it. Because of our genuine friendship, she was always open and honest with me, and her support led me to take that step. Over time, Shawn became more than a friend—she was truly my sister. I spent countless hours at her home, even without BJ, just talking and enjoying her cooking. She trusted me with her children, and I had her oldest with me all the time. She unknowingly sparked the fire that made me part of her family permanently, and now, nearly 17 years into marriage, I am forever grateful. Shawn has been a constant in my life, long before she was my sister-in-law. She has always loved me wholeheartedly, and without her encouragement, our family wouldn’t be what it is today. Thank you, Shawn—I love you dearly!
Shirelle Brown
Bridesmaid
Shawn and I have been friends since we were little kids, growing up just two houses apart. By the time we were five, we had already formed a strong bond. When we discovered we were born on the same day and year, we became inseparable, calling ourselves twins and family. We always celebrated our birthdays together—Shawn had the parties, and I just enjoyed the cake and ice cream! I loved going to her parties and having all the fun without the hassle of hosting. I’m grateful that after all these years, we are still friends and family. I’m so happy for her and honored to be part of her big day. Congratulations to Shawn and Tyrone on their journey to forever! ❤️
Le'Kisha Robinson
Bridesmaid
Shawn and I first met at church around the age of 6 or 7, but our friendship truly began when I joined St. Catherine’s in fifth grade—though she insists it started that year, I say it was the sixth! Over the past 39–40 years, we have been through it all together—school, babies, laughter, tears, partying, church, triumphs, failures, boyfriends, and marriage. No matter what life threw at us, we faced it side by side. I was there when Shawn and Tyrone first met all those years ago, and now, I’m honored to witness and celebrate their union. Congratulations, my friend—I love you!
Michelle Abrams
Bridesmaid
Shawn and I met when I was 13 at church, and we’ve been best friends ever since. We’ve sung together, cried together, gone to hair school, and even rode motorcycles—so many fun memories over the years! I didn’t get the chance to say it at the meet and greet, but I want to thank you for sharing your dad with me. You were there when I lost mine, and anytime I needed something—whether it was fixing my porch stairs or dealing with a little rust on my car—you’d say, *“Call my dad, he’ll know,”* and sure enough, he was always there. And most of all, thank you for sharing Lil Verb with me—the sweetest, popcorn-eating lady I know. I’m sure she’s smiling down from heaven right now. Congratulations, BFF! Wishing you and Tyrone a lifetime of love and happiness! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Lester Williams Sr
Groomsman
Tyrone is one of my best friends, I only have a few and he's listed as number one. We came up together in Mount Gillean Baptist Church, I've known him for at least 25 to 35 years, He's a real brother & true man and I love him with all my heart. There's nothing that he and I won't do for one another, if you ever wanted a loyal friend Tyrone is it. I call him the "White Man" That's been my nickname for him for years. I'm so grateful that God, sent him someone to love, & to partner with in the person of Ms. Shawn, I call her "Hollywood," She is a graceful, beautiful, For real Black woman. It makes me feel so good seeing them two together, and it's my prayer daily that the Lord will seal them, hold them, and make everything they touch prosper. If you ever want an example of two that are really in love with one another, it's Tyrone & Ms. Shawn. May our God always bless you.
Michael Harper
Groomsman
How do I know Tyrone not to mention he's my big little brother I think he's an awesome guy dependable hard working and a great father to his children and great family man and I believe he's found a beautiful woman and person in Shawn whose an outstanding cook and hard working woman whom I've had the pleasure of getting to know that being said congratulations guys on your wedding day and may the lord continue to bless and guide you. Love always Michael
Derrick Gater
Groomsman
I've known Tyrone since I was a little kid running around our family's home church, Mt. Gillion MBC. Even back then, my brother and I looked up to him — he was the cool younger Deacon that we always liked to be around. We actually nicknamed him "Deacon Cool," and honestly, the name still fits. Tyrone has always been the fun, funny, and genuine man he is today, and over the past few years, l've been blessed to build a real friendship with him. I met Shawn about 12 years ago, and from the very beginning, she's been nothing but warm, welcoming, and real. Her kindness and authenticity have always stood out to me. Shawn and Tyrone are two of the most generous and loving people I know, and I'm truly grateful to call them friends. It's an honor to be part of this special day with them. Congratulations, Fam!