Mother of the Bride
Famous Quotes: "How droll stop the coach." "Bring me that thing over there by the thing please." Any song from a musical
Mother of the Groom
Famous Quotes: "Love you more!" "None of your wild-man-Steve stuff" "Never a dull moment"
Father of the Bride
Famous Quotes: "Dat one come good eee?" "The success of the morning begins the night before" "I hit the nail on the head" or "Hammer!"
Father of the Groom
Famous Quotes: "Well, I'll tell you one thing..." "No one can ever take away your knowledge" "I'm done with this"
Best Man
Rashid aka Captain of the 7 Seas and Ru's Big Brother. He's been looking out for Ru since day one. Often cooking dinner when Mom was working private duty overnight, making sure Ru took his asthma treatments and championing all Reuel's creative interests -- including at home dark room sessions (which still aren't Mom sanctioned, due to the chemicals). Rashid is quick to laugh, smile and make sure everyone is up on the latest technology.
Maid of Honor
Big sister. One of the smartest and most resourceful people Danelle knows. She’s fiercely protective of her sister and her 4 kids whom she homeschools. Candace is a force to be reckoned with whether it's working as an architect, leading a book club, playing wildly with her kids, or going on one of her long runs (which Danelle cannot keep up with). Through ups and downs Danelle looks up to her tremendously.
Groomsman
Joshua Ricardo Perry aka JP. One of Ru's oldest friends. From racing on arithmetic tests at Calvert School (over 30 years ago), to post college roommates JP is the best friend everyone deserves. Never judgemental and always encouraging JP is more like a brother than a friend, except when it comes to a footrace!
Bridesmaid
Danelle has a thing for funny ladies. And Aidan Davis is honest, funny, and as grounded as they come. She and Danelle went to Belmont University together and Aidan took her in when Danelle 1st moved to LA . She’s a brilliant pianist, composer, and a good friend. Aidan likes to call Danelle "my little babushka"
Groomsman
The Napoleon Sykes Jr. aka Head Coach Poe. If Ted Lasso (Apple TV) had a real life counterpart it is Poe. Poe and Ru have literally been family since the first day they met. Big Napoleon (Poe's Dad) and Mama Sykes were second parents to Ru growing up, so if you see Ru and Poe arguing over the last serving of Turkey salad or busting out the same dance moves it's because these two were literally attached at the hip since 8th Age (2nd grade).
Bridesmaid
Long time friend and mama to 4 adorable kiddos. Carla and her husband met at Danelle's birthday party many years ago in Nashville. She’s amazing in the kitchen, sings like a bird, tells it like it is, and keeps Danelle laughing. She’s also the type of gal that really gets things done! AKA...she's the planner. And good at it too. If you're playing any intelligent games, you want Carla on your team. Trust me.
Groomsman
Jairus Swann aka Mr. SyncoPatience. College roommate but more than that a grounding voice as Ru began his journey in entertainment. Jai so kind, soft-spoken and the quintessential family man is like the relative everyone loves to invite to the party. Ru and Jai's Moms met before they did at College Orientation which can only be divinely ordered, so that these two would have the right friend on campus. Who knew they would end up making music, sharing a house and standing in the gap for one another 20+ years and going!
Bridesmaid
She is like a vibrant ball of light! She will make you feel like you can do anything at all with how she loves you. Melody is a mom of 2, even though she looks 21. She's is a talented singer/songwriter who always points to the goodness in life. This beautiful soul is an absolute treasure. Oh, And she's foiiiiine!!!
Groomsman
Tim Riismandel aka Sir Riis!! High school teammates (in lacrosse and soccer), best friends and roommates in the beloved "Deans Street" house. Riis and Ru bonded over a love of films (Baby Boy starring Tyrese Gibson to be exact) and haven't looked back since. Riis has always been there to challenge Ru to work a little harder whether its on the field, on the golf course, or as leader at work. These best friends have taken down more road trips, bourbon festivals and Orioles Baseballs games than even they can remember and someone has the pictures to prove it!
Bridesmaid
A life of the party type of gal. Mia is committed to joy, peace, and seeing the best in others and we love that about her. Danelle's father officiated her wedding 5 years ago and she and her hubby, Mike, just renewed their vows. Mia and Danelle have been there for each other through hospital visits, family reunions, breakups, birthdays, and spring break trips. Mia was Danelle's Belmont University roommate and is one of her dearest friends. And the girl's got PIPES! Hearing her sing is a treat.
Groomsman
Derek Superville aka Sup. Sup and Ru friends since freshman year in high school bonded over Mrs. C's (Derek's Mom) amazing cooking. Originally from Trinidad but 100% "Coolumbian" Sup is one of Ru's most creative friends. On the lacrosse field Sup would challenge Ru daily...making it almost impossible for Ru to score a goal. Thank goodness in College the rivalry didn't continue as Ru was smart enough to change positions from attack to midfield. Always the life of the party for his amazing stories and pictures from all over the globe Derek is a life long friend with a huge heart.
Bridesmaid
Danelle's not-so-baby cousin, Ashleigh. She’s kind, sweet, laughs a lot, and became a wife and mama very recently!! And then she had the audacity to start her own business, which is thriving. You go girl! Danelle remembers when she was a sassy little toddler. "I can do whatever I want to, so boom" -3 year old Ashleigh
Groomsman
Kenneth Lam aka Kai. Oldest son of amazing missionary parents Kenny and Ru became dear friends through Chinese 9Man Volleyball. When Kai became part of the 9Man culture he welcomed Ru into the world of 9man Chinese volleyball (don't ask how) and they've been to many tournaments since -- including a trip to LA's China town where Kai won MVP for his outside hitting and blocking (alongside volleyball gold medalist Kevin Wong). So many great things to say about Kai because he will keep you sharper than Iron!! Dad, Husband, Son, Brother Kenny does it all with grace and a little bit of eldest sibling spunk.
Bridesmaid
Sister in Love to Danelle She's a pro at interior design on a budget, homeschools her kids, and loves her babies with her whole heart. Samantha is married to Danelle's older brother, Warren and they live in South Florida.
Groomsman
Edward Kelvin Drewery aka KD$. Kelvin and Ru have been brothers since freshman year Macro and Microeconomics. Late night study sessions until 3am for Professor Fenstermaker after D1 practice (Kelvin football and Ru lacrosse) kept both out of trouble...for the most part! Kelvin would leave football to focus on his family and finance (only person I know to have above a 3.9 GPA for both his undergrad and MBA in finance). Kelvin may have the only brain that is as big as his heart, probably due to raising his 3 amazing daughters! Quick to challenge you to a push up contest, belt out a tune or advise you on owning your great business idea, Kelvin although a former NFL prospect is the best cheerleader you could have.
Bridesmaid
The Cheerwine Queen of South Carolina who can dance and sing better than most people and who’ s facial expressions will tell you EVERYTHING. Kendall and Danelle were in the same acapella girls choir at Belmont University. Danelle says "She’s one of the smartest and hardest working women I know." Kendall and her hubby and babygirl live in Nashville, TN.
Groomsman
Ryan Parham aka Mr. Demo! Every once in awhile you get a friend who changes your life. Ryan is that guy! Kind, strong, and fearless. Friends since 8th grade when Howard County Rec and Sports brought us together on the lacrosse field. Ryan is the ace in the hole that every man deserves to have. Full of faith, freedom and forgiveness Demo has literally taken the shirt off his back for friends. Not much on politics, news, or gossip Ryan will challenge you to live in the moment and live for your family. Proud to call him a friend and to call whenever I need a good word or good laugh.
Bridesmaid
Danelle's first niece. This young lady is one smart cookie. She's an avid swimmer, soccer player, pianist, and great student. Her nickname is YaYa but you have to special privileges to use it. Her next birthday will be the sweet sixteen. She thinks it's hilarious that she pick up her Auntie Danelle. This child is strong!!
Flower Girl
Chiara Leon is both funny and sweet. She gives the best hugs but also knows how to stick up for herself as the youngest of 4 with 2 big brothers. Chiara loves playing the piano, dancing, reading, drawing, and playing soccer.
Flower Girl
Grace Corbin will light up any room. She's a recent Pre-School graduate so watch out kindergarten! Gracey loves to sing and dance and always knows how to pose for a picture. The best part of Auntie Danelle's wedding to her will be wearing a flower girl dress.
Ring Bearer
Hailing all they way from Prague, Czech Republic older brother to Forest, 1st son to Ru's older brother Rashid and his partner Bara; and a Director in the making! Mars speaks multiple languages, is a professional driver, and enjoys farming. Who better to guard the precious wedding bands than this International Boy of many talents.