Wedding PartyWedding Party
Marcel RiversMarcel Rivers
Best Man
Two paths that crossed in separate parts of our lives are the best way to introduce Marcel Rivers, a man who started as an unknown to me and eventually became a brother. My very first day at the job, this young, energetic man taught me the ropes. After a long ride around Houston, plenty of nights out, lengthy discussions about life, and bringing our two families together, we became best friends. Over the past 12 years, I have counted on this man several times, and the best part is that he has shown up every time. When you mention a man of his word, a true friend, and a brother, this man's face should be shown each time. When I say he will fight for you, I mean emotionally and, definitely, physically (I've seen him knock a few people out for his family, lol). Believe me, you can count on him. I want to say thank you for sharing this moment with me.
Latasha Bazile (Tasha)Latasha Bazile (Tasha)
Matron of Honor
Little sister of the bride, our birthdays being five days apart, couldn't make us closer. We've shared most of our lives together. We've been Batman and Robin, thick as thieves, best friends, roommates, the mother to my Neph, pretty much each other's saving grace. If she's rocking, ain't no way I'm not rolling. She fights daily to accomplish the goals that she's set. Her wit, humor, and love for me place her high in my life; there's no doubt I could say "I do" without you.
Bianca Wooten (Bee)Bianca Wooten (Bee)
Maid of Honor
Hailing in with over 15 years of friendship, the best friend of the bride, Ivory, to my Ebony. If you see her out, chances are I won't be far behind. Outside of God, she is the reason for our union. She has been here for me in ways that I feel indebted to her. A true force of nature with the purest soul and biggest heart. It's an honor to have you a part of this ceremony.
Ethaline Harris (Porsche)Ethaline Harris (Porsche)
Bridesmaid
The cousin everyone wished they had! A true definition of Superwoman, a Jack of all trades. A heart of gold, and an earth angel. From making up dance routines to perform at family events, being 1/3 of the conference call clique, to being the voice of reason in most of our daily discussions. I admire your strength, courage, and the way you fight crime every day (LOL!). Of course, this day would be incomplete without your presence.
Jazmyn Daigle (Jaz)Jazmyn Daigle (Jaz)
Shot Girl
My mama's sister's daughter! My first cousin, the person who randomly checks my location. Your unique perspective on life has changed my views for the better. You want someone who will tell you the truth, with hard facts to back it up? She's your girl! We've been close all of our lives, from sleepovers at each other's houses to enjoying those Casa Ole meals, to you being Nashville's up-and-coming. You are indeed a pillar in my existence. I didn't even think twice about you not being part of this ceremony.
Jerry JohnsonJerry Johnson
Best Man
Twenty years ago, I met this tall, skinny kid at the pool hall on the campus of Holmes Community College. I didn't expect much out of the interaction, but was I wrong? Who knew that day would lead to a lifetime of friendship, culminating in brotherhood-a bond built on trust, loyalty, and shared experiences. It's wild how paths cross. They say God sets people on your path for a reason and sometimes for a season. This brotherhood God intended for a lifetime. This man has been beside me through every break, every betrayal, every memorable moment, graduation, pledging, broken, up, down, and at peace. No one has seen me in more phases than my brother. Long nights, long-winded —lol —lots of conversations that made sure we held each other accountable for staying on track. This brother has seen me cry many times, from heartbreak to victory, and I cherish each moment because I didn't ask God for an outside brother and ended up having one. Blood couldn't bond our friendship any stronger. To my brother, thank you for sharing this moment with me yet again.
Keiwaun MartinKeiwaun Martin
Groomsman
You never know how you will meet someone, or who will become a friend — or better yet, a brother — to you. I met this man through a mutual friend, and from that moment forward, I knew that this gentle giant had a heart of gold. For fourteen years now, this man has stood beside me. When I didn't have it, he had it, and vice versa. A brother in Phi Beta Sigma and Mansonically, he has had my back, never given me wrong advice, stood with me, watched me cry, believed in me, and made sure to remind me that I am the man most men dream of being. His unwavering support and brotherhood have been a foundation of my life, making me feel understood and appreciated. A brother that I never knew I needed is what he has been to me. There aren't enough characters to say how much I appreciate this brother. I've been blessed to have someone on my journey, and he's been there every step of the way. Thank you, my brother, and this is why I chose you as a Groomsman.
Greg MaysGreg Mays
Groomsman
Fourteen years and still going strong. I met this brother during a dice game, lol, through Marcel. That night, I didn't know what to expect. When I say the true definition of a Cancer, he is just that. Strong, charismatic, a true one of a kind. This brother has been a pillar in my life, showing me what it means to be my authentic self. I have been a therapist for a long time, and guess who has been my therapist? You! The listening ear, the sounding board, the person who, no matter what, allows you to be you. Never judges anyone and sees the good in all. This is the first time in my adult life that I can genuinely say that no matter how tough things get, a true brother will never let you down. Not afraid to speak out, call you out, stand by you all, and make sure you know you are in the wrong, but I am not going to ride with you ten toes down. When you look in the book under the word friend, you will find his face. A true brother you are, and for that reason, I say thank you. This is why you are a Groomsman.
