Wedding Party
Erica Colen
Maid of Honor
My name’s Erica, and I’ve known Desi for 30 unforgettable years — basically since birth. (We’re sisters, in case that wasn’t obvious!) We’ve shared just about everything together: a room, endless laughs, plenty of chaos, and yes, our fair share of yelling too — all part of the ride! I’m genuinely thrilled for Desi and Marquis, and I can’t wait to celebrate their Big Day with them!! Let the countdown to Creech begin!
Tianna Sammons
Matron of Honor
I met Desi 13 years ago when I began dating her brother, Richard, and from the very beginning she welcomed me with open arms and treated me like her own sister. Over the years, she has been a constant source of love, support, and joy, and I am truly grateful for the special bond we share. I could not be more excited for her and Marquis as they begin this next chapter together. Desi deserves the absolute best, and I know Marquis will give her just that!
Jessica Thomas
Bridesmaid
Dessalyn and I go way back — over 20 years! When she invited me to her 16th birthday party, something just clicked, and we’ve been laughing ever since (usually at something we probably shouldn’t be). Our bond grew stronger when we became sorority sisters of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. She’s my adventure buddy, my sister by heart, and I’m beyond grateful to celebrate such a beautiful person and this amazing new chapter of her life.
Febi Sammons
Bridesmaid
Desi and I go way back to 2007-ish, when I met her through her brother Christopher—who, plot twist, is now my husband! From day one, Desi welcomed me with open arms and became like my own sister. She’s the definition of grace and generosity, with a heart big enough to spoil my kids rotten (which she does, happily). Whether she’s cheering them on or just being her amazing self, Desi shows us what it means to live with love (like Jesus!) and purpose. I’m beyond thrilled to stand by her side as she marries Marquis, and can’t wait to celebrate this beautiful love story!
Miriam Smith
Bridesmaid
Dess and I have been friends since our high school days, meeting back when we both played bass clarinet together in the band. She’s also my line sister, which has made our bond even more special over the years. When I got married, she was part of my day in a way that meant a lot to me, and now I’m so excited to celebrate her as she steps into this new chapter. It’s a wonderful full-circle moment, and I’m just so happy to be part of her journey
Alexis Maynez
Bridesmaid
I met Dessalyn while working at the City. We instantly bonded over our love of TV, movies, food and tea breaks. She’s become one of my favorite people and I’m so excited to celebrate her and Marquis!
Bethany Gardner-Grant
Bridesmaid
Dessalyn and I go way back—like white gloves and church socks—serving on the Youth Usher Board at Greater Tucker Baptist Church. As we grew older, life took us in different directions, but thankfully, the love of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated brought us back together as line sisters. We've been connected ever since—my sister for life! 💕💚
Phylicia Blackmon
Bridesmaid
I met Desi on my third day of working with the City, and from the start, she was so kind, helpful, and patient. I truly believe that God places people in our lives for a purpose, and I’m so glad He placed you in mine. I’m not only grateful to work alongside you every day, but I’m also thankful to call you my friend. I pray that you and Marquis share many wonderful, love-filled years together — full of laughter, blessings, and growth. You both deserve all the happiness in the world! 💕
Dale Collier II
Best Man
Dale and Marquis have known each other since they were infants, when Marquis lived in Columbia, SC. They have been best friends for years, and Dale is excited to be there for Marquis’ big day.
Mikhail Creech
Best Man
I’ve known Marquis my whole life. I’m blessed to call him my brother and I am excited for this next season of life for him!
Ralph Martin
Groomsman
Ralph and Marquis have been brothers since the Fall of 2010 through Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. they have been inseparable ever since.
Paul Hubert
Groomsman
Marquis and Paul have been like brothers ever since the Creech family moved from South Carolina. Often confused as blood brothers. They’ve played basketball together, went to the same high school, were college roommates and have attended the same church for 20 plus years.
Jaylen Thompson
Groomsman
Marquis and Jaylen met in 2016 when he helped bring Jaylen into their fraternity. Since then, they’ve become great friends and keep in contact through gaming.
Todd McWilliams
Groomsman
I met Marquis ten years ago. He was the very first brother outside of my chapter that I built a bond with. Brother Creech has always been an exemplary example of what it is to be an Alpha and a real friend. Whether I need words of encouragement or a laugh I can count on my brother.
Eric Colen
Groomsman
Marquis and I first met after I joined Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and from that moment, he’s been a constant source of guidance, friendship, and brotherhood. Over the years, Marquis has become more than a friend, he’s truly been like a brother to me. Now, I’m honored and excited to officially welcome him into my family as he marries my sister. I can’t wait to celebrate this special day with them and stand by his side as they begin this new chapter together.
Sean Hinton
Groomsman
Since time immemorial Marquis and Sean have had a close fraternal bond, transcending that which is written in stone. Their brotherly bond is written in blood. From the pews of Orchard Knob Baptist Church to the graduation stage at ETSU they have and shall always maintain unshakable fraternal bonds. In the words of the great Grand Admiral Thrawn “What was first just a dream has become a frightening reality for those who may oppose us."
Steven Templin II
Groomsman
Steven and Marquis met in the Fall of 2009 in the Quest Program at ETSU. Quis was an incoming freshman and Steven was one of the Quest leaders. In the Fall of 2010 Steven had the opportunity to help bring Quis into their Fraternity Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated and beloved Tr3 Club! Quis has been like a little brother to Steven and one of his closest friends ever since. Quis even became a part of Steven and his wife Jordé’s village that helped raise their oldest son Tylen while they were in college. Quis would take Tylen to Headstart every morning when they couldn’t get him there because of class or work and even though Tylen ate all of Quis’s cereal several times Quis not once complained. Steven and Quis have shared many memories over the years, good times and bad times but Steven is glad God allowed them to cross paths and considers Quis a true brother and friend.