Jennifer & Marcelle
Wedding Party
Alvin Franklin, Jr.
Best Man
Met in 1998 when my family moved here to Saginaw, MI. Been best friends since the 8th grade and all around the country together. The life of all parties.
Jessica Scott
Maid of Honor
Growing up, Jessica was the closest thing I had to a sister. That's been particularly apparent during this process as she's been my manager, protector, and friend. The mother of "My Lennie" (Yelena), Jess is someone I admire professionally and in spirit. She's quick-witted and no nonsense, and I love her immensely. This day literally would not be possible without her. I'm so excited to share this moment with my sister/cousin!
Josiah T. Smith
Best Bud
Kid genius. And offspring of the lovely couple.
Ashley Baldwin
Matron of Honor
Ashley and I met during undergrad, and what I remember most is that she always wore the biggest smile. And her energy! Whew, chile, that energy (lol). Ashley is one of the most intense people you will ever encounter. She's also extremely grounded and loves her some Jesus. As much as we've had amazingly fun times, there have been many storms that saw her hand in mine just the same. I will forever be grateful for her standing with me, come what may, and cannot wait to celebrate with my sista-friend!
Brent M. Cork
Groomsman
One of the first people I met when my family moved to Saginaw. Been members of the same church and like brothers for almost 20 years.
Stephanie Contreras
Bridesmaid
From my pink and green 1996 Chevy Beretta (which we nearly ruined) to now, Steph has been riding with me since high school. She is absolutely my PIC. A truly caring individual, Steph loves in a way that has always motivated me to do, and be better. We've shared many laughs, many tears, and I am so happy that she is coming over from Wisconsin to support us on this special day.
Jeremy L. Jackson
Groomsman
Met Roc in the Fall of 2004 as freshman on the highest of seven hills in Tallahassee, FL. We traveled all over the Deep South to football games, earned 2 degrees (wouldn’t have graduated without his help, literally. He only got one B through both programs and is still mad about it), and became family as we matured into men.
Nia McGaugh
Bridesmaid
Nia is my younger cousin, currently attending Howard University, majoring in Business. A brilliant mind, this girl can pretty much talk anyone into anything (just ask her about Orlando, FL if you get the chance). One of the things I love about Nia is her ability to take something and make it 10x better, effortlessly. She is beautiful inside and out. Oh, and that video of our New Hampshire engagement? Courtesy of Ms. McGaugh. She's the best!
Pastor Samuel J. Doyle
Groomsman
Met Sam shortly after we moved to Saginaw. We became friends through school, Kudos, and the shared experience of being the sons' of Pastors. Now we travel on our ministerial journey together. My brother in ministry and in life.
Lauren Thomas
Bridesmaid
Often called my mini-me, Lauren took all my little efforts and worked them to perfection. She can sing, play piano, entertain, and graduated with honors from the University of Michigan, majoring in Engineering. Hard to believe I used to babysit this woman. Now she's making boss moves in NYC. I'm so proud of everything she stands for and am so glad she's sharing this special moment with us.
Roderick Madison II
Groomsman
Jen’s brother and I have been watching sports and learning to be fathers together for a long time. Excited to continue this journey with him now as my brother.
MaKenzie T. Smith
Bridesmaid
MaKenzie will always hold a special place in my heart at she was the first Smith that truly took me in when Marcelle and I first began our courtship. In fact, my first time at the Smith residence ended up being an hour long session with Kenz, who I taught to play the card game "Speed." Watching her grow up has been such an honor. She's a beautiful dancer with the most contagious laugh. We've always been family, but I'm thrilled to officially call her my sister.
Jelani A. Downing
Groomsman
Met J on the first day of college on the highest of seven hills in Tallahassee, FL. Became friends as a result of us realizing we were the only sports-intelligent people in that class...been arguing about sports since that day too. His family took care of me in Florida and they’re still family.
Dr. Marche’ T. Smith
Bridesmaid
One of the best things to witness is a full Smith household. I love this family dearly, but there's just something about Marche' being around that just elevates everything. Things just get brighter. She's a Pediatrician finishing up her residency at the Children's Hospital of Atlanta and one of the most interesting people you'll ever meet. Her "Sad" impression from the movie Inside Out makes me belly laugh to this day. Excited to gain another sister!
Travis D. Turner
Groomsman
Met Trav on the highest of seven hills in Tallahassee, FL. We became friends in a class when we realized we were the only ones taking it seriously. He knew the rest of the fellas and the rest is history. He’s been my sounding board and voice of reason quite a bit since we’ve earned those 2 degrees. Always there for me no matter what.
Charmaine Williams
Bridesmaid
I first encountered Charmaine following a N.E.R.D. concert at Wayne State University circa 2008, and she's been cracking me up ever since. Not only is she one of the best people to hangout with, but she's the greatest mom to our nephews and Ring Bearers, Cam & Cai. I can always count on Maine to pull rank for the kids' holiday photos, because she can throw a look together like none other. I'm so glad she'll be standing with us. This day just wouldn't be the same without her thoughtfulness and vibrant energy.
Devon R. Patterson
Groomsman
Met Patt on the first day of football practice freshman year of high school. Been brothers ever since.
Rementa Doyle
Bridesmaid
The Ava DuVernay to my Issa Rae, this girl not only gets me in general, but creatively as well. We have too many memories to name them all, but perhaps the sweetest is the first time we saw each other while carrying our boys— they immediately starting kicking us in the womb. Love our bond, and theirs too. One of our mutual friends, so glad Rementa's standing with us on this special occasion.
William Ware
Groomsman
AKA Bill$...Jen’s youngest brother. Always enjoyed going to his high school basketball games and discussing them afterwards. Other than being a LeBron fan, I’m glad he’ll officially be my brother soon. Proud of the man and father he’s becoming.
Yelena Soberanis
Petal Patrol
Yelena Marie, 1st of her name, of House Soberanis, daughter of Jessica & Alejandro, breaker of toys, unpacker of cabinets, world traveler, loser of socks, ripper of books, queen of the side-eye, baby of A.K.A. Founder’s Day.
Cai Madison
Ring Security
Nephew. Sour patch kid.
Jaqueline Rose Baldwin
Petal Patrol
Goddaughter of the bride. Diva with a heart of gold.
Cameron Madison
Ring Security
First nephew. Wiz kid. Checker of security cameras and lead agent for FBI—Fighting Bad Guys Island.
Sole Vernon
Petal Patrol
Cousin/Niece. Southern Belle. Snatcher of edges.