Wedding Party
Rob
Best Man
Rooted in faith and guided by purpose, I live a life centered on God, family, and the people I love. Music moves me, and track and field has shaped much of who I am. Through track, I met one of my closest friends, Julian Alford — a bond that started in our neighborhood and grew stronger on the track. Whether competing, connecting, or just living life, I strive to lead with integrity, intention, and heart.
Helene
Maid of Honor
As Leah’s [favorite] sister, I was the obvious choice for Maid of Honor. Through the years, we’ve gone on countless shopping trips - and then back to return everything Leah changed her mind about, shared many memories and laughs, and built a deep connection and understanding with each other. I’m honored to be a part of such a monumental day in the lives of Leah and Julian- the only person who can match her weird.
Jared
Groomsman
I met Julian while attending A&T. As engineering majors, we shared classes and were also roommates during our sophomore year. One of my favorite memories is from 2013, when we attended a Panthers vs. Saints game in an absolute downpour (Derrick J. was there, too). Thankfully, the Panthers pulled off a game-winning touchdown to clinch the NFC South title. Lastly, I was born and raised in Greensboro, but I currently live in Florida.
Maggie
Bridesmaid
I'm Leah's eldest sister. I admire Leah for being strong, fierce and a fighter when she overcame health struggles early in her life. Fun fact about me is I have over 100 Pikachu items. :)
Alex
Groomsman
I met Julian at the gym and the two of us became fast friends. I am a graphic designer, gamer, tennis player, and bbq aficionado. Outside of spending time with family and friends, I love to go to the movies and explore different creative hobbies
Sarah
Bridesmaid
I am one of Leah’s elder sisters and a big fan of the couple. I can’t wait to celebrate them.
Jeremy
Groomsman
I'm a proud graduate of North Carolina A&T State University. I've been friends with Julian for over 15 years. One of my favorite memories with Julian is celebrating his 21st birthday at Cam's. I also have a passion for designing and wearing my own custom t-shirts.
Karissa
Bridesmaid
I'm Leah's younger sister. A fun fact about me is that I grew up as a sailor, chartering, working as a camp counselor, teaching, and racing. My favorite memory of Leah is probably when I had a very embarrassing moment one night in Salem and she was supportive and helpful but also ridiculed me so much that it became a very funny story--- She definitely has that ability. Spending any time with Leah and Julian together is always wonderful. They are so good together and it's always a time that is filled with laughs.
Ari
Groomsman
I'm Leah's twin brother. I got to witness Leah and Julian's love grow and I am excited to see the future they have together.
Celeste
Bridesmaid
Leah and I met through our exes, but the real love story began with weekly phone calls while I was away at grad school. When I came back, we jumped straight into sleepovers, last-minute party nights (I was always ready when she called), and those endless, messy chats about everything, nothing, and all the wild stuff in between. Soulmates? Definitely!
Derrick
Groomsman
I live in the Raleigh, NC area with my beautiful wife of 10 years, Sharron and our 2x energetic kids, Derrick and Savannah. Julian and I have been friends since meeting at NC A&T while getting our bachelors of Electrical Engineering. We shared many crazy and funny moments over the years, but the most memorable one is when we went Black Friday shopping in 2010. We stayed up all night to get the new TVs from Target and I *almost* took a TV from a little girl's arms before Julian brought me back to reality. Praying many years of marital bliss for them!!
Yasmine
Bridesmaid
I first met Leah when we were working with the National Park Service and we spent just about every weekend that summer together. For over a decade, we've gone to cultural events, parties, played flag football, crafted, and enjoyed being out in nature to hike and kayak. A favorite memory with Leah is one halloween when we made our costumes and dressed up as a lion and lion tamer.
