Wedding Party
Lauren Githua
Matron of Honor
Lauren, who I affectionately call “Twin”, has been my ride or die since our high school and college years. We’ve seen each other through every kind of life experience - from college move-in and toga parties to big jobs and new homes. There are plenty of memories that will never be written down and definitely not on the internet (ha!). In 2014, we stumbled into business ownership, leading a successful wedding and event planning agency while we each managed full time jobs. For me, Lauren is and has always been a safe and reliable space. When someone has grown up with you and seen you at your worst, their capacity to celebrate your best is deeply expanded and even more meaningful. In my Twin, I always find a non-judgmental ear, a loving heart, and a ‘yes’ to an adventure.
Tyesha Michel
Matron of Honor
(sings with a Brandy bounce) Krys and Ty Productions! I don’t know when that little jingle started but it immediately comes to mind when I think of my good sis, Tyesha. We met in college, became roommates, and have maintained a heart connection ever since. We’ve traveled to different countries, celebrated dozens of milestones, and without fail, we have always showed up for each other. Ty is the one I trust most to keep it real with me. With all the love her heart can hold, my Leo sis will say the thing and ask the hard questions. I can’t put into words how much I value this in our friendship. In a world that will choose fake for the sake of comfort, her honesty and authenticity make me feel deeply loved and cared for.
Caryn Hawkins
Bridesmaid
If you’ve heard my version of me and David’s love story, you know that I credit Caryn for the true beginning of it all. It was in a dinner conversation with her that I recommitted to being vulnerable and putting myself out there. That night, while sitting across from her, I redownloaded Hinge for the 100th time. David and I matched that night. Caryn and I talk almost every single day. She has taught me how to embrace and expose my softer side. I don’t know anyone who loves harder than Caryn and I feel blessed to be one of the recipients of her goodness. Through her modeling, I have learned to honor my emotions and open myself to be loved and supported.
Cleao Martin
Bridesmaid
Cleao and I spent years attending the same church and then later dancing in the same liturgical dance company. It's no coincidence that we deepened our relationship in spiritual communities as we have always been soul sisters to one another. We’ve shared an unexplainable connection almost since inception, so deep that sometimes we can sense each other emotionally without actually talking to one another. This connection has remained constant, even as Cleao has moved to different states and eventually relocated back home to Tampa, Florida. She and I will nerd out, glam out, pray, and vibe, all within the same one hour conversation. We’ve stood by each other through so many seasons of life. In our sisterhood, I’ve discovered the depth, wisdom, and love of chosen family.
Dominique Griffin
Bridesmaid
I do not play about Nique, and she does not play about me. Period. Our friendship was planted in our high school’s dance room and has bloomed into the tightest sisterhood, far beyond sharing the stage. We are similarly tempered and tend to be thinking the same thing at the same time, even if it shouldn’t be spoken aloud (ha!). Nique is one of the most kind-hearted, thoughtful, and reliable people I know. She always shows up, whether it's an impromptu happy hour or moving day. Through her love, I’ve learned the value of village building. There is something uniquely special about people you actively do life with, who are just as present and available on a random Tuesday after a long day as they are for the big moments and milestones.
Shanice Chance
Bridesmaid
If you’ve ever shared space with Shanice, you remember meeting her. She’s a bright light, beautiful energy, and creative genius. We met through Cleao at some point that I can’t even recall now and formed our own bond over the many years since. We’ve shared so much laughter and numerous heartfelt conversations. I learn so much from Shanice’s free spirit. She’s deeply thoughtful and intentional about her words, actions, relationships, and even how she curates space. Shanice is one of those people who listens to you with her full attention and her whole body! In her love, I feel deeply seen and appreciated. She’s quick to compliment and share affirmations. I am more intentional, more spiritual, and more stylish (!) as a result of our sisterhood.
Harold R. Lloyd II
Best Man
I've known Harold since birth, literally! We were born just three days apart in the same hospital only a few doors away. We served on the Jr. Usher Board at church, played basketball and ran track in High School, and eventually started our adult lives together with our first apartment in Alexandria, VA. If you don't already know him, Harold's always been a clean dresser and smooth dancer - just like me. :-) I’m proud to have Harold as my Best Man most importantly because of his spiritual strength and wisdom. He’s the person I turn to for powerful prayer, an honest perspective, and grounding advice. Anyone who knows me has heard about H, and it means everything to stand beside my friend, my homie, and my brother on this day.
Jean-David Aime, Jr.
Best Man
I first met Jean-David Aime, a.k.a. "Aime” during our freshman year at Temple University (TU!) in Philly. Early on, we connected over our favorite house parties and best cheesesteak spots, but then we really got close through our shared love of music. We spent years making music together, with Aime as the rapper and me making the beats, it's something we still love to this day. Aime is one of the most consistent, vibrant, and welcoming people I’ve ever known. No matter who you are or where you come from, Aime has the gift of making people feel seen and comfortable, and he does it effortlessly. Our friendship means everything to me, and I know I can always count on him, no matter what. My Best Man.
Cortez Patton
Groomsman
Cortez was my roommate during our freshman year at Temple. He seemed reserved at first, but then, out of nowhere, a miracle happened! One night in our dorm room, Jeopardy came on TV, we realized we were both big fans, and then the rest is history. We went from roommates to family overnight. When you first meet him, you'll likely think he's either a Deacon, or a comedian. The funny thing is, he's both! Cortez is the most understanding, sincere, and outrageously hilarious friend I know. For context, he's the friend I know I can count on for a real favor, a genuine laugh, and most importantly, he will be there when you need someone to help you move - and he will be on time! He's that friend!
Marley Abram
Groomsman
I met Marley during our freshman year at Temple also. We connected because we both grew up in upstate New York and we shared a love for pro basketball. The funniest thing about Marley, is that he's the most direct, straight-forward person you'll ever meet. I remember our first convo like it was yesterday. “I'm a big NBA fan.” “Same.” And just like that, we were friends. No matter the time or distance we share apart, our friendship remains strong. His reliability is top-notch. I’m glad Marley is here because I trust him to be honest and tell the truth, even when it's tough. He's known to always give it straight, no chaser.
Craig Cannon
Groomsman
Craig, or "CJ", is my cousin and even though he’s six years younger than me, I’ve always looked up to him, not just in height (obviously), but in the way he carries himself. He’s humble, consistent, and has a natural way of showing love that makes everyone around him feel connected. Some of my funniest memories with Craig are from the holidays with our family. It could be Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any Sunday at Golden Corral or Old Country Buffet. Lately, we've been having Mac & Cheese battles, and every time, his batch has been better. Craig embodies the warmth and spirit of our family, and being around him always reminds me of what really matters.
Davon Cheek
Groomsman
Davon doesn’t know it, but he was a big part of my reason for moving from Philly to the DC metro area. Davon was one of the funniest people I met while at Temple, and one of the things that stood out to me, was how he spoke. That PG County slang is different! He'd say stuff like, “Y’all bamas jah lunchin’” — I’d be like - “I beg your pardon?” After breaking through our initial language barrier, I learned he’s a real stand-up guy. He’s very principled and very serious about his family, friends and future. Davon is an inspiration to me and reminder to stay on point. We’ve taken guy’s trips and couple’s trips together, and I can always count on him to bring the good vibes. His support for our marriage is essential.