Best Man
Growing up in a tough city without my father in my life made it really difficult to find a father-like figure during my coming of age years through entertainers and sports figures as I excelled athletically. I am the epitome of a self-made man. This allowed Domenio and I to bond as we strived to become men at Howard. Countless talks in Drew Hall and escapades throughout Howard University and DC brought us closer. I took him under my wing on his 3rd day of Howard. I listened to his interests and watered him like my favorite seed and he equally poured into me. He wanted to be in GODSC so I went with him to meet with Jeremy Odoffin at the house on Harvard street because I didn't trust them. This connection led to a now 17 year bond that cannot be broken. I have poured into this great man that is now getting married and I couldn't be prouder. It's been a pleasure to watch him elevate beyond measure. I love him like my own brother and I am happy that he has found true love. To those that don't know me...my name is Rumeal and I'm honored to stand by my brother on his special day.
Matron of Honor
Tia has been my best friend of many years and we have shared so many chapters together. We met in middle school, became best friends in high school, started college at FAMU, studied pharmacy together and currently work as Pharmacists at the same company. Tia and I have been inseparable for years and it will never change. Tia is the friend I can call on if I feel guilty about buying an expensive item, I know she'll tell me to "treat myself." If I call Tia to vent and I am wrong about a situation, she'll be completely honest and give me an unbiased, fair point of view. Tia is the friend I can simply call about anything!! Tia has a heart of gold, is a fashionista and a very loyal friend. I had the honor of being her Maid of Honor and I am so happy agreed to be my Matron of Honor. Tia is "my person" and I am so thankful to have her by my side. .
Best Man
Where do I even start…. Domenio has been my best friend for 15 years now, and I feel confident saying I molded him to the man that he is today. I remember he thought of this nick name for us called “Val-menio”, I told him to keep workshopping it but it’s the thought that counts. I could go on sharing inside jokes and purposely trying to embarrass him. However, I think its important to communicate, couldn’t think of a better guy to be my right hand in life. Love, V.V.S
Matron of Honor
Lisa is also my best friend from college. We met during freshman orientation and I vividly remember how she first introduced herself. She said, with no type of enthusiasm lol, "my name is Lisa, Im from DMV and I like cheering." She was so recluse at first and wasn't used to everyone being so friendly. I can't remember the exact occasion, party or study session, but one day Lisa, Tia and I, started hanging out on a consistent basis. We just clicked!! Over the years, we have traveled together, lived together, failed tests together and have shared the funniest memories. Some memories we actually have to take to the grave lol. I thought soul-mates were for romantic relationships until I met Lisa. I am so thankful to have her by my side as my Matron of Honor.
Groomsman
I’ve known Dom for seventeen years. He was the first person I lived with in our college years (voluntarily), which means I not only found him tolerable but actually a great person to be around. Over the last seventeen years, we’ve witnessed the highs and the lows and seen each other grown into the type of men you would be proud to call a friend and a brother. I’m proud to witness one of my brother’s highest moments. Dom stood by my side when I entered into this phase of my life and I appreciate the opportunity to be there at his side to support him and Alanna on their day.
Bridesmaid
I met Willie though Tia and Lisa at FAMU. Willie would often introduced herself as the "small town girl from Belle Glade, Florida," almost verbatim - in the most southern accent lol. Willie was our multifaceted friend in college; one day you'd get church girl, financial savvy friend, another day you'd get singing and dancing Willie but my all-time favorite was tipsy "Kirking Wills" lol. IYKYK. We have gotten so much closer over the years and Im thrilled that Willie and I will be sharing the same married name, "Mrs. Smith." Willie has been so supportive of me and I am also so thankful to have her by my side.
Groomsman
Well to be honest, I was on the other side of the Domenio vote lol. IYKYK. But let’s just say I’m really glad I got out voted. I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone who loves and lives life like Domenio. He’s easily one of the funniest and most genuine people I’ve ever met and I’m proud to call him my friend and my brother. I’m honored to be part of celebrating his new life with Alanna.
Bridesmaid
Janay is by far the sweetest, most genuine and thoughtful friend I have. Janay and I also met at FAMU during undergrad and I remember admiring how well of a dancer she was. You can count on Janay to be servicing her community with a big open heart while also repping "305" One time Janay even planned a community service event for us the Sunday during Homecoming - Needless to say, none of us made it but it was the thought that counts lol. My favorite thing about Janay is no matter what adversity she is faced with she is able to turn it into a testimony. She's strong, determined and loving. Im looking forward to having Janay by my side.
Groomsman
Like most up here, I've known Domenio for virtually half my life and one quality of his I've truly appreciated most is his natural ability at creating connection amongst his tribe. The friendships that we have all fostered over the years have been more meaningful to me than I can describe. Meaningful friendships are birthed from meaningful connection and Domenio has truly been that connective tissue…time and time again being the driver that is bringing us together to create these memories (and there will always be food). What's even better is to see he's marrying an amazing woman who shares that same gene which has led to a merging of all of our tribes. I love you both and it's my honor to stand by your side. P.S. Upon proofing this, I suspect Lana will be taken aback by how highly I’ve spoken about my brother, Domenio. But worry not, the insults are coming.
Bridesmaid
Raia is my OG Bestie. We met in the 6th grade at Cedar Grove Middle School. Raia was a quiet girl with glasses and ponytails but by the 8th grade, Raia blossomed into one of the prettiest girls in school and also my best friend. Raia and I would spend almost every weekend together as teenagers; sleep overs, cheerleading, skating, teen clubs. You name it, we were there together!! Raia has always given me a space to be vulnerable and safe. No matter how much time passes, when we get together it feels like infinity. I can't imagine getting married without her being next to me!! (She also gave me my first god-baby, Marlee :)
Groomsman
I’ve known Dom for over 15 years, and I only said “yes” to being a groomsmen because of Alanna
Bridesmaid
Demi is Domenio's little sister who is sweet as pie!! After meeting Demi, I giggled to myself because I realized she is the female version of Domenio lol. Witty, funny, kind and also a good time!! I can always count on Demi to troll Dom and I love it lol. Demi doesn't know this but I love watching her get all dolled up on Instagram with her friends. It reminds me of my friends :) Demi has always been so kind to me and Im happy to be gaining another sister!!
Groomsman
As a man of few words, I think I’ve said enough
Hostess and Niece of Bride
London is my niece and I have thoroughly enjoyed watching her grow up into a young lady. London is so smart and already so witty lol. London is the only girl on her band's drumline and she is able to hold her own with so much confidence and grace!! I am hoping these talents gets her into the best HBCU with the best band in the land one day (FAMU lol). I look forward to seeing London blossom into the woman she's destined to be.
Mistress of Ceremony
I met Domenio on campus during freshman week at Howard University. So many memories exist in our 15+ years friendship. When I moved to Atlanta in 2019, he immediately welcomed me into the community he had built here. That included Alanna. I knew immediately that Alanna was special. And not just for Domenio but to us all. She opened up her home, her heart and her circle to me and from that our own friendship blossomed. I consider them both not just friends but also family. The love the two of them share is so abundant, from it, many other connections and friendships have emerged. I love and appreciate you both. Forever #LoveOnDomLane
Master of Ceremony
Kenneth is probably one of my first friends ever. We met in elementary school and lived in the same neighborhood. Kenneth used to always tease me and in return I would not stop my childhood dog from chasing him up the street (Kenneth used to be terrified of dogs lmao.) When we were in middle school, him, Raia and I would talk and gossip on the phone all day and night until our parents made us get off the phone. I can always count on Kenneth to make me laugh until my stomach hurts. I can always count on Kenneth to give me the best sound advice when I need it. I can also always count on Kenneth to be there to support me in anything that I do. Kenneth has been my bestfriend for over 25 years and I so thankful he's still apart of my life.
Mother of the Groom
Domenio was a friendly little boy always wanting to talk to everybody. He would usually start the conversation with hi my name is Domenio then he would go from there. He loved school, starting from kindergarten to Howard and he loved laughing and always thought he was funny. In high school, Domenio always had perfect attendance and when he went to Howard he loved that school so much he changed his major just to stay longer. I eventually had to remind him that it wasn’t free to be a professional student. He loved living in DC, and eventually made his way down to Atlanta. And now that he has Alanna, he loves living in Atlanta.
Mother of the Bride
Wow. Where do I begin? My mommy is by the far the most special person on earth. I can't believe I was lucky to have her as my mother. My mom is my biggest cheerleader, secret keeper and best friend. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't talk to her. What I love most about my mom is her neutral standpoint and how I am able to tell her anything. She gives me great guidance while also holding me accountable. Lately, I do feel like she takes up for Domenio more than me lol and I have to often remind her that's she MY mom. My mom is so thoughtful, sweet and over the years taught me integrity, lifelong morals and principles that I will never forget. I would not be the woman I am without my mother's selfless love.
Father of the Bride
Oh daddy lol. I'm sure he probably will never see this because he isn't "tech savvy" until it's time for him to find his way to the Super Bowl lol. I got my love of sci-fi action movies, gathering friends and family for parties and completely being myself from my Daddy. He does not care what anyone thinks of him, and though he should sometimes lol, I appreciate him for being his authentic self. The older I get the more I appreciate all that my Dad has given me; protection, unconditional love and unwaving support. I knew Domenio was the one when my dad would call me to talk but ask about Dom first. My dad was also relieved that I didn't call him every other weekend to fix stuff around the house anymore lol. I am so happy my Dad accepts Domenio and will be apart of our big day!!
Sister of Bride
Ashley is my older sister and though we are very different we are also very alike. We love the same type of music, love going to the festivals in Atlanta, traveling, trying new restaurants and laughing at a funny meme or video. I am happy she'll be there for one of the biggest days of my life.