Wedding Party
Eleiona Key
Maid of Honor
Hi, my name is Eleiona and I am from Birmingham, AL. I really can't say just how it happened but how it started in my mind was, my mom decided to get with a white guy and 9 months later I came along. Lol But in all seriousness. I was very young and do not recall the splitting of you and my dad, but what I do remember is that it has always been me, you, and the boys. For the whole 17 years of my life it has been us and you have always been there right by our side. You've showed us many life lessons, some we didn't like or understand but it always worked out. When the boys moved out, and no matter how many times we bumped heads it was still just us. I watched you once the boys left, you kept the faith and made it worth it and I'm glad you found someone that has made your life just as worth it.
Kemeshia Smith
Matron of Honor
I met Eleanor on a trip to San Antonio with my husband and her fiancé Reginald Ruffin. Reginald has been an integral part of my family's life for a long time. He and my husband are very close friends. Eleanor and I clicked instantly in the airport as we waited to board the plane. Once we landed we shopped, ate good, visited the spa, and shopped some more! I knew immediately that we would become close friends as we both have a lot of things in common. Eleanor has a heart of gold and I love her and Reginal dearly. I'm super excited to be able to be a part of their special day!
Narkisha Pollard
Matron of Honor
I am from Birmingham, AL. My first encounter with Eleanor was nearly 20 years ago. She came to Columbus, GA to play in a softball tournament with my team and all of the hotels were sold out. I was in a room with double beds and opened my room to her. That chance encounter led me to love this insanely crazy woman!! We went out to dinner that same night and it was then that I saw her confidence and carefree spirit. She was funny and I admired her tenacity. From that day, we've been the best of friends.
Edgwinna Jones
Bridesmaid
I have known the bride my whole life. She is my aunt, my hairdresser and friend, yes we fight sometime, but we always make up. She has always been like a sister to me. She is a kind hearted free spirit person. I am so happy she has found true love she deserves it. I have watched her grow spiritually and as a business woman and out of all those things she has a beautiful soul. I love you and I wish you guys a lifetime of marital bliss. I am here through thick and thin. Congratulations.
Breanna Marbury
Bridesmaid
I am Breanna, I met Eleanor ...or rather she met me at birth! I'm her favorite niece which inevitably makes me Reginald's favorite niece. She has played a pivotal role in developing me into the woman I am today.
Meijah McCollum
Bridesmaid
Hi, my name is Meijah and I am From Jasper, AL. Eleanor is my aunt so the bond is lifelong. She is the funny and my forever young aunt. I know she will be an enchanting bride.
Freda Wedd
Bridesmaid
Hello I am from Jasper, AL I have known Eleanor my entire life we grew up together, played together, fought together and have cried together. My first impression of Eleanor, would have to be when we were younger and she thought she was everybody's boss. As I got older, she became more to me then just my aunt. Growing up with Eleanor was never an aunt and niece relationship due to the fact we are not that far apart in age, however it has always been like a sister/aunt relationship. She has become my go to aunt and even one of my favorite aunts. She will never really know exactly how much she means to my boys and I.
Gresha Thurmond
Bridesmaid
HI my name is Gresha Thurmond and I'm from South Carolina. I met Eleanor at a football game through my husband Max who has be friends with Ruffin for over 20 years. Eleanor and I bonded right away over wings and pizza because our men were to cheap to provide us with a better meal. From the first meeting, I knew it wouldn't be long before Eleanor would be joining the football wife's club, and I told Ruffin she was the one! I have gained a dear friend for life in Eleanor. I am thrilled to be a part of the Ruffin wedding party, and I can't wait for Eleanor and Ruffin to begin their forever journey.
Alandra Ruffin
Bridesmaid
Hi my name is Alandria Ruffin I'm from Lisman, Alabama. I met Eleanor through my uncle Coach Ruffin a.k.a. best uncle ever. My first impression of Eleanor was she so nice and the perfect one for my uncle and she so funny and she shol don't play. I know that for a fact. After getting to know her she became my too cool auntie and she down for whatever and I love her to death.
Gabriel Ruffin
Best Man
My dad’s happiness means the world to me and, his happiness brings lots of joy to not only me but the people around him. Seeing that happiness being spread around only shows how much love that I have for him. His happiness will always have a special place in my heart that I will cherish dearly for many more memories to come. Therefore, that’s what makes his happiness special to me.
Ronald McKinnon
Groomsman
I meet Ruffin, freshman year at UNA. He was lean with a big head. He was straight Choctaw County just like Elba.
Maxwell Thurmond
Groomsman
My name is Max Thurmond, and I am from Sylvester, Georgia. I meet Reggie Ruffin almost 20 years ago when he was coaching at Tuskegee University. I interviewed with Coach Slater, Ruffin, and other defensive staff members for a defensive role. My family and I decided to stay in Jacksonville, Alabama but Ruffin and I remained friends ever since. Whether we are coaching together or not, Reginald Ruffin is my road dog for life.
Fred Watson
Groomsman
Ruffin hired me at Miles when he became the Athletic Director, when he called, I was like man, I'm not doing Miles but he said I was his guy. He got me to come down and I was like nah.... but we chopped it up for a while. Reginald didn't sell me on Miles or Fairfield, he sold me on who he was as a person and we connected. He was genuine and many years later, that connections has grown into and unbreakable bond and friendship
David Lunn Sr.
Groomsman
Reginald started his first journey here at Tuskegee University in 2002 as the Linebacker Coach. The first day we met the both of us clicked and has OWNED a brotherly bond relationship until Death do us apart. It’s a lot to be mentioned in between- but to make a long story short we were both compatible sports wise, mainly football, and the most important thing is once my only biological brother passed away in 2005, Reginald stood up to bat and scored a home run with me - at that time he and I was brother-less. So Reginald being the youngest he became Lil brother . We both met each other family member , took family vacation etc. Last but not less this guy here ; Reginald S. Ruffin means the World to me and my family and I know the feelings are mutual, So get on out there and marry your BEAUTIFUL future Bride Mrs. Eleanor Best of luck. Love Always 💯 David Lunn Sr.
Israel Raybon
Groomsman
I met Reginald at the University of North Alabama, he didn't fit the prototype of my defensive line, lets just say this guy was built different... man didn't create him. After spending a few months with him he was easy to love. We were just young men then and now here we are. His happiness to me is finding someone you can talk to, laugh and cry with and go through this journey we call life together.
Clinton Smith, Jr
Groomsman
Reginald Ruffin and I have been knowing each other my entire life. Reginald played Pee Wee Football for my dad back in the day. So, basically he's been knowing me my entire life. I remember watching him play high school football when I was a young kid. Ruff Dawg really came into my life back in 1999 when he became the Head Football Coach at his alma mater, Choctaw County High School. We were a struggling football team. We went from a 0-9 and a 2-8 football program into a 10-2 Football program. 2nd best in school history. The bond that he had with us and the guys will always be remembered. Now, the rest is history. Reginald knew my dreams of coaching college football and he gave that dream to me and my family two years ago. He watched my dedication and commitment coaching high school football for 16 years and he gave me that opportunity 2yrs ago at Miles College and now at Tuskegee University. I will always cherish my guy for this opportunity. I think he hired me because I put him on the map at Choctaw County 😆 I won this guy alot of football games. I am super excited what the future has for Reginald and his new wife to be. My guy and Gabe has been through alot and he knows I got his back through everything. BOTH OF YOU GUYS DESERVE THIS. Love you guys and this is 4EVER Clinton Smith
Andro Williams
Groomsman
I am Andro Williams, the brother of Reginald "Red" Ruffin. I am honored to be a part of this special occasion. I have known Red for a long time and he never cease to amaze me with his humble heart and go-getter attitude. Red leaves an everlasting impression on everyone he meets. I'm proud to call him brother. I wish you and Eleanor all the love, peace, and happiness. Love always Andro Williams
Gerald Smith
Groomsman
When I first met Ruffin we was in the River Hall dorms on UNA campus, he carried himself like he was a 7 foot giant. Take in mine that he is only 5'11" give or take. One day I was cutting someone's hair in the dorms and Ruffin walked by with his hair not being cut. In others words, he looked pretty rough by the head. I told him that he was next, Ruffin sat in the chair and I begin to cut his hair. I told him two things, the first was that he had to carry the tradition of receiving the freshman of the year award that I received my freshman year. As I rattled on about how important that award was, I was almost finished cutting his hair, then I told him the famous Deon Sanders quote, " U look good, U feel good and U will play good." He got up out of the chair and went to the mirror and by his smile on his face, I knew I did a good job. He began to walk away without paying, I told him that this one was on me, but the next time you owe me five dollars, he grinned and said alright G. Scollery I got U, with his giant voice!! To me happiness is formed within yourself, If you are happy with yourself then your in a positive emotional state of mind. I truly believe that happiness is based on a person values, beliefs and life circumstances.
Sadarius Key
Usher/Giving bride away
My name is Sadarius Key and I've known the bride my whole life. I've gained a lot of wisdom, knowledge and whooping's in my life from this woman. She has always been behind me every step I've took in my life and I wouldn't trade anything in the world for her. I'm glad you found milk dud and glad he makes you happy. Congratulations to you both I love y'all.
Quadrekas Key
Usher/Giving bride away
Sylvester Steward
Usher
I have known the bride all my life. She's seen me through the good the bad and the ugly and never changed up. I call her Bruce Eleanor because she has the glow now. I'm so happy that she has found someone to love her unconditionally. I love you to the moon and back Auntie
Charles Flemmings Jr
Usher
My name is Charles Flemmings Jr. I am the best looking nephew of the bride. She has aways been there for me since day 1 whether right or wrong. I've learned a lot from her through the years and she is a brick in the foundation of my life. No doubt in my mind that she wouldn't go to war for me. I love you and I'm so happy that you're happy. Congratulations.
Ryan Henderson
Usher
I have known the bride my aunt all my life. She has seen me grow into the man I am today. From bad decisions to good decisions she hasn't treated or loved me any different. Of course I've rebelled against her words, and did it my way and she was still there loving me the same. TT EL I am happy you found someone who can put up with that mouth like we do. LOL Nephew wish you guys a lifetime of happiness. I love you guys
Jamel Henderson
Usher
My name is Jamel Henderson, I am the smoothest nephew of the bride. I've known her my whole life and she's never changed... always wanting a lil tanch of something. In all seriousness though I'm thankful to have her in my life. She's had my back no matter the situation or circumstances and I love you for that. TT congratulations on jumping the broom you truly deserve it. I wish you guys a lifetime of love and happiness
Theordore Hill
Usher
My name is Theodore B.K.A Thee. Me and Eleanor (Illy) have know each other for 30yrs. Man when I tell you, that's my dawg, my sis for life. We know the good, the bad, and the ugly when it comes down to the both of us. My sis called and told me this was the one, and I was like, sis are you sure, she said yea man, im sure. I wish you nothing but the best sis you really do deserve it, and I am for real happy that you found that one. Love you sis
Donna Marbury
Head-Hostess
Hello, my name is Donna Marbury. I have known Eleanor all of her life. As most of you know she is my little sister. Our bond is Like no other!!! Eleanor isn't just my sister, she is my beautician, my informant, my ACE, my ride or die just to name a few. Eleanor is loving, she is a giver and she loves her family! Whenever she calls me for a recipe to fix a meal for Reginald, I'm always excited!!! I'm very proud to say that when it comes to her cooking, she was taught by the BEST!! meaning by me!! I can always count on her whenever there is a need, except for being on time! Lord knows she is ALWAYS ON CPT!!! (Colored peoples time) will have you late like no other. With that being said. Eleanor McCollum I am so proud of the woman you have become! I thank God for blessing you and Reggie to have found each other when y'all did! You guys are perfect together and just as you are with my husband I will be with yours. Reginald has a special place in my heart because he loves you unconditionally and that warms my heart! Congratulation to you both on your union. I can't wait to be a part of your special day! Love you guys!
MoNiek Ruffin
Cohead-Hostess
Hey y'all! I am the baby sister to Reginald and sister in love to Eleanor!!! It's pretty explanatory about how Reginald and I met (same mother and father) but with Eleanor she was introduced to me one day and we have literally been like sisters even before the proposal. She's been my caregiver, therapist, photographer, hairstylist, makeup artist, we've been through the good, bad, and the ugly. Through it all they mine and I'm gone stick beside them just like the vows until death do us part.
Nina Taylor
Hostess
Consondria Clay
Hostess
I am the Niece of Eleanor. I have known her my whole life and she has loved me like her own and always made sure I knew she was a call away. Anytime I did call, whether it was for a hair appointment or pageant prep, she helped me with no hesitation. To my aunt, I love you and I am so excited to celebrate you finding your (one 1).
Ebony Latrice Hildreth
Hostess
My name is ebony. I can't exactly recall when, where or how I met Eleanor, but it's been well over 13 years. She is the great aunt of my child, my hairstylist and my go to person. I can honestly say she's always transparent and honest with me even when I don't want to hear it and I simply love her for that. I am so happy to be a part of your day and wish you and Reginald nothing but the absolute best. I love you forever and always. Congratulations again my swole foot TT.
Jamika Austin
Hostess
I am Jamika Austin. El and I have known each other for many years. Our paths first crossed playing softball, where we became pleasantly acquainted. Over the years, our relationship has blossomed into a beautiful friendship. She is not only my amazing beautician, but she is also a WONDERFUL friend
Lavetta Lasha
Hostess
Hello my name is Lavetta. I am not sure where and how we first officially met but we grew up in the same small county where everyone knows everyone. El eventually became my hairdresser for many years and still to this day no one can flat iron quite like my girl. I love that chic.
Temperance Chatman
Hostess
Temperance La'Shun is the name and the bride and I go way back, est. 2001. As the inner child in me would say, "my TT EL EL" has been everything to me since day 1, from joking on me when I learned to walk, to taking glam shots in the back of the old shop, which I called the boom-boom room, to stepping in although she doesn't have to give me those lifetime talks she knows my moms wish she could give me herself. It shouldn't be to no one's surprise that my TT has always been there not just for me but to anywho who crosses her path, I just so happen to get that bonus of her expertise. We got a special kind of love and that'll never change - trust. Here's to your fairytale love. I love you!
Tryneti Chatman
Hostess
MY name is Tryneti Chatman, I'm from Jasper, AL. I have known my aunt Eleanor for as long as I can remember. I really can't think of my first impression of her due to the fact she has been in my life since the beginning. As I have gotten older, I begin to see her as one of my aunts that I can call on during times without worrying judgment or her repeating anything I say. I am happy that I get to be apart of her happily ever after. I love you TT Eleanor.