Matron of Honor
Chan, my Matron of Honor, has been my girl since we were young teenagers. I still remember the first time I met her, she handed me her purse and all her money like we’d been best friends forever and told me to hold it. I stood there clutching her whole life, and we didn’t know each other from a can of paint. That was Chan then and that’s Chan now: bold, trusting, and the kind of friend who makes you feel chosen. I couldn’t imagine this day without her beside me.
Bridesmaid
Michelle is my battle buddy for life. I met her in the military, at a party where we realized we were the only two Black girls there and instantly found each other like we were supposed to. From that moment on, she’s been steady, loyal, and locked in. Michelle has always been there when I needed her. She’s the kind of friend who will fight for me and stand up for me, especially in the moments when I couldn’t stand up for myself. I’m so grateful she’s beside me for this chapter.
Bridesmaid
Morgan Anderson is the only person I trust with my nails, and if you know me, that says a lot. What we have is the kind of relationship built on loyalty and trust, the kind that grows quietly and becomes something solid. Morgan has the most beautiful spirit and the kindest heart. She always listens, and it feels safe to be soft around her, safe to cry, safe to be real. I’m always rooting for her, and she’s always rooting for me, and I’m so grateful she’s standing with me on this day.
Bridesmaid
Goodness Nwagidi and I met in the most 2010s way possible, on an anonymous app called Whisper. She posted that she needed more good girl friends, and I replied, “me too.” The wild part is it took us a whole year to meet in person, even though we were only 15 minutes away from each other. Goodness is a whole vibe. I love our friendship because we’re so different but so much alike, and somehow that’s exactly why it works. When we go out, she’s the one collecting strays and bringing them into the group like it’s community service. I’ve always been able to be completely myself around her, and I truly couldn’t do this without her.
Bride’s Ballerina
Megan Thompson and I met in a dance studio, and from the start she poured into me in the best ways. She taught me so much, helped build my self-esteem, and has even stepped in to help me level up my wardrobe when I needed it. Megan is a true fashionista with a real love for clothes, so it was a no-brainer that I wanted her with me for “say yes to the dress.” Her energy is beautiful, she’s a pure joy to be around, and she’s one of the best dancers I know. I truly couldn’t do this without her.