Dionne & Steve
Wedding Party
Nashawnya McCray-Richardson
Matron of Honor
Shawnya and I met in the 3rd grade and have been inseparable ever since. Shawnya is one of the nicest people you’ll even meet. Shawnya is probably the only person on this earth who knows everything about me. The goof to my troop. So goofy even, that were once at a funeral laughing at an inside joke and could not pull it together. The joke was so hilarious to us, that yes, we cracked up most of the funeral. Of course we covered it up by pretending that we were crying instead of laughing (We’re not THAT uncouth lol). Sadly, there are many more stories like this, lol. I’ll definitely be taking this one into my Golden Years. She’s my very best friend.
Gregory Barnes Jr.
Best Man
Greg and I have been friends since we were toddlers, but he is more like a brother. Greg is an awesome friend. He has a great personality, and he is extremely articulate. I’m sure his best-man speech will be one for the ages. It was an easy choice in picking Barnes as a co-best man.
Jaida M. Jones
Maid of Honor
Jaida is my one and only daughter. With her no nonsense personality, she’s sure to always set the record straight. Jaida does a great job of balancing excelling in college and full time job all while still finding time for her friends and family. Jaida is a sophomore in college majoring in communications, concentrating on radio broadcasting. She’s also working this summer as a Dj. Be on the lookout for Dj Beeeswanky. You can always find Jaida out somewhere living her best life. Sounds cliche, but, I couldn’t have asked for a better daughter.
Evan Williams
Best Man
My little brother is definitely one of the closest people to me. Although, we have a 7 year age difference we definitely are as close as brothers can be. I’m so proud of the man I’ve watched, and help groom him to become.
Brandy Vandyke
Bridesmaid
Brandy and I met in our early 20’s at a daycare that we both worked at. Throughout our 20’s, Brandy and I were inseparable as we both partied practically every night of the week. Every single hangover I’ve had in my life, Brandy certainly had something to do with it. Brandy is probably the only one of my friends who could share all the WILD stories pertaining to me. Underneath her tough exterior, she’s one of the sweetest people you’ll ever meet.
Michael Rollins
Groomsman
Mike and I became close the summer before attending the same college. We eventually became roommates while attending Ball State University. We have been tight ever since. Mike is an extremely talented & professional saxophone musician. I had the pleasure of being in Mike’s and his wife (Vanya) wedding in their city of Providince, RI. I’m glad he’s able to return the favor for our wedding.
Dietra Crayton
Bridesmaid
Dietra and I met in cosmetology school-where after a slow start, we would eventually hit it off and begin our journey of friendship. Throughout our 20’sand early thirties, Dietra and I worked side by side behind the chair. Fun Fact: We have been escorted out of a salon or two 😅. Dietra is that friend who I can explore the swanky side of life with. Dietra is great at planning and execution. If there’s something I can’t find, she’s sure to find it. Although Dietra and I no longer work side by side behind the chair, we have officially started a new business venture together. She’s a great friend who will work endlessly on helping anyone she loves.
Richard Ivy
Groomsman
Rich is one of my good friends from our neighborhood. We were destined to be friends, because his father and my late Uncle Scotty were best friends. They say laughter is good for the soul, and, Rich’s distinctive laugh tells you the kind of person that he is, and that he’s always having a good time. He is just a lot fun to be around.
Ambur James
Bridesmaid
Ambur and I met in Cosmetology School 20yrs ago. We immediately hit it off and turned that school inside out. It’s always a good ole knee-slapping fun time when Ambur’s around. Aside from being a great friend, Ambur is also a comedian who headlines all around the Midwest. Just recently Ambur landed a role on the big screen alongside big name comedians. Some of my favorite memories have been made with Ambur. Warning: Hilariously unfiltered
Alan Jones
Groomsman
They say steel sharpens steel. Well, Alan is a great friend, stand up guy, motivator, and a very intelligent man. Coming from the same neighborhood in Muncie, IN., and a grade apart. Al and I became tight over the basketball court. We even became roommates after college for a while. I also had the privilege of being a part of Alan’s and his wife (Jackie) beautiful wedding a few years ago.
Ashley Kirklen
Bridesmaid
Ashley is the aunt of my two children, Jamaal and Jaida. I met Ashley when she was only 9yrs old. It wasn’t long before we were deemed sisters. She says that she learned so much from me, but truth is, she’s the one who continues to inspire me. Her elegance, style and grace is relatable. Her love for Christ is admirable. Our relationship is the epitome of “blood doesn’t make u family.”
Aaron Mason
Groomsman
Aaron is another solid, hardworking, good man, father, and also my cousin. After we found out that we were related in the 7th grade we were always together comparing rap music, watching basketball, football, boxing events.
Krystal Coleman
Bridesmaid
Krystal and I grew up in the same neighborhood. We officially started hanging out as sophomores in Highschool. Got a problem? She’ll solve it. Need a ride a 3am? She’s on her way. Krystal is the true definition of ride-or-die. Uplifting and cheering everyone along, Krystal has been the most upbeat bridesmaid throughout this entire process.
Damon Mason
Groomsman
Damon is the definitely the comedian of the bunch. But not only that, Damon is also one of the most solid, loyal, and real individuals i know. We have been tight for years, and now our sons are the best friends. Picking Damon was a easy choice also.
Amanda Fishburn
Bridesmaid
Amanda and I met in middle school. At a time when there was so much racial tension among the student body, she and I always seemed to mesh well. Fun fact: I took my first road trip at 18yrs old with Amanda! After a fun weekend in Chicago, she and I made it a point to remain close friends. Although it’s hard to keep up with this busybody, I always get an invite. That means to me that she enjoys my company as much as I enjoy hers.
Jeff Adams
Groomsman
Jeff is one of my many first cousins whom always has a smile on his face. He is one of the most loyal, reliable, and caring people, who is always ready to help others. This is why it was easy for him to become a firefighter. Jeff is all about his family and extended family. It was obivious, I had to have Jeff as part of our wedding party to help me on a special day.
Tara Fowler
Bridesmaid
Tara and I met as kids as we grew up in the same neighborhood. Tara’s literally the only one of all my friends who FaceTimes me, lol. This Jill of all trades is a licensed barber, has a cleaning company and does a little photography from time to time. She is a certified go-getter. My travel partner in crime. We have literally traveled the world a million miles and back together and I’m looking forward to the next million.
Sean Crider
Groomsman
Another of my first cousins. Sean and I were together all of the time being that our Fathers are brothers. Sean is smart, loyal, and a great person to be around. Coming up, we did everything together and spent a million nights sleeping over at each other’s house. I truly missed my cousin when he moved to Milwaukee with his wife (Mia) who’s wedding i also got the privilege to be in. I’m glad he will return the favor for my big day.
Shannel Steward
Bridesmaid
Shannel and I met in 7th grade English class and have been very close ever since. Throughout middle school we had an after school routine. We’d have one of our parents take us to Long Johns Silvers and then we’d hang out at one of our houses to simply talk about middle school drama. Shannel was that friend in school that if they were absent, it was a lonely day, lol. Shannel is an awesome cook. Shes so warm and sweet and will give u the shirt off of her back. I love me some Nelly-Boo.
Brock Williams
Groomsman
Brock is my little cousin and Sean’s little brother. Evan and I were always with Sean and Brock coming up. We have tons of memories together. Brock is a great father and to his boys, and also another very loyal family member. Always ready to have a good time, I had to include my little cousin.
Shaun Wells
Groomsman
Shaun and I grew up in the same neighborhood. We became close through our love of playing basketball. Shaun is one of the most loyal and dependable friends anyone can have. I had the pleasure of being apart of Shaun and Kimberly’s (wife) a few years ago. I knew Shaun would answer & return the job of helping me on my big day.
Jamaal Kirklen Jr
Son of Bride (Will escort Dionne down the aisle)
I gave birth to Jamaal as a senior in Highschool. Fighting to defy the odds of what could sometimes come of being a teen mom, Jamaal made my life much more simpler. Jamaal was a breeze to raise. He’s so kind and caring that he leaves an impression on everyone he comes across. Just recently, I ran into an ex classmate where Jamaal works. When I told her who my son was, she immediately said in amazement, “Omg, that’s the kid that I was talking about with another coworker. We were saying that we hoped our sons turn out as kind and polite as he is.” Hearing things like this that about your children makes a mom proud.
Amare Williams
Junior Best Man
Amare is my Muse (a person or personified force who is the source of inspiration) and my only son. While just about to turn 13 years old (June 7th). He has taught me more about myself than i have him so far. I’m so proud of the young man he is turning into. There is no way i couldn’t have my little man up there with me on the my wedding day.
Dawn Cannady
Mother of the Groom
The best mother a son could have. This woman is my heart. I know she can’t wait to have that mother & son dance. And truthfully, I can’t either. My Step-Father Chris has been in our life for 20+ years. Chris has been a great man and person to my mother, and our family. Chris definitely keeps us laughing, and he is always makes sure we are doing the right things. And Chris is amazing with with all of his grandchildren.
Steve Williams Sr.
Father of the Groom
My Father is someone I’ve idolized my entire life. I don’t know where I’d be without him. Even followed the same career paths. I’ve definitely learned a lot from him with his work ethics, and life in general. Mrs. Roxie has also been in our lives for about 20 years. Mrs. Roxie is definitely loving and caring towards all of us. She Is definitely my second mom, and is a great grandmother for all of her grandchildren.
Jacqueline Mathews
Mother of the Bride
Jackie is the lovely paternal grandmother of my children, Jamaal and Jaida and the mother of my bridesmaid Ashley. She has been in my life since I was a teen. When my mother passed away when I was only 22yrs old, Jackie, without hesitation, stepped up as my mother-figure. Jackie has been the best grandmother to my children. Her vibrant personality and her infectious spirit never meets a stranger. She is truly the life of the party and we’re so blessed to have her in our lives.