Syreeta & Kevin
Wedding Party
Syreeta B. (Swain)
Bride
I should at least be one of the two people you know. Thanks for coming!
James Kevin Edward Swain
Groom
This is the other person out of the two that you should know...lol
Tabitha Anderson
Matron of Honor
20+ years of sisterhood we still rockin. She is my voice of reason, encouragement and prayer. She has listened to my dreams and encouraged me to move beyond my comfort zone. Her constant words to me is "Oh, that should go in the book". Now I have no idea what book she's talking about, cuz that's an undertaking that I can't even fathom right now, however from her mouth to God's ears...lol. She's one of my quiet protectors, you'll often see her, if you even notice, sitting, listening and watching everything that's going on around her, that is for sure one of her many superpowers. And a special shout out to Amoni, cuz I love her soooo much and I'm grateful to Tabitha for raising such an exceptional young woman.
Dr. Tari Hunter
Bridesmaid
20+ years of sisterhood and yep, we are still rocking. Tari is the woman that I have encountered the most transformation and growth with. From young hot tempered 20 somethings to now wise and lukewarm tempered (unless the tacos are hot, 40 somethings). We've had a lot of experiences together which has only made our bond even stronger. She has one of the biggest hearts I know, and makes everyone feel like they are her best-friend which is one of her many super powers. She goes hard for the people she loves and I am so blessed that I am one of those people. The young men that she has raised allows all of us to realize that the next generation of young black men are in really great hands. To see her juggle ALL of her different hats, mother, sister, daughter, granddaughter, cousin, sister-friend, student, executive and soon-to-be wife pushes me to constantly step my game up.
Danisha Lawrence
Bridesmaid
20+ years and what are we doin, still rockin...aaahaha. Danisha is who I call when I want to hear the truth, straight with no chaser. Danisha has been one of my constants throughout this journey called adulthood. She has mothered me, let me live on her and Carrie's couch for a couple weeks during my first summer in college. I've even had a hand in and honor of talking through the spelling of one of her children's name, which was super special to me. All around Danisha is a swell human, who is mothering thoughtful and beautiful humans, even though she asks me to rescue her from them sometimes...lol She's one of the best spooners in town and makes a pretty good dump cake. She's 1/5 of my favs. I have to put a honorable mention in for my favorite conspiracy theorist on the planet, the love I have of him is undeniable and I've also known him or 20+ years.
Dr. Siniva T. Walker
Bridesmaid
20+ years and as I'm sure you can tell what's coming next...we still rockin. See not many people can say that about the people in their lives. Our relationships with each run deep and that's what makes Niva and the rest of the women so special to me. Niva is my think-it-through partner, my sounding board. She and Tre are much of the reason that Just B. is what it is. Niva has always been everyone's biggest cheerleader and she'll get her hands dirty as well. Niva is likely one of the most spectacular minds that I have ever had the privilege of interacting with, she's like scary smart, and it's amazing to watch her in action, whether in a business negotiation or as her role as mom to her 4 amazing children and for a long time her nephew. Niva is my definition of a Dynamo in every aspect of her life, with the humility of a Saint. I'm so happy that I get to call on her, as well as, be her support when needed. We get to be real and truly lean on each other. Another honorable mention for her husband Dr. Tre Walker who I've also known for 20+ years. He is truly my brother.
Tonya McKenzie
Bridesmaid
Tonya, yep you guessed it, has been in my life for 20+ years. She is my Momma Bear. When I moved to the Bay for grad school, it was Tonya and her family that took me in and fed me, like really fed me, she makes some of the best tacos and peach cobbler in the state of California, and that's hard to do. She has always been a fierce protector of me just like a big sister does. She has been my encourager along my professional journey as well, we started a podcast together a few years ago with the OG big sister Gia...hey Gia...lol. She has always been in my corner, bullying (I mean, encouraging me) to go beyond my wildest dreams in terms of my goals, and alway to dream as big as I can. She has been my confidant and even sometimes my muscle, don't get it twisted Tonya may be small, however she is strong AF. And that's why I love and admire her because no matter the circumstance if and when she loves you, there is nothing on the planet that she wouldn't do for you, and that's why I love her.
GABRIEL JAMES ALFRED
Best Man
Upon a first meeting of Gabe, he will tell you his name is "Gabriel, Like The Angel!". There isn't much more to add to that other than we're working on 50 years of friendship. We've been through it all, the highest of and highs and the lowest of lows. My life is simply blessed 'cause he's in it. From South Central to The South Of France, this one is truly for the memoirs...
GEORGE D. SWAIN
Man of Honor
I'm an Uncle, Grand Uncle and Great Uncle of 23 nieces and nephews. George holds the honor of being the first of the clan. He is also a big brother and uncle in his own right. I am most proud of the man he has become. I am honored to have him as my man of honor. "Puddin' Pie", you are your ancestors dream come true.
MARTIN "CRAIG" JONES
Groomsman
"Craig" and I go back to the early 90's. We were simply destined to meet, grow and sharpen each other. Simply stated, we've both eaten in each other's mother's kitchen and served at their respective memorials. If that's not a friend in need, then somebody tell me what is. At a moment some years ago in a stadium of over 150,000, I sensed Craig was having an "issue". That issue was promptly handled and we laugh about it to this day. Don't mess with Marty, this man is protected. I love him.
DEVAN KELLY
Groomsman
Devan is my grand nephew and his world will be a great one. His drive, tenacity and kindness will take him far in this life. I am most proud of him and very, very happy he has a passport. This only the beginning........
"YOUNG" YULE CAISE
Groomsman
Not sure I have enough space here! The Young One and I met in the late 80's. Immediately we embarked on sharing life and its beauty throughout the years. He impressed upon me how big the world is and I have not been the same since(30 countries later I think!). Young Yule will not let any obstacle remain in his path. This cat is a winner, hence on my team for this ride. Young Yule, Big Daddy Swain salutes you.