Happily Ever Byrson
Wedding Party
Blake
Best Man
Kirk is my cousin, so I’ve had the pleasure (and occasional chaos) of knowing him my entire life. Picking a favorite memory is tough because there are so many, but our childhood sleepovers stand out. If I had to pick one, it’s definitely the infamous “Pizza Frisbee Incident.” We had just come back from grabbing pizza, and I was heading to the basement while Kirk went upstairs to do… something (still not clear on that part). Being the supportive cousin I am, I yelled for him to hurry and bring the pizza down. Naturally, I started counting down from 10 to really put the pressure on. Kirk, in his infinite wisdom, panicked and decided to sling the pizza box from the top of the stairs like a frisbee, hoping it would land perfectly in my hands. Spoiler: it didn’t. Pizza went everywhere—walls, steps, you name it—and Kirk got in trouble while I got a front-row seat to the show. Legendary. As for Tyra, she insists we met before this, but my earliest memory is from an unforgettable New Year’s Eve outing. We bonded over a hilariously competitive bet, and from that moment, I knew she was destined to be part of the family. My favorite interactions with the couple have to be their amazing hosting skills. Whether it’s a game night or a game day, Kirk and Tyra’s home is always filled with good vibes, great food, and lots of laughter. They’re true 5-star hosts. I'd describe them as magnetic—because they draw everyone in with their kindness, humor, and connection.
Camille
Maid of Honor
Hiii, my name is Camille! I would describe myself as funny, caring, and optimistic. I grew up in MD but recently moved to San Diego to continue pursuing my degree in Architecture. Alexus and I grew up together, she is my older cousin, more like an older sister. We have always been close and she has consistently been a role model of the type of woman I aim to be. I definitely wouldn’t be who I am without her support and guidance. I met Kirklan a couple months after he and Alexus began dating when he came over for the first time and jumped in the pool fully clothed (LOL)! My first impression of him was that he doesn’t take life too seriously (in the best way), and that he’s very thoughtful and positive. I would describe Alexus and Kirklan as two sides of the same coin, very similar but also very different, and I’ve appreciated watching their relationship grow. I love the two of them immensely, I appreciate having them as a support system, and I am more than excited for this next chapter they are opening in their lives together!
Ayomi
Best Man
I met Kirk back in 6th grade when he joined Holy Trinity, and (un)fortunately we have remained friends all these years(17). I met Tyra when the three of us went out for Hibachi, and we quickly got along. I would say in the time I’ve known them as a couple, my favorite memory with them might be that day due to realizing the kind of person my best friend was going to be dating, and would be a part of our lives for the future. Someone who has our backs, jokes with us, and shows a lot of care for Kirklan. It was nice to see that he found a great partner. With all that being said, one word I would use to describe the couple is…. chaotic, and no I will not elaborate.
Marquis
Man of Honor
I’m Marquis! I met Tyra over 10 years ago in high school. We drifted apart for a while, but now we’re back and better than ever! I can’t exactly remember when we became friends, but I know we just clicked. From sneaking off campus for food, knowing we had no business doing so (ahhh, simpler times) to having an unforgettable time as adults in Chicago, we've made so many hilarious memories along the way! We can argue over the smallest things and still find humor in it every time. Love her down!
Brandon
Groomsman
I met Kirk in high school, but we really didn’t develop a strong relationship until he followed me to UMD where we were roommates for 3 years. My favorite memory with Kirk is actually a collection of memories including the numerous Commons 1 events and shenanigans, the study sessions turned into comedy hour and waiting for Kirk for hours at Stamp while he just sat in LaPlata. I first met Tyra at a group brunch and could tell immediately her and Kirk were meant to be. My favorite interaction with the couple was beating them in a game during a cabin trip in VA (Ahh Ha Ha). One word to describe the couple is entertaining.
Jaylen
Bridesman
I’m Jaylen, Tyra’s cousin, also known as the G.O.A.T. of the family and we grew up like siblings. I was always stopping her and Camille from doing ridiculous things—like arguing over the smallest things or jumping off the roof into barely deep snow. Even though Tyra’s the oldest, she always knows I’m the one to turn to for advice or a good laugh. It’s been a wild ride but, I wouldn’t have it any other way!
David
Groomsman
I first met the end of Kirk’s fist on a Friday night in Bowie. Shortly after that sparring session was probably the first time we met. We became close after many shared summer camps. Tyra was the first person Kirk was nervous and excited to introduce to me, which let me know he thought she was special. My favorite interaction between them is when Tyra puts Kirk on his heels, because I never saw him on his heels back when we were sparring. I’m honored to be a part of this ceremony and look forward to what they build together, as it feels like they’re just getting started.
Katherine
Bridesmaid
For those who don't know me, I'm Katherine, and I've had the pleasure of knowing Tyra since 2019. Making new friends in adulthood can be challenging, but there’s no challenge too great for Tyra, even if it’s your supervisor lol. Together, we’ve supported each other through the challenges of relationships, self-development, and career advancement, mourned the loss of loved ones, friends, and where we thought we’d be in life, yet we are still here and ready for the next chapter of life. We may not know the depths of every chapter, but turning the pages of life with her has been a privilege and an experience I’ll always cherish.
Ethan "EJ"
Groomsman
I met Kirk on University of Maryland’s Football field (we were more focused on it being the lax field tho) during Freshman Orientation 2015. We started talking about lacrosse and been locked in ever since. Today we consistently enjoy each other’s company whether it be for comp, brews, and vibes, brews and vibes, or just vibes My favorite memory with Kirk isn’t a single occasion, but the sum of the countless Madden matches we played together (in which I have a convincingly dominant all-time winning record). Playing the game was fun but more importantly, the time we spent together was invaluable. I met Tyra when Kirk brought her to my apartment for a party I was hosting. Since then she’s remains one of the coolest people I know and I’m thankful to have her as a friend. My favorite memory with the couple again isn’t a single occasion, but the sum of all the times we’ve spent on their balcony talking about any and everything, serious things and goofy things, while laughing and vibing the whole time.
Ruth
Bridesmaid
Nice to meet ya! My name’s Ruth and I think my friends would describe me as funny and spontaneous (however my dog might beg to differ). I’m a first generation Ethiopian American, who loves her mama, partner, and furbaby. When I met Tyra, we were in an arcade bar at the Wharf and I remember thinking how dope this girl was and how excited I was for Kirk. We talked for hours and it felt like I was talking to an old friend. Since then, Tyra's always been a sense of comfort and familiarity for me. I am beyond excited for these two and honored to be a part of their union!
Jordan "T.Y."
Groomsman
I met Kirk freshman year of high school at St. John’s College High School and attended University of Maryland College Park with him as well. My favorite interaction with the couple was hanging out at their condo laughing, drinking, and vibing with them, Apollo, and their ghost. My favorite memory of Kirk is the last day of freshman year before move out referred to as the Oreo night.
Kendall
Bridesmaid
I first met Tyra in college through a mutual friend—or so I thought. In reality, she boldly inserted herself into my conversation, just standing there smiling while I side-eyed her, wondering what was going on. Eventually, I realized she was that friend of my friend, and somehow that hilariously awkward moment led to us going to the mall, buying matching outfits, and still not knowing each other’s names for weeks. Fast forward to now, and we’ve been close friends for years. She’s forever Tyra Banks to me—fearlessly confident, unapologetically herself, and absolutely unforgettable!
Liam
Groomsman
Kirk and I grew closer from physically fighting each other for fun and exercise when we were children. We dorked out on video games and sports and movies together. As we grew older, we began arguing over all sorts of nonsense with each other to stay sharp and have fun. Perfectly on theme, not long after Kirk introduced me to Tyra, she and I decided we also liked to argue with each other over all sorts of stuff for fun. Frankly, I’m still deciding who’s more fun to compete with. No disrespect to either of you. One time a few years ago, Tyra made a charcuterie board at my family’s house. She had my mom helping her put it together. I remember my mom telling me how much she liked Tyra. She said she thought Tyra had a good sense of humor and was thoughtful. My mom does not dole out compliments… to anyone. That’s when my suspicions about Tyra’s greatness were confirmed. All time couple. Two of the greatest to ever do it.
Teniola
Bridesmaid
I'm Teni, and Tyra and I met in high school and have stayed connected ever since. Back in high school and college, we would always go out to eat at random restaurants in DC with friends to catch up. The good food and fun conversations helped us bond; we even took the fun to Chicago last year, which was an amazing experience. Our friendship is all about good laughs, good food, and new adventures, and I'm excited to celebrate Tyra and Kirklan as they start their journey into marriage.