Wedding Party

Mason Mickles

Best Man

My brother Mason and I have always had an odd relationship but, under his tough skin, he is a caring person and a comedic person. He's not just a great father, but also one of the most hardworking individuals I've ever met. We've shared so many memories and experiences, and having him by my side as my best man is great.

Marlon Washington

Groomsman

Marlon is one of my closer friends, He's a famous actor and has been featured in many movies and shows as well as a hilarious Walmart commercial. But beyond the screen, Marlon is someone who brings genuine heart and soul into everything he does. As the worship pastor at CHC, he’s not only a leader in our community, but he also plays a big role in helping me with the youth. I’m grateful to have such a talented and supportive friend standing by my side.

Aj Dawkins

Groomsman

AJ and I both know how to push our limits when it comes to Pastor Tiffany—his mom and my work mom. We like to keep her on her toes! AJ has attended Bible college, with dreams of becoming a youth pastor, and he's already making a big impact as an intern with Generation Youth. And if you couldn’t tell by now, we like to call ourselves twin brothers. The resemblance might not be spot on, but the bond definitely is.

Chase Mickles

Groomsman

Chase Olivia has a work ethic that’s nothing short of intense—just like his two brothers. And while Riley might claim the title of the most handsome, they all share that same drive to work hard and get things done. Outside of work, Chase and his girlfriend often join Velari and me for game nights, where we all get a chance to unwind and have some fun together.

Xavier Ford

Groomsman

Xavier and Riley crossed paths a few years back, and what started as a simple friendship quickly grew into something much more meaningful. Xavier became a guiding influence in Riley’s life, stepping in at a time when Riley truly needed support. The two of them would often dive into deep, thoughtful biblical conversations, exploring faith and life together. Their favorite spot to hang out was Bailey’s in Tinley Park, where they spent countless hours talking, laughing, and just being there for each other. Xavier’s the kind of person who’s always ready to lend a hand, no matter what. If you ever needed help, you could count on him to be there without hesitation.

Joe Berg

Groomsman

Joe is a hilarious guy with a knack for dark humor, and he definitely knows how to keep things entertaining. I first met him and Mandy, last December when Velari introduced us. One of our first bonding moments was laughing about how Velari had a run-in with a Mandy and Joes cat. Great times!

Ethan Blohm

Groomsman

What can I say about Ethan? He’s the guy I call every time something needs to be done at the church—he’s basically my go-to! Over the past few months, we’ve become good friends, and our bond has grown through our weekly Bible studies. Ethan's dedication to the youth program is truly inspiring, and his positive influence on our church community is something everyone notices. Beyond that, he’s been an awesome friend, especially when he shows up with Red Bulls in hand! And by the way, if you haven’t already, you should definitely check out his TikTok account!

Essence Wisdom

Maid of Honor

Essence is my Best friend brother and friend😉. We became best friends in highschool when we sat next to each other on the bus and she looked at my ID and she realized that my family lived in her childhood home. We have been through it all together and I cant wait to enter the next chapter of my life with her by my side. From scavenger hunts, to senior ditch day shenanigans, we have done life together and she is someone that will always be in my life regardless of where life takes us!

Mandy Berg

Matron of Honor

Mandy and I met in highschool Marching band but became friends one fateful day when we played wing women my Sophmore year of college for our friend and we instantly connected. Mandy has always been there for me for late night phone calls, hallway chats, and sleepovers that included us watching rent and singing songs to fit her husband Joe's name. Mandy is creative and a blast to hang around with. My favorite memory with Mandy is her 90s birthday party where we got slimed and dressed as our favorite 90s nickelodeon characters. She even convinced me to enter a contest dressed as Ed from good Burger and I won a contest due to her influence. I am so lucky to have her in my life and stand with me on my wedding day.

Camille Colon

Bridesmaid

Chameleon and I met my Jr year of College at Purdue University. We shared many fun times together in our Fraternity Alpha Psi Lambda. When Camille joined the frat I knew she was a was going to be my friend for life although it took us all semester to get there. My favorite memories with Camille include traveling to Detroit, Houston, Las Vegas, and Miami. But my top favorite memory is getting to help her with her baby shower. That moment is one I will cherish for the rest of my life.

Mindy Kholer

Bridesmaid

Mindy and I have been partying like its 1999 since 2015. Me and Mindy met at a mutual friend's birthday party and we haven't stopped being friends since. From Countless Chicago late nights to me standing up in her wedding. She is an awesome friend that is caring and always keeps in contact with those she cares about. Our many adventures have kept us close and I am looking forward to sharing my special day with you

Candice Moore

Bridesmaid

Candace is me and Rileys best mutual friend. She has been there from the beginning watching me and Rileys Love blossom. She is awesome and always ready for to help. We have had so many adventures together. and I am so exctied that she is joining us on this next big chapter to me and Riley's adventure. My favorite memory with Candice is when we went to summer camp this past summer and we went zip lining and I cracked up as I listen to her scream all the way down to the bottom of the zip line.

Xochi Gonzalez

Bridesmaid

Xochi is a beautiful quiet spirit but she always brings the sunshine. We became friends in College through our time in Alpha Psi Lambda. We really connected after college when she returned from New York. She hosted an art show in her house and I knew then she was someone I wanted to stay friends with for ever. She is creative and has an eye for talent. Thank you for being apart of my Special day. My favorite memory is when we went to Detroit and we played hide and go seek in the dark, went to the beach, and did TikTok’s in the downtown art areas.

Danielle Wyman

Bridesmaid

Danielle and I became friends during our Joliet Park District days. I am so glad to share this day with her simply because Danielle and I have come a long way. We used to have car side chats after work talking about our futures and relationships and I have gotten to watch her lovely family grow and now she is getting to be apart of my journey. My favorite memory with Danielle is going on our weekend trips to Purdue to hang out with Camille and friends for a weekend full of memories i will never forget!

Mae Starek

Bridesman

Mae is Riley's Cousin and one my ride or dies. She is someone I am so excited to become family with. She never has failed to make me laugh. We have had great conversations dealing with life, politics, and religion and she never fails to stretch me and help me improve my thought process. My favorite memory with Mae is when Riley and I came over for a game night and we spent hours laughing over cards against humanity. I am so glad that you are standing by our side on our special day and I cant wait to become family

Everly Donahue

Flower Girl

Riley Donahue

Flower Girl

Rose Mickles

Flower Girl

Lydia Mickles

Flower Girl

Bill Carroll

Officiant

Bill has been an exceptional pastor to both Velari and me. When Velari first shared my transition from Parkview Students to a pastoral role at Christian Hills, Bill offered invaluable guidance and support. He’s not only a dedicated family man but also someone who is always ready to lend a hand wherever needed. His wife, Rachell, has also made a significant impact with her warmth and involvement. One memorable experience was when we collaborated with Parkview to help launch a church in Chicago during the Christmas season.

Velari Dorsey

Bride

Pastor Riley Mickles

Groom