The CrewThe Crew
MeganMegan
Maid of Honor
Leading the Dream Team as my MOH is my link, one of my favorite roommates, and one of the only people who gets my (sometimes sarcastic) humor. Over the years, Megan has had my back in more ways than one, iykyk. Selfless to her core, Megan always shows up for the people she loves. She listens without judgment, and she’s always there when I need a good laugh or a good cry. She’s seen the serious, the silly, and everything in between — literally. 🙃
TerryTerry
Best Man
I’ve known Terry Ekow Johnson aka Brotha Johnson aka Keiswatimbo since kindergarten. He is my best friend and best man. We’ve been locked in so long that by middle school we could secretly communicate thru sound effects. Look out, and do not try me, because with extreme prejudice, he we will stand up to anybody for me no matter how big or formidable. I trust him with my life, no better yet, I trust him with my family’s life. I know he’ll always be there for me and I for him.
AdiaAdia
Bridesmaid
Our 20-year friendship has seen everything from Colombia adventures to ending up at Denny's after missing a Kappa Khristmas Party (the North remembers). She might’ve made us late for a few functions in our college days, but she’s always been right on time when it mattered most. Whether I need advice or a quick counseling session, Adia has always been that friend that you can count on.
GlennGlenn
Groomsman
Glenn Eric Lewis aka Glew has the lightest and sweetest heart in this world. He sees the world the same way I do; everyone is his friend, they just don’t know it yet. He can empathize with almost any experience and his presence simply makes people feel better. He walks in a room with a smile, and then everyone else has one too. Plus, he has a freedom streak like me; if I want to get a tattoo, he’ll join me. If I want to go 4-wheeling, he’s mapping out the route.
DesralynnDesralynn
Bridesmaid
We met over a heated game of UNO a few years ago and we've been friends ever since. They say timing is everything, and when I tell you this friendship was right on time … well, that’s an understatement. We make plans only to break them, but we always show up when it counts. Between laughs over wine, walks around Lake Merritt, and an unspoken rule to never play UNO — Desralynn is a reminder that great friendships are the ones you don’t see coming.
IsaiahIsaiah
Groomsman
Isaiah Zeke Johnson is my brother. I mean blood could not make us closer. From the moment we met each other in D.C., it just clicked. What I see, he sees. In any situation I’m going through, all I have to do is give him 20 seconds of context and he genuinely knows exactly how I feel. He’ll affirm me when I need to be reassured and challenge me when my thoughts are a bit mis-guided. I thank God for giving me another forever friend that will do anything for me and I for him.
JoslynJoslyn
Bridesmaid
We first met at Duke's BSAI Weekend circa 2003 and the laughs haven't stopped (ask her about The Dish and Cancun). From the halls of Ujamaa to reunions in different countries, our friendship is one that time and distance can’t touch. It’s filled with inside jokes, Golden Girls references, and an unbreakable connection that’s equal parts laughter and love. Joslyn brings humor, care, and the perfect amount of side-eye, iykwim.
RodneyRodney
Groomsman
In your life there are people who are just FOR YOU. Rodney Harris is one of those people. Rodney Harris watched my back (literally) when I was in a tussle in elementary school. Rodney Harris made sure I didn’t get picked last at PE in middle school. Rodney Harris made sure I got a dance with a girl at my first school dance in high school. I never asked him to do any of these types of things. He just knew I needed help in ways that a young boy would be too insecure to ask for. I’ve known him since kindergarten and he’s just for me man. He’s just for me. I love em.
SamanthaSamantha
Bridesmaid
She and Wes go way back, like way back. Samantha is Wes' sister aka my future sister-in-law. She’s already family in the ways that matter. She’s the kind of person who can keep the conversation (and the party) going. Samantha is a great combination of laughter and sincerity. Plus, she looked out for Westley growing up so she’s automatically good in my book.
SidneySidney
Groomsman
Sidney Taylor is one of my greatest inspirations in this life. When I grow up, I want to be just like him. He’s been a man since we were boys. He’s a model of manhood, friendship, fatherhood, and husbandry. At my nadir, he took off work, and came to help and encourage me…saying “you’re taking care of a lot, I’m here to take care of you.” My child’s name might have Sidney in it.
TaureanTaurean
Bridesmaid
My Big Sib...Stanford really knew what they were doing with that match. Taurean's also on the short list of favorite roommates (and not just because she did 99% of the cooking and let me assume the critical role of taste tester). Our D.C. days were some of the best — filled with laughter, day parties, and endless frolicking. A fellow lover of alliteration, she’s been my partner in both puns and purpose…see what I did there?
WilliamWilliam
Groomsman
William is the big brother that my sister and I always wished we had growing up. In life, I intuitively take on the position of leader or protector in most rooms and situations, but with William, I get to be the protected. I instantly feel like a kid when I’m around him. I’m at peace and feel secure because someone is here over-watching me to make sure I’m good in all ways and possibilities. I don’t get to be around him all the time, but when I do, it’s a blessing.