Maid of Honor
I met my booski, Jennifer, in college while pledging for Alpha Sigma Tau. At first, I thought she only spoke Spanish, but I was pleasantly surprised after actually speaking to her during one of our pledge events. We quickly became close sistaus throughout the pledge process and nurtured an unbreakable bond of friendship and sisterhood that is still going strong 15 years later. She's one of my greatest cheerleaders, the type of girlfriend that everyone hopes to have in their lifetime. I am honored to have her support in standing with me as I marry the man of my dreams. Fun fact: I cried when Jennifer had her braces removed in college.
Best Man
My best man. My best friend. My brother. I've known him since I was rocking a ponytail a.k.a. the 5th grade. It wasn't until high school, senior year to be exact, that we truly found our groove and became best friends. Thanks physics class and AP English. He has seen me through some serious ups and downs of my life and stood tall and strong every time to help me back on my feet. I couldn't have asked for a better dude to be one of my lifelong friends. I can't thank him enough and am grateful that he'll stand at my side once more as I enter the next chapter of my life.
Matron of Honor
Keyla and I met in college during recruitment season. We became close sistaus as we spent more time with each other's families. Keyla's mom is an absolute gem and makes the best lemonade! We have been there for each other through life's highs and lows. I had the honor of standing in Keyla's wedding as she married her love, and now she gets to stand with me as I marry mine. She is definitely my ride or die! Fun fact: Keyla got lost for 2.5 seconds in the mall parking lot as we were walking to my car and I had to yell, "Keyla get in the car!" We were running late for our other sister's wedding.
Groomsman
Another man I've had the pleasure of knowing since being a wee lad in 5th grade. Easily one of the smartest people I personally know. I may not have always understood what he was saying from to time, but that never got in the way of us being close friends for as long as we have. Honestly, some of the fondest memories I have with him involve a LAN party at his house playing the first Halo or hours of Command and Conquer and now I get to add this special day to the list of fond memories as well.
Bridesmaid
Roxy is the closest person I've ever had to a real sister. Growing up with four brothers was tough, so when I needed girl time, she's who I would cling to at family functions because she's the fun, cool cousin that everyone loves. Her laugh and loving spirit are ridiculously contagious. She could not hide her excitement for me when I shared the news of my engagement and was quick to ask about wedding planning details, so naturally I had to ask her to share the fun in planning the occasion. Fun fact: Back in our teenage years, we swore we would start a boutique called Cristoxy's to sell things I would make. She'd be the model and marketing guru, I'd be the creator and sweatshop.
Groomsman
My legit brother from another mother thanks to his mom claiming me as her own. I haven't known him nearly as long as the other three (only since junior high when I was the taller one) but we're just as tight as if we had. The absolute life of the party whenever and wherever he turns up. It's never had a dull moment with him. Whether it's something as low-key as Taco Bell and George Lopez, as classy as enjoying a good smoke at a cigar lounge, or as random as finding a ridiculously good burger at 2am in NOLA, it's been a blast to have him there. I look forward to the good vibes he'll provide on my wedding day.
Bridesmaid
Dulce and I met in college while she was pledging for Alpha Sigma Tau the semester after I did. She was super shy and sweet, but so much fun to be around. She always had a smile on her face. Years later, she still has that sweet smile, but she's not the same shy person. It's been so awesome to watch her transform into a total badass over the years in all aspects of her life. I am so blessed to have her join in the festivities of my wedding journey. Fun fact: Dulce is a super craft queen like me! She creates such cool designs for her kids, and I love being able to talk crafts with her.
Groomsman
Also known since middle school (shocker, I know lol). Despite that, it wasn't until college that we became as close as we are now. I say it's thanks to him and those interesting times out on 6th Street that I was able to come out of my shell and be more outgoing. He's been the source of so many hilarious stories and inside jokes that I wouldn't have wanted to miss and am glad to have been a part of. I'm sure there'll even be more made leading up to and on the day of the wedding. I'm thankful to have him with me on my big day.
Flower Girl
Emme is my mini me, at least that's what most people say. I am so happy that I have a wonderful niece to share this special day with. She was so excited when I told her she'd get to pick whatever color dress she wanted for the wedding. I can't wait for the day she meets her true love, and I can remind her of the time she spread love and flower petals as one of our beautiful flower girls.
Flower Girl
Jazmyn was so excited when she heard Uncle Kareem and Auntie Tina were getting married. She was even more ecstatic when we asked her if she'd like to be one of our flower girls. She is an amazing niece and a true beauty inside and out. I can't wait to see her come down the aisle in her pretty dress with her dazzling smile sharing this experience with us as a beautiful flower girl.
Ring Bearer