Tamara & Christopher
Wedding Party
Tamara "Tika" Odle
Bride
I am a God-fearing, humble little lady who is truly grateful and blessed. My greatest joy comes from the simplest things in the world and seeing the smiles on the faces of others. I love to sit outside on cool quiet mornings with my coffee, spend quality time with family and friends, craft, and learn new things. My bucket list will always be endless because there is SO much I want to do and learn. I'm truly looking forward to continuing to celebrate my blessings, which are Chris, Braxton, and of course Isaiah, who still steals my heart! This wedding is going to be another dream come true! We did it my way in January and this time will be Chris' way. Prepare to be a part of a day to remember!
Christopher Odle
Groom
I'm a pretty cool guy, I think. I enjoy spending time with my family, trying new restaurants, Rolling the Tide with Alabama, the 49ers, and traveling. Who knew that going to a surprise party would lead me to a woman I have admired long before she ever knew it! I married Tamara "HER" way on January 25, 2021 and will have it MY way on Nov. 6, 2021!
Robert Wilburn, Sr.
Officiant
My dearest Uncle Robert…”I ain’t gon’ let nobody hurt my uncle.” I said it when I was little and I’ll keep saying it. My uncle Robert is the best! He is a wonderful husband to Raquel, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, Deacon, and more. He is always a Johnny on the spot and ready to help with any and everything you need. Thank God for my Uncle Robert! I love you to a million moons!
Rev. George C. Wilburn, Jr.
Father of the Bride
Daddy...a man of many talents, creativity, a lot of love, and his energy is like the Energizer Bunny! Daddy is a prayer warrior like no other, a singer, songwriter, musician, tailor, protector, and so much more! He is a Johnny on the Spot for whatever project you have or could ever think of! Thank God for a Daddy like him!
Earl Gipson
Father of the Groom
Earl "Pops" Gipson is Chris' right hand. He's always supportive, ready to help and is a wonderful Grandpa to Braxton and Isaiah.
Robin Ann Durham
Mother of the Bride
My mother is a true example of the word, mother. She is my right and left hand, my right and left foot, my heart, my doctor, my nurse, my seamstress, my construction worker, my mechanic, my stylist, and so much more!
Evelina Wilburn
Mother of the Bride
My dearest Evie...to call her a step mother would not be fair at all. She is there when I need her, supportive in every way, prays for me even when I don't request it, and simply amazing. She became a very important part of my life when I was only 11 years old and she always will be. My day wouldn't be complete without her there.
Lena M. Towner
Grandmother of the Bride
My sweet Lil' Bubba. She is the family's biggest cheerleader and is takes challenges like no other! Even at the age of 84, she will still hop on stage to show off her "stanky leg" dance moves and talk like she is the toughest person on the planet! Thank God for Lena Marie Towner, our loving "Bubba."
Joseph Brown Jr.
Honor Attendant
Joseph Brown Jr., a Chicago native, is the Tamara's uncle. He is smart, a gentle soul, loves to travel. One of many amazing things that makes him unique is that he and Tamara share the same birthday! Joseph doesn't mind going to Garret's Popcorn over and over for her to ship it. Little does he know she had to sneak it back to her dorm room to avoid sharing too much of it! He will be escorting his sister and Tamara's mom down the aisle on the big day!
Mrs. Julie Whitney
Matron of Honor
Julie is my amazing Big Sister! She is the realest chick I know and will tell you like it is and how you need to hear it, all while there to either cheer you on or extend her arms to hug you. We have so many memories growing up. From people asking us if we were twins, (which we obviously said yes to add humor to our lives), to countless hours in the studio recording songs and performing. Our bond is unbreakable, forever unshaken, and stronger than a million bulls. I love her with everything I have and always will.
Ms. Myesha James
Maid of Honor
Myesha and I met in 5th Grade at Gardenview Elementary. We have been Besties since then. When life happens, we are always there for each other and that's how it will always be. She's extremely creative and has been our "favorite" counselor since elementary. Myesha's currently a Professional School Counselor & Athletic Director at Havenview Middle STEAM Optional School. She is also an amazing mother of 5 year old Jade, who is the love of her life. Thanks Myesha for being my Bestie!!!!! I love me some YOU!
Ms. Moya Taylor
Maid of Honor
Moya and I met in 5th Grade at Gardenview Elementary. We have been Besties since then. When life happens, we are always there for each other and that's how it will always be. She is an amazing mother of a loving daughter, Amaya, whose in college pursuing her dreams. Thanks Moya for being my Bestie! I love you SO much!
Mrs. Julie Thomas
Maid of Honor
Julie and I were roommates at Austin Peay State University . Roommates was a term that was short-lived as "Family" was and still is more fitting. Julie is the wife of Christopher and mom of two beautiful children, Sara and Evan. She is smart, funny, loves a good cup of coffee, take a real good naps. Julie and her family were warm, welcoming, and loving from the start. She is the most country, down to earth person I have ever met from Kentucky! She's my Bestie for Life! I love you JuBean!
Darlene Kirkland
Maid of Honor
My dearest Darlene "Imogene" Kirkland....(nope that's not her middle name, but she let me name her that!). She is a bursting ball of energy who loves to dance and will fight a bear for me if I ever need her to! She loves unconditionally, loves to have fun, and great addition to my family! We worked together in Tunica for many years and the bond was instant and still consistent. She is the one who encouraged me to go out with Chris. She was rooting for us the entire time! I love you Darlene Imogene! Thanks for allowing me to call you my sister and most of all...Thank you for encouraging me to start a lifetime of forever with my Chris!
Brooklyn Springfield
Bridesmaid
My dear cousin, Brooklyn. So many memories of us growing up will forever be dear to my heart. She was like a little sister that got me ready for the one that the whole world wasn't ready for. (LOL!) But I love her dearly, always will, and support the dreams she has and the ones that are to come!
Shunda Wells
Bridesmaid
Shunda....My "Fashionista" friend who worked with me in Tunica for many years. She is a very genuine and supportive friend who taught me the true meaning of moving in silence while attaining my goals. Shunda also taught me to focus more on "self" and putting my own needs and desires first. Thank you Shunda! You never know when your actions teach others to become better people! I love you Shunda!!!
Juanna Warren
Bridesmaid
Juanna is my beautiful niece who is also a mother of two beautiful girls, Brooklyn and Namoi. Juanna is a gentle spirit, hard worker, and an amazing mom and wife. Juanna's smile has always brought a smile to my face. My heart will be filled seeing her and the girls stand with me on my special day. I love yall!
Latrisia "Nina" Wallace
Bridesmaid
Nina is my beautiful & talented cousin. She is a the mother of a beautiful daughter, Mya. She never knew it, but I have always admired her confidence and style. Her strength in hard times can never be described with words. I love me some Nina and I can't wait to see her stand with me on my special day!
Jamille Ellington
Bridesmaid
Jamille is my first cousin, wife of Patrick Ellington, and mother of a beautiful daughter, Avery. Jamille is a hardworker who enjoys spending time with family. She is definitely one to have in your corner, as she will will tell you what you need to hear and help you take care of any and everything she can help with. Thank you Jamille for being who you are and I can't wait to see you standing with me on my special day.
Dr. Chandra Evans
Bridesmaid
My dearest Soror Dr. Chandra Evans...our bond is amazing. She was first, the Pharmacist/Neighbor who sang so beautifully and loud enough in her kitchen for me to hear her in my house, but she quickly turned in to my Soror and Spiritually Freeing friend and neighbor. She taught me a soulful way of being beautiful and to try new things. Visits with Chandra are always as refreshing as leaving a spa. I truly love this beautiful lady and I can't wait for her to stand with me on my special day!
Braxton Odle
Groomsman
Braxton is our amazing teenager. He is a 7th Grader at Desoto Central Middle and his favorite subject is Math. He already has his heart set on becoming a Diesel Mechanic or a Police Officer. He enjoys fishing, playing golf with his Dad, and playing games on on his PC with friends. Braxton is the BEST big brother a kid could ask for! He is patient, kind, and knows that Presley and Isaiah are always watching him.
Darnet Washington
Groomsman
Darnet and I worked together in Tunica for 18 & 1/2 years. He is the husband of Teresa and father of one son, Demario. Though work came first, he quickly became a big brother to me. Darnet is by far the kindest, most giving person I have ever met. Giving-meaning that he will give his attention, his ear, advice, scriptures, and more. He works hard, loves his family, and can tear up a dance floor at any and every party! I love you Big Brother! Thank you for always being who you are!
Christopher Thomas
Groomsman
Christopher is the husband of my Best Friend Julie Thomas. He is a father of two beautiful children, Sara & Evan. Not many knew it, but Chris lived with us (Julie and I) and was pretty much our roommate at Austin Peay. Our friendship quickly grew into his role of becoming my brother. We have so many memories of us traveling together, attending the funerals of loved ones that we've lost, and so much more. Chris is also IB's Godfather and has taken the role by the horns. IB loves his "Uncle Chris! Thank you Chris for being such a wonderful brother to me and I look forward to seeing you stand with me on my special day!
Brandin Holmes
Groomsman
Brandin is one of those friends that showed up right on time for Tika. He was first a fellow cheer coach, then quickly a friend turned family member. When she gave him the middle name, "Earl," the rest has been nothing less than fun, laughs, and great times. Brandin, I know this day is going to be eventful and filled with fun, simply because you're standing right there with me! Thanks for being just who I need you to be and that's YOU!!! I love you B!!!!
Matthew Gandy
Groomsman
Matthew is my first cousin and one who I always considered my little brother. Matthew is so smart! He is a music genius, plays the bass guitar like a pro, and will tear up a dance floor when Michael Jackson's Dance Machine song comes on. (Yes, I'm gonna make sure it's played at the reception!). My day wouldn't be complete if I didn't have my Matt Ratt! I love you Matt!
Anthony Mackey
Groomsman
Anthony Mackey, husband to Rhonda and father of two very handsome young men, Desmond and Demetri. He is a hard worker and has accepted his calling to the ministry of Christ. He is Tamara's younger cousin who was bigger than her, but she still picked him up to care for him when he cried out as an infant. Anthony has a quiet and caring spirit.
Torrance Burson, Sr.
Groomsman
Torrence "Hot Rod" Burson is the husband of Natasha and father of 2 very handsome young men. He is Tamara's big cousin in a smaller package. This is a cousin that is always right there, fun, a great business partner, sure to get a party started, and can always make things happen. His presence at every event is always known and no one ever forgets how much they enjoy being every where that he will be. Torrence, my day wouldn't be close to complete without you there! I love you!
Keenam Brown
Groomsman
Keenam is Tamara's cousin and first big brother. They grew up together making memories every weekend going to their Great Grandmother's house for church and fun. He is a great dad and has can make you laugh at the silliest things! Thanks Keenam for so many funny memories! I love you and I can't wait to have you stand with me on my special day!
Kayson Mays
Ring Bearer
Kayson is the son of Khari Mays and the late Jocelyn L. Tunstall. He is also Tamara’s innovative nephew. Kayson is a 3rd grade scholar at Bon Lin Elementary and keeps everyone on their toes with his latest educational discoveries, sharing stories about headline statistics, bugs, and so much more. He is a dynamic basketball and soccer player. His dream is to play in the NBA and become an Entrepreneur. He’s an awesome Cousin-Brother to Isaiah and loves to help everywhere he’s needed. He is going to grow up and do remarkable things! All hail to Kayson Mays!
Isaiah "IB" Bryant
Ring Bearer
For this child I prayed and the the Lord has granted me the desires of my heart. 1 Samuel 1:27. Isaiah represents faith, love, and more. He is a 3yr old PreK3 Scholar at St. Paul Catholic School. Isaiah is at the head of his class leading sight word activities, reading to his peers, and representing all the characteristics as a true leader. He loves plain lays potato chips, french fries, playing with friends, the Children's Museum, playgrounds, bubbles, and the zoo. Isaiah also enjoys cuddling with his mommy and playing with his brothers Brenton and Braxton. He is destined for great things and sure to conquer everything he sets his mind to.
Brenton James Bryant
Ring Bearer
Brenton James Bryant is a 3 yr old Author of Be Brave. He is the brother of Isaiah and Tamara's bonus son. He is smart, adventurous, loves to quote scriptures, and spend quality time with his family. He is truly a name to remember as everyone will expect great things from him, Brenton James Bryant.
Daja Bryant
Flower Girl
Introducing Princess Daja B. Daja is IB and Brenton's big sister.and the daughter that Tika never had but adores as her own.. From the day they met years ago. people always said how much she looks just like Tika and it was embraced whole-heartedly. Their bond, unbreakable. The love they have, everlasting. From the eyes, to the smile, and even the complexion, they still enjoy fooling people. Daja is a 4th Grade Honor Roll Scholar at Sacred Heart Catholic School and has aspirations of becoming the best at everything. She loves TikTok, dancing, and having fun. Our future is very bright with Daja B around. And you can best believe that if Tika has anything to do with her dreams, they will most definitely come true. "My beautiful little Princess, Daja B."
Brooklyn Warren
Flower Girl
My first great niece. She is a a star student at White Station Elementary and loves Barbie Dolls, and being able to do their hair! She has an infectious smile and sure to do great things when she grows up!
Naomi Rose Warren
Flower Girl
My youngest great niece, Naomi is the sweetest little girl, who is star student at White Station Elementary. Like her sister, she is smart, dominating plays on the soccer field, and too, has an infectious smile that makes me want to just get her everything she wants! She too, has a name that will be in lights...my dearest Naomi Rose.
Jade James
Flower Girl
Tee Tee's big girl is a new kindergarten scholar at St. Paul Catholic School. She enjoys gymnastics, doing girly things all the time, like nails, hair, makeup, and eating GREAT meals, not good ones, GREAT ones. Her smile is priceless and her style is amazing. She is ready to strike a pose in every outfit that she wears! Yep, camera ready at all times! Meet Jade Elizabeth Grayson James.
Avery Ellington
Flower Girl
Avery is Tamara's bubbling and "grown" little cousin. She is the 3 yr old daughter of Patrick and Jamille Ellington. Though her daddy has her heart, she loves to spend time with her family. She and Isaiah are only one day apart. Their bond as cousins was instant and still so cute to watch. Her personality is one of a kind which makes her such a pleasure to have around.