Xavier & Atia
Wedding Party
Paraiso Stevenson
Maid of Honor
Paraiso and I first met on the very first day of freshman orientation at NCCU. Our connection was instant. That weekend, we spent hours together, sharing our dreams and planning out our college journey. After orientation, we finagled a way to become roommates, a decision that shaped everything. From then on, we became each other’s foundation, always there to lean on, no matter what life threw our way. Through the ups and downs of college life, navigating family struggles, and celebrating each other’s wins, Paraiso was always by my side. We supported each other through everything: the late-night study sessions, the stress of trying to figure out who we were becoming, and the moments of doubt when we both needed someone to lean on. There were times when we felt like we had no one else, but we always had each other. Our bond was built on mutual trust, understanding, and the ability to be fully ourselves without fear of judgment. We were there through every breakthrough and breakdown, every tear and every laugh. There was never any pretense or need for anything but honesty and love. She has been my constant, my sounding board, and my safe place. As I begin this new chapter in my life, I can’t imagine not having Paraiso by my side. She’s not just my maid of honor; she’s my sister, my confidante, my rock. I’m forever grateful for the strength and love she brings to my life and I’m so thankful to have her standing with me as I marry the love of my life.
Lasondra Jones
Bridesmaid
Lasondra and I met my sophomore year of high school. I wish I could say that from the moment our paths crossed, we were inseparable but due to past experiences, she was “side-eyeing” my kindness. Overtime, my genuine intent outshined her reluctance and we became two peas in a pod. We spent weeks at a time at each other’s houses, waking up, getting dressed, and going to school like we were sisters. We were drawn to one another because we both needed a genuine friendship and sisterhood. Both of us were searching for something real—a friendship and bond that felt like home—and we found that in each other. We’ve shared many chapters of life together, from after-school hangouts and baking cookies at my grandma’s house to wild college parties and navigating adulthood. Lasondra knew and accepted me even before I fully knew myself. It was never superficial or forced— and we were always sure to meet each other with patience and grace. As the years have gone by we have given ourselves, each other, and our bond the space to grow, learn, and evolve. We were teenagers together, young women together, and now we’re two grown women who remain a constant in each other’s lives. We’ve leaned on each other and built a friendship grounded in love, grace, and authenticity. Now, as I take this next step into marriage, it means everything to have her by my side. The love and loyalty she’s shown me over the years will stand with me as I exchange my vows, just like it always has.
Frankey Hicks
Best Man
Trai is my older brother by four years, but his influence on my life goes far beyond that of a typical sibling. From an early age, he’s been my guide—teaching me important lessons, looking out for me, and steering me in the right direction, even when I didn’t always follow his advice. As the younger brother, I had the privilege of learning from his experiences, gaining wisdom through his example. Growing up, Trai wasn’t just my brother; he was my first partner in adventure and the source of endless laughter. We shared countless moments of inside jokes, mischief, and excitement that made our childhood unforgettable. As we’ve grown older and pursued different paths, our bond has only deepened. His unwavering support has been a constant in my life, a foundation I’ve relied on through every challenge and triumph. What I respect most about Trai is his character. He embodies integrity, loyalty, and a sense of humor that can light up any room. He leads by example, offering advice when I need it or simply being a steady presence I can lean on. His impact on my life is immeasurable, shaping the man I am today in ways I’ll always be grateful for. It’s an honor to have Trai as my best man. On this special day, I’m proud to have him by my side, not just as my brother, but as my lifelong friend and constant inspiration.
Kelvin Rozier
Groomsman
Kelvin and I have been through it all together—we grew up side by side, playing, laughing, and making memories that still shape us today. From the days of being kids with no care in the world, to becoming men with real responsibilities, our bond has only gotten stronger. I admire the man Kelvin has become, particularly the family life he’s built. Seeing him prioritize his loved ones, showing up as a husband, father, and family man has been nothing short of inspiring. We’ve come a long way from swapping clothes as kids to now swapping stories and advice on how to be better men, providers, and protectors for our families. Our individual journeys inspire one another to not only be better but to keep going and growing. I consider it a blessing to have a solid bond with a such a solid individual. As I stand before my future wife and take my vows, it’s an honor to have Kelvin by my side. To have him there, as not only my cousin but my brother, means the world to me. He’s been there through it all, and I couldn’t imagine starting this next chapter of my life without him standing with me. I’m grateful for the memories we share, the times we’ve had, and the brotherhood we’ve built. I’m looking forward to the many more years of growth and support ahead as we both continue to shape our lives and create our families.
Chyllaum Foster
Mother of the Bride
My mom, Chyllaum, is the kind of woman who can do it all. From the moment I was born, she made sure my world was full of love, security, and opportunity. When life threw her challenges—like becoming a single mom after her divorce—she handled it with a strength that no words can appropriately appreciate. Growing up, she was my first example of what it means to be a strong, dynamic woman. She didn’t just lead—she learned. She showed me how to carry myself with confidence and how to keep going, even when things got hard. Because of her, I know how to hold my head high and step into any space knowing my worth. She gave me the foundation I needed to grow, to dream, and to become the woman I am today. I admire how dynamic my mom is. She’s the type of woman who can walk into any room and command respect while still making everyone feel seen. She’s taught me how to balance strength and kindness, how to lead without overpowering, and how to never stop learning. She’s shown me that being a woman means owning who you are and moving through the world with purpose. As I prepare to build a life with Xavier, I carry with me the invaluable lessons she has taught me. Her quiet resilience and unconditional support have been my constant through every stage of life. Her unwavering support and devotion shine through every step I take, a constant reminder of the unbreakable bond we share. My mom’s love is a gift I will cherish forever.
Martha Hicks
Mother of the Groom
My mom, Martha, has been the heart of everything good in my life. Together with my father, Frankey Sr., and my grandmother, Eva, she worked tirelessly to create a life where my brother, Trai, and I felt safe, loved, and supported. My mom worked tirelessly to make sure we always felt cared for and supported. She poured her heart into creating an environment where we were safe to dream, to stumble, and to grow. Every choice she made was for us, every sacrifice a quiet reminder of her deep love. My mom showed me what resilience looks like. She taught me that even when life throws its hardest punches, you stand back up with grace and determination. There were moments when I didn’t understand the weight my mom carried, but as I’ve grown, I see her more clearly now. I see her courage, her sacrifices, and her unwavering belief in what my brother and I could become. As I look to the future with Atia, I know so much of who I am today is because of my mom. She gave me the blueprint for what it means to love deeply, to face challenges with courage, and to create a home where love is at the center of it all. Everything I hope to build in the future, every dream I chase, will carry a piece of her in it. Because of her, I know what it means to be strong, to lead with love, and to leave a legacy that matters. She’s not just my mom—she’s my foundation, my inspiration, and the reason I know what it means to truly give your heart and your ALL to the people you love.