Written by Phillandra
I lovingly refer to Michelle as my spiritual advisor. If I had a magic lamp I could rub to ask life’s most insightful questions, I’d be genuinely upset if anyone but Michelle came out.
Steady, level‑headed, and wise, she has challenged me to grow in every area of my life since we met at Bahamas Harvest Church. She answers my calls on the first ring (most of the time), tracks my location when I’m solo‑traveling across Dubai or East Africa, and still signs up for my wild adventures.
She is the big sister, and best friend my parents didn’t give me, but God absolutely did.
Deandrae (affectionately known as Anday) is my little sister, never mind that she’s taller than me. She was also the very first human to experience my exceptional teaching pedagogy.
As a child, she was the star student in my play‑school classroom, always raising her hand to answer every math question while our dolls and teddy bears sat there contributing nothing. I fully credit myself for her academic success; after all, my “school” was basically one‑on‑one tutoring with good old‑fashioned individualized support.
She’s been my friend since day one, and I’m so grateful she’s standing with me now.
Jaleah is my brilliant fashionista friend, seriously, go follow @dressedtoprofess on Instagram if you need style inspiration. A mutual friend introduced us, and we’ve been two peas in a pod ever since.
She has a heart deserving of all the love and kindness this world can offer; she radiates joy, engages people with genuine enthusiasm, and brings light everywhere she goes. Fun fact: Jaleah loves donkeys. So when I went through my fluffy‑cow obsession two years ago, she drove us an hour to a farm just so we could take pictures with fluffy cows and donkeys.
She’s a keeper, I tell you.
Roslyn is my bonus bestie gifted to me by Ben. She may only be ten, but talk to her for five minutes and you’ll swear you’re speaking with someone in their thirties.
She’s endlessly creative, often leading elaborate stories with Jacob as they build Lego worlds or write their own comic books. She’s also a talented swimmer who once practiced with a cast and a broken arm, because nothing keeps this girl out of the water. And if she ever plays a prank on you, just know it’s her very special way of showing love.
She’s wise, witty, and wonderfully imaginative, and I adore having her in my bridal party.
Written by Benjamin
Despite the height difference, Josiah is my little brother. I remember playing legos, having nerf battles, and going on bike rides with Josiah.
In college, Josiah introduced me to some friends of his and we would go on a Monday night bike ride that started at 10pm. While those days are long in the past, Josiah has been an amazing brother.
I’m so proud of the work he’s done in film and music.
Tim was my neighbor for several years and once our families started hanging out it was clear that he truly cared for us.
I remember one day I was digging out a fence post that was at least eight or 10 inches in diameter, just wrestling with this thing by myself and Tim walks up out of the blue and asks if I need some help.
He’s always been there for me.
Like Tim, Ryan has been an amazing neighbor.
I loved attending his cookouts and watching the kids play on the swingset in the backyard. Ryan doesn’t even mind too much if you walk through the screen of his sunroom door. As long as you know how to put it back in.
He’s been an amazing neighbor and I appreciate his friendship above all.
Jacob is my amazing 8 year old son. I’m so grateful for the little moments with him that feel like gifts from God.
From playing Wordle in the early hours of the morning, to workshopping the best egg sandwich for breakfast, to playing chess together, being Jacob’s dad has been a joy. Just know if you ever play him in Connect 4, you will probably lose.
He’s that good.
Written by Phillandra
VERENIQUE – RECEPTION EMCEE
If you know Verenique, you know she’s a whole vibe. She’ll have you laughing until your sides hurt, call you out with love when you need it, and pray with you when life feels upside down. V and I met while I was working at the church, and from day one we bonded over our shared love of laughter and adventure.
I call her the encourager, even when she’s fussing at you for having a bad day, she somehow shifts the whole mood with her good energy and unwavering positivity. She’s the friend who brings light, honesty, and joy everywhere she goes.
I'm so grateful to be able to share all her vibes with our wedding guests.
Jody is an extraordinary wife, mother, and daughter — a true joy to be around. We met when I worked for the church, and our friendship began with me caring for her son in children’s ministry. Once we joined the church staff team together, our bond grew quickly and deeply.
She’s my cheerleader, my intercessor, and a burst of focused, joyful energy. When I need a safe spiritual space to process the things that feel too heavy or too “out there,” she’s the one I call. And on top of all that, Jody plans the most well‑executed events I’ve ever experienced — her reach and influence are wide, and she brings people together with such grace.
I’m grateful every day for the light she brings into my life.