Angie Brown - Matron of Honor
Angie aka Reesie is my confidant, best friend, and ride-or-die lady! There was no question who would be by my side on my special day. Just as I was with hers in 2004! My cousin loves her family and would do WHATEVER she can to be there for anyone! She supports me every day with her kind words, motivation, and understanding ways! She's got my back and we've experienced a lot together. I appreciate my Auntie Mildred for bringing her into this world to be my best friend from the beginning of our lives! I love you, Reesie!
Minister John Cook - Officiant
I met John while working at People's Energy Services in the 90's. He was very hardworking and intelligent man that made me laugh! I was his support person, but we became great friends through the years. He was the person I can rely on for great and sound advice in my life. I call him my mentor and confidant. John became a Deacon and has a strong faith in God. Although our beliefs differ, he always spoke the word, and kept me and my family in his prayers. He always supported me. When I met Marcus, he supported us in our journey. Marcus and I would like no other but John to unite us as one. He witnessed our journey from the first date to the love of my life! We love you, John!
LaHarold Woodhouse - Best Man
LaHarold, as my honorable frat brother and brother-in-arms, I have a lot of respect for you. We've shared some unique conversations about life, travel, business, and family. Thank you for being my best man for such an important day to me.
Stephanie Gavin - Day of Wedding Coordinator
Stephanie at Gavin Wedding & Events LLC has always been a planner. She's a lover of lists and checking them off! She loves to see the look on a client's face the moment they see it has all come together and it's even better than they imagined. We're looking forward to her and her team managing it ALL on our big day!
Contact Info:
713-823-0310
info@gavinweddingevents.com
Yasmine Keeler - Wedding Designer & Soul Sister
Yasmine and I met while working in the energy industry over 13 years ago. We connected at work, but her fun personality and smile is where our friendship connected. We became rideshare buddies to make it to work on time and save money. It worked a lot of days, but she knows!! Yasmine and I spirits flows, we may not speak every day, but once we do connect, we make sure everything is well in our lives. She is one of my Soul Sisters! I've seen her family grow from being in a relationship to becoming a wife to Sedrick and with 2 handsome boys, Blake and Luke. I've seen them grow up and they've even been part of my business journeys. Yasmine and Sedrick are true supporters of me, my family, and businesses. They are friends that I call FAMILY! There is no other person that can bring my vision to life for our wedding, other than Yas! She's done it for years with my businesses, and I can't wait to see her do it for our wedding! Love you, Yas!
Groomsmen
Trevis Ivory - Groomsmen
Trevis, as my youngest 1st cousin we have shared our teen years of listening to DJ Screw. Deep down though, we were destined as family men. I've always admired your lifestyle as a great family man. Thanks for being in my wedding. Much Love!
Terrick Roberts - Groomsmen
Terrick, you have been my best friend, classmate, football teammate and to date, I enjoy our conversations about our children, and life. I'll never forget the fun fact you being born in the truck of my 2nd uncle. Thanks for being by my side in our wedding. Much appreciated!
Taurus Ivory - Groomsmen
Taurus, as my one of my oldest 1st cousins we share the fondest memories of laughter and jokes at the dinner table of our grandmother's house. She never understood what was so funny. We just couldn't eat without giggling as grandmama would say. Thanks for being by my side in our wedding. Much love!
Antonio Allen - Brother of Bride
When my brother and I were younger, Tony was always protective of his three sisters, it was only the 4 of us at the time. Although, he hit me upside my head with a skate. I can't remember why, but sibling rivalry during fun times. Tony moved to Houston with me to get a new life started and we supported each other in our journeys. He helped me while I was bringing Build a Pizza to the market. He was excited that this was something for the family to be proud of, because he was. He will join us on our special day and my team to walk me down the aisle at the ceremony! I love you, Tony!
Richard Sigman Jr. - Brother of Bride
My brother, Richard aka Tee Tee is a fixer by nature. He never went to school to fix anything, but he's fixed cars, floors, garage doors, and so much more! He works extra hard to help anyone with anything that needs fixed. He has his daughter, my niece, Kamariana. My brother loves extremely hard, and family is how he continues to grow as a man. He roots for me and will join my team to walk me down the aisle during the ceremony. Love you, Tee Tee!
Devante Allen - Brother of Bride
My youngest brother that has been the most respectful young man all his life. He may be the youngest brother, but he loves life and work hard to succeed with everything he does. He truly loves family, and fight for what's right at all times. He supports me with my journey and our union. Devante will join us during the ceremony to walk me down the aisle. Love you, Devante!
Cortez Woods - Nephew of Bride
My oldest nephew has always brought the fun with his sense of humor & and a big smile to our family. He's accomplished so much in his young life! He's served over 11 years in the Marines Sergeant. His promotion to Staff Sergeant is a new accomplishment coming in the month of our wedding! I'm so proud of this and the man he's become. He's always brightened my day! I'm so happy he'll be by my side on our big day to make it even more special with his smile! Love you, Nephew!
Bridesmaids
Latasha Allen - Bridesmaid
My sister, who's through it ALL, always had my back, and we support each other no matter what! My sister is the strongest person, and her heart hurts for EVERYONE that needs help. She goes out her way to help, appreciated or not, she does it! I love you, Sister!
Shamika Allen-Attidore - Bridesmaid
My sister, Neak who's always rooted for me and supported me through life! We may not see each other often, but love is always there! We have spent a lot of time together in our earlier years with much laughter, and fun. I can't wait to celebrate this moment with her, it's long overdue for me, right Sister?! I love you, Neak!
Tatiana Sigman - Bridesmaid
My sister, and best friend who's always supported me through my journey of life! My sister is a mother of 5 children and 1 on the way! She is the epidemy of a loving and caring mother. She wants the best for everyone that surrounds her and will let you know what's within her spirit! My sister has seen me through it ALL, and now we celebrate my union TOGETHER! As she has always tried to be there for all my celebrations, no matter how far! She makes a way with her entire family. I love you, Tatiana!
Keasia Allen - Bridesmaid
My niece is a quiet beautiful person that spirit lights up a room. Keasia joined us on our journey when we moved to Houston. She was happy to be in a new place. She's my bridesmaid, because I want her by my side again for this new journey of my life! Love you, Keasia!
Kearia Haskett - Bridesmaid
My niece Kearia is gorgeous & strong-minded. She's an entrepreneur that fights for hers and knows what she wants. She's my bridesmaid, because my love for her is a special one.
We've had distance between us, and this moment is about bringing family close to my heart! Love you, Kearia!!
Alyshia Mona - Bridesmaid
My niece is a beautiful soul that has a very kind heart. The distance between us when she was younger was far, but she was always in my heart. As she grew to become a young lady, and now a mom, I see how she's become an even more beautiful person. She has always given me love when I see her, and vice versa. My love for her is protective, precious, and never ending. I couldn't ask for a better person to be part of my big day as my bridesmaid! Love you, Alyshia!
T'Shyla Holmes - Bridesmaid
My niece was brought into this world by my sister Latasha. She always wanted a girl after having 4 boys. I didn't believe it when she was pregnant with T'Shyla aka Shyma. She is a strong-minded young woman and always loved spending time with me. I love her strength and tenacity with life as she became a young woman and now a mom. She was part of my business for years. I want her by my side again for this new journey of my life! Love you, Shyma!
Kamariana Sigman - Bridesmaid
My niece always brings a smile to my face, because I don't get to see her often. She's grown up so fast that I didn't even recognize her our last visit, shame on me! She is a beautiful young lady that her fun spirit brings happiness to those around her. I love you Kamariana and look forward to celebrating my new journey with you being part of it.
Aqira Austin - Bridesmaid
My niece Aqira has a bubbly personality, and fun spirit. I've seen them grow from a baby to a teenager and it's been very rewarding for them to be in my life! Aqira is my bridesmaid because of the bond we will always have, no matter their age! Love you, Aqira!!
Ceremony Roles
TreShawn Allen - Bride's Nephew & Trainbearer
My nephew, Tre from a baby has always had my heart. He was brought into this world with a burst of energy starting with his smile. He loves and protect his family hard! He has accepted the role of holding me up by carrying my dress train down the aisle with me! Thank you and love you, Nephew!
Aquaus (AJ) Austin Jr. - Bride's Nephew & Ringbearer
My nephew is so animated and loves to have fun and enjoy life. He will be responsible to carry our rings during the ceremony! Thank you and love you, Nephew!
Aayda Austin - Bride's Niece & Flower Girl
My niece who's a natural born leader! She will lead the flower girls during the ceremony! Thank you and love you, Niece!
Anaise Austin - Bride's Niece & Flower Girl
My niece who's a little lady at her young age of 4! She will join her sister as the flower girls during the ceremony! Thank you and love you, Niece!
A'Jahnae Austin - Bride's Niece & Flower Girl
My niece that's a little boss lady and knows what she wants at the age of 2! She will join her big sisters as the flower girls during the ceremony! Thank you and love you, Niece!
Our Children
Angela Flakes - Daughter of Groom
Angela, as my first child, you brought excitement in my life the day you were born. I've had the joy of watching you grow into such a remarkable young lady. Our connection since you were a child and even now is something others still can't understand. Your laughter is contagious, and your voice is unforgettable. Your free spirit is what allows you to soar to places in life that ends up helping others realize their potential. I love you and I'm just so glad to have your support for one of the most important days of my life---our wedding. I love you!
Normesha Kelly - Daughter of Bride
My first born, and ride or die! Normesha has grown to be a tenacious woman that goes after anything she wants. She stood by myself through it ALL, and always lifted me back up when needed. She always says to me, "I got you!" She took care of her twin siblings with pride and love them to pieces! Her strength with every day battles keeps me striving and thriving to make a legacy for her and her siblings. She's truly my rock! Love you Mesha!
Nahshona Kelly - Daughter of Bride
My daughter, Nana has supported me throughout my journey of living life! Her take on life is easy-peasy, and don't sweat the small stuff! I love her for being unique and flowing with life. She always keeps me motivated to give her and her siblings the best things in life! I love you Nana!
Nahshon Kelly - Son of Bride
My son lives on the edge of life ever since he was a little boy. He's my daredevil that's not afraid of anything. He has a power within him that is unstoppable, and his journey has prepared him to be the king that he is truly meant to be in life! His fight is mine, and I do it every day, because giving him and his siblings the kingdom of life is my mission! I love you son!
Tarshaye Flakes - Daughter of Groom
Tarshaye, as my second child, you brought me so much pride and joy in knowing how smart and intelligent you are. You have demonstrated yourself to be a strong woman. You have made me proud and let me tell you why; you listen to learn, you seek to find, and you love to be happy. I can't imagine not having you as my daughter. I enjoy the debates we have with your aspirations to become an attorney, but also the love and laughter you bring to this family. You have always been a nonstop learner and your curiosity about life and how you plan to succeed in it is admirable. I'm very happy to know I have your love and support for one of the most important days of my life. I love you!
Marcus Flakes Jr. - Son of Groom
Marcus Jr, as my third child and first-born son, words cannot explain how you made me feel when you were brought into this world. I'm proud to call you, my son! Despite our generational differences, you have shown me that you are not a quitter. You know that an honest, hardworking productive lifestyle will deliver a return on your investment of time. I saw this in you since you were a little boy, and that same instinct is still in you. It helps me sleep at night knowing you are safe and driven. You are going to be just fine and with patience, you will bear the fruit from the seeds your plant in your life. I love you so much and I just want you to know that---and that your presence at our wedding makes it complete. I love you!
Darious Flakes - Son of Groom
Darious, as my last-born child and son, you entered this world during a time in my life, I understood what having a son meant. They say you looked like your mom, but later you began to look like me. I must admit, looking at you, I see parts of you that I think you will be proud of as you grow into a young man. You are a doer, and what that means is that anything you put your mind to and stick with, you'll succeed. There's no other way to describe your characteristics other than the fact that you are highly intelligent, handsome, fun, and loving. I appreciated my time I got to spend with you while playing football. Taking that trip to New York with you was more than football. It was me watching you become excited about something you loved. I want nothing but the best for you. I am so very proud of you and happy to have you as part of one of the most cherish able moments in my life. I love you!
Our Parents
Barbara Davis - Mother of Groom
Mom, you are one great MOM, and I'm proud to have you as a mother. Ever since the day I can remember, you have wanted nothing but the best for me. You guided me, and ensured that I was surrounded by positive people, which has given me a fair chance at life. Your encouragement, intellect, and the I Can Do It attitude you instilled in me makes me realize how lucky I've been all my life. Your love for God and your understanding of how active he is in our lives has made me slowly realize that the holy spirit guides our mindset and not our circumstances. I would be powerless without your teachings, blessings, and love. You are the reason I can love freely without fear. You are going to make one heck of a mother-n-law to the love of my life. I'm sure of it because I carefully picked her. :) Mom, thank you for being who you are and your presence at our wedding will be nothing less than magnificent. I love you!
Lu Ann Allen - Mother of Bride (RIP)
My mom was a tough woman who told it like it was with everything! She loved to dance and enjoy family. I got a lot of my ways from her. She told me that she raised me to take care of her house. I never understood what that meant at the time. However, one day I did. It taught me to always take care of myself, and family. My mom wasn't an educator but taught me to always ask questions to my teachers to better understand anything I needed help with at school. My mom didn't work a full-time, but she worked hard to keep us fed, clothed, and safe. All the lessons she's taught me, I knew she loved me, and wanted nothing but the best for me and my kids. She is truly missed, but I know she will be with us on our wedding day! Love you, Mom!
James Davis - Stepfather of Groom
James, as my stepfather, I have to say that you have moved mountains in my adolescent years as well as throughout my adulthood. You are the perfect living example of what it means to be a dad. I think the world show know that men like you exist. What's so shocking is that you have not let anyone fall, including yourself. To many of us, it would be hard to argue that you are considered a Super Dad, Grandfather, Brother, and Friend to people all around you. I probably haven't told you enough, but I love you to pieces. You took care of me and my mom, and you still manage to spread that big heart of yours enough to still be able to say you still have your own heart. I'm so glad you get to be at our wedding! I love you!
Richard Sigman - Stepfather of Bride
Richard loved my mom and always wanted to make her happy. He knew that taking care of her children would do the same. That's what he did until I grew up. He was never a person to show his emotions, but actions speaks louder than words. That's why I consider him my dad and appreciate everything he's done for me, my mom, and siblings. Thank you, Old Man, RIP!
Phillip Flakes (RIP) - Father of Groom
Dad, it pains me you aren't here to physically be at our wedding. But I know in spirit you know exactly where to find us. I trust you'll find a seat that's comfortable for you (as you would say) and see it all play out. My dad was a man of wisdom, intelligence, charisma, and spirituality. He believed that all people were put on this earth to do something specific. He taught me to control a narrative through silence and action, which made me understand that my physical well-being depended on my decisions. This merely meant to be where I said I would be, do what I said I would do, and to be truthful to myself. Ultimately, these very characteristics would make you a trustworthy, purpose driven, and law-abiding citizen. I love you, Dad!
Lloyd Pryor (RIP) - Father of Bride
I never got to know my father, but always knew that he was holding me up every step of the way in my life. He was murdered before I was born. I was told that he truly loved my mom and was a handsome man. I was his only girl, with four brothers. Rest in Peace and thank you for protecting your daughter. Love you, Dad!
Soul Sisters
Tonya White - Sister of Groom
Tonya, you are the only sister I can call sister. We have seen time works. I recall all the days in church and the dinners we eat at our parent's house. Soon, one of us added life to the family and then came another, and another. While it might seem like we grew apart, I want you to know that I grew much fonder of you as the years passed by. I know you loved me, and I love you. I loved making you laugh, because that big ole smile made me know we were having a great time. The kind of times that social media never caught. That's how long ago it was Sis. Let me say this...you are one amazing wife and mother. I've watched you and I've seen the outcome of your parenting through your children. Thank you for being a part of my life and your presence at our wedding will make me very happy. I love you!
Diana Lavalinche - Bride's Soul Sister
I met Diana when we were planning a big business event together. I went to her home because she invited me out to interview for an article in her Food Magazine. We talked, cooked, drank some wine, and laughed all night. It was as if we knew each other forever. I ended up staying the night because we were having so much fun! She's my soul sister that I truly can't imagine life without! Love you, Diana!
Katherine Rougeau - Bride's Soul Sister
Katherine and I met through our children, who are best friends. We begin to build a friendship after I stalked her to come hang out! She is a beautiful, dedicated, and hardworking person, and a professional nurse. She takes care of everyone with a kind & caring heart. Through the years, we've became family and there's nothing I would do without her knowing. She watched me grow and supported me during every step! She is truly my soul sister, and confidant! Love you, Katherine!! Thank you and Ms. Betty, for all y'all support!
Renee Holloway-Bowen - Bride's Soul Sister
Renee and I met while working together. As we built our friendship, she became my ace coon boon! We were inseparable and celebrated every milestone together. She was protective of me & my family and always offered her support. Renee gave me the tools needed to win the love of my life! I couldn't imagine not sharing this moment with her, and the love of her life, Tony. Thank you, Renee, for being here during this next milestone!!
Tawana Cox - Bride's Soul Sister
My ride or die, Tawana and I met while working together. Our kindred spirits from the beginning were beyond our understanding. Our birthdays are 9 days apart, but for years, we celebrated them together. Geminis with the same mindset, caring and giving hearts! We support one another no matter the challenges we face. She is my soul sister who witnessed my journey of finding love. She's beyond happy for us. My soul sister and confidant, I love you Tawana! Thank you for all your support!
Urica S. Humphries - Bride's Soul Sister
Urica entered into my life with a friendly smile and her big personality. We met in Sam's Club while shopping. She noticed my filled cart and stated, "Someone is having a party!" I responded and said, "No, I'm shopping for a catering event." After that, we talked until the store closed! Our bond is one-of-a-kind and very special to me! I call her my soul sister and confidant because we've got each other's back and want the best for one another! Love you, Urica! Thank you for all your support!
Heather Rush - Bride's Soul Sister
Heather is my sister's best friend, my sister from another mother, and a confidant. She lends an ear no matter what she's going through. She's been a member of the Allen family since her and Tasha were in middle school. Heather family moved to California years ago, but that didn't stop her from being there, phone calls, visits, and more! She's a true sister, and throughout the years, she's supported me in my journey! I'm happy that she will be part of this journey with me! Thank you and love you, Heather!