Our Story
We grew up just miles apart in Laurens County but didn’t meet until our worlds collided online—many cousins connected us on Facebook, and what began as messages turned into something real. Over Easter weekend 2022 Jaselyn messaged Gotti about his eyes in a photo; he replied right away and they chatted nonstop. By Easter Sunday he’d asked for her number and they talked all day. Their first date was brunch at First Watch in Simpsonville, where they bonded over food, hopes, and dreams—and shared a first kiss in TJ Maxx afterward. When Gotti asked, “When can I see you again?” Jaselyn said, “How about tomorrow?” and they haven’t been apart since. They fell in love quickly and talked about marriage early on. Over the next years they traveled, celebrated firsts, and built a life together, including buying their first home in 2025. During a January 2026 snowstorm—after a canceled trip to Atlanta—Gotti proposed properly with a ring, and Jaselyn said yes. We can’t wait to celebrate our wedding on October 24, 2026, in Ware Shoals, SC.
Photos
Gotti and I are still floating! A massive thank you to @PhotosbyJJ for capturing our official engagement and expertly navigating a few stray feathers along the way. 🪶
We also want to send a special shout-out to Devin Eha and the incredible team at @FirstWatch. Being able to shoot where we had our first date and fell in love made these photos mean so much more.
If you haven’t guessed it from the location, get your dancing shoes and appetite ready—we’re having a Jazz-Brunch Wedding! 🎷🥞 We love you guys! 10.26.24
#JazzBrunchWedding, #thefutureguardados,#futuremrsguardado,#EngagementPhotos, @firstwatch—simpsonville#FirstWatch.#photosbyjj
Wedding Party
Minister Kathy Borders - Wedding Officiant
Minister Kathy Borders gave the couple relationship counseling before the two purchased their home. Jaselyn and Kathy were close friends when they both worked for Nationwide Insurance. Kathy is a well seemed out minister that delivers a powerful word of God. She has an amazing sense of humor; Gotti and Jaselyn knows she will make their marriage ceremony the most memorable experience of their lives.
Kara Parks - Wedding Coordinator/The Fierce Collective
Kara “Nu-Nu” Parks met Jaselyn during Jaselyn’s first year with the Miss South Carolina Plus America pageant, where Kara served as dance coordinator. Their shared time in pageant rehearsals and performances grew into a close friendship built on creativity and teamwork. With Jaselyn planning the wedding herself, she needed someone who understood her vision and could run the day—Kara was the perfect choice. Fun, engaging, and highly organized, Kara brings calm competence to every detail and is dedicated to making sure the celebration flows smoothly.
Norman “Gotti” Guardado - Groom
Jaselyn Jennings - Bride
Sade Henderson - Matron of Honor
Sade has been Jaselyn’s closest friend for 15 years; they met through the Young Professionals Association at the Chamber of Commerce and quickly bonded over late-night study sessions, community events, and a shared love of live music. Sade has been by Jaselyn’s side through career milestones, moves, and every laugh in between—always the person who knows when to offer practical advice and when to bring over comfort food. As Matron of Honor, she’s helped lead dress shopping, coordinated surprise gatherings, and stayed calm amid the planning chaos. Jaselyn and Gotti are grateful for Sade’s steady support, big heart, and the warmth she brings to their celebration.
Ebony Jones - Maid of Honor
Ebony and Jaselyn met while competing in Miss South Carolina Plus America in 2023—Ebony earned the title of Mrs. South Carolina Plus America 2023 and Jaselyn was crowned Ms. South Carolina Plus America 2023. Their bond grew from shared pageant experiences into a deep friendship rooted in community service and daily phone calls full of encouragement. Over the years they’ve supported each other through new jobs, new homes, divorce, celebrations, and countless milestones, and they still make time for trips together—most recently a cruise in the Bahamas. They consider themselves sister queens and true sisters brought together by pageantry, and you might just catch them modeling side-by-side on a runway. Ebony has been Jaselyn and Gotti’s biggest fan, offering steady encouragement and support for their love.
Katrina Nance - Bridesmaid
Katrina was introduced to Jaselyn by a family member as the “body butter” lady, and over time Jaselyn discovered Katrina was also a realtor. When Jaselyn and Gotti decided to buy a house, Katrina guided them through every step of the process and stayed with them until the keys were in hand. Along the way they discovered how much they had in common—including the same middle name, Shante—and became workout partners at Tuesday Zumba, holding each other accountable. Jaselyn admires Katrina as a wife and mother and often turns to her for wisdom; their close friendship made it impossible to imagine the day without her by their side.
Bella Levy - Bridesmaid
The pageant and modeling world brought Bella and Jaselyn together in 2023 at the International World Pageant. Bella traveled to South Carolina alone, and the pageant director paired her with Jaselyn until her hotel room was ready. They instantly bonded over Bella’s Louis Vuitton shoes and impeccable style. Jaselyn coached Bella for her interview and guided her throughout the weekend, and later had the honor of crowning Bella as Queen. Bella quickly took to Gotti like a little brother and became a steadfast supporter of Jaselyn’s journey—sponsoring and praying with her during Jaselyn’s run for Ms. South Carolina Plus America. They’ve stayed in weekly touch and, despite the distance between states, are like sisters who always show up for one another; Jaselyn and Gotti are grateful to have Bella’s unwavering support and friendship.
Octavia Jenkins - Bridesmaid
Octavia and Jaselyn were introduced through their mutual friend Sade; working together to give Sade a grand baby shower revealed how much they had in common. Their friendship deepened around shared faith and prayer, and they've supported one another through life’s many changes. Jaselyn admires Octavia’s gift for storytelling—her colorful, fun sayings make their weekly conversations a highlight—and values her generous relationship advice and steady positivity during tough times. The two often double date and organize couple-focused events, making memories together as friends and partners in faith.
Racheal Cross - Bridesmaid
Rachel and Jaselyn deepened their friendship while planning Sade and Ken’s wedding, and Rachel has continued to pour wisdom and care into Jaselyn and Gotti’s relationship. A natural party starter, she brings energy, laughter, and fearless enthusiasm to every moment—there’s never a dull moment when Rachel’s around.
Jayme Morant - Bridesmaid
Jayme and Jaselyn met through Miss South Carolina Plus America, where Jayme served as director and Jaselyn competed as a contestant. They became roommates during pageant season and collaborated closely on ideas for the following year’s competitions. Gotti served as the first Man of Honor under Jayme’s direction and often assisted as the cameraman during events. Jayme has ministered to Jaselyn about marriage, pouring prayer and guidance into Jaselyn and Gotti’s relationship. She’s become like a big sister to them, and the couple couldn’t imagine tying the knot without her by their side.
Jadiel Diaz - Best Man
Diaz and Gotti met while working together at BMW, where their friendship quickly grew from coworker camaraderie into a steadfast bond. Diaz is caring and dependable—always ready with practical help or a steadying word—and their relationship deepened through shared time playing basketball and gaming sessions of Fortnite and Call of Duty. They've supported one another through many life moments, offering honest advice and reliable presence. There is no one better to stand by Gotti’s side as he becomes a husband than his great friend Diaz.
Tyrese Franklin - Groomsmen
Gotti and Tyrese met as co-workers at Greenco and quickly became best friends. A former high school all‑star athlete, Tyrese loves playing basketball with Gotti in their free time. They've shared relationship advice and supported one another through life’s ups and downs, and they bond over playing video games together—especially Fortnite and Call of Duty.
Ken Henderson - Groomsmen
Gotti and Ken met through their wives’ friendship and quickly discovered a shared bond when Ken sold Gotti his first brand-new car. Their friendship grew from that moment, built on a mutual love of football, good steak, and cigars. Gotti admires Ken for his dedication as a husband, father, and trusted personal financial advisor. Always steady and generous with his time, Ken has been there through milestones and everyday moments alike—Gotti and Jaselyn can’t imagine tying the knot without him by their side.
James Jenkins - Groomsmen
JP and Gotti became friends through their wives’ friendship and quickly bonded over comics, video games, and a shared love of fashion. Gotti admires JP’s calm, laid-back vibe and the way he shows up as a devoted father. Over the years they’ve celebrated milestones, traded advice, and supported each other through ups and downs. JP’s steady presence, good humor, and loyalty make him an irreplaceable friend—there’s no greater friend to have in your life than JP.
Trae Barnes - Groomsmen
Trae and Gotti bonded over comics and long conversations about life after being introduced by mutual friends; their friendship grew quickly into a dependable brotherhood. Always ready with a thoughtful take or a good laugh, Trae has stood by Gotti through milestones and everyday moments alike—bringing steady support, easygoing charm, and a shared love of pop‑culture fandom to the wedding party as a proud groomsman.
TJ Robinson - Groomsmen
TJ and Gotti were raised more like brothers than cousins, bonding over family gatherings at their grandmother Jackson’s home in Laurens, SC. TJ has been a steadfast supporter of Gotti and Jaselyn’s relationship from the very beginning and has played a constant role in their lives. Gotti couldn’t tie the knot without his favorite cousin by his side.
Orlando Jackson - Host
Orlando Jackson is Gotti’s cousin and a welcoming presence for the whole family. Each summer he came from New Jersey to stay at the Jackson home with TJ and Gotti, helping make the season feel like home. With a genuine love for family and an easygoing warmth, Orlando is a natural host who will make every guest feel comfortable and included on our big day.
LeKisha Johnson - Hostess
Mya Jackson - Hostess
Hilda Watts - Hostess
Yolanda Cunningham - Hostess
Sherry Watts - Hostess
Shandi Golden - Hostess
Shandi Golden is Jaselyn’s sister and a steady presence in Gotti and Jaselyn’s relationship—connected not just by family but by their shared brother, Chris. From the earliest days of their romance, Shandi has offered thoughtful, grounded advice on love and respect. A natural organizer with a business-owner mindset, she’s the perfect Hostess to help direct the day, keeping things running smoothly and making sure every detail reflects the couple’s vision.
LeSheika Cook - Hostess
LeSheika “So Fly” is the life of the party and a beloved family celebrity. Jaselyn’s second cousin, she shares a deep love of God and family and brings an outgoing, charming energy to every room. As Hostess, LeSheika is the perfect person to welcome the Jennings, Simpson, Jackson, and Guardado families—look for her on the dance floor; she’ll be the one to get the celebration started.
Kamden Cook - Ring bearer
Kamden Cook is Jaselyn’s beloved cousin and a top student with a sharp, business-minded approach. Serving as Ring Bearer and the wedding’s playful “Ring Security,” Kamden will keep the rings safe while also sharing a quiet faith—he’ll lead the men in prayer before the ceremony. Warm, responsible, and attentive, Kamden brings steady confidence and loving care to the couple’s big day.
Rebecca Jennings - Mother of Bride
Johnny Jennings Jr - Father of Bride (Giving Bride Away)
Christopher D. Simpson - Giving Away the Bride (Brother)
Que Jackson - Mother of Groom
Lee Phelps - Stepfather of Groom
Norman Guardado Sr - Father of the Groom
Quinton Watts - Host
Johnny Vance - Host
Cydreil Barksdale - Host
Q + A
Where is the wedding and reception?
The wedding and reception will be held at Riegel Hall per invitation only.
What is the attire?
This is a sneaker ball wedding. That means formal wear plus Nike, Jordans, whatever sneaker you are comfortable with.
What is the best airport to fly into?
Ware Shoals does not have an airport. The closer airport would be GSP (Greenville-Spartanburg Airport). You then must travel south by car. Ware Shoals is between Greenville and Greenwood, SC
Where is the best place to get a hotel?
Greenwood, SC is the closest place to get a hotel. It is 15 minute drive to venue. See below for the bride’s suggestions.
When is the RSVP deadline?
We must have final count by August 31st
Is this an open invitation wedding?
This will be a private event for family and a few close friends due to the venue’s capacity. Jaselyn and Gotti will host separate bridal showers and a bachelorette party for friends, but the wedding ceremony and reception are reserved for invited family and close friends only.
Will there be a wedding rehearsal?
The rehearsal will be the day before the wedding and is intended for the wedding party and guests traveling from out of state. The groom’s family will host the rehearsal dinner.
Will there be an engagement party?
We’ve decided not to host an engagement party and are saving all the celebration for our wedding day—see you in Ware Shoals on October 24, 2026!
Will there be an open bar?
We’ll offer a morning mocktail hour with mimosas made using sparkling grape juice; champagne will also be available. We understand not everyone drinks alcohol and many of our family members prefer nonalcoholic options, so there will be plenty of alcohol-free choices. If you prefer to bring your own alcoholic beverage, you’re welcome to do so or pick something up locally.
Will there be professional photographers?
We’ll have two photographers, a photo booth, and a videography team capturing moments throughout the day. Please be camera-ready and smile—photos and video may be taken at any time. If you prefer not to appear in photos or video, let a member of our team know when you arrive.
Will I be allowed to use my cellphone to record the ceremony?
The ceremony will be held outdoors. Please feel free to use your phone to take photos and videos—your pictures won’t interfere with our photographers. We’ll be using Wedding Studio to collect guest photos throughout the day, so we encourage you to snap and share as many moments as you’d like.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
We’re happy to accommodate dietary restrictions—please let Jaselyn know as soon as possible via your RSVP card or email with details (allergies, intolerances, vegetarian/vegan, or other needs). We’ll coordinate with our caterer to do our best to provide safe and appropriate options. If you have severe allergies, please include specifics so we can plan accordingly.
When will I receive my invite?
Save the dates will be mailed or texted by February 14, 2026. You may RSVP to the bride now if you prefer; formal invitations will be mailed by May 31, 2026. Jaselyn and Gotti have coordinated with their families to confirm essential guest details—please allow us time to contact you individually with any follow-up.
Where are the bride and groom registered?
We’re registered at Amazon—please see the registry section below on this page. You can also search for Jaselyn Jennings or Gotti Guardado on Amazon’s wedding registry to find our list.
Can I get a gift not on the registry?
Thank you—your presence is the greatest gift to us. If you’d like to give, we appreciate thoughtful contributions toward our future together; no physical gifts are necessary. For those who prefer specifics, we have a registry and honeymoon fund available [link coming soon].
Can I request a song?
Absolutely — our live saxophonist for the mocktail hour is Ray Jackson and our DJ is Ken Henderson. You’re welcome to request songs in person during the event, or email Jaselyn with song suggestions by August 31st so she can share them with the entertainers.
Can I bring a guest?
Due to limited spacing, we are only able to accommodate those guest formally invited to your wedding invitation. If you receive a plus 1, it will appear under your name when your RSVP.
Can we bring our children?
Uncle Gotti and Auntie Jas love all the children in their lives but due to the unique nature of the venue with its antiques and limited capacity, we are unable to accommodate children who can walk under 16.
Travel
Wedding Hotels
Ware Shoals is a small town in Greenwood County and does not have hotels. For overnight stays, we recommend two nearby options in Greenwood, SC — both roughly a 22-minute (about 15.5-mile) drive from Ware Shoals.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott — Greenwood
Average cost: $160 per night
527 Bypass 72 Northwest, Greenwood, SC 29649
Hampton Inn — Greenwood
Average cost: $160 per night
1624 Bypass 72 Northeast, Greenwood, SC 29649
Ware Shoals is a small town in Greenwood County and does not have hotels. For overnight stays, we recommend two nearby options in Greenwood, SC — both roughly a 22-minute (about 15.5-mile) drive from Ware Shoals.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott — Greenwood
Average cost: $160 per night
527 Bypass 72 Northwest, Greenwood, SC 29649
Hampton Inn — Greenwood
Average cost: $160 per night
1624 Bypass 72 Northeast, Greenwood, SC 29649
Things to Do
Gather
Gather GVL
126 Augusta Street Greenville SC 29601
864-501-5008
Popular with locals for casual meals and evening drinks; plan for crowds on weekends and live-music nights. Plenty of outdoor seating and easy street parking nearby.
Falls Park On The Reedy
601 S Main Street Greenville SC 29601
864-467-4350
Great spot for a leisurely stroll or picnic—wide paths, scenic waterfalls, and the Liberty Bridge overlook. Expect crowds on weekends; nearby cafés and public restrooms make it convenient for families. Perfect for photos at golden hour.
Unity Park
206 South Main Street Greenville, SC 29601
864-232-2273
A peaceful green space honoring local history with interpretive markers and community gardens; comfortable benches and shaded paths make it a quiet spot for reflection after exploring nearby historic sites.
Registry
Wedding Program
Wedding Program coming soon!
Dress Code
Sneaker Ball attire: please join us in formalwear paired with sneakers—think Nikes, Jordans, or your favorite stylish athletic shoes—in honor of the groom. Our wedding party will be wearing black, rose gold, and champagne; feel free to incorporate these colors into your outfit or accessories for a coordinated look.
Thank You to Our Vendors
Wedding coordinator: The Fierce Collective — Owner Kara Parks will direct the wedding and reception to ensure the day flows smoothly.
Venue: Riegel Hall — A charming historic space in Ware Shoals, SC, chosen for its warm atmosphere and beautiful event rooms for both our ceremony and reception.
Cake decorator: Amazing Cakes and Sweets — Custom wedding cake and dessert table, crafted to match our color palette and tastes.
Dress: K McCray Bridal — Bridal gown and fittings provided by K McCray Bridal; thank you to their team for helping bring the wedding look to life.
Minister: Minister Kathy Borders — Officiating our ceremony with warmth and meaning.
Ceremony singer: Travis Smith — Live vocals during the ceremony to set a heartfelt tone.
Mocktail hour saxophonist: Ray Jackson — Smooth saxophone during mocktail hour to welcome guests.
Reception DJ: Kenneth Henderson — DJ and emcee for the reception, keeping the dance floor lively.
Photography: Photos By JJ — Capturing our day with candid and posed photography.
Videography: Once Upon a Spark — Filming our ceremony and reception, creating a wedding film we’ll cherish.
Catering: Sonya Richardson — Full-service catering providing our reception menu and accommodating dietary needs as requested.
Venue: Riegel Hall — A charming historic space in Ware Shoals, SC, chosen for its warm atmosphere and beautiful event rooms for both our ceremony and reception.
Cake decorator: Amazing Cakes and Sweets — Custom wedding cake and dessert table, crafted to match our color palette and tastes.
Dress: K McCray Bridal — Bridal gown and fittings provided by K McCray Bridal; thank you to their team for helping bring the wedding look to life.
Minister: Minister Kathy Borders — Officiating our ceremony with warmth and meaning.
Ceremony singer: Travis Smith — Live vocals during the ceremony to set a heartfelt tone.
Mocktail hour saxophonist: Ray Jackson — Smooth saxophone during mocktail hour to welcome guests.
Reception DJ: Kenneth Henderson — DJ and emcee for the reception, keeping the dance floor lively.
Photography: Photos By JJ — Capturing our day with candid and posed photography.
Videography: Once Upon a Spark — Filming our ceremony and reception, creating a wedding film we’ll cherish.
Catering: Sonya Richardson — Full-service catering providing our reception menu and accommodating dietary needs as requested.
Important Bridal Events
Bridal Shower—August 22, 2026
Please join us for an intimate celebration on August 22, 2026, at the House of Pizza Party Room, 112 Musgrove Street, Clinton, SC 29325. This is an invite-only gathering; exact start time will be announced—please check this site for updates. We look forward to celebrating together and will share additional details about timing and logistics as they are confirmed.
Bachelorette Party-Wild Night Out October 3,2026
Directed by our hostess and bridesmaids, get ready for a Wild Night Out! Wear your favorite animal-print attire as we take over Downtown Greenville. Exact start time and locations will be shared by Maid of Honor Ebony Jones—check back here for updates.
April I Do Crew Meet-Up — Saturday, April 25, 12:00 PM, Jaselyn’s Home
Wedding Studio
On our wedding day (October 24, 2026, Ware Shoals, SC), please use this QR code to upload any photos or videos you take. We’d love to see the day through your eyes — candids, dance-floor moments, ceremony snapshots, and anything in between. Uploads will help us relive the celebration and build our shared album. Thank you for capturing these memories with us.