Wedding Day

Arabella Banquet 

Ceremony

Arabella Banquet

Reception

Our Wedding

They say love finds you when you least expect it and for us, that couldn’t be more true. We met while working as teachers through Teach For America, both stepping into new roles, new classrooms, and a brand-new city. What we didn’t know at the time was that we were walking right into each other’s forever. From the very first moment we met, there was a spark a connection that neither of us could ignore. It started with friendship: early morning coffee runs before class, sharing stories about our students, venting after long teaching days, and laughing about the little things only teachers truly understand. But beneath the friendship was something deeper something that felt calm, easy, and right. We both moved to a new place searching for purpose, and somehow, we found home in each other. There wasn’t one big moment where everything changed; it was a hundred small moments that built something real. The way we understood each other without words. The comfort of knowing we never had to pretend. The way time just disappeared whenever we were together. After that first meeting, we became inseparable. Weekend plans turned into traditions cozy movie nights, Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings filled with laughter, and endless conversations about life and love. Every season brought us closer, and every day reminded us that love doesn’t have to be complicated to be extraordinary. Even through the challenges of teaching and life’s constant changes, we were always each other’s safe place. We spent our first year together making memories that already feel like they’ll last a lifetime celebrating holidays, meeting each other’s families, and creating our own little routines that mean everything to us. It’s wild to think how quickly we went from strangers in a new city to building a life filled with love, laughter, and purpose. Now, as we step into this next chapter saying “I do” surrounded by our family and friends we’re reminded of how it all started: two people chasing their dreams who somehow, beautifully, found each other along the way. What began as a simple friendship between two teachers has become our greatest lesson yet that love, when it’s real, feels like coming home.

Our Story

Photos

💕 Meet Our Crew It takes a village — and these are our people. The ones who’ve been there through all the laughs, deep talks, and “are we really doing this?” wedding moments. We couldn’t imagine saying “I do” without them by our side. ⸻ 👰🏽‍♀️ Bride’s Side Maid of Honor – Kalisha Johnston Kalea’s ride-or-die! Kalisha’s been holding it down since day one. Hype woman, and the one making sure Kalea eats before the ceremony. Bridesmaid – Berlinda Clerger Berlinda’s the definition of good vibes only. She keeps the energy right and always shows up with love, laughter, and a look that slays every time. Bridesmaid – Brooklyn Clark The life of the party, planner and a sweetheart at heart. Brooklyn’s always down for a good time and keeps everyone smiling (and dancing). ⸻ 🤵🏽‍♂️ Groom’s Side Best Man – Brandon Nguyen Brandon’s been holding it down for Elijah. He is loyal, funny, and always ready with some brotherly advice (or a shot). Groomsman – Dylan Miles Cool, calm, and always keeping things smooth. Dylan’s that friend who makes every hangout better and every story funnier. Groomsman – Carmelo Sasser Carmelo’s got jokes, and the best energy. He’s been by Elijah’s side through it all, keeping it real every step of the way.

Wedding Party

Welcome to Houston, Texas! We’re so excited to have our family and friends join us for our special weekend. Whether you’re flying in or driving down, here’s everything you need to make your trip smooth and stress-free. ⸻ 🛫 Getting to Houston Airports: 	•	George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) – about 25–30 minutes from downtown. 	•	William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) – smaller, about 20 minutes from most wedding events and closer to Midtown/Museum District. 💡 Tip: Hobby is often more convenient if you’re flying Southwest or want shorter airport lines. ⸻ 🚗 Getting Around Houston is a big city, so most people use: 	•	Uber / Lyft – best for short trips between venues. 	•	Rental Cars – available at both airports if you want to explore freely. 	•	METRORail – affordable light rail that connects Downtown, Midtown, the Museum District, and the Texas Medical Center. 💡 Tip: If most of your events are near Midtown or the Museum District, everything will be about a 10–15 minute ride away. ⸻ 🏨 Where to Stay We recommend staying near Midtown, Downtown, or the Museum District for the easiest access to wedding events and restaurants. Suggested Hotels: 	•	The Whitehall Houston (Downtown) – Elegant and close to nightlife 📍 1700 Smith St, Houston, TX 77002 	•	Hotel ZaZa Museum District – Chic with spa vibes, near parks and museums 📍 5701 Main St, Houston, TX 77005 	•	Marriott Marquis Houston – Known for its rooftop Texas-shaped lazy river 📍 1777 Walker St, Houston, TX 77010 	•	Airbnb Options – Midtown and Montrose areas have cute, cozy stays perfect for families or small groups. ⸻ 🍴 Food & Essentials Nearby All of these areas have plenty of restaurants, coffee shops, and grocery stores nearby — plus lots of Black-owned spots to support while you’re in town! (See our Things to Do in Houston list for recommendations 🖤) ⸻ 💌 Need Help? If you need help with directions, hotel recommendations, or airport rides, don’t hesitate to text us! 📱 Kalea: (716) 553-2624 📱 Elijah: (214) 566- 5249 We can’t wait to celebrate with you in the heart of H-Town!

Travel

🖤 Things to Do in Houston 🍴 Black-Owned Restaurants 1. Lucille’s – Upscale Southern comfort food inspired by family recipes. Perfect for brunch or dinner with great service and wine. 📍 5512 La Branch St, Houston, TX 77004 2. The Warwick – Elegant dinner spot with smooth R&B, cocktails, and great food presentation. 📍 5888 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77057 3. Grace’s – Classy Southern restaurant with a cozy, family atmosphere. 📍 3111 Kirby Dr, Houston, TX 77098 4. Phil & Derek’s – Grown and sexy crowd, live jazz, and Southern Creole menu. 📍 1701 Webster St, Houston, TX 77003 5. The Breakfast Klub – A Houston staple known for chicken & waffles and wings & grits. Worth the wait! 📍 3711 Travis St, Houston, TX 77002 ⸻ 🎶 Lounges & Nightlife 6. Five Central – Mature crowd, live bands, cigar lounge, and classy atmosphere. 📍 2736 Virginia St, Houston, TX 77098 7. Cafe 4212 – Soul food, live music, and cocktails — perfect for a chill night out. 📍 4212 Almeda Rd, Houston, TX 77004 8. Kamp Houston – Fun daytime energy, great food and drinks for a more casual crowd. 📍 6025 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77057 ⸻ 🎨 Culture & History 9. Houston Museum of African American Culture (HMAAC) – Learn, reflect, and explore art and history. 📍 4807 Caroline St, Houston, TX 77004 10. Emancipation Park – A beautiful and historic park celebrating Black freedom and legacy. 📍 3018 Emancipation Ave, Houston, TX 77004 11. Project Row Houses – Art and community space honoring Black creativity and culture. 📍 2521 Holman St, Houston, TX 77004

Things to Do

Registry

What to Wear We’re going for a polished, stylish, and photo-ready look for our celebration. Think elevated, elegant, and the kind of outfit you’d wear to a really special night out. ⸻ Wedding Colors Black &amp; Red only. To keep everything cohesive and timeless, we ask that guests wear black, red, or a combination of the two. Please avoid all other colors. ⸻ For the Ladies Formal and semi-formal attire is encouraged, including gowns, cocktail dresses, jumpsuits, or other elegant looks. Black and red will photograph beautifully. Choose footwear that’s both stylish and comfortable enough to celebrate in. ⸻ For the Gentlemen Formal to semi-formal attire is requested. Dress pants with a button-down, blazers, jackets, or all-black looks are welcome. Red accents may be added if desired. ⸻ What to Skip A few simple guidelines: • White or cream attire is reserved for the bride, with the exception of a white button-down worn under a blazer. ⸻ The Overall Vibe Romantic, sophisticated, and intentional. Come dressed to celebrate, feel confident, and enjoy the night with us.

Kalea and Elijah

Kalea and Elijah

K&E

Wedding Day

5:30 PM–6:00 PM

Ceremony

6:00 PM

Reception