Rehearsal Dinner

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Louis - Chesterfield

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

Our relationship is built on a foundation of love, teamwork, and a commitment to always showing up for one another. Despite having opposite work schedules, we made our time together a priority. Through every challenge, we’ve remained each other's anchor. No matter what I was going through he never left my side; he quickly became my caregiver, my biggest supporter, and my safe place. In 2023, we officially moved in together with my daughter Maya and our two cats, Rocket and Puma. Since then, we’ve created a peaceful life filled with laughter and travel. While we face disagreements like any couple, we always return to a place of communication, anchored by love and mutual respect. I asked the groom if he wanted to add anything else, he said, "Neighborhood".

Our Adventure Time 

Our Story

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Nicole is LaToya’s sister, best friend, and steady companion through every milestone. As Maid of Honor, she brings heartfelt support, calm confidence, and joyful energy to the planning and celebration. Nicole has organized meaningful moments, kept the team on track, and knows just how to make LaToya smile. We’re so grateful she’ll stand with us this fall.
- Best sister ever -

Nicole Muhammad

Best friend since childhood  Michelle and LaToya have been inseparable since childhood—middle school confidantes who grew into lifelong friends. As Maid of Honor, Michelle brings calm, fierce loyalty, and effortless grace to every moment of the planning and celebration. She’s organized the best pre-wedding tasks, pep talks, making everyone smile, and will stand proudly beside LaToya. Michelle is the maid of honor, wedding coordinator, and everything else in between.  We’re so grateful for her unwavering support and the love she brings to our day.

Michelle Lindsey

Roxanna is LaToya’s cousin and lifelong bestie—partners in crime since age seven, she’s been there for late-night chats, family traditions, and every milestone in between. As a bridesmaid, Roxanna brings warm support, infectious joy, heartfelt prayer, and a knack for making everyone feel at home. We’re so happy Roxanna will stand with us on our special day.

Roxanna Nelson

Groom's A1 since day 1. Jay (Cuz) has been Menkara’s closest friend, always reliable, endlessly funny, and ready with the right advice at the right time. As Best Man and cousin, Jay has stood beside Menkara through milestones big and small.  We're so grateful he’ll be there to support him during the ceremony, keep the celebration lively, and share in the memories that matter most. We’re honored to have Jay leading the way assisting with wedding preparations on our wedding day.

Jay Hines

Larry is Menkara’s younger cousin and longtime friend—always ready with a smile and a helping hand. As a groomsman, he’s stood by Menkara through family celebrations and everyday moments, bringing steady support and plenty of laughter to the wedding day. We’re so glad he’s with us.

Larry Rivers

Long-time friend and trusted confidant, Javon Ligon has been part of Menkara’s life through school days, big moves, and everything in between. As a groomsman, Javon brings steady support, a sharp sense of humor, and a calm presence that keeps everyone at ease. He will stand beside Menkara, sharing in the celebration and memories we’ll cherish forever.

Javon Ligon

Jihad is LaToya's entrusted nephew and calm presence on wedding day. As Bridal Escort, he’ll support LaToya with care and steady encouragement throughout the ceremony and celebration. We’re ecstatic to have him by our side on our wedding day.

Jihad Muhammad

Menkara’s great-niece, A'mori Baldwin brings sweetness and smiles to every family gathering. As Flower Girl, A'mori will lead the procession with bright curiosity and boundless charm, sprinkling petals and joy. We can’t wait to see her adorable grin as she helps start our celebration.

A'mori Baldwin

Benjamin is Menkara and LaToya's energetic little cousin who never misses a beat. He lights up the room with his big smile and proud strut down the aisle, and we can’t wait to see him carry the rings.

Benjamin Folarin Hines Hawkins

Mom's pastor  Pastor Ernest Williams has been a guiding presence for LaToya’s family for years. As Officiant, he brings warmth, thoughtful words, and a steady spiritual presence to the ceremony. We’re honored he’ll lead the service and celebrate with us on our special day.

Pastor Ernest Williams

Anna Johnson has been LaToya’s guiding light and biggest supporter. With a warm heart and tireless dedication, she’s celebrated every milestone and offered steady encouragement through planning and life alike. As Mother of the Bride, Anna’s love, care, and joyful spirit will be central to our wedding day. We’re so grateful to have her by our side.

Anna Johnson

In loving memory of George Johnson — Father of the Bride. George’s kindness, steady presence, and warm laugh shaped LaToya’s life and the family she cherishes. Though he cannot be with us in person, his spirit will be felt throughout the day in quiet moments, shared stories, and the love that surrounds us. We honor his memory and carry him in our hearts as we celebrate.

George Johnson

Edifi Hines has been Menkara’s steady source of warmth and support since day one. Known for her thoughtful guidance and infectious laugh, she’s helped shape many of the moments leading up to our wedding. As Mother of the Groom, Edifi brings calm, patience, and a generous spirit to our celebration, we’re so grateful to share this day with her.

Edifi Hines

Rataka Rahman is Menkara’s father and proud supporter. He’s offered guidance, encouragement, and plenty of dad jokes along the way. As Father of the Groom, we look forward to celebrating with him.

Rataka Rahman

Tamara Watson is LaToya’s longtime best friend and our Bridal Concierge — a warm, steady presence who will emcee the celebration with grace. Having known LaToya since they were 15, Tamara expertly keeps the program flowing and the energy joyful. She’ll handle introductions, toasts, and transitions with a friendly voice and clear timing cues, ensuring every special moment feels celebrated. We are truly blessed and thankful for her assistance.

Tamara Watson

Amaya is LaToya’s beloved daughter and a constant source of love and light. Thoughtful and affectionate, she holds a special place in our hearts and will be close to her mother throughout the day as Daughter of the Bride. We’re so happy she’ll be with us.

Amaya Smith

Active stepfather  Gary Lehnhoff has been a steady, loving presence in LaToya’s life as her stepfather. He offers quiet strength, wise guidance, and a warm sense of humor that brightens family moments. As an active stepfather, Gary has supported LaToya through milestones and helped shape many happy memories; we’re grateful he’ll stand with us.

Gary Lehnhoff 

Wedding Party

Ultimate Formal Attire Shopping Guide

25 Hand-Picked Formal Guest Dresses

Tux vs. Suit: What's the Difference?

We’re excited to celebrate with you in Chesterfield on October 24, 2026. Please join us in formal attire: cocktail dresses, evening gowns, tuxedos, or dark suits are all welcome. Comfortable dress shoes are perfect for dancing; consider a light wrap for cooler evenings. If you have questions about specific outfits or need accessibility considerations, please reach out—we’re happy to help.

Dress Code

Q + A

In order to see king size beds edit the stay datesWe’ve reserved a room block at DoubleTree by Hilton St. Louis – Chesterfield for 10/22–10/26. Rates are $139–$159/night; to view room types (including king beds) adjust your stay dates on the booking page. Book through our group link: https://group.doubletree.com/1yxd0s or call (636) 532-5000 and mention our block.

Travel

Family game placeMain Event Chesterfield — An all-in-one family entertainment center with arcade games, bowling, laser tag, and a casual grill; fun for all ages and just a short drive from the wedding venue.

Main Event Chesterfield

Golf for adults and kidsTopgolf St. Louis - Chesterfield — A lively, weatherproof driving-range experience great for all ages with climate-controlled bays, game-based targets, and a relaxed bar and menu; about a 10–15 minute drive from the wedding venue. Phone: (636) 898-8044. Website: https://topgolf.com/us/st-louis/. Address: 16851 N Outer 40 Rd, Chesterfield, MO 63005, USA.

Topgolf St. Louis - Chesterfield

St. Louis Carousel — A charming, family-friendly carousel set in a lovely park just a short drive from the wedding venue; perfect for photos and a nostalgic outing. Phone: (314) 615-8345. Website: http://stlouiscarousel.com/. Address: 15055 Faust Pk Dr, Chesterfield, MO 63017, USA.

St. Louis Carousel

A small, comfortable movie theater ideal for a low-key evening; showtimes vary, and it’s about a 5–10 minute drive from the wedding venue at 450 THF Blvd. Phone: (636) 777-4154. Website: https://www.marcustheatres.com/theatre-locations/marcus-chesterfield-galaxy-14-mega.

LaToya & Menkara

LaToya & Menkara

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