Mineka's bond with her BFF, Mia, spans an impressive 27 years, starting from their freshman year at Lafayette Sr. High School. Their connection was immediate, characterized by shared gut busting laughter, memorable ROTC trips, visits to Saints skating rink, crazy arguments over food, and adventurous nights sneaking out in Mineka's mom's car. Nothing much has changed as they have grown into women, they are still as childish as the day they met. In Mineka's own words, Mia is not just a friend but her rock, a constant presence who has stood beside, behind, and in front of her through thick and thin. Mia's protective nature and unwavering support have made her much more than a best friend; she's a true guardian angel and an indispensable part of Mineka's life. Mia embodies the essence of friendship, going beyond the title of BFF to a level of companionship that words can't fully capture.

Shineka is my very first friend in life, she is my cousin who i grew up with as a sister and affectionately calls her “couster” (cousin-sister ) A bond from birth! My Aunt named her after me something we really take to heart and both carried on the tradition with our own daughters . The love we share is often unspoken but it runs deep and shows through our actions. Growing up Sha and I would enjoy jumping in the bed, hilariously laughing at scenes in Charlie Brown and singing our hearts out to the Disney movie Alladin. Our favorite pastime was making blimps out of bed sheets using the floor vents, i don’t know how we managed not to be sick from the air lol. My worst memory growing up with her was me accidentally slamming her fingers in the car door (a brown 1973 Volks Wagon Dasher) I will never forget the details because of the agony I felt seeing her in such pain. She eventually forgave me but still mentions this from time to time . I love this one with my entire heart I couldn’t imagine saying i do without her.

My baby sister, my one and only sister. Our relationship unfortunately didn’t begin until I was about 15 yrs old thanks to my older brother finding all of his siblings from our father rolling all the stones lol, I remember meeting her for the first time and immediately seeing myself in her. She was soo beautiful I was completely on cloud nine to finally have a sister. From that day I vowed never to lose touch with her again in life and we’ve done just that! We argue every chance we get but I wouldn’t change it for the world. She is the most sweetest, genuine individual one could come across. I literally dragged her all over the city with me, she was down for everything with her big sister.

April is hands down the most selfless friend I have. I am seriously forever indebted to her. We met at Charter Communications November 2002 where we bonded over imos lunch specials. April is the definition of a real friend even if she is down she will always find the strength. She shows up no matter what, not only for me but for everyone she loves. My most fondest memories are April moving next door to me and spoiling my son rotten. April poured into Mckile daily she loved on him every chance she got! I am forever grateful and look forward to looking over my shoulder and seeing her right by my side, I love her dearly.

Lele holds a special place in my heart, and there are so many things I adore about her that it's almost intimidating (in a good way!). She's an absolute powerhouse, managing to tackle everything with incredible style and grace. From being a top-notch entrepreneur to a devoted wife and an amazing mom, she's truly one of the best. We first crossed paths in April 2009 during a GGA kickball league, where we played on the same team, and we've been a dynamic duo ever since. Lele approaches kickball and life with the same fierce determination and skill; she's a force to be reckoned with both on and off the field. Whenever I need her, I know she'll be there without hesitation. Her resilience is something I deeply admire, and I couldn't imagine navigating life's journey without her by my side. We're Candy Girls For Life, and I'm grateful every day to have her as my true sister and teammate. Candy Girls For Life!

"My Little Miss Tater Tots" holds a special place in my heart since her birth in 1999. Although she's my niece by blood, she feels like my firstborn in every way that matters. She's a delightful mix of sass, sensitivity, and protector instincts, and our bond knows no bounds. She trusts me with her deepest secrets, knowing they're safe with me forever. One of my fondest memories with her goes back to when she was just 2.5 years old. I took her to the nail salon, and despite my limited funds as an 18-year-old, I splurged $5 to paint her tiny nails. To my dismay, she ended up eating off all the polish before we even reached the next stoplight! Although I was initially upset, it's now a humorous memory we both cherish. The next time she visited the salon with me, she was 21! Beyond that nail polish mishap, she has continuously made me proud. I eagerly anticipate watching her blossom into the incredible person God has destined her to be.

Kim embodies the essence of being a true friend in every way imaginable. She's the epitome of a "girl's girl," devoid of any jealousy and genuinely celebrating each other's victories. Whether I'm succeeding or facing challenges, Kim stands by me unwaveringly, both in my presence and absence. Her loyalty, honesty, and authenticity make her one of my most cherished individuals on this planet. One of the most treasured memories I have of Kim is during a difficult breakup. I found solace on her couch for weeks, where we laughed, cried, and even schemed together to get back at my ex! Despite Kim's lack of culinary skills, she went out of her way to cook for me and care for my newborn, which touched me deeply. Her effort to comfort and support me brought me back to myself during a tough time, and for that, I will forever be grateful. I can't imagine saying "I do" without my best friend by my side.

I'm not sure where to begin because there are too many hilarious and inappropriate stories to recount "within our marriage" (an inside joke). Just a glance into each other's eyes sets off fits of uncontrollable laughter. Our journey began around the age of 15, bonding over our shared passion for dance. We spent endless nights at sleepovers and parties, creating memories that still make us laugh today. When she left for college, I felt a deep sense of sadness, but six years later, she returned, and since then, we've been inseparable. Our love for dance evolved into a shared passion for sports, particularly women's kickball. When I ventured into my first business, she became my professional backbone, offering sound advice and constant motivation. I'll never forget the time she stepped in to run my business when I decided to take a leap and move to GA for its expansion. Not many friends would do what she did, and I'll forever be grateful for her unwavering support and friendship.

Without a shadow of a doubt, I believe that God orchestrated the beautiful friendship between me and Shadi. It all began in 2015 during a solo mission for a drink, where fate led me to sit beside her at the bar, and the rest was history. Shadi's mere presence has enriched my life beyond measure, introducing me to countless new experiences and firsts that I've lost track of. She has opened my eyes to the finer things in life, from exquisite wines to elaborate charcuterie spreads and even daring oysters. In ways I didn't anticipate, Shadi has taught me valuable lessons on being a better person, embracing love wholeheartedly, mastering effective communication, and finding my true essence in a softer, more authentic manner. Like a true "girl's girl," Shadi applauds my successes louder than her own and has shown unwavering support in countless ways that are almost unbelievable. She not only serves as the best Godmother to our Milly but also stands as a powerful prayer warrior in my life. I often express how fortunate I am to have her by my side, knowing that God's hand was at work in bringing us together. It feels destined that my Bestie will stand beside me on the most significant day of my life.

Kieta represents the best parts of my childhood. We are cousins but have always loved on each other like sisters. I can say so many beautiful things about this one. She will literally give you the shirt off of her back without me asking. There’s absolutely nothing I wouldn’t do for her and vice versa. Her loyalty is unwavering she simply deserves all that life has and then some. I admire her strength and determination to keep on going despite what she’s been through. My most fondest memory of her and I was the many sleepovers, dance routines and corner store runs for hot pickles. Although she won’t be standing beside me at the altar she will be within my reach should I need a shoulder to cry on.

Daughter