Bridal Shower

Azalea Manor

Rehearsal Dinner

Golden Flames Banquet

Wedding Day

Wedding

Reception

Our Wedding

Q: How did you meet Mary? A: Mary and I met at a time when neither of us were really looking. I was on the road working in Telecom, while Mary was home in Mobile working as a nurse at North Mobile Nursing Home. I returned home to Mobile after being notified that my father was admitted into the hospital for congested heart failure. After spending two weeks in the hospital, my dad was discharged to the nursing home with Mary being his evening nurse. Mary caught my eye one evening as I visited my dad; she had a very warm smile and presence about her. She was also very kind and patient towards my dad, who was a bit irritated about his situation. My curiosity led to a conversation that revealed that Mary and I had a few things in common. Mary and I had attended the same high school, and her older brother had actually graduated in the same class as I...Q: Tell us the love story.After our initial encounter, I decided to do some investigation and discovered that Mary had a Facebook page. I sent a friend request and she accepted. My research revealed that Mary was the proud owner of two Yorkies. I messaged her to check if my dad had given her any problems, then the next day, I hit her with some pictures of my dad's Shih Tzu, and told her that it was really like my dog too since I had been taking care of it. I guess that did the trick, because from there, we went from messaging each other on Facebook, to chatting on the phone, to video calls on Tango as I had to return to work on the road. Mary's birthday was coming up and I really wanted to impress her since I couldn't be there for the celebration. I hand-crafted her a playful birthday card and included some Wildberry Life Saver Gummies; that was for the kid in us. But since she was such a lady, I threw in a pearl necklace and ring.After a few weeks back on the road, I had to return home permanently to help care for my dad. It was bitter-sweet: bitter, because I had to quit my job; sweet, because I was home with family and had a special new lady in my life. Mary finally accepted my offer to make things official on July 7, 2015; and from there we celebrated each month as if it were an anniversary; we called them monthiversaries. There was a new song out by Johnny Gill called "Game Changer". I set that song as my ringtone for when Mary called because Mary was changing the game for me. Those were some trying times being unemployed and having to care for my dad; but Mary showed character and patience that shed light on her ability to love me unconditionally. She showed the heart of a good friend; the type of heart that I'd be a fool to abuse or forsake. I had to step my game up and pray for the grace to love her the same. And now with time, our love has grown, but with God, our love will never fail. Q: How did you plan the proposal?A: Mary and I had been talking about taking some professional photos for a while; we kept putting it off until we realized that after ten months of dating, we didn't have any professional pictures together. We made it a priority and went shopping for some outfits; we found some nice complementing outfits coordinated with pastel colors being that it was the Spring. I already had my mind made up that Mary was perfect for me and would make a good wife. The photo session would be a good opportunity to surprise Mary, who had declared that she would know when the proposal was coming because "all men get nervous and act strange before the proposal"; I, of course, responded with, "I'm a smooth operator; you'll never see it coming." Well, to my surprise, I was exceptionally nervous when I picked Mary up for the photo shoot; so nervous, that I had to take timeout in the bathroom to gain composure. I had already coordinated with the photographer who was thrilled to capture the moment for us. We caught it by having Mary stand in the foreground as I posed in the background. The photographer then asked Mary to turn to me for some shots facing each other; I was already on bended knee with the ring presented. You should have seen the look on her face. She was completely caught off guard. Told you I was a smooth operator! ;) Q: Date and Location of proposal?A: May 22, 2016, Fairhope Beach

Q & A With The Groom: William Tells It All!

Our Story

Details

From: William To: Mary

Photos

Goodwill!!! Your "rap name" fits who you really are man! Congratulations my brother! Man thanks again for stopping on the side of the road to help me back in 2005! I had no clue who you were pulling over, but you stopped to lend a helping hand! LOL! I had recently became a Christian; you had no idea of the example that was for me bro! Thanks! My car was running super hot! Smoke was everywhere! LOL. We didn't know each other then, but we had waaaay too many mutual friends to have not crossed paths! CRAZY... But God had His timing. You being the "Good Samaritan" that you were then has always encouraged me to be a better person! They don't make them any better than you Bro! From being roommates over the years, to being brothers in the Faith, we've definitely been blessed with a Friendship that cannot be priced! Thank you for being you, and I am more than honored to be a part of this Glorious Day! MARY, we crossed paths years ago as well, doing what we both love, music &amp; Poetry! Your "Sister-Cousin", KaNikki, has been like a big Sister to me! We're One Big Family! This Is Perfect! You guys are gonna be such a wonderful God-fearing Couple for the World To See! Okay that's enough! I'll save the rest for a Speech! JK! CONGRATS GUYS!!! LOVE YOU MUCH!

Bernard Henry

I met Mary over 10 years ago at Third Baptist Church, and every since then we have been close like two peas in a pod, Lol. Over the last couple of years Mary and I have developed a spiritual bond that God has given us. She is my prayer partner, my motivator at times, and the person who makes sure I am staying on track and I am hers as well. Meeting Mary has truly been something that was in God's plan and I am very grateful for that. Mary and I have sat in my car plenty of nights talking about what type of husband we want God to send us! I must say, that the Lord surely was listening to Mary! William is everything thing that Mary asked for and maybe even a little bit more. I am so happy and honored to be apart of this union and her Maid of Honor. Love you both my spiritual sister and future brother.

Chynnise Jenkins

"JB" is what I've always called him. Junior Barry, my lil' brother, whom I love and admire, has a heart of gold with an "old soul"; especially for his traditional and spiritual endeavors. Along with giving daily affirmations, JB is also known for organizing cook outs and memorable characters like "Uncle Security". JB, I believe, is going to be a great fit for Mary, because he's been a good uncle, brother, and son. Mary, we are truly blessed to welcome a "Home Girl" from WHISTLER, a place of our family roots and yours as well. I TRULY believe this union to be Ordained by the Grand Architect from its inception being that the two of you met while showing our father the Kind Spirit that burned from within; caring for him when he couldn't do it for himself. Through all this, our father can also confirm that Mary is going to be a great addition. Princess Hilson, Aunt Shirley, Michelle and I wish William and Mary the very best and look forward to the very best they have to offer the world.

Anthony Barry

I have known Mary all her life; I am her older and only sister and we share an older brother. Though she is the baby of the family, she has surely grown to be a beautiful young woman. I am happy to see that she has found someone that completes her and wish them the very best. Can't wait for the wedding.

Tasha Griffin-Jeffries

I'm super excited to be Mary's Matron of Honor. I met Mary in 2011 at Faulkner State Community College in Anatomy and Physiology Class. We started nursing school together and became best friends. She has been my shoulder to lean on from day one. She is very soft spoken and has a heart of gold. I ended up switching nursing schools but that never stopped us from talking and hanging out. I am currently a Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse at USA Children and Women's Hospital in Mobile, Alabama. I have been able to learn and experience amazing things the last two years as a nurse. As of October 2016, I am married to the most amazing husband I could ever ask for. Mary was the best Maid of Honor I could had ever asked for and I pray she has the most amazing wedding day she could ever dream of. I am so very blessed and honored to know this beautiful young lady. I love you Mary!

Avery Turner-Booth

William is my cousin. Though, we don't talk or see each other much, when we do its always love between us. I am extremely proud of the grown man that he has become, and I am honored to be a part of his special day. I met Mary for the first time at a birthday party for a mutual friend; she was a very sweet person. I knew that she was perfect for William aka "Willie B". May God bless your marriage for years to come. Love you both.

Charles Davis

I currently live in Hollywood, Florida working for NextEra Energy as a design engineer. I have known Mary Griffin over 25+ years, our entire life. Mary is not just a friend; I consider her family. We grew up together off Vigor Avenue, and share countless memories; we've seen each other at our worst and at our best in life. Since Mary met William I can wholeheartedly say, "I've never seen her smile so bright!" I am so excited about her union with William; seeing the glow in her eyes and smile in heart ensures this union will last a lifetime!Cheers to The Barry's!

Alishia Reynolds

"Big Al" has been a neighbor and friend of William and his family since childhood. Al and William attended Alabama A&amp;M University where they thoroughly enjoyed the college life. Al is what you call "true blue"; he's the guy you want around when things go wrong. Al is probably the nicest guy you could ever meet and the last guy you would ever want to cross. He acted as a big brother to William and his sister Chanda while at A&amp;M. You could always count on Al to give good advice and to be there when your "friends" are nowhere to be found.

Alaic V. Ludgood

Mary is my cousin but she's been like a little sister to me. She's there when l need a shoulder to lean on; the one person I know l can count on. We know each other's secrets and it stays between us. I'm glad she's a part of my family and I love her dearly. Wishing the best for her and William.

Tia Temikah

William aka "Willie B" has been a part of my life for over 15 years. We met at Alabama A&amp;M University. As a matter of fact, we were both staying in Grayson Hall; two young, wild, and crazy teenagers. In those days we became family! So many of us were from different parts of the globe, but we bonded as lifelong friends. We eventually moved off campus into a duplex home. Willie B and I were neighbors throughout those years. No matter how far apart, how long we go without speaking, or where our lives have taken us we have always remained friends. With that said, to the lovely couple, I leave these words: "They say that a good beginning makes a good ending", and your wedding is going to be a very exciting day – the beginning of your family life. And I believe that your love story is going to have a happy ending; better yet, no ending at all. Congratulations!

Terreo Hathorn

I have known Will since 2005. I met him through his best man, Bernard Henry. We have made music and performed in shows together. He is a great brother that always encourages and never judges. I'm glad to have met this feller, Lol. May God bless your marriage. The number one piece of advice I have is: Never break trust, stay flexible, and keep God in the center of your union."A cord of three strands is not easily broken." ~ Ecclesiastes 4:12

Dwight Dunning

I met Mary in 2009 when I started dating her brother Arthur. Mary instantly accepted me with open arms from the day that I met her in Mobile. She was so kind and sincere that we were immediate friends. One thing that I love about Mary is that she is so genuine, loving and honest. She is loyal and has your back but will also tell you when you are wrong. I can't explain the connection between us but we have always been able to understand each other. I can easily say that Mary is one of my favorite and valued friends. Arthur and I got married in 2013. Mary was a bridesmaid in our wedding. I do not have any sisters so not only did I gain a sister-in-law I gained a true friend who I call "sister". Mary is also a loving Aunt to her first nephew Ellis Arthur. I'm so excited to be a part of Mary and Will's big day!

Kristina Williams-Griffin

I am the sister of the groom. His government name is William but I refer to him as "Junior"….LOL. Junior and I became acquainted in 1977 when he was first born. Although I was only 2 years old at the time, I was not really fond of him or the idea of sharing "my space" with him… LOL. Throughout the years spanning from childhood to adulthood, I kind of grew a liking to this "new person" that bombarded "my space". After years of childhood fights, quarrels, and disagreements, Junior and I somehow developed a sister-brother relationship/bond that can't be broken.I often questioned him about meeting/finding the "right" woman and when and if he was ever going to get married. He always told me that he would "one day". Well……the "one day" is approaching and I am ever so excited!!! When "Junior" first announced to me that he had met the lady that he wanted to spend his life with, I knew she had to be special.When I first met Mary, I knew that she held a special spot in my brother's heart because all he talked about was "Miss Mary". From day one, Mary displayed the same caring and loving spirit that my brother possessed. Just like "Junior", Mary had a personality that could brighten everyone's day. The magnitude of our relationship has grown during the many enjoyable conversations and outings that we have shared along with the not so enjoyable grueling moments of studying during nursing school... LOLI am so proud of my brother. He patiently waited on God to reveal whom his mate would be. I wish nothing but blessings and prosperity in your union with Mary. Mary, you truly encountered you a "good one". And "Junior", I truly feel that you have finally found your loving mate. May God continue to bless and enrich each and every day of your lives together. Love you both.

Chanda Barry

Ronnie is a longtime friend of William. They met in 2005 through the Best Man, Bernard Henry. Ronnie and William originally shared interests musically but as of lately enjoy debating overs sports and planning business ventures. Ronnie is a father of three and a dedicated professional.

Ronnie Pettway

Durwin and William share a special brotherhood that not many can claim. They are part of a brotherhood of cadre. They are soldiers! They met while serving the country as members of the Alabama National Guard's 711th Signal Battalion. Durwin's humorous personality made him the perfect "battle" to be stuck with in the barracks or on field duty. 

Durwin Martin

I met Mary through my uncle, William. Yes, she was sweet as she can be and the same height as me, Lol. Since, the day I met Mary, she has always been genuine to me. I am honored to be a bridesmaid in the wedding. I am so happy for Mary and my uncle. I want you two to enjoy and cherish each other. I am happy to have Mary as my soon to be Auntie-in-law. 

Charneice Gaines

Arthur is the older brother of Mary. He and his wife Kristina were married in 2013. They are now the proud parents of Ellis Griffin and are expecting a new arrival to the family this summer. Arthur and William both attended John L. LeFlore High School where they graduated in the same class.

Arthur Griffin

How I met the bride? Well, Mary is my first cousin on my mother's side of the family. When I was born, I met this bossy little girl with thick eyeglasses. Growing up we had tons of fun at Madear's house; whether we were making mud pies or planting flowers with our grandmother, it was always a good time. I can't believe the little bossy girl I met 27 years ago is getting married. Good luck William!! Just playing! I'm so excited to be a part of her big day.

Ashley Hall

Jarvis Williams

I don't remember a lot about the 1st time I met Mary. My mother told me about her attending my very first birthday party. Mary wanted to hold me but we were the same size; actually, I was bigger than she was. Anyways, she held me while feeding me my bottle and talked baby talk while I hung off the side of her lap.So basically, Mary has always been a part of my life. Mary is naturally smart and an over achiever in all that she does. I am so proud of everything she has accomplished. I only wish granddaddy was here to see this marriage take place. Love you much!

Danielle Griffin

Isabella Quinley

Chandler Andrews

Wedding Party

Registry

Q + A

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Holiday Inn Express & Suites

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LaQuinta Inn & Suites

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William & Mary

William & Mary

Registry