Ayanna & Marland
Wedding Party & VIPs
Arielle Hoard
Maid of Honor
I met Arielle some years ago, when I gave birth to her! I love how our relationship has grown over the years. Arielle and I share a huge LOVE for ALL things Disney! Through the years, we have shared millions of memorable moments; one of my favorites happened in Disney World (2013) when Arielle finally met Tinker Bell! They were both overjoyed! I am blessed to be "first her mother and forever her friend." It is an honor to have Arielle stand beside me as maid of honor on my wedding day! I am looking forward to your "sparkly" dress! Lol!
Evangelina Sfura
Maid of Honor
Eva and I met 15 years ago at Lincoln Elementary School. We worked on the school yearbook together. As time passed, we begin to realize how much we have in common. Eva and I started hanging out outside of school and developed a wonderful friendship. We became "besties!" We share a love for musicals, gadgets, and educating children, among many other things. One of the most memorable things that Eva ever did for me happened summer, 2013. She created an account for me on OK Cupid! Marland and I met on that dating website because of Eva's selfless act! I am beyond grateful! It is an honor to have Eva stand beside me on our wedding day as my maid of honor! #forgood
Brenda Dulaney-Morrison
Bridesmaid
I met Brenda about 15 years ago, while teaching at Lincoln Elementary School. We discovered that we both LOVE scrapbooking! I will never forget when she invited me to my first scrapbooking retreat! We had so much fun! Brenda and I were a part of the same "book club." Along with some of our mutual friends, we have traveled many miles together. I have fond memories of being in Las Vegas and in the Dominican Republic. We have walked/jogged together for fun and fitness. Brenda has always encouraged me to be the best version of myself and to let my light shine. I am grateful for our friendship! Thank you for being a part of our special day, Brenda!
Plashan McCune
Bridesmaid
In 2000, I joined Tangeni, the adult dance ministry, at Trinity United Church of Christ, in Chicago. The first dance I learned, was "I Need You Now," by Smokie Norful. One day, while at rehearsal, this beautiful lady reached out and befriended me. Plashan invited me to her home so we could practice the dance. We got along so well and often leaned on each other for spiritual support. We even choreographed a couple dances together! Our friendship blossomed beyond the dance ministry and I am grateful that it did. Plashan, thank you for being a very special "sister/friend" to me for being a part of our special day!
Renée Madgett
Bridesmaid
Renée and I met about 22 years ago, teaching at Salem Christian Academy. Together, we have made so many happy memories! I will never forget when Renée, another teacher, and my class were planning a surprise birthday party for me. I took the class with me to see the other teacher (I was supposed to leave the children in the classroom so Renée could talk to them). Fortunately, everything worked out and I was surprised! Renée loves ALL THINGS DISNEY! In fact, my 1st trip to Disney World (2008) was with Renée and our families! We had a blast! Renée was Arielle's 5th grade teacher, I was a bridesmaid in her wedding, and I am her son's godmother. I am so happy that you are in my life, Renée! Thank you for being a part of our special day!
Tawanda Brunt
Bridesmaid
Tawanda and I met at St. Basil when we were in 4th grade. Our friendship blossomed and we became best friends. One of my favorite memories is of us sliding down a snow covered hill one winter (This was when I liked snow!). Tawanda and I both attended Curie High School. We grew apart in high school, but our hearts remained connected. After graduating high school, we lost touch. One day, Tawanda contacted me. We were able to reconnect in Tennessee. When we got together, it was if no time had passed. That was about 19 years ago! Since then, we have done a better job keeping in touch. We have even seen each other in person several times! I am beyond blessed to have reconnected with my childhood bestie! Tawanda, thank you for standing by my side on this special day!
Alyssa Fullilove
Junior Bridesmaid
My niece Alyssa and I met 15 years ago, when she was born! She spent quite a bit of time with me when she was a baby, through her younger years. In fact, my father used to call both of my nieces my "second set of kids." It has been a pleasure to watch Alyssa grow into such a beautiful, intelligent, and talented young lady. In her spare time, Alyssa likes to draw and do nails. I asked my niece to share one of her favorite memories of us. She said that it was the first time that my mother and I surprised her sister and her with a trip to Disney World in 2012! She was six years old. We had so much fun! I am ecstatic to have Alyssa stand with me as a junior bridesmaid on my wedding day!
Nylah Fullilove
Junior Bridesmaid
Nylah is my "baby niece." I met her 14 years ago when she was born! Like her older sister, Nylah spent quite a bit of time with me when she was younger. My mother used to call her my "Sticky Ball," because wherever I went, Nylah was right there with me. I asked Nylah to tell me about one of her favorite memories of us. She said that it was when we took them (Alyssa and Kayden too) on the Polar Express Train Ride. We had "Hot, hot, hot chocolate" and loads of fun! Nylah loves to play card and board games in her spare time. She is pretty, brilliant, and has a sweet spirit. I am so proud to be this young lady's aunt. I am also happy to have Nylah stand beside me as a junior bridesmaid on my wedding day!
Alivia Kennedy
Flower Girl
Alivia Kara Kennedy is Marland's princess niece. She was born on August 29, 2014. She’s 6 years old and a spitfire of a little girl. She’s a 1st grader at Francis Xavier Warde School. Her favorite subjects are Writing and Reading. She is sweet, loves dresses, plays piano and practices dance. She is into video games. Her favorite games at the moment are Roblox and Sackboy. We are happy to have Princess Alivia as our flower girl!
Naomi Darden
Honorary Flower Girl
This sweet baby girl blessed our family with her presence in December, 2020...in the midst of a pandemic!!! Naomi is my granddaughter. She has brought ALL the bows, ruffled socks, and pretty clothes that we have been missing since my nieces outgrew them. She is a precious gift of light and love. I am honored to be her Daisy and to have her be a part of our special day!
Amè Kennedy
Best Man
In the mid 70s my dad said, "Your mother is going to the hospital to bring back a baby. Do you want her to bring back a boy or a girl?" I, without hesitation, said "BOY!!!", thinking I'd have someone to play with. Sure enough, she brought back my brother, Amè. At the time, I didn't know it would take a few years before I could play with him because he had to learn how to walk, talk, etc. first. Nevertheless, I was happy to have a baby brother. As a grown up, Amè is an incredible husband, to his wife, April; father, to Ari and Alivia; son, and community leader. He is one of the best men I know and I'm so happy he is my Best Man.
Bernard McCune
Groomsman
Ayanna met Bernard years ago, when she became friends with his wife, Plashan. Bernard has been employed in the secondary education sector for years. He is a faith driven, empathetic and caring family man. When Bernard worked for Chicago Public Schools (and even now, while working in Denver), he would tell Ayanna "There's always a place for you with CPS (DPS)." Of course, Ayanna would chuckle and say, "No, thank you." Marland met Bernard in November, 2013. In 2018, the guys spent time getting to know each other better when Marland and Ayanna traveled to Denver to visit the McCune Family. Bernard, thank you for standing by Marland's side on our wedding day!
Darrick Madgett
Groomsman
Ayanna met Darrick when he started dating Renée, years ago. Darrick is a faith filled and hard-working family man. He is an upstanding member in his community, as well as, in the organizations that he is a member of. Ayanna's fondest memories involve the times in which Darrick, Renée, and she attended live plays at The Regal Theatre in Chicago. Marland and Darrick met in October, 2013. The guys really enjoy talking to one another. The four of us have gone on double dates. Additionally, we have all spent time together during other events through the years. Darrick, thank you for being a part of our lives and for standing by Marland's side as a groomsman on our wedding day!
Keshawn Gardner
Groomsman
Keshawn is Ayanna's first cousin, so she has known him all his life. He has been like a brother to Ayanna. The two grew up near each other and even resided in the same household a few times. Keshawn is a family man who is employed in the medical field. He enjoys flipping houses and traveling. One of Ayanna'a fondest memories of Keshawn is seeing him graduate from the Naval Station in Great Lakes, IL, What an honor! Thank you for your service. Marland and Ayanna have enjoyed spending time in Keshawn's home, for family dinners, during the holidays. We are happy that Keshawn will be a part of our special day as a groomsman.
Leander "Lee" Fullilove
Groomsman
Leander has always known Ayanna because he is her little brother! Leander is affectionately called "Lee" by most people who know him. Lee has a beautiful family, which includes Ayanna's two nieces (also in the wedding party). He is employed doing what he loves...working/fixing all types of cars. He is talented and great at what he does! Lee is a loyal and avid Cubs fan; but also loves the Bears and the Blackhawks. Whenever one of these teams play, we don't ever have to watch. Instead, we wait for Lee's updates on Facebook! One of Ayanna's favorite memories that she and her brother share is when they went to a Cubs' game together. It was Ayanna's first and so much fun! Lee, thank you so much for being a part of our special day as one of Marland's groomsmen! This means the world to us!
Prentice Brooks
Groomsman
Prentice Brooks became a part of our family in 2009, when our siblings married. He has an easygoing personality and is always willing to lend a helping hand. Prentice enjoys the culinary arts and during the warm months you will often find him barbecuing in his backyard. He has a sweet tooth and can sniff out the best cupcake or donut place in any neighborhood. He is an active member of Kappa Alpha Psi, Inc. Prentice is a family man, relishing his time with the most important people in his life, his wife Shelley and daughter Cana. Thank you for being a part of our special day, Prentice!
Darrick Ryan Madgett
Junior Groomsman
Darrick Ryan came into Ayanna's life 15 years ago. He is the son of Darrick and Renée Madgett. Ayanna is honored to be Darrick R.'s godmother. Darrick R. is currently a sophomore at St. Francis de Sales High School in Chicago, where he is in the chess club. He is also a member of Top Teens of America, Will County Black Diamond Chapter. In his spare time, Darrick enjoys exercising. Ayanna asked Darrick R. to share a favorite memory of them. He said that it is the memories of being in Disney World together. Marland and Darrick R. bonded back in 2013, when they first met. Neither were fans of the flames on the grill at House of Kobe during Ayanna's birthday dinner! Darrick Ryan, thank you for being a part of our wedding as a junior groomsman!
Ari Kennedy
Ring Security
Ari Cameron Kennedy is Marland's nephew. He was born on September 13, 2011. He is 9 and a 3rd grader at Francis Xavier Warde School. Ari’s favorite subjects in school are Math and Reading. He is super cool, confident in what he does and loves to play and have great time, all the time. Ari is really into video games. His favorite game at the moment is Fortnite. He participates in various sports and Tae-Kwon-Do. He also plays the drums and can build just about anything Lego related no matter the age rating. Ari makes it easy to be a good uncle. He is on ring security and we are so happy that he will be a part of our big day!
Kayden Hoard
Ring Security
Ayanna met Kayden the day he was born, nine years ago. Kayden is Ayanna's #1 (and only) grandson. He affectionately calls her "Daisy." When he was younger, Ayanna used to call him "Little Kayden Boy." Now, he is just "Kayden" (his words). Kayden is a handsome, intelligent, and curious young man. He loves all things relative to space! He also loves to swim, practice taekwondo, play games (video and board), and read Captain Underpants books. When Ayanna asked Kayden for his favorite memory of them, he said that there are so many! However, he enjoys spending the night and playing games with Daisy. Kayden and Marland have enjoyed playing video games together at Dave and Buster's. We are happy to have Kayden be ring security on our special day! *Favorite Memory*
Lakeischa Morgan
Coordinator
Lakeischa and I grew up together in Chicago. For many years, we were next door neighbors. We share many happy memories from "back in the day." Lakeischa is the mother of two of my three goddaughters. At one point, we lost touch with each other. However, I was overjoyed when I saw Lakeischa in Super Kmart one day. Since then, we have both moved several times, but have kept in touch. No matter how much time passes between when we see each other we are always able to reconnect with ease. Lakeischa is like a little sister to me, and wise beyond her years. She is caring, compassionate, creative, and has a sweet spirit. I was ecstatic when Lakeischa said that she would be happy to be a coordinator for our wedding. I am looking forward to all of her creative ideas!
Loretta Carter
Coordinator
Loretta is my aunt and I am happy that she said yes to being a coordinator for our wedding! She is a beautiful, strong, and creative woman of faith. Loretta is always helping her family and friends. She is funny, intelligent, and diligent in all that she does. I have called on Loretta for advice and she has given it...along with a joke or two to lighten the mood. I admire this woman and her integrity. One of my fondest memories with Loretta is when we went to Las Vegas almost five years ago. The plane landed and she clapped her hands loudly and said "Thank you, Jesus for landing this plane safely!" It was hilarious and I chuckled again as I wrote this! Loretta, thank you for being an inspiration to many! You are appreciated!
Casandra Fullilove
Mother of the Bride
My mother is the second oldest of seven children and was born in Paducah, Kentucky. My parents met in Chicago, where my brother and I were born. After about 20 years, she retired as a nurse. Now, she is "nanny" to two of her great-grandchildren. Mom has been an amazing source of strength for my brother and I. She has always supported, encouraged, and believed in us. Growing up, she used to tell me, "If it's to be, it's up to me," during times in which I felt discouraged. My mother taught me to go after what I want in life. I owe most of who I am to her. We have shared so many beautiful memories together and I look forward to making many more. I am blessed beyond measure that God choose Casandra to be my mother. Hon, I am so happy to have you by my side on my wedding day!
Leander Fullilove
Father of the Bride
Leander is my dad. One fun fact about him is that he doesn't have a middle name. When asked how he feels about this, he always says "With a name like Leander you don't need a middle name!" Many people call him "Mr. Lee." The youngest of three children, my dad was born in Jackson, Mississippi. He and his family moved to Chicago when he was a little boy. He and my mother met in Chicago. My brother and I were born from their union. My dad is funny, friendly, determined, hard-working, and dedicated. One of my favorite memories with my dad happened in December, 2017 - January, 2018. He went to Disney World with us! There were eleven of us on that trip! We had so much fun and I will never forget it! I am grateful to have my dad escort me down the aisle on my wedding day! Thank you!
Catilda Kennedy
Mother of the Groom
My mother was was born in Birmingham, Alabama, not far from the First Baptist Church that was bombed during the civil rights era. When she was a little girl she moved to the South Side of Chicago. Eventually, she settled in Markham, where she met my dad in high school. There aren't enough words to describe the love I feel for my mother. She is the foundation of my brother and I, the very rock on which we stand. She has instilled grit, determination, and optimism in us. My mother knows me better than I know myself. Both she and my future wife have a love for educating young children. For 40 years, my mother was an educator and retired as a second grade teacher. Mom is currently enjoying her retirement and looking forward to her oldest son's wedding.
Robert Kennedy
Father of the Groom
My father was born in East Chicago Heights (now Ford Heights). His family eventually moved to Harvey. In Harvey, my dad met my mom at the high school they both attended. The argumentative side of me definitely comes from my father. When I was a teenager, my dad and I used to argue for hours about the political topics of the day. I miss those discussions sometimes. Dad worked various jobs. He secured employment at the Ford Stamping Plant in East Chicago Heights. My dad aspired to be a writer and an actor. He worked with the Kuumba African American theater for a season. My father is retired and living his best life in Chicago. Any creativity I have comes from him.
Kemuel Hawkins
Officiant
Kemuel was born and raised in Gary, Indiana. He and Mary Elizabeth Chube Hawkins have been married for ten years. In 2003, Kemuel earned his Master’s in Counseling from Purdue University. He became an ordained minister in the African Methodist Episcopal Church in 2004. Since 2012, he has practiced therapy in Illinois and Indiana. We asked Kemuel to tell our proposal story from his perspective. "It was the first time a proposal took place in my office, but it wasn't a surprise. Ayanna, Marland, and I had become very familiar with one another. I think that we would all agree that we share a "therapeutic friendship." We have been part of each others lives for three years now. Our relationship continues to deepen and grow," Kemuel, thank you for being a very important part of our story.