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November 3, 2024
Naperville, IL

Crystal Marie & Marcus Sean

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    Wedding Party

Wedding Party

The Wedding Website of Marcus Sean Braziel and Crystal Marie Cartwright
Our wedding community comprises our beloved families and treasured friends who have supported our relationship. They will stand with us as we commit our lives to one another before God and those who love us. We are fortunate to have a large wedding party consisting of twenty-two bridesmaids and groomsmen, three flower girls, one ring bearer, three co-officiants, our wedding coordinator, communications coordinator, hostess, volunteers, singers, and musicians, as well as our reception co-masters and mistresses of ceremony. By highlighting our wedding community, we want to express our gratitude and commitment to beginning, centering, and continuing our union in a community of love, prayer, and support. Our emphasis on our wedding community doesn't negate the family, friends, colleagues, church communities, doctoral chairs and professors, students, classmates, and even strangers who have shown us so much support. We are eternally grateful, Crystal and Marcus

Crystal M. Cartwright

Bride

Crystal Marie Cartwright is the daughter of Pastor Mel and Nicole Cartwright and the sister of Amber and Stephen Cartwright. She is a higher education Student Development professional who serves as the Director of the Student Involvement Office at Wheaton College. Crystal is a doctoral candidate at Azusa Pacific University and has a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Lake Forest Graduate School of Business (IL). Crystal is a devoted Christian who considers loving and serving Jesus a privilege. Crystal is passionate about women's empowerment, mentoring, and supporting the next generation of young women. Furthermore, Crystal has dedicated a portion of her career and doctoral research to advocating for awareness of the experiences of underrepresented Black undergraduate women at predominantly White institutions (PWIs). Crystal believes in embodying a united sisterhood with the young women she mentors and with the women she calls her Sister-Queens. "I am my sister's keeper" is her life motto. As the wedding approaches, Crystal's joy and love for Marcus knows no bounds. Her acceptance of his proposal was a moment of pure joy. Marcus is not just the love of her life but also her protector, confidant, supporter, and friend. As they embark on this journey together, Crystal is honored to become his wife and excited to discover new ways to express her love for Marcus, the sweetest gift she has ever known.


Marcus S. Braziel

Groom

Marcus S. Braziel is a researcher, administrator, consultant, and scholar in higher education. Marcus has served in various roles at Christ-centered higher education institutions for 17 years. He is the Director for Institutional Research and Effectiveness and the Accreditation Liaison Officer at Wheaton College. He is also a second-year PhD student in Higher Education at Azusa Pacific University, where he met his fiancée, Crystal. Marcus is also involved in the men's ministry at Progressive Baptist Church of Chicago. Before moving to Chicagoland in 2023, Marcus lived in sunny South Florida. He is the son of Craig and Mary Braziel, and the younger brother of Craig Braziel Jr. Marcus has many family and church members, friends, and colleagues who are excited to celebrate with him and Crystal at their wedding. Marcus loves to laugh and learn. He enjoys excursions to different places, like driving up the 6,300-foot Mount Washington in New Hampshire. In Marcus’s proposal letter to Crystal, Marcus wrote, "As we have grown closer over the past year, our relationship has blossomed beautifully. As we join our lives together, we will be like the image of a tree bearing good fruit in Psalm 1:3.” As a soon-to-be husband, Marcus desires to embody the Apostle Paul's admonishment in the book of Ephesians, stating that "husbands should love their wives as Christ loved the church." Marcus is honored to marry Crystal and to build a life together that honors God and one another.

Mrs. Veda N. Cartwright

Mother of the Bride

He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: Psalm 119: 4, 5. Dearest Marcus & Crystal, It is with great joy that I remind you of the treasure you have in Christ. You have trusted Him to write your love story and to make you a peculiar treasure in your generation. God remembered you and the prayers that have been prayed for you. May you have this gracious gift of remembrance and preserve the memories of His faithfulness. May the word of God and His faithfulness be your handkerchief in joy and in trying times. I remain Your Mama Cartwright.


Mrs. Mary M. Braziel

Mother of the Groom

My dearest Marcus and Crystal, As you grow, marriage is a journey that is both beautiful and challenging at times. It requires prayer, patience, communication, effort, and love to make it work. Never go to bed angry; never stop trying; never stop listening; and never be too proud to say, “I’m sorry,” and then forgive. As long as you keep God first, your marriage will be filled with love, peace, and joy. Love you both dearly, Mom, Marie Braziel A fun fact about the Mother of the Groom and the Bride: they share the same middle name, "Marie."

Pastor Mel L. Cartwright

Father of the Bride (Co Officiant)

To my Heart (Crystal) and my Son Marcus, Crystal, you hold a special place in my heart, and I trust that your heart is in good hands with Marcus. It has been a joy to watch you grow from a little girl into a beautiful young woman, guided by your strong faith and grace. Marcus is an equally Godly and gracious man, and I couldn't be happier to entrust my beloved daughter to him. I have seen how you both have sought to honor the Lord in your relationship, and it's clear that you have learned the secret to God's blessings - to be rich in faith, to put God first in all things, and to be generous towards Him. I wish you both great joy and a lifetime of blessings. May your love for each other grow stronger with each passing day, just as it did for Isaac and Rebekah in the Bible. As it says in Genesis 24:67, "So she became his wife, and he loved her." With much love and blessings, Who Loves You Baby (Crystal) Your Dad


Mr. Craig A. Braziel

Father of the Groom

Marcus and Crystal,  I will not advise you on keeping the communication lines open, respecting, loving, and cherishing each other, or keeping God at the center of everything. My only advice is that you "DON'T STOP" doing all these things. We are so happy and love you two very much. Praise God. Congratulations to my righthand man, my son, Marcus, and welcome to the family, our new daughter, Crystal. Dad Braziel

Craig A. Braziel, Jr.

Best Man

Craig A. Braziel, Jr. is the brother of the groom and the Best Man. Marcus and his older brother have an unshakable bond that began as children and continues into adulthood. Marcus remembers learning from his brother how to play piano and how to drive, and he gained an affinity for band and an appreciation for developing quality personal style. Craig lives in Tampa, FL, and works in finance at New York Life Insurance. A fun fact about Craig is that he was part of a small cohort of fellow college students studying music in Paris for one summer. Craig advises Crystal and Marcus: "Seek the Lord daily for wisdom and guidance.


Amber N. Cartwright

Sister of Honor

Amber Cartwright is the younger sister of the bride, who is lovingly referred to as the "Sister of Honor." She has a Master's degree in History from Bangor University in Wales and currently works in Finance at Northwestern University in Illinois. Amber has a passion for acting, particularly Shakespearean theater, and has appeared in 18 theatre productions to date, 12 of which were related to the Bard. Amber's advice for the bride and groom is rooted in the words of Shakespeare. “Love is about generously giving your heart, time, and patience. The more you give love to one another, the more you have. Love gives us meaning in life and is stronger than death.” Amber encourages the couple to embody the famous lines of Romeo from Shakespeare's play, "Romeo and Juliet": "My bounty is as boundless as the sea, my love as deep. The more I give to thee, the more I have, for both are infinite."

Stephen L. Cartwright

Groomsmen (Brother of the Bride)

Stephen Cartwright is the younger brother of the bride. Stephen has a Master of Divinity (MDiv) from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS). Stephen also serves on the ministerial team at New Generation C.O.G.I.C. Stephen is the Assistant Director of Residence Life and Ministry Associate in the Chaplain’s Office at Wheaton College. Crystal introduced Marcus to Stephen at Wheaton College’s African Diaspora Faculty and Staff barbeque in June 2023; they have bonded well since. Marcus has found Steve to be easygoing and humorous yet firm in his faith in Christ and his love for his family. A fun fact about Stephen and Marcus: Stephen started pursuing his lovely girlfriend, Kelsey Brooks, only a few months after Crystal and Marcus started dating. The arrival of Kelsey resulted in Marcus no longer being the newest member at the 2023 Cartwright Thanksgiving dinner, which allowed Marcus to focus on more important things like football and pie. Stephen’s advice to Marcus and Crystal is, "maintain your convictions, respect your opinions, forget your assumptions. Oh, and help each other love God more than yourselves."


Ms. Honey

Honorary Grandmother of the Bride

Mrs. Barbara Woodards, also known as "Ms. Honey," holds a special place in the hearts of the Cartwright Family. She is the honorary grandmother of the Bride and a cherished grandmother of the family. At the wedding, Ms. Honey will also represent Crystal's late paternal Nana, Mrs. Gertrude Barker, maternal grandmother, Mrs. Georgette Juanita Green, and honorary grandfather, Mr. George Woodards (Mr. Honey). Ms. Honey played a significant role in Crystal and Marcus's relationship. She welcomed Marcus as her grandson and encouraged Crystal to give him a chance when he was pursuing her. Ms. Honey consistently brings joy, Godly wisdom, love, and laughter into their lives. On the day of Marcus and Crystal's engagement, Ms. Honey sent them a heartwarming message, congratulating them and expressing her excitement. "Congratulations to my grandchildren, Crystal and Marcus. I'm so excited about this wonderful news of your engagement. God bless you as you look forward to all the Lord has in store for you. Once again, I'm so proud of both of you for how you conducted yourselves in your relationship and worked up to this SPECIAL day. You two have made this Grandma very happy. Thanks for including me in the celebration of your engagement. My heart is happy.  I love your pictures and the  Beautiful ring.  Love you both. Ms. Honey"

Mr. Benjamin Stackhouse

Maternal Grandfather of the Bride


Alfred Smith, III

Groomsman

Alfred Smith, III, is the groom's first cousin. Marcus is blessed to have a longtime bond with his cousin, and he has witnessed many of his accomplishments, including raising his two teenage children, Alfred IV and Zila. A fun fact about Alfred, who lives in Fort Valley, Georgia, is that he drove his first motorcycle in the first gear for three miles! Alfred advises Crystal and Marcus to kiss, touch, and hug as often as possible.

Dr. Sheila Caldwell

Matron of Honor

Dr. Sheila Caldwell is an incredible Sister in Crystal's life, serving as her matron of honor and a true friend, mentor, and gift. Their bond is rooted in their love for one another, often expressed through gift-giving, and Crystal has yet to surpass Sheila's sincere and gracious generosity. Sheila has dedicated her life and career to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and it is through this work that Crystal and Sheila first met and became colleagues. Sheila's commitment to DEI is reflected in her education, with an EdD in Education from the University of Georgia and a Certificate in Diversity from Harvard University. A fun fact about Sheila and Crystal: Sheila has been praying for Crystal's future husband for the past six years, long before Marcus came into the picture. In February 2023, Sheila went above and beyond by purchasing tickets for a September 2023 Hamilton show. She invited Crystal to attend with her family, but what made this gesture even more remarkable was that Sheila purchased an additional ticket for Marcus. At the time, Marcus and Crystal were just getting to know each other, but Sheila was so confident that Marcus was the right person for Crystal that she wanted him to be there with her. Sheila's discernment and sisterly love proved to be spot-on. Sheila’s advice for the bride: "Stay present, embrace imperfections, and cherish the memories made during this special time."


Heidi Daniels

Matron of Honor

Heidi Daniels is a Sister-Queen of the bride and a Matron of Honor. She relishes being the wife of Raashon Daniels and mother to Maya, Jada, and Raashon Jr. (Shonnie). In addition to these roles, she serves as the Director of Staffing and Development in the HR office at Wheaton College, where she relies daily on her BA degrees in Sociology and Urban Studies and her MA in Organizational & Multicultural Communication. Heidi moved a lot as a child, living in 4 states and the Caribbean, which she credits with making her quite adaptable. Heidi's advice to Crystal and Marcus is, "Remember that they are on the same team. A win for one is a win for both, and in conflict, if one loses, they both lose. It is always about what is best for you both collectively. Don’t seek your own interests, but look out for the interests of each other (Phil. 2:4)."

Phillip A. Braziel II

Groomsman

Phillip A. Braziel II is the groom's first cousin. A native of West Palm Beach, Florida, Phil, 48, is an assistant principal in the Atlanta Public Schools and a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. Marcus’s most fond memory of his big cousin is when Phillip gave Marcus and his high school friends the best unscripted college advice at his graduation party. Phil’s advice to Crystal and Marcus is to always trust in the Lord.


Joshua Barrett

Groomsman

Joshua Barrett is the groom's cousin. Joshua has known Marcus for 30 years. When Marcus and Crystal were dating, Josh, 34, and his wife Courtney were second in Marcus’s family (behind Marcus’ mom) to meet Crystal, welcome them to their home, and give positive feedback about their future union. Josh, Courtney, and their three daughters (with one on the way) live in Orlando, FL. A fun fact about Josh is that he played college football at Bethune Cookman University. Josh advises Crystal and Marcus to always communicate and never hold grudges, as life is too short and marriage is too valuable.

Dr. Cara Cox Coleman

Maid of Honor

Dr. Cara Cox Coleman is the big sister Crystal'never had but always wanted. They met during Crystal's undergraduate career at a Gospel Choir rehearsal in the Soprano section. Crystal credits Cara for being the example that made her believe she could pursue and complete a doctoral degree. Crystal remembers watching Cara persevere through comprehensive exams and reach her goals despite the obstacles. Cara was also the sisterly voice that encouraged Crystal to embrace the necessity of mental health care, particularly as a Black woman. Cara's commitment to the field of mental health planted a seed that has informed the ways in which Crystal has embraced self-care and care for others, especially Black women. Cara has a distinguished career in the United States Army and as a clinical psychologist. Beyond Cara's exemplary accomplishments, it is her genuine humility that has influenced Crystal's life. When asked about her professional and academic achievements, Cara's response is, "I'm just me." Cara remains a constant older sister source of wisdom, prayer, a listening ear, and calm in Crystal's life. She was one of the trusted voices that encouraged Crystal to give Marcus a real chance. A fun fact about Cara is that she was roped into becoming Crystal's "chauffeur in undergrad" despite the campus being entirely walkable, LOL. Cara's advice for the happy couple is to always turn toward one another, listen, and show empathy, especially in moments when they would rather turn away.


Dr. Christin J. Fort

Maid of Honor

Dr. Christin J. Fort and Crystal's sisterhood has stood the test of time, spanning from their college years to the present day. Christin's academic pursuits led her to earn her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Fuller Theological Seminary, where she now serves as a professor. Her dedication to the field is evident in her research and therapy work, which allows her to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Christin finds joy in simple pleasures such as road trips with friends, sipping on a delicious chai latte, and enjoying a good book on the lawn. Christin's advice to Crystal and Marcus: "I Remember to always date each other — even and especially as a married couple. Let marriage reveal new contours of dating. Remember to laugh often. A joyful heart is good medicine (Proverbs 17:22) and is sure to be a ready resource on days and in seasons of deep discouragement. And also, simultaneously, remember to make ample space for grief. Even though joy will come in the morning, tonight may be very sad — and God has allowed it to be so. So may you, together as a couple, have ample space for grief and lament as well. Couples who can grieve together can surely celebrate together. Psalm 30:5. Finally, remember not to love each other out of your own love but to love out of the boundless and abundant love of God the Father. Always call to mind that “we love because He first loved us.” John 4:19. And may you “drink deeply of that love,” today and always (Song of Solomon 5:1).

Temy Clemons

Groomsman

Temy Clemons, the groom's cousin, has known Marcus for nearly 30 years. A native of Boynton Beach, Florida, Temy, 34, and Marcus would often see each other and converse at church or one of the many family gatherings. A fun fact about Temy is that he has visited five continents and more than 30 countries. Temy would advise Crystal and Marcus to make it their mission to make each other smile each day.


Bryan Moschette

Groomsman

Bryan Moschette is a close friend of the groom. Bryan first met Marcus as neighbors in 2017, two doors away, and quickly developed a friendship. Marcus fondly remembers sharing his hopes of getting married and hearing from his friends that marriage has many rewards but is hard work. Bryan, who resides in Lantana, Florida, would advise Marcus to invest in a “doghouse”! All jokes aside, he advises the couple to remember that communication is vital to a strong marriage and respect for each other.

Genesis Watkins

Bridesmaid

Genesis Watkins is Crystal’s Sister-Queen and a trusted confidant. She has a Master of Science degree in Business Management from the Gies College of Business at the University of IL, and she is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE). A fun fact about Genesis is that she absolutely loves sweets, and she and the bride love to order and share multiple desserts. Genesis and Crystal also share a love for beautifully curated spaces. She enjoys reading historical fiction and hearty laughs, often instigated by Crystal at inappropriate times. They are unmatched in their GIF and meme-sending skills and sidebar chats outside of larger group chats. They often ask one another, “Why are we like this?” and then laugh until they can’t breathe. Alongside genuine trust and support for one another as sisters, Genesis and Crystal have found laughter and joy to be a beautiful part of their unbreakable bond. Genesis has informed the bride that she plans to cry when she sees Crystal coming down the aisle and will be watching to see if Marcus cries too (now that's loyalty). Crystal will never forget the affirming and heartfelt advice and support Genesis shared with her on the day of her bridal dress appointment; Crystal carried Genesis’s words in her heart as she said, “Yes to the Dress.” Genesis’s advice to the couple is, “Give yourself the grace to each be your authentic selves and honor your truest feelings in each moment. Commit to being each other’s safe space and absolute best friend.”


Dr. Erin A. Strong

Bridesmaid

Dr. Erin Strong, MD, MBA, MPH, has been one of Crystal's Sister-Queens since their sophomore year of college. During their undergraduate studies, they were roommates and worked together to lead and serve the Black Student Union (the William Osborne Society). They also created the Gospel Ensemble and sang in the Gospel Choir. In 2013, both Crystal and Dr. Strong graduated from their respective institutions with their MBAs. A week later, Erin graduated from medical school, adding MD to her name. Currently, Erin is a Surgical Oncology Fellow in Florida. Erin has a fun fact about Crystal, "I still remember the day I met Crystal, sitting on a couch in the lobby of the dorm. I knew we'd be friends when I saw her CD case full of Gospel music. (That's right, back when CD cases were a thing. That's the fun fact.)" Erin's advice to Crystal and Marcus is to enjoy married life with each other. She reminds them that this is an answer to years of prayers and not just theirs.

David Lawrey

Groomsman

David Lawrey, a close friend of the groom, has known Marcus for more than 25 years. A native of Riviera Beach, Florida, David met Marcus at the infamous Suncoast High School Chargersonic band camp in the late summer of their freshman year. David, an Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated member, works at the Washington D.C. public school district office. He would advise Crystal and Marcus to choose to love each other every day.


Keith Dawson

Groomsman

Keith Dawson is a close friend of the groom. Keith and his lovely wife are the parents of two adult daughters. Keith met his friend Marcus as a co-worker at Palm Beach Atlantic University in 2017. Marcus’ relocation to Chicago does not stop him and his buddy from catching up from time to time about sports, higher education, prayer, and family. Keith advises Crystal and Marcus to avoid getting too serious in the relationship and to find a way to laugh together each day.

Kedisha Kelly

Bridesmaid

Kedisha Kelly and Crystal are Sister-Queens, colleagues, and true friends. Kedisha Kelly is a native of Kingston, Jamaica, the third largest and most beautiful island in the Caribbean. She serves as the Ministry Associate of Spiritual Formation at Wheaton College and holds a Master of Divinity ( Moody Theological Seminary) and an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Wheaton College). Kedisha is deeply convinced about the importance of God’s word and his truth–all truth is God’s truth–and how it should frame all aspects of our lives. This conviction is the fundamental premise for her work in student development and mental health care and informs how she partners with students as they navigate through the unique season of undergraduate life. Here are a few fun facts about Kedisha. As an introvert, Kedisha has helped Crystal, an extrovert, learn how to view the world through an introverted lens, a skill that aided Crystal as got to know Marcus. Kedisha is a foodie who enjoys conversations with friends, watching movies, listening to music, and playing multiple sports (volleyball, tennis, netball). Kedisha’s advice for the couple: “Marriage is hard work, so please remember to be extremely kind and compassionate to yourselves and to each other as you embark on this journey of oneness. You are not alone– “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” (Ephesians 4:12).


Niña Tené Wright

Bridesmaid

Crystal and Niña met in undergrad. Their sisterhood began when they discovered they shared the exact birthdate and year. An 18-year friendship spanned various states and cities from a chance encounter. Niña has a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (MACP) and a Bachelor of Arts in Business/Economics. Niña is a professional counselor and life strategist specializing in executive leadership. With more than fifteen years of experience, Niña has worked with recognized leaders in Counseling and Psychology and professional athletic organizations. Working with the Dallas Mavericks fresh out of undergrad catapulted Niña's career. She is astute in building diverse relationships and acquiring a more in-depth understanding of the psychology of athletes and business professionals. In 2020, Niña launched her executive life counseling company, Contagious Transformation, where she equips, empowers, and is a counselor for entrepreneurs and executives in the business, entertainment, philanthropic, and professional sports sectors. Niña is an avid hiker and had the opportunity to hike the highest elevation in the Santa Mountains. Niña advises the Couple, "Listening is a crucial key to any relationship. Stay aware of being in a posture of listening to hear and not listening to speak."

Joshua Thomas

Groomsman

Joshua Thomas is a friend of the groom. Josh and Marcus met at their Ph.D. program orientation in Malibu, California, in 2022 and quickly bonded. They talk frequently about work, faith and spiritual practices, sports, music, manhood, fatherhood, and more. Josh is an elder and leads praise and worship at his church in Pasadena. Josh would advise Crystal and Marcus never to stop dating each other.


Lyndric Caldwell

Groomsman

Lyndric Caldwell is a friend of the bride and groom. Crystal introduced Marcus to Lyndric and his wife, Shiela (Matron of Honor), in Chicago in September 2023, and they have bonded well since then. Marcus has found that Lyndric is optimistic and pragmatic with a good sense of humor, particularly when he advised Marcus on ways to approach Crystal’s dad for a blessing on the marriage. Lyndric would advise the couple never to let the minor issues grow into significant ones and to let the small ones go!

Jessica Chang & Sophia Chang

Bridesmaid and Flower Girl

Jessica Min Chang, Crystal's friend, and Sister-Queen, is a woman who has had many experiences. As the mother of Sophia, the youngest flower girl, she brings a sense of expertise and calm to the wedding. Jessica has been a source of encouragement and support to Crystal as she navigated wedding planning. Jessica lovingly sent Crumbl Cookies (Crystal's favorite treat) to remind the bride to breathe, enjoy all the moments that come with wedding planning, and give herself grace, as wedding planning isn't easy. After studying Communication and Spanish, Jessica served in various capacities in higher education and elementary administration, securing funding for students ranging from pre-kindergarten through PhD. In addition, Jessica has a love for travel. She has explored 25+ countries with her husband Ray, and their wanderlust is far from satisfied. They eagerly anticipate new adventures and can't wait to share these experiences with Sophia. Jessica's advice for the bride and groom is to show up fully and love each other wholeheartedly, a reflection of her own zest for life and love.


Heather Misula

Bridesmaid

Heather Misula and Crystal met during their undergraduate years at Wheaton College. They were partners in mischief, singing, and top-tier cookie dough eating. Crystal was also a bridesmaid in Heather's wedding in 2011. When Crystal got engaged, she was excited to ask Heather to join her bridal squad. She still remembers receiving a call from Heather telling her that she was marrying Roman (Heather's husband) and inviting Crystal to join her wedding party. Standing together on the biggest days of their lives is a shared experience that Crystal treasures and a bond they will share forever. Heather has been a listening ear and a source of sisterly advice to Crystal when it comes to navigating the numerous changes and planning that come with engagement and wedding planning. Heather, a talented violinist (her incredible talent is featured in the wedding), earned a Master of Music in Violin Performance from New York University and currently plays in a community orchestra in Rochester, NY, where she lives with her husband of 14 years. Additionally, Heather home-educates her three beautiful children, ages 11, 8, and 3. Heather's advice to Marcus and Crystal is, "Love is not an affectionate feeling but a steady wish for the loved person's ultimate good as far as it can be obtained." -C.S. Lewis

Aniyah Stackhouse

Flower Girl of Honor (Cousin of the Bride)


Stori Gaskin

Flower Girl

Ms. Billye Kee

Wedding (Chaos) Coordinator (Honorary Mother of the Bride)

Mrs. Billye Scott Kee is a Student Development professional with experience in Career Development and Multicultural Student Development. She has worked for Wheaton College for two decades and was formerly a Marketing Manager and Project Manager in the Telecommunications industry. She is a public speaker and storyteller who bridges generations and racial divides through her passion for fostering the success of others and advocating for diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice. A lifelong learner, Ms. Billye is pursuing a Master of Arts in Global Leadership at Wheaton College, holds a B.S. in Human Development and Family Life from the University of Alabama, a Certificate in Management from Capital University, and is a Certified Restorative Justice and Peace Circle Leader. She is also a CliftonStrengths Coach who enjoys helping individuals and teams discover and embrace their strengths. Ms Billye is married to Mr.Chip Kee and is the proud mother of one daughter, Krista. Ms.Billye was a Wedding Coordinator and Bridal Consultant for 17 years and has come out of retirement because of her love for Crystal. She is thankful to be assisted by the highly organized Naomi Bunker and will ensure that Crystal and Marcus have their dream wedding. Crystal and Marcus love Ms. Billye; Crystal views her as an honorary mother. Ms. Billye's wisdom, prayers, encouragement, and humor have been pivotal in Marcus and Crystal's relationship. They are eternally grateful for Ms Billye.  


August Kingsley Gaskin

Ring Bearer

Naomi Bunker

Assistant Communications Coordinator (Honorary Bridesmaid)


Dr. Charlie Dates

Co-Officiant & Pastor

Pastor Raymond Chang

Co-Officiant (Honorary Brother of the Bride)


Stevener Gaskin

Co-Master of Ceremony

Dannemart Pierre

Co-Mistress of Ceremony (Honorary Sister of Bride)


Joshua Beyda

Co-Master of Ceremony (Honorary Cousin of the Bride)

Joy Badran

Co-Mistress of Ceremony (Honorary Cousin of the Bride)


Alexander Fridge

Tech Specialist (Honorary Brother of the Bride)

Kelsey Brooks

Hostess (Honorary Sister-In-Love of the Bride)


Tristin Beyda

Tech Specialist (Honorary Cousin of the Bride)

Adejumoke Beyda

Hostess (Honorary Cousin of the Bride)


Dr. Infini Ewing

Soloist (Honorary Bridesmaid)

Tamara Smith

Soloist (Aunt of the Bride)


Jada Kamau

Soloist (Honorary sister of the Bride)

For all the days along the way
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