August 20th had finally come. That morning most of the family went and did sealings in the San Diego temple. George and I had already offered our services to Chad and Darnell to set up for the wedding, so we didn't get to go.
Our morning was filled with vases, flowers, and lots of water. Our job was to construct the centerpieces for the tables. It took some creative juices to finally figure out a design, but thanks to everyone's input and help, we got it done.
Not too shabby! They turned out very nice.
A few hours before the wedding, the girls and I went to a local salon and got our hair done.
All dressed up and ready to go!
Chad and Darnell asked that everyone wear only black and white. It definitely added distinction to the party.
We weren't the only ones getting ready...
What were the kiddos up to while we were getting our wedding on?
Just hanging out at the National zoo with Allen, Grandmom and Pop Pop.
Apparently Cole was able to touch this bird, but when Jude tried, it pecked at him. Poor kid.
All the guests boarded buses that took us to the ceremony site on the coast. We were directed to the "boring" bus. I'm a little disappointed--apparently the other bus had dance poles, disco lights, and crazy music.
Meanwhile we jammed out to classical music made boring-er.
The site was a gorgeous park on the cliff next to the ocean. It could not have been more picturesque.
Almost time!
I was worried how Lexi would do, but she was perfect.
Chad and Darnell had a woman priest officiate. She had many words of encouragement and gave sound advice. The recurring theme throughout the ceremony was love and commitment.
Still being an angel.
I snuck some pictures and recorded portions of the ceremony. It may have been poor etiquette, but how often does your brother get married?
They recited vows they wrote for each other.
Husbands!
The ceremony ended with a wedding tradition of jumping over the broom.
It's a call-back to the days when slaves were not allowed to marry, so performed ceremonies in their homes where they would "jump the broom". Jumping the broom is an African tradition that symbolizes starting a new life together by "sweeping away" their former singles lives, concerns, and problems and entering into a new adventure as spouses.
Okay, let's get this party started!
The "Sweetheart Table" waiting for the grooms:
The centerpieces were lovely.
First dance as a married couple:
As a gift to Chad, Darnell had this dude, an American Idol finalist, come and sing 'Sweetest Devotion" by Adele.
I wish I could remember his name! He had the most incredible voice I have ever heard!
After the songs, it was time for the toasts. Chad had asked me to give the first toast and I was a nervous wreck! I stressed over it for weeks beforehand, finally finishing it just hours before the wedding.
I was so nervous, I had to read the toast word for word:
Growing up, Chad and I were really close.
I guess that happens when you’re only 18 months apart and the oldest of 6 kids.
We shared a lot—late night talks about everything from school, friends, clothes, and complaining about parents. You know, all the super important things you care about when you’re 13 years old.
We were usually the first person each would go to whenever we needed advice, or just a listening ear.
In fact, when I started dating my boyfriend in high school, Chad must have felt he needed to share in that too, and did so often by picking up the other phone and playing “Kiss the Girl” for us while eavesdropping on our late-night conversations.
I guess he knew what he was doing since, almost 20 years later, that boyfriend and I are happily married with 5 children.
Thanks, Chad.
Needless to say, Chad is amazing. I’ve known for a long time now that no one could possibly be good enough for my big brother.
I’m so glad I was wrong.
I met Darnell about 3 years ago in Miami when Chad was graduating from his Orthodontic program.
I knew immediately that he was special. He was so kind to me and went out of his way to make me feel welcome.
Darnell is everything Chad has hoped for his whole life—he’s kind, loving, generous, and genuine. It is obvious to everyone who sees you that you both adore each other.
I’ve seen Chad grow and his generosity, love, and kindness strengthen with Darnell. He brings out the best in Chad. I can’t think of another couple that is more kind, more giving, more thoughtful, or more fun. I know everyone sitting here today has been touched in many ways by these amazing men. We are made better simply by knowing you.
I couldn’t have asked for anything better for my big brother.
Thank you for allowing us to celebrate your love and your life. I love you both and wish you all the happiness you can dream in this life you have made together.
Whew! And with that out of the way, the party could really begin!
The whole family!
Let the selfies start!
The guys had this backdrop set up outside and pairs of sunglasses to each guest so we could take pictures. Those letters and numbers on the backdrop? It's their initials and their wedding date.
Brent and his new wife! They are an amazing couple! Brent was Chad's roommate for a few years when Chad was living in New York City and they have been great friends ever since.
Brent, Rustin, and Ashley--all friends from New York.
This is Rustin (right) and his fiancee Wade. I knew Rustin from when I visited Chad in New York. They had been in the same ward way back in 2007.
Boyd and... (dang it, I forgot her name) Martin! This cute couple used to be Chad and Darnell's neighbors when they lived in L.A. We met them last year when our family came to visit for a week.
There was tons of dancing! I'm not usually a dancer, but even I was persuaded to hit the dance-floor.
With Trina, Darnell's cousin,
Trying to look cool:
Sisters!
And sisters!
Allred family!
The party continued past midnight! It was the nicest wedding I've ever attended.
Welcome to the family, Darnell! I love you and am grateful we were able to come and see you and Chad get married. I'm so happy to have you as a brother-in-law!
