What began as a chance meeting at a Bed-Stuy block party blossomed into a love story rooted in shared culture, friendship, and divine timing. It was our dear friend, Judge Ellen Edwards, who first introduced us on that summer day in 2023—and she never looked back. With the determination of a seasoned matchmaker, Ellen orchestrated every moment that followed: inviting us both to her destination birthday celebration in Savannah, arranging a beachside seating “coincidence,” and even curating a night of jazz at Sista’s Place. Somewhere between the soulful music, warm laughter, and our growing connection, sparks began to fly.

From Brooklyn to Spain and Zanzibar in 2024, our bond deepened through shared passion, purpose, and a profound respect for each other’s journey. During Stefani’s birthday adventure in Zanzibar—surrounded by loved ones including Ellen’s co-conspirators: Stefani’s daughter Courtney, her best friend and Maid of Honor Nilaja, and dear friends Joan and Hassan, Nicole, Marlene, and Rismia—Mawulekumi proposed with a poem and a promise. And Stefani said yes.

Now, as we prepare to set sail into this next chapter, we invite you to celebrate our sacred union—aboard the Norwegian Escape on September 29 and back home in Brooklyn on October 18.