Wedded Bliss: Embekka Forehand and John Roberson III

Embekka is the principal for Groves High School in Beverly Hills and John owns Man Cave Barbershop in Eastpointe. The couple lives in Southfield and honeymooned in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Here, Embekka shares details from their classic wedding day.

Date: July 28, 2018

Ceremony and reception: Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History

First dance: “Best Part” by Daniel Caesar featuring H.E.R.

Photographer: Shaleena Cole of LeoSage Images 

The Venue

“We decided on The Wright for our nuptials because it could accommodate the ceremony and the reception in the same space. Mostly, we loved the uniqueness and we’re very proud of the strength of our history. We wanted our friends and family to experience that history and culture; they were able to visit the museum’s exhibits, which were open all evening. The details and décor were absolutely beautiful both inside and out.”

The Wedding Party

“Our grown children stood with us during this important moment. We’re a blended family, and we thought this was the best way to incorporate them into our big day. Our daughters – my bridesmaids – wore simple but gorgeous white dresses from House of CB. We wanted them to have something that they could wear again. ”

The Food

“Touch of Class Catering in Oak Park served a beautiful plated dinner of salmon, filet mignon or chicken, guests’ choice. To accompany the protein, we enjoyed dauphinoise potatoes and seasonal grilled vegetables.”

Most Memorable Moments

“Having my mother, and John’s mother and stepmother in my dressing room beforehand was such a special treat. During the ceremony, my heart started racing as John said his vows. He spoke with such conviction that it caught me by surprise. I felt loved, wanted and safe. Afterwards, we walked into the Rotunda (the reception space) for the first time as husband and wife. It felt good seeing so many smiling faces, cheering us on. It felt like a rite of passage, symbolizing our move into the next phase of our lives.” 

BLAC wants to help celebrate your nuptials. If you’ve gotten married recently and would like to be considered for our monthly matrimony feature, email a few of your best wedding photos to info@BLACdetroit.com. Put “WEDDING” in the subject line. Be sure to include your phone number. BLAC reserves the right to publish or omit photos.