by Vicky Johnson
With credits including HBO’s Treme, ABC’s Brothers & Sisters, Red Tails, and the award-winning independent film Middle of Nowhere, Edwina Findley has been hailed by critics as “a marvel to watch.” On November 17, 2012 , the much-admired actress starred in her most poignant role-to-date—as Bride. We recently got a glimpse into her star-studded nuptials to soul mate Kelvin Dickerson, an Advertising Executive/Time Management Coach.
Edwina, who also serves an inspirational leader through her organization Abundant Life Creative Services, has chosen to build her life on faith. So she may say it was fate that led to her meeting Kelvin. Upon relocating to a new neighborhood, Edwina began running into him at every turn—the bank, grocery store and even on the subway. Come to find out, the two lived right around the corner from each other. Their strong commitment to their church played a large role in them growing closer—not to mention Edwina’s choice to remain chaste until her wedding night (no small feat for a young actress).
Their courtship would eventually evolve into a proposal during a Hudson River dinner cruise in New York for Edwina’s birthday. As the couple took to an empty dance floor, little did Edwina know that Kelvin had arranged for the band to stop the music and set the stage for his tender proposition. Completely taken by surprise, a speechless Edwina was finally able to utter her acceptance, following a flurry of requests from delighted passengers.
Plans for the nuptials began in earnest with the assistance of Heather Hughes of Style Unleashed, who has dressed Edwina for celebrity events. After securing Leaph Drake, of Divine Memoirs, as their wedding planner, the couple worked together on a vision for the big day.
Fitting of Edwina, they decided on a “Hollywood Premiere” theme. From save-the-dates that resembled movie posters to invitations designed as tickets, the details of their wedding were sprinkled with touches that evoked a red-carpet experience. Her God Mother, Academy Award Nominee Viola Davis, even hosted a paparazzi-worthy shower in the bride’s honor.
Sentimental touches were not overlooked at their ceremony, which was held at the Christian Cultural Center in Brooklyn, NY. Not only was the couple honored to be married by their Pastor Dr. A.R. Bernard, but having the bride’s 93-year-old grandfather, Reverend Dr. William Calbert, participate in the nuptials made the event even more memorable. “His presence was a special gift,” Edwina says of the former Buffalo soldier and retired Army chaplain.
In true celebrity fashion, the couple ended the evening with an “After-Party” reception, at Taj Lounge in Manhattan, before jetting off to Puerto Vallarta for their honeymoon. To sum up the auspicious affair, Edwina says, “What better way to celebrate with my co-star for life?”
Above photo: Pictured here with members of the wedding party, Edwina glowed in a gown by Allure Couture, with shoes and accessories by Badgley Mischka, while new husband Kelvin rocked a gray Calvin Klein tuxedo. After the wedding, the newlyweds took pictures in front of the step and repeat—a part of their red-carpet-themed wedding.
