Decorator Accused of Stealing $10K Cash Gifts from Couple's Wedding Reception and Vanishing

A newlywed couple claims their wedding decorator stole a donation box containing around $10,000 shortly after their September 2024 wedding.

The following day, the couple discovered the box was missing and reviewed security footage from the venue. According to them, the video showed the decorator leaving with the box partially wrapped in a tablecloth.

The couple, Paul and Sherida McCallum, told local media that they hired decorator Kendarries Powell based on positive recommendations from friends and family. Sherida expressed her disappointment, noting that the theft affected not only them but their entire family.

During the reception in midtown Atlanta, the couple said guests noticed the decorator behaving unprofessionally, including consuming alcohol at the bar. Despite concerns, the couple allowed him to stay. Later, they realized their honeymoon fund donation box had disappeared.

Upon reviewing the venue's security footage, the couple claims they saw Powell carry a tablecloth into the reception hall and leave with the donation box partially concealed. Paul described the moment, saying Powell appeared suspicious and constantly glanced around while leaving.

The McCallums attempted to confront Powell and asked him to return the money, even suggesting a meeting at a police station, but they say he refused and vanished soon after. A criminal complaint was filed with the Atlanta Police Department, which later confirmed that Powell was arrested on November 19, 2024, for theft in connection with the incident.

Despite the setback, the couple proceeded with their honeymoon and emphasized that they are focusing on the positive memories of their wedding rather than the theft.

Author: Jackson Miller