When and how did you meet?
We met in High School around 2001 or 2002. He was one of my closest friends until we officially started dating in 2008. However, he was my high school senior prom date in 2003 (we went as really good friends although Im sure he asked me because he had a crush on me during that time).
How long did you date before he popped the question?
7 years !!!! Then we were engaged for 2 yrs and 4 months (this December will be our 10 year dating anniversary).
How did he propose?
It was the weekend of my 30th birthday. He had planned a surprise party that day which turned out not to be a surprise because he ended up spilling the beans a few weeks prior. I love the Morakimi Japanese Gardens, especially the Zen Garden, it is one of my favorite places. Steven told me that we were going to the Morikami earlier that day to have lunch with our friend and his girlfriend. The Morikami has a restaurant on property. He said that our friend really wanted to take me to a birthday lunch (this of course made no sense to me, as I knew that we would be seeing said friend later that night for the surprise party). When we arrived at the restaurant he said that our friend and his girlfriend were walking around the garden and we should join them because it was such a lovely day. I fought him on this at first and insisted that we just wait for a table but eventually I acquiesced. When we entered the Zen garden I saw our friend and his girlfriend. I was too busy greeting them to realize that the Bruno Mars song Marry Me had began playing in the background. I heard Steven say, she is too busy saying hi to realize whats happening (I watched this many times on video : ) ). At that moment, I turned around and realized what was happening. The rest is history.
Where were you married and how did you pick the place?
Deer Creek Golf Club. It was the perfect blend of what we were both looking for. Immediately upon walking into Deer Creek, we both fell in love with the beautiful ballroom (I feel in love with the chandeliers ) and the outside ceremony space. We wanted something that was both romantic and gardeny (our theme was Romance in the Garden).
What theme and/or colors have you chosen for your wedding and why?
Blush Pink, Ivory and a touch of Gold. Pink Roses are my favorite. The color combination reminds me of a nice spring day.
Where did you go for your honeymoon?
Italy (Rome, Tuscany Region, Florence and Venice).
Why did you chose Wonderland Bridal for your dream dress?
Because Wonderland is amazing!!! I truly fell in love with Patti and Alicyn. I visited two or three other dress shops prior to Wonderland. The one thing that stood out about Wonderland is that the consultants really cared about finding me the perfect dress to celebrate such a huge milestone. While other shops hosted friendly consultants that were polite, Wonderland made me feel as though I was dress shopping with my closest girlfriends who were just as excited as I was! It was genuine and I truly cherished the experience.
Share your experience about your time with Wonderland Bridal.
Wonderland stuck with me from the beginning to the end. All of the ladies were very professional and accommodating. They are knowledgeable in their field and were always available to answer questions. They kept me informed about my dress and my veil from the day I placed my order until the day I picked them up. Wonderland went above and beyond to help me find the perfect dress to wear to marry my best friend.
What was the best part of your wedding day?
There were so many moments ! The entire day was spectacular but if I had to pick one, I would say it was our first look. There was something just truly magical about that moment that I cannot quite put into words.
Any advice to future couples currently planning a wedding?
Never lose sight of the reason you are planning a wedding. It is easy to get lost in the stress and anxiety of planning but enjoy the experience (with your significant other). When the day arrives, many things will likely not go as planned, no matter how much you planned but it will still be the best day ever (or at least one of the best days ever)!
Wedding Photos by Epic Media - Lee Davis
- Wedding Gown: Stella York from Wonderland Bridal Couture
- Flowers: Gladys Flowers Inc
- Cake: Elite Cake Creations
- Catering: Deer Creek Golf Club
- Entertainment: DJ EL Cumacho owner of Moor Productions LLC
- Invitations: Elegant Wedding Invites
- Wedding Planner: Steven and I :)
- Hair: Jean Johnson of Platinum Cuts (Bride) and Gem Makeup Artistry & Hair (Bridal Party)
- Make Up: Gem Makeup Artistry & Hair
- Photographer: Epic Media - Lee Davis
- Videographer: Epic Media Carlyle Brown