Though Grace and Robert attended the same university for four years, it wasn’t until afterwards that they were introduced by mutual friends and their love story truly began. Their first date was over dinner and an immediate connection was clear from the start. That connection continued to grow into the absolute love it is today.
They knew they were “the one” for each other when “from the beginning we both felt entirely comfortable with each other, free from worry or concern of judgment. We can be silly together and feel free to be our true selves.”
Continue reading all about Grace & Robert’s love story, sweet proposal, and experiences in their gorgeous classic Christmas wedding in Alabama.
Bride & Groom: Grace & Robert
Occupations: Registered Nurse & Veterinarian
Wedding date: December 9th, 2017
Wedding location: Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church, Opelika, Alabama
Reception location: Auburn Marriott Opelika Hotel & Conference Center at Grand National
Tell us how you met and all about the proposal. We met through mutual friends. We spent four years attending Tuskegee University together but our paths never crossed there. It wasn’t until I moved to Atlanta in September 2014 that long time mutual friends would think to introduce us! We had our first date at California pizza kitchen, and it was on from there.
We were celebrating our two year dating anniversary at Ruth Chris Steakhouse in Atlanta, Ga. After dinner, we took a walk in Centennial Park to look at the Christmas lights. I had no idea what Robert was planning to do. As we walked toward the park, I noticed he started to slow down. He proceeded to pull me closer and propose on one knee saying the most beautiful words. After he proposed his friends (who were video/recording duty) jumped out of the bushes nearby and congratulated us! It was a moment we’ll never forget.
How did you know they were “the one?” We both have similar ways in knowing that we were right for each other. The most important thing is that from the beginning we both felt entirely comfortable with each other, free from worry or concern of judgment. We can be silly together and feel free to be our true selves.
What was wedding shopping like for you? Shopping for my wedding dress was heart warming because I had my mother and sister there. It was a special experience. The dress was designed by Zac Posen. I knew I wanted a dress with sleeves so I added sleeves and a diamond pendant to the dress on my own. Robert wore a black tailcoat by Joseph & Feiss accented by a candy apple red vest.
Did you incorporate any culture into your wedding? We incorporated the tradition of jumping the broom. I designed the wedding broom and it’s one of my favorite keepsakes from the wedding.
Wedding party gifts: The bridesmaids received jewelry and a wedding day survival kit. The groomsmen received personalized glass cups.
Favorite item on the menu: Chicken parmesan
First dance song: “Spend my Life with you” by Eric Benet Featuring Tamia
What is your best memory from your wedding? Seeing all of our family and friends coming to support us from all areas of the country was one of the sweetest things we cherished from our wedding day.
What is the best wedding advice you can give to engaged couples? On the day of the wedding, don’t worry about anything. All the months of planning are over and it’s time for you all to enjoy your special moment. Whatever happens on the day of your wedding is out of your control, let other people handle it. It’s time for you to enjoy your special day and enter into your union at peace!
Vendors:
Photography – YNOT iMages
Makeup – Colorblast Studios
Hair – Oliver and Company
Vidoegraphy – Creative Impulses
Wedding Planner and Designer – Designs By Annette Ernest
Stationery – DLG Invitations and More
Cake – Cakes by AL
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