Parris, an occupational therapist and Michael, a professional basketball player for the Kentucky Mavericks in the Premier Basketball League, met in Atlanta just after New Year’s. So it’s fitting that the couple went to Piedmont Park and Downtown Atlanta as markers of their engagement. After scoring a Valentine’s Day date in 2013 and a summer engagement two years later, the couple has saved the date for an intimate September 16, 2016 wedding in Decatur, GA.
Tell us about how you met and all about the proposal!
We met in Atlanta on the weekend after New Year’s in 2013 at “Bottle Bar,” a bar that use to be located in Buckhead. Initially I told Michael, “I’ll be moving out of state in a few months, so I’m not interested.” His reply was, “I guess I have a few months to change your mind!” I was curious to see how he was going to do that and decided to give him my number. After a few phone conversations and dates, it was clear that the chemistry was there. However, I was kind of guarded because I still had plans on moving out of state for work. Michael on the other hand, was already prepared to make this a long distance relationship. That April, I did move out of state. We proceeded with a long distance relationship, in which we found that distance really does make the heart grow fonder. After two months, unforeseen circumstances allowed me to return to Atlanta to be with the man God had destined for me.
The proposal happened on August 15, 2015. I was under the impression that we were just meeting up at a friend’s house prior to a concert, as we often do prior to going out or attending events. Whenever we get together with our friends, we’re constantly snapping pictures. One of the ladies had a selfie stick and insisted that we take a group selfie. Little did I know, the group selfie would end with Michael on one knee and him asking for my hand in marriage! I was totally surprised and in major shock! I now phrase that day as being an ordinary day that ended in an extraordinary way!
The engagement session…
We met in Atlanta, so we definitely wanted to have our engagement session in the city of Atlanta. Our theme was “love & basketball” inspired by his love for me and his love for basketball! Our session was amazing! I love how it illustrated both the romantic and fun parts of our relationship.
What did you do on your first date?
Our first date was Valentine’s Day 2013. He took me on a romantic dinner to Food 101 in Atlanta.
What’s your favorite thing to do as a couple?
Our favorite thing to do as a couple is to travel! We also enjoy doing couples outings/double dates with our friends.
How has wedding planning been so far?
Wedding planning has been really fun and exciting! I’m most excited about working with wedding designer, Akeem Clayton! I can’t wait to see how fabulous the décor will be. My fiancé prefers not to be overwhelmed with all of the details so that’s where my best friend/maid of honor has stepped in. It’s been fun staying up late with my bestie, adding little details to make my big day extra special!
Tell us what you’re looking forward to most on the wedding day.
What I’m looking forward to the most is the reaction from my groom when I walk down the aisle! I can’t wait for him to see me in my dress!
Vendors:
Photographer: Neville Simpson
Make up: Yanique Downer, YayaBeatsFace
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