Tying the knot within an unplugged NOLA-inspired ceremony, their closest friends and family would be able to join the Second Line at NOMA with the Carter’s wedding.
These two high school sweethearts met when X was still just a baby bluebird. They’ve cultivated their love over the years until Brandon finally popped the question! One night they shared a seemingly standard romantic date night above the Chi-Town skyline at a rooftop restaurant. Following dinner, Brandon surprised Cyntavia by asking for her hand in marriage. She gladly accepted and they basked in their engagement under the stars along the Chicago shore.
Now preparing for their forever together, they customized elements of their heritage to personalize their wedding style at NOMA (New Orleans Museum of Art). The backdrop of its cultural art was lit by soft candlelight. Prior to this, Cyntavia collaborated with designer Ese Azenabor and adorned a truly original soft white tulle and feather jeweled bridal gown. Brandon’s groom suit was the perfect complement, with an ivory Olive Donegal suit jacket and Jetsetter British tweed dress pants.
As the color white represents new beginnings, and the color gold represents achievement; these colors were the perfect base of design for the Carters’ ceremony and reception.
These two lovebirds had the privilege of having their daughter as their flower girl on their special day and were also surrounded by just 150 of their dearest loved ones. After jumping the broom, they headed to their very own first line, the start of their union together as “one.” Surrounded by a sea of love in the second line, everyone cheered them on, waving the white flags of “new life and new beginnings” for the happy couple.
Keep reading below to learn more about how these high school sweethearts celebrated their special day.
- Couple: Brandon Carter and Cyntavia Thornton-Carter
- Occupations: Accountant and Sports Marketer
- Wedding Date: May 25, 2024
- Location of wedding: New Orleans Museum of Art, New Orleans, LA
Quick Facts:
- Where did you honeymoon: Bahamas
- Ceremony entrance song: Bridal party: Snoh Aalegra – “Do 4 Love”; parents: Madison Ryann Ward – “Anchor”; Bride: Frank Ocean – “Godspeed”; Groom: Lil Wayne – “Mr. Carter”
- Gift to Bridesmaids: Custom Lululemon bag, pajamas, flip flops, and earrings
- Bride: “Godspeed” by Frank Ocean | Groom: “Mr. Carter” by Lil Wayne
- First dance song: “Best Part” by Daniel Caesar ft. H.E.R.
How did you meet?
We originally met during high school; however, we reconnected during college via Twitter (X).
Tell us about the proposal:
The proposal happened at a seasonal restaurant called Homestead on the Roof in our hometown Chicago. It was Memorial Day weekend and started out as a regular date night. It was capped with a walk on the beach.
What Was Your Wedding Style?
My wedding dress was a custom masterpiece designed by Ese Azenabor (@eseazenabor ). It featured an exquisite blend of feathers, jewels, and layers of soft tulle. As a result, I found the ethereal look I always dreamed of. The dress was everything I wanted—elegant yet bold, with intricate detailing that made me feel like royalty. Shopping for the dress was a special experience as it was custom-made for me. Therefore, I felt deeply connected to the design process. My husband looked incredibly sharp in custom Olive Donegal, Jetsetter British tweed dress pants paired with an ivory suit jacket, perfectly complementing the overall aesthetic of our wedding.
Elements of Culture?
We incorporated our rich cultural heritage into the wedding. Firstly, we led with the timeless tradition of jumping the broom, this symbolic gesture was our way of honoring our ancestors and embracing the new chapter of our lives together. Then, after the ceremony, we fully embraced New Orleans culture with an unforgettable second line parade. Led by a lively brass band, we paraded through the streets with our guests, celebrating with vibrant music, dancing, and waving white handkerchiefs—a quintessential New Orleans experience!
The ceremony…
Favorite Memories?
One of my favorite memories was the moment we stepped out for the second line after the ceremony. Due to the celebratory culture of the second line, there was only pure joy in the air!
The sound of the brass band playing filled the atmosphere and seeing all our guests dancing and celebrating with us was magical. We felt the true spirit of New Orleans as we paraded through the streets, hand-in-hand, surrounded by the love of family and friends. It was an unforgettable experience that perfectly captured the joyous and lively atmosphere we wanted for our wedding day.
Any Advice?
Firstly, my advice to engaged couples is to make sure your wedding reflects who you are as a couple. Secondly, incorporate elements that are meaningful to you, whether it’s cultural traditions or personal touches that tell your love story. Lastly and most important; savor every moment!
As the day flies by, take little pauses to soak it all in, whether it’s during the ceremony or when you’re dancing with your guests. And remember that the day is about your love and partnership—everything else is just a beautiful backdrop to that.
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Vendors
- Venue: New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA)
- Planner: Elle Kay Events
- Photographer: Calvin Gavion Photography
- Videographer: B Bryant Films
- Catering: Aroma Nola
- Florist: Leaf and Petal
- Photobooth: PhoDat Booth
- Makeup: Center Stage Artistry
- Bride’s Hair: House of Royalty
- Band: Kinfolk Brass Band NOLA
- Floor decal: AD Event Group
- Rentals: True Value NOLA
