Text by Demara White – As seen in the Munaluchi Fall/Winter 2016 Issue
As she waited outside the cathedral doors, beautifully adorned in a sparkling bridal halo, with crystal encrusted jewels and a custom ivory-hued mermaid gown by Erica Angeline, bride Tiffany appeared to have it all together – on the outside, that is.. But on the inside, her heart fluttered in anticipation. Once the doors opened, all eyes were on her, but her eyes were fixed on only him. As she took her first steps towards her future, all became well with the world. But, before we get too ahead, let’s kick it back to where it all began.
It was love at first click for Tiffany and Arthur. The pair met digitally via the leading dating site, Match.com, and their lives intertwined through keyboard taps as they messaged each other for weeks before exchanging numbers. What started off as a simple, and somewhat unconventional way of meeting and getting to know someone, turned into what Tiffany calls, “the best relationship of my life”. Their unplanned romance escalated into a committed venture right before her eyes – turning Arthur into, not only Tiffany’s friend, but her lover, confidant and soul mate.
When it came time for the proposal, Arthur solicited the help of their neighbors, choosing the area’s annual fall festival as his stage for the proposal. Tiffany, who had just finished presenting a prize to the winner of one of the festival’s events, was then told by a neighbor that she needed to stick around for another special announcement. To her surprise, Arthur (who was supposed to be away on business), appeared with a bouquet of flowers and a hidden ring. As he presented her with the flowers, he serenaded the crowded room with details of his love for Tiffany and how he hoped to spend the rest of his life with her. “He got down on one knee and asked me to marry him, and I obliged by saying yes” shares Tiffany.
On the blissful day of November 14, 2015, the pair wed and in the spirit of Tony! Toni! Toné! they can now label the day as their anniversary. They not only unified as husband and wife, but the couple also held a “pouring of the sand” ceremony with their parents to symbolize their families intertwining as one. Additional sentimental moments included Tiffany’s Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated sisters special serenade to her of the “Sweetheart Song” and a heartfelt rendition of The Lord’s Prayer.
When questioned about her advice for brides-to-be Tiffany shared this tidbit, “Remember, your wedding day is the anchor for the vessel of marriage. Storms may come and go, as well as the sun may shine bright; however, the anchor of your wedding day will hold the couple tight!” She continued to say, “Be prepared for life’s adventures, and take pride in knowing your wedding has laid the backdrop for a well-written story”. And indeed, Tiffany and Arthur’s cyber-meeting, angelic romance, and stunning wedding merely serve as the prelude to the remainder of their well-written love story.
Bride & Groom: Tiffany La’Genia & Arthur Lee Robinson II
Occupations: Educator & District Financial Manager
Wedding Date: 11/14/2015
Wedding Location: Sacred Heart Cultural Center, Augusta, GA
Bridesmaids/Groomsmen gifts: Bridesmaids – Silk Robes, Customized T-Shirts, Sequin Hangers, Rhinestone Flip-Flops, and a wedding day make-up session by Bee Wade. | Groomsmen Gifts – NFL apparel from their favorite team
Favorite item on the menu: The stuffed Chicken Florentine with White Wine Sauce and Garlic Mashed Potatoes, and the butter almond wedding cake.
First dance song: “So Beautiful” by Musiq Soulchild
Help a Bride-to-be out: The best wedding advice I can offer engaged couples is to cherish every moment of the special day when it arrives. Expect the unexpected and appreciate the unintentional moments that may arise. Live life in the moment, and do not become obsessed with expectations of how everything “should happen.” And leave it to the professionals, pick a great team and let them put your dream into reality.
Vendors
Bride’s dress: Erica Angeline
Bridal salon: Erica Angeline
Bride’s shoes: Badgley Mischka
Bridesmaids dresses: Brides by Nona
Cakes/desserts: Cakes by LaMeeka
Catering: Greedy Palates
Ceremony venue: Sacred Heart Cultural Center, Augusta GA
Event decor/design: ellyB Events
Entertainment: Tamarius Hill
Event planner: ellyB Events
Favors: River Street Sweets
Florals: The Perfect Creation
Hair: Smack Hair
Lighting: ellyB Events
Linens: ellyB Events
Makeup: Bee Wade
Photography: Milanes Photography
Reception venue: Sacred Heart Cultural Center, Augusta GA
Rentals (chairs): Sweet Seats
Stationery: ellyB Events
Videography: Focal Blu
