Couple:Brandon & Alicia
Let’s start at the beginning. How did you two first meet?
Brandon and Alicia networked their way into each other’s lives in August 2016. Their interests were sparked over a mutual love of God, their churches, and football. In fact, they had their first date after both attending their own churches one Sunday afternoon!
What makes your relationship special? Tell us some things that you both value in your time together. (example: pushing each other to new limits, love to travel, huge comic book fans, foodies, etc.) What makes your relationship unique?
We have our own set of “quirks” in our relationship that just work well. We love to laugh, and we love to make each other laugh! All in all, we’re just goofy! Anytime we are together is a time to build on our relationship. We definitely push each other to be the best version of ourselves. We also love to travel together. Each time we visit a new city, we try to take time out to visit the local aquarium. We actually had our first kiss in an aquarium, and over time, this has become a unique component of our relationship and serves as a reminder of where we started and how happy we have become together.
How did you know your partner was the one? When did you first know this in your relationship? (these may often be the same moment, but aren’t always)
Alicia: I knew Brandon was “the one” when he became my first thought in the morning, and my last thought before bed. I found myself praying for him more than I prayed for myself. I began using words like “we” and “us”, instead of “I” and “me”. That’s when I knew he was the one for me.
Brandon: I knew she was the one earlier at the beginning of our relationship. I found myself thinking about her and considering her feelings more than my own. I would sometimes daydream about the things that I wanted to do with her. Once I realized what I was doing, I went to God in prayer about Alicia, I clearly heard back. She is everything I never knew I needed…and then some!
Give us all the details about the proposal. How and where did it happen? Was it a surprise? What was the planning process?
Alicia’s Version: My proposal was a COMPLETE surprise to me! However, it quickly became clear that I was the only one that was not in the know. Brandon proposed on June 24, 2017. On that day my sister explained that she was in town for my nephew’s track meet and since he qualified to compete the following day, they would be in town for the evening. She suggested that we meet at The Capital Grille for dinner and drinks. Although it is one of my favorite restaurants, I thought it was a bit expensive for an impromptu meal, and little upscale for her kids. I suggested tons of other locations, but she insisted on this one. (Little did I know the reason she wanted to go there so badly) I talked with Brandon about it, and he so calmly explained that we had nothing else better to do so we might as well go and have a little fun. I obliged, but refused to get dressed up, thinking my sister really isn’t the “dress up type.” Brandon kept insinuating that he would love for me to wear a dress, but I kept declining saying “that’s great honey, but I’ll wear that one day on date night.” After a little back and forth, I changed into more appropriate attire, and off we went.
Once we got to the restaurant, I asked for a table, thinking my sister was running late. The server explained that they were trying out a new set up in an extended area of the restaurant and that we could be seated there. I followed behind her while checking my phone. Just then a set a curtains flew open and all I saw were cameras and smiles! I was completely shocked! To my surprise Brandon had assembled 35 of my closest friends and family members, including my parents and sister, to share in this special moment. I could barely breathe let alone move! He led me to the middle of the room, recited the most beautiful words and affirmation of love I had ever heard, dropped to one knee, and asked for my hand in marriage. Of course, I said yes…once I caught my breath! The whole day was just magical and unforgettable!
Brandon’s Version: She had absolutely no idea!! I recruited her Sorority Sister to come with me to go shopping for a ring. Once she left, I picked a different ring from what we both thought was a good selection (Yes….I upgraded her ring!!). Then, as nervous as I was, I went to the home of Alicia’s parents to ask her father for her hand in marriage. I tried to hide my excitement, but I was thrilled that he accepted! After that, I recruited people from her job to ensure that they were in the know as well as other family members, Sorority Sisters, and others. Finally, I met with the executives of Capital Grille to plan it out. The hard part was getting her there! After much deliberation, we made it there on time, the curtains moved to the side, and she was shocked!! I was happy that with all the planning that I did for months, the proposal went as planned! The process was a bit stressful, but it was well worth it because she said ‘yes’, and I coudn’t be happier!!!
We’re all about the bling… Tell us all about that ring!
The bling is a gorgeous halo shaped princess cut Neil Lane ring.
Are you excited to start planning your wedding day? Do you have any ideas in mind yet?
We are completely overwhelmed with excitement for our special day! We will be getting married in March of 2018 with a theme of Romantic Elegance.
Credits
Photographer: DW Digital Photography // Ceremony Location: The Rosen Centre // Event Designer: Joie de Vie Weddings & Events // Event Planner: Joie de Vie Weddings & Events
