Chantal and DeMario met though a simple message shared by a mutual acquaintance – and as they say, the rest was history! During their whirlwind romance, DeMario was offered an amazing career opportunity that required him to relocate to Birmingham, Alabama. However the couple didn’t allow distance to dampen their relationship. By keeping their commitment of seeing each other twice a month, the two successfully maintained their long distance love for over two years.
Shortly after his move (two weeks to be exact!), DeMario realized it was the right time to ask Chantal to be his wife. To disguise his proposal plan, DeMario informed Chantal they would be heading to dinner to meet his new boss and her husband. But upon arrival, the host informed the pair that their guests had phoned ahead to cancel. All dressed up and ready to dine, DeMario next suggested the two remain for dinner. After enjoying their meal to Chantal’s surprise a ring came with dessert (more specifically the engagement ring was in the center of it!) – and of course she said yes!
The lovely couple married in an Modern Violet and Magenta wedding at the WorkPlay Theatre in Birmingham, Alabama. Read on for more from the pair while viewing visuals from their big day captured by photographer Nick Frontiero.
Couple: DeMario & Chantal Hopkins
Occupations: Chantal: Assistant Human Resources Officer at U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs | DeMario: President Agent at DeMario Hopkins State Farm Agency
Wedding Date: 5/16/2015
Wedding Location: Workplay Theatre, Birmingham, AL.
Describe your wedding dress! What was wedding shopping like for you?
I wore a Trumpet wedding gown with a sweetheart neckline. Wedding shopping was a bit overwhelming; I visited several bridal shops before I found the one!
Quick Facts:
Bridesmaids/Groomsmen gifts: Bridemaids: Monogrammed Robes and Jewelry | Groomsmen: Monogrammed Glass Decanters
Favorite item on the menu: Shrimp and Grits
First dance song: “A Couple of Forevers” – Chrisette Michelle
What is your best memory from your wedding?
The best memory was being introduced to our family and friends as “Mr. and Mrs. Hopkins”.
What is the best wedding advice you can give to engaged couples?
Our best advice is to patient – no need to rush, you will have a lifetime together. Save as much as you can, set a budget, and most importantly hire an experienced professional wedding planner/event designer – you will have a lot more fun and less stress!
Vendors
Photography: Nick Frontiero of Nick Frontiero Productions
Event & Floral Design: Dana’s Floral Design
Wedding Planner: Dana’s Floral Design
Bridal Gown: The White Room
Bridesmaid Gowns: Bella Bridesmaids
Cake: Barb’s Cakes
Entertainment: Logan & The Cats
Groom’s and Groomsmen’s Attire: Mr. Burch Formal Wear
Lighting Design: A.G. Lighting
Rentals: Events Rental Unlimited
Stationery: Annabelle’s
Catering: Debbie Kemsel Catering
Hair Stylist: Courtney Kirk of Salon Picasso’s
Linen: BBJ Linen
Makeup Artist: Millicent Payne-Lindsay of Faceon Makeup Artistry
Venue: WorkPlay Theater
Phyllis Broadnax
Lovely!
danielle coffey
Beautiful!
Blair Rutledge
Such a beautiful day!!
Dorshalee
CONGRATULATIONS! You make a beautiful couple!
https://www.jw.org/en/publications/magazines/g201506/marriage-commitment/