Melody is a musically satisfying sequence of single notes; the harmonizing of separate sounds forming an arrangement of auditory pleasure. As in music, so is life – and for the singular sounds of Tanya and Serge, their coming together has formed an endless melody harmonizing into the bliss that will be the rest of their lives together.
Having initially met at one of Serge’s “gigs” their relationship slowly harmonized as the “months went by [and] Serge and Tanya would occasionally bump into each other at parties…” As their communication increased so did their feelings for each other grow, blossoming into a “beautiful beginning.”
Read all about Tanya and Serge’s love story and romantic park proposal!
Bride & Groom: Tanya Israel & Serge “Scooby” Sainthilaire Jr.
Occupations: STEM Lead of Curriculum and Instruction; Musician; Band Leader (Maestro)
Wedding date: July 7, 2016
Wedding location: Tides Estate, New Jersey
Tell us how you met and all about the proposal. In the Fall of 2010, the husband and wife to be, met at one of Serge’s local gigs at SOBS in Manhattan, NY. After complimenting the group on their performance, and exchanging a few words that night, the two went their separate ways.
As months went by Serge and Tanya would occasionally bump into each other at parties, only exchanging cordial “hellos”, until Facebook bought them back together in March 2011. The infamous Facebook message that was initiated by Serge, evolved into texts, then phone calls. After getting to know one another for some time, they embarked on their journey through the “dating stage.”
On May 23, 2012, they decided to take their relationship to the next stage of commitment and the rest, is the start of a beautiful beginning…
In the second year of their relationship Serge decided that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with Tanya. As he devised his plan, to create the ultimate surprise for her…he realized exactly what the proposal needed; his son, Jaden, the heart of their soon to be family.
During the Labor Day holiday of that year, Tanya spent the entire weekend one-on-one with Jaden. Her mom joked that, no one would ever be so comfortable with someone and their child, unless they were engaged or married. The thought of a proposal crossed Tanya’s mind, but swiftly disappeared in the midst of all they were doing that weekend.
That Monday, September 1, 2014, Serge called Tanya and told her to get Jaden ready as he wanted to do lunch. Both Tanya and Jaden were dressed but Serge had other plans. He wanted Jaden to change and “match” his father’s wardrobe. Tanya became very confused and upset by this seemingly random request, and on top of that she was starving!
After a great lunch at one of their favorite eateries, The Cheesecake Factory, Serge shared that he wanted to go to Memorial Park so that Jaden could ride his new bike. Tanya, under the impression that they were going to go shopping, confusedly agreed. Once they arrived, Jaden was extremely excited as Serge got onto his knee — Tanya was still unaware of what was happening. He’d tricked her into thinking that him and Jaden bought her a “surprise.”
Well, what a surprise it was! Serge began to express his love for her with his son on his side — and an overjoyed Tanya shouted “YES!” for the entire park to hear.
What was wedding shopping like for you? Dress #6 chosen by little sister, a Stephen Yearick. Definitely was not in the budget but when I tried on the dress, I felt like a princess and knew immediately that this was it! The dress didn’t fit perfectly on the actual wedding (too big in mid section) but it was everything I could ever imagine.
Did you incorporate any culture into your wedding? Haitian Music- Reception.
Bridesmaids/Groomsmen gifts: Bridesmaids- Personalized Button down shirts and Jewelry. Groomsmen-Personalized Flasks and Fun Socks.
Favorite item on the menu: Stuffed Shells and Chicken Marsala.
First dance song: “I Heart You” by Harmonik.
What is your best memory from your wedding? Father and daughter dance, and portrait pictures during the first look.
What is the best wedding advice you can give to engaged couples?
4 Important Points:
Trust God―You don’t need to have everything figured out.
Ask for advice―You’re surrounded by experienced couples.
Talk about your expectations―You probably have more of them than you realize.
Stay calm―Don’t let the stress of your big day cause tension.
Vendors:
Planning and Management- Prestige Affairs Event Production
Photography and Video- WeddingPix
Florals and Design- Pretty Posh Events
Bride Mua- Inner Beauty Out
Hair Stylist- Dagmarh Jeremie Souffrant
Groom and Groomsmen Stylist- Styledby Paul
DJ- DJ Stakz
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