Brandy and Yves grew up in the same neighborhood in Philadelphia where they first crossed paths as teenagers.
It wasn’t long after meeting that Yves’ family moved to Florida, leaving him and Brandy to occasionally connect over social media. In 2014 Yves moved back to Philadelphia where he reached out to Brandy reconnecting and catching up on their lives. Taking Brandy out to dinner for her birthday, the spark of their youth rekindled the affections that had always remained, and soon they became inseparable…
“I always knew she was the one. That is why I always kept in touch with her over the years.” ~ Yves
Featuring Officiating services by MunaLuchi Coterie member Married by Rev Roxy
Bride & Groom: Brandy & Yves
Occupations: Director of Safety & Security & Logistics Manager of Distribution Organization
Wedding date: Saturday, October 27th, 2018
Wedding location: Celebrations Wedding Venue, Bucks County, Pennsylvania.
Tell us how you met. Having met as teenagers in the same neighborhood in Philadelphia, these two friends would find themselves reuniting in their adult lives complementing each other’s lives and across thousands of miles. “I’ve always had a crush on her, even though she never paid me any mind, until now”, Yves shared. “She was always the girl of my dreams.” When Yves was a teenager, his family relocated from Philadelphia to Florida. Though miles apart, living their own lives, he would casually keep in contact with her over the years. It wasn’t until 2014 when Yves relocated back to the Philadelphia area and asked to take Brandi out for her birthday. Yves turned a normal dinner date at Del Frisco’s in Philadelphia into the evening of a lifetime. After that first outing, instantly the two loved birds were in love and inseparable.
Tell us about the proposal. On a beautiful spring evening in May, Yves pulled off a romantic proposal at their home amongst close family and friends. “Let’s start by saying that she hates surprises, but I’ve been determined to change that”, says Yves. “Months before the proposal, I called her family and my family, who live in Florida, and told them about the plan and how I wanted to surprise her with their attendance. Both of our families were excited and traveled near and far for the proposal. I then asked her for her blessing and she became overwhelmed with excitement and said ‘yes!'” Brandi says “I didn’t know if I should cry or scream but I automatically knew that this was the day that I was going to say YES to my soul mate, it was one of the best moments in my life. ”
How did you know they were “the one”? Brandi: “I knew he was the one after he relocated back to Philadelphia. I couldn’t believe how mature, handsome and very charming he was (and that smile). Last time we saw each other we were teens. He is the ultimate gentleman; open doors, pull back chairs, very caring and a great conversationalist. Chivalry still exists!”
Yves: “I always knew she was the one. That is why I always kept in touch with her over the years.”
Describe your wedding attire. My dress was full of drama! Sparkles, lace, and a very long train! I wanted a glamorous gown that was comfortable and beautiful. After trying on over 20 gowns at Kleinfeld’s, I laid eyes on the Randy Fenoli gown – I was in tears. I knew it was the one. The groom aimed for clean and classic; a Calvin Klein white and black tux.
What was wedding shopping like for you? Effortless. Most of the time, wedding shopping included the mother of the bride, maid of honor and my aunt/wedding planner. I chose them because I trust their opinions and they know my style. Of course, every bride-to-be has watched an episode of “Say Yes to the Dress.” So, after visiting over 20 stores, over a period of three months, the last stop was Kleinfelds in NYC. I was determined to find my dress. And on a wintery month in January, I said yes to my dress.
Did you incorporate any culture into your wedding? We incorporated traditional Creole into the wedding, which included a dancing tribute of Compas prior to dinner, for some of the family to celebrate their Creole heritage. Also, some Creole culture was incorporated into the menu with delicious traditional options.
What is your best memory from your wedding? Wow! So many moments to choose from! As cliché, as it is, saying “I do” and being surrounded by family and friends was the best memory. Also, when we locked eyes on each other during the ceremony, it was so magical! A moment that we’ll never forget.
What is the best wedding advice you can give to engaged couples? Plan the wedding you want and enjoy it! Many will try to influence you during the process but stay true to who you are (and to your budget) to ensure the entire day is all about the two of you! During your wedding day, stay in the moment and try not to stress the small stuff, just breathe and move forward. Trust me, it rained on our day, but luckily we were indoors and still had a blast. Have someone to manage your photo checklist, to make sure the people are available and to capture those special moments. The day will go by very quickly so don’t miss out on any special moments. Lastly, don’t forget to eat and have fun! It’s all about you!
Vendors:
Officiant: Married by Rev Roxy
Lighting/decor: My Super Party
Hair: Terri Ford
MUA: Brennan
Suits/shoes: (Groom & Groomsmen) Calvin Klein
Dresses: Bridesmaids – Davids Bridal
Venue: Celebrations Wedding Venue
DJ: Rob Bediako
Flowers: Riehs (5th and Cayuga)
Videographer: Petit Four Films
Groom suit: Calvin Klein
Bride gown: Randy Fenoli
Bride Shoes: Betsy Johnson
Photographer: Monti Digital
Wedding rings: Hers: Kays; His: Zales
Ceremony: Celebrations Wedding Venue
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