A Study of Love: Sophisticated Engagement Session in Alabama -

It was in the midst of a New Year’s Eve celebration at the Downtown Sheraton in Birmingham where Tykeela and Sammie first locked eyes.

The fireworks, both celebratory and romantic, filled the night sky and space between them that evening. It wasn’t long before they were planning their first date at the movies, and soon one date continued to lead to another as their connection deepened. Tykeela and Sammie look forward to meeting at the altar surrounded by the love and support of family and friends and enjoying their first dance as husband and wife. Read all about their love story and romantic Valentine’s Day proposal – captured by MunaLuchi Coterie member Destiny’s Creations Photography.

Bride & Groom-to-be: Tykeela & Sammie
Occupations: Collections Specialist & Scientist
Wedding Date: September 19, 2020
Wedding Location: Ozan Winery; Calera, Alabama
Location of Engagement Session: Ozan Winery & Pelham Public Library

How did you meet? Tykeela and I met at a New Year’s Eve Party at the Downtown Sheraton in Birmingham, Alabama.

Tell us your proposal story! On Valentine’s Day of 2019 prior to celebrating by going out to dinner, I placed the engagement ring on the nightstand in our bedroom. I intentionally left it tied up inside the Jared bag so she’d assume it was a necklace or a pair of earrings. Once we returned home, I waited in the hallway (down on one knee) while she was in the room opening the bag. Once she discovered it was a ring, she came running down the hall with tears in her eyes and jumped into my arms. Luckily, she said, “yes.”

Describe your engagement session. Our engagement session was at two venues. We began at the Ozan Winery. Our attire was formal to go with our “wine tasting” theme. Afterward, we went to the Pelham Public Library. It was a last-minute venue change due to inclement weather. This time our attire was casual to go with our “study of love” theme.

What did you do on your first date? We went to the movies to go see “Just Wright” featuring Queen Latifah and Common.

What’s your favorite thing to do as a couple? We’re both pretty laid back individuals and creatures of habit. We still enjoy going to see new movies on opening weekend, or just staying in and watching old movies at home.

How has wedding planning been so far? Planning the wedding has been pretty stress-free (so far). We found our venue pretty early on in the process, and we feel extremely lucky to have been able to hire Destiny’s Creations to be our photographers. We still have to decide on a caterer, and Tykeela has almost nailed down her choice for a dress.

Tell us what you’re looking forward to most on the wedding day. Tykeela: “I am most looking forward to seeing my fiance’s facial expression as I walk down the aisle. I am positive that he is going to cry.”
Sammie: “I am most looking forward to dancing with my wife for the first time.”