"Alpha Meets Delta" Greek Engagement Session in Nassau, Bahamas: Tara + Keenan -Munaluchi Bride

Long before Tara officially knew Keenan, she “knew of” Keenan. This was due to his involvement in local politics and having seen him occasionally at social events. Shortly after he became a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, Tara (a member of Delta Sigma Theta Incorporated) added him on Facebook to post an innocent congratulations on his wall. “He responded saying thank you, and that was the end of our communication as I was aware” shares Tara. Little did she know, Keenan began asking mutual friends for the 411 on Tara.

“I guess he must have liked what he heard because a few days later he sent me a private message” says Tara. Shortly thereafter, the pair exchanged numbers and began communicating more frequently. And to their surprise (and excitement) the two shared much more in common than Greek life. Next, it was only right that they officially meet. “Around that time, the Carifta Games (Caribbean Track & Field Meet) were being held in Nassau, and we were both planning to attend with separate people. [But] we decided that it was the perfect opportunity to finally ‘meet’” shares Tara.

Halfway through the games, the two made their way to their meeting spot of the Western Grandstand. Though Tara noted that the pair were equally unsure of what the other really looked like – the moment their eyes locked they immediately recognized one another. Million dollar smiles and hugs ensued and the rest is history!

The couple is now heading to the altar and selected the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium in Nassau, Bahamas as the location for their engagement shoot. And likely so, as it holds dear sentiment to the pair as it is the same location where they officially met! Their Alpha Meets Delta greek engagement session was shot by coterie member Eboni Bullard of Eboni Robyn Photography.

Bride-to-Be: Tara Dames
Groom-to-Be: Keenan Johnson
Occupations: Tara: Administrative Assistant | Keenan: Attorney
Wedding date: 11/11/2016
Wedding location: St. Paul the Apostle Roman Catholic Church, Nassau, Bahamas
Engagement shoot location: Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium, Nassau, Bahamas

Tell us about the proposal!
Tara: It was the anniversary of the day we met. Keenan picked me up from work that day, and told me we were going to the movies. We loved movies, so it was a fitting way to celebrate our special day; doing something we love. Shortly after we left my workplace, Keenan’s tire blew out and we were forced to stop on the side of the highway. Keenan was frantically making calls for someone to come pick us up, despite my assurance that it was okay to do the date night another day. He insisted that we still go, and make the most of our special day. After a few calls, his brother-in-law picked us up and dropped us off at the movie theatre. We walked in, and as we entered the lobby, “our song” (“Bless the Broken Road” by Rascal Flatts) was playing. I noticed it, but I didn’t think much of it.

We got to the theater, and it was empty – once again, it wasn’t out of the ordinary especially as it was a week day. The “movie” came on, and it was a slideshow of our relationship: screenshots of our conversations and photos telling our story with “our song” playing in the background. At the end, a slide came up with an inside joke between us. He always referred to me as his “future baby mama with a ring.” So this next slide said, “Will you be my future baby mama…?” There was a long pause on this slide and the final slip pops up saying “…with a ring????” The movie ended and the lights came up, and Keenan was holding out the ring. I bawled for a minute, then of course I said YES!

Describe your engagement session! Did you have a theme?
We didn’t have a specific theme but every facet of our engagement session was sentimental to our relationship. The location was where we first laid eyes on each other, and and the casual attire, black shirts and jeans, were what we were wearing on that day. The formal attire color is very close to one of our wedding colors.

What did you do on your first date?
We saw the movie, 42.

What’s your favorite thing to do as a couple?
We like to travel and experience new things together, for instance our last trip was to see an NBA game. It was a first for both of us. We also love watching movies!

How has wedding planning been so far?
Wedding planning so far has been pretty smooth. Keenan is very involved in the planning, which isn’t typical for most couples, but we’re enjoying being able to share yet another new experience with each other.

Tell us what you’re looking forward to most on the wedding day!
Bride: I’m looking forward to that “first look”. Seeing him for the first time as I step through the door of the church. I’m also looking forward to sharing lots of tears and laughs with our family and friends.Groom: I frequently envision facing the altar as Tara enters the church and my Best Man whispering in my ear, “Keenan…you are one lucky man!” The anticipation of seeing my beautiful bride for the first time that day makes excited at the thought alone.