Brandi and James first met at Sharon Baptist Church in Philadelphia. One sunday, James approached Brandi and asked to take her out on a date. Even though she politely declined, James was persistent and tried again six months later. For Brandi and James an hour long conversation after church turned out to be the beginning of a lifelong commitment.
Read all about how James proposed as well as the couple’s beautifully regal wedding at Kimpton Hotel Monaco in Philadelphia, PA – perfectly captured by MunaLuchi Coterie member Sheronda Seawright Photography.
Bride & Groom: Brandi & James
Occupations: Attorney & Audio Engineer/Graphic Design
Tell us how you met and all about the proposal. James and I met at our home church, Sharon Baptist Church, in Philadelphia, PA. We had both been members of Sharon for a while, I had seen James in passing as he was a member of the audio visual ministry but we didn’t know each other personally. One Sunday, James approached me and asked to take me out. I was definitely caught off guard. I politely turned him down at first because I felt a little odd dating someone at church who I didn’t really know. What if it didn’t work out?! I would have to see him at church and that would be AWKWARD. lol. About six months later, he approached me again, this time we sat in the sanctuary after service and talked for about an hour. At the end of the conversation I agreed to give him my phone number and the rest is history!
The Proposal: I planned a Vision Board Party for New Years Day 2017. I invited my friends and family as well as James’ family to the event. While my mother, sister and I were setting up for the party, James disappeared (unbeknownst to me he was at my father’s house asking for my hand in marriage). At the party everyone was having a great time creating our vision boards which featured photos and words that described our goals/visions for the upcoming year. We went around the room to have everyone display their respective vision boards. When it was James’ turn he had me help him with his presentation by reading a magazine clipping he had affixed to his board. While I was distracted he grabbed the ring and placed it into an empty box he created on the board that read “place your future here.” He got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. It was an absolutely perfect proposal because all of our friends and loved ones were there to witness it. It turned into an engagement party with speeches, toasts, tears and lots of love! Practically everyone knew what was going on except me. I thought I was planning a Vision Board Party but little did I know, James was working behind the scenes and I was really planning my own engagement party.
Describe your wedding dress. I had 2 wedding dresses. My ceremony dress was a romantic princess gown with cascading roses and a fitted bodice. My reception dress was an ivory fit and flare gown.
How was wedding dress shopping for you? With only 6 months to plan our wedding, the first item on my wedding “To do List” (after selecting the venue) was selecting a dress. I went shopping with my mom and best friend for my reception gown and my mom and I shopped for my ceremony gown. I kept my shopping entourage small as I wanted to minimize outside opinions and savor the moment. Thankfully, I was able to find both of my dresses on my first visit to each of the boutiques I visited.
First dance song: “Get You” by Daniel Ceaser and “The Point of it all” by Anthony Hamilton.
Bridesmaids gifts: Personalized engraved necklaces and engraved jewelry boxes.
Favorite item on the menu: Braised Short Rib
What is the best memory from your wedding? It sounds cliche but our favorite memory was having all of our friends and family together to celebrate James and I becoming one; we truly believe that our families became one on our wedding day also.
What is the best wedding advice you can give to engaged couples? Soak in every moment…from your bridal shower, to your bachelor party, rehearsal dinner and wedding day. It is the best time of your lives so savor it!
Vendors:
Bridal shop: Jennifer’s Bridal and Bijou Bridal
Wedding Dress Designer: Ceremony Dress; Maggie Sottero Reception Dress; Pronovias.
Bridal makeup: Tyree Williams-Kelly of Tai Couture Salon
Bridal hair: Tyree Williams-Kelly of Tai Couture Salon
Veil: Veil Trends
Bridesmaids dress: Designers: Amsale and Jasmine
Groom suit: Enzo Custom
Videographer: Howie B. Photography/Videography
Wedding Photographer: Sheronda Seawright Photography
DJ: Everett “Hollywood” Jackson
Floral: Carl Alan Floral Designs
Reception Venue: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia
Ceremony Venue: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia
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