Acts of charity and kindness are in themselves rewards for the action, but often much more is gained from the gift of giving. For Daphaney and Sebastien, their good deeds have been rewarded with the greatest gift of all; each other.
It was in 2011 during a United Nations fundraiser where the couple first met, both assigned to work together as charity donation representatives. During the charity team celebration dinner following the event, Daphaney and Sebastien instantly connected, talking for hours, “like old friends reunited.” Lost in the bliss of each other’s company they lost track of time, talking until they realized the restaurant was closing and their afterparty had ended sometime ago. They would spend the rest of that lovely evening strolling along the streets of New York City, not wanting the night to end…
Continue reading all about Daphaney and Sebastien’s lovey story, and romantic surprise broadway proposal!
Bride & Groom: Daphaney Rose Jacquitte, Sebastien Vante
Occupations: Social Worker (Bride), Non-Profit Manager (Groom)
Wedding Date: 6/24/2016
Wedding Location: Woodbury, NY
Tell us how you met and all about the proposal: How We Met: We met during a fundraiser for the U.N. in 2011. The two of us were tasked with charity donations, and we became instant friends. One evening, the team hosted a celebratory get-together at a local restaurant. We sat together and talked for hours, like old friends who had reunited. Next thing you know, the restaurant was closing (the post-work event had long concluded); so we spent the rest of the evening strolling NYC streets.
The Proposal: Began as a date night to see Cinderella on Broadway on October 2, 2014. Prior to the show, we met up with a mutual friend who worked with the production. He invited us backstage following the show, for a “press conference”. Of course, I excitingly agreed, unbeknown to me that it was my lucky night. Following the show, we were brought backstage. It was completely empty. I gave it little thought, assuming that the actors were still changing out of their costumes. I walked to the center of the stage in amazement. I turned around to say “Baby, isn’t this great?!”, as Sebastien was getting down on one knee. I completely fell apart. Keke Palmer (who played Cinderella) as well as Sherri Shephard (Wicked Stepmother) later joined us for the celebratory moment. Best night ever! I’m a huge Broadway fan; it was truly a fairytale come to life.
What was wedding shopping like for you? I wore a lace illusion Sottero and Midgley gown. It was soft, elegant, and bold. It very much embodied my personality, it was absolutely perfect. I perused about 6 different bridal salons (much to the disenchantment of my mom), and tried on over 3o gowns. I felt compelled to choose something that suited me best. I spent my teenage years competing in pageantry, and in those years, I often wore very glitzy, beaded gowns. I found the “dramatic shift” to be refreshing.
Did you incorporate any culture into your wedding? We had a griot (a popular Haitian dish) station during our cocktail hour! We also danced the night away to Konpa. It was a fun way to incorporate Haitian culture into our wedding.
Bridesmaids/Groomsmen gifts: Bridesmaids: Custom robes, Custom tote bags, Earrings. Groomsmen: Custom Flasks.
Favorite item on the menu: Cake!!!!
First dance song: “Angel”- Anita Baker
What is your best memory from your wedding? During our wedding ceremony, the both of us let our guards down and got emotional as we shared our vows with one another. We truly had a “this is happening” moment. It’s an amazing feeling to begin a journey with the one you love.
What is the best wedding advice you can give to engaged couples? Always take a step back and enjoy the days to come. A wedding is a beautiful occasion, but it is just an event. A marriage is a lifetime. Don’t let the stress get to ya!
Vendors:
Bridal Gown Designer: Sottero and Midgely
Bridal Gown Salon: RK Bridal
Reception Dress: Mejeanne Couture
Bridesmaids Dresses/Salon: Bill Levkoff, Bridal Reflections
Flower Girl Dresses: Bridal Reflections
Hair: The Beauty Boutique
Makeup Artist: Oyato Artistry
Shoes: Badgley Mischka
Groom/Groomsmen’s Tuxedos: Men’s Wearhouse
Ceremony/Reception: Crest Hollow Country Club
Photography: Stanlo Photography
Day of Coordinator: Fleur Occasions
DJ: DJ Smoke Productions
Emcee: Kevin Thompson
Florist/Event Designer: Feriani Floral
Cake: Dortoni Bakery
Stationery: Wedding Paper Divas
O.O.
When a man loves a woman…it looks like this. Congratulations guys!