Some may call Rozanna and Efemena’s love story a coincidence, dumb luck or fate – but the couple know it was nothing more than a divine intervention from the heavens. One created by God, long before the two ever met.

“Efemena (Efe) was born and raised in the Southwest side of Houston Texas in a neighborhood called Mission Bend. I was born on the Southwest side of Houston Texas as well. I lived in several parts of Houston as I grew up, but when I turned 17 our family ventured back to the Southwest side of Houston to reside in Mission Bend – unaware that Efe and I were minutes away.” shares Rozanna. The small community of Mission Bend is home to any typical neighborhood amenities including, a community swimming pool, a tennis court, a park and a sanctuary, Christ The King Episcopal Church. A sanctuary that holds heavy sentimental value to the couple.

“Though Efe had since moved to  Sugar Land, he and his family still worshiped and served at Christ The King Episcopal Church. The sanctuary sat directly behind my house, so close I could look over my fence and see the church!  Who would have known that just right across a wooden fence laid our destiny!  Though we were so close we never saw each other” says Rozanna.

It wasn’t until college that the pair would connect. The two attended Sam Houston State University and came face-to-face at the university’s Lowman Student Center during the National Pan-Hellenic event, “Meet the Greeks”. “He was last in line standing with his fraternity brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Inc. and stood there smiling. From that moment on I knew Efe was bae! Little did I know Efe had already spotted me months ago and had his eye on me” shares Rozanna.

A few months down the line, Efe and Rozanna met officially. At the time, Rozanna was in the process of becoming a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. “Efe’s first words to me were ‘It’s you!’,  I immediately smiled, and from there we became inseparable. 7 years later after all the coincidences, chances, and close proximity we  are finally where we belong , together” shares Rozanna. So beautiful.

Gander on for more from this couple’s elegant, lavender and gold wedding in Houston, which hosted over 350 guests! Their nuptials also included a few of our amazing Houston based coterie members including, photographer Grif Kolberg, with planning by Darryl Wilson of D’Concierge Wedding Planning and decor by What’s The Occasion, Linens & Decor!

Bride: Rozanna Atkins
Groom: Efemena Mukoro
Occupations: Bride: Teacher | Groom: Accountant
Wedding date: 4/30/2016
Wedding location: Ceremony: Christ The King Episcopal Church in Houston, TX | Reception: Signature Manor in Houston, TX

Tell us about the proposal!
Efe: 
When you know, you just know. I decided to propose to Rozanna (Ro) in late 2014.  I bought the ring in April, and planned to pop the big question in May. Weeks prior, I informed Ro that we would be attending a birthday party for a close family friend of ours. This way she would already be dressed up and available the night of the 30th. When May 30, 2015 came around, the city of Houston seemed to be under water. Flood warnings had been issued for almost every part of the city.  This was not the ideal weather for an outdoor proposal. Because of the nasty and dangerous weather Ro felt it would be best if we stayed in and made it a Netflix night. There were moments when I thought about rescheduling, but after I had invited close to 30 people to celebrate with us, I figured it was best to stick to the plan. 

We got in the car and headed down I-10. After a few minutes I made a quick right turn into Terry Hershey Park and I told Ro to put on her shoes and take off her scarf, because we were going to help my brother first, because he was stranded at the park. Ro was confused and completely unaware; but we got out of the car, and made our way towards the park anyway. As we approached the bridge she noticed the drenched flower petals and candles – I think this may have given away my plan!

I got down on one knee in the middle of the soaked bridge and I popped the question and she said YES! Filled with unexplained relief and joy I watched and smiled as Rozanna danced and skipped in the rain towards the dimly lit park. As she got closer to the gazebo, the lights flashed on and our family and friends welcomed us with open arms, cheers, and a few tears. We celebrated with prayer and a toast.

The night could not have been more perfect – rain and all.

Describe your wedding dress! What was wedding shopping like for you?
My wedding dress was a cream pearl colored Mermaid gown with an Alencon lace bodice, delicate lace straps, a textured tulle skirt and sheer back. Shopping for my wedding gown was an exciting time filled with so many emotions. The first stop I made was Winnie Couture; I tried on, and fell in love with the gown I would later purchase. I shopped around and tried on countless dresses but always had in the back of my mind the backless beautiful first gown I tried on at Winnie. So, I went back to purchase the “Sienna” gown and it was the best decision I could’ve made!

Did you incorporate any culture into your wedding?
We did a cultural second entrance wearing traditional Isoko (Nigerian) attire.

Quick Facts:
Bridesmaids Gifts: Pearl & gold studs, Pearl & gold broaches, and Betsy Johnson makeup bags | Groomsmen gifts: Tuxedo broaches
Favorite item on the menu: Fried Ravioli
First dance song: “A Ribbon in the sky” by Stevie Wonder

What is your best memory from your wedding?

The best memory from our wedding was walking into the reception area for the first time and seeing our vision come to life. Everything was perfect! It also gave us a private moment to enjoy each other.

What is the best wedding advice you can give to engaged couples?
Enjoy every moment, you only get married once!

Vendors:

Bridesmaids dresses: David’s Bridal
Cake: Edible Designs by Jessie
Ceremony Location: Christ the King Episcopal Church (Houston, TX)
Design/Planner: D’Concierge Wedding Planning
Decor: What’s the Occasion, Linen & Decor Rentals (Houston)
Flowers/Decorations: Decor 2 Remember
Hair: Fusion Hair
Makeup Artist: Val Ross
Photography: Grif Kolberg Photography
Shoes: Badgley Mischka
Stationery: Wedding Paper Divas
Reception/Catering: Signature Manor
Video: Dareas Scott Films
Wedding dress salon: Winnie Couture