High School Sweethearts’ Sweet Exchange in Bensalem, PA | Vincent + Hawa Jallah

There are so many high school relationships that fade away like the passing of summer. However, when these two lovebirds, Vincent and Hawa Jallah, crossed paths they stayed committed to growing together and standing the test of time. With that said, sometimes we need not look any further than across classroom to find the one we’re destined to spend forever with. This budding romance all began for them while attending John Bartram High School in Philadelphia, PA. Hawa Jallah says, “Vincent was the school’s soccer star that all the girls pined over; he always managed to steal the spotlight. As for me, I was shy and much more reserved, but once I saw him, I knew I had to have him.”

Even though they shared class together junior year, Vincent’s special privileges -gained by being one the school’s most popular athletes- often kept him absent from class. One day, Hawa Jallah took it upon herself to pick up an extra homework sheet before she left for the day. She explains, “This was my chance to talk to the most popular boy in school.” Soon enough, it become her routine to make sure he received his homework, but Vincent seemed oblivious to her admiration. They started to build a friendship during this time but it wasn’t without its challenges.

As time passed and the school year slowly drifted away, Hawa Jallah’s mother told her that she would be moving; that meant she would have to transfer schools. On her last day at Bartram High, they both exchanged numbers to be sure they would keep in touch and that is exactly what they did. Feelings blossomed between them and from then on, they were practically inseparable.

We love everything about this gorgeous wedding perfectly planned by our Coterie Member, LilyV Events! Enjoy these lovely photos and check out more in the gallery here.

How He Proposed

His proposal was sweet and thoughtful because the people that meant most to us were there as witnesses. It was during Thanksgiving and honestly, I was enjoying watching the two families together. I was seated to the right of Vincent and we all went around the table expressing what we were thankful for. It was Vincent’s turn to say what he was thankful for he stood up and began giving thanks to each person sitting at the table. He started to his left walking around the table slowly, saying something special about each person and giving thanks to them. As he approached me, he laid his hands gently on my shoulder and I felt them tremble. He began…
“There is nothing more special than having this great woman by my side and I am most thankful for her.”He got on his knees and I could feel my temperature rise as blood rushed to my cheeks. He continued telling me how thankful he was that I was in his life and finished with those famous words…”Will you, Hawa Bengeh, make me the happiest guy in the world by marrying me?” After a quick pause from shock, I said “Yes!” We hugged long and then he gave me a kiss and ended…
“Yes there is nothing more special than having this great woman by my side than having her by my side as my wife.” We all celebrated. It was wonderful.

Incorporation of Culture
We incorporated our culture by having the oldest married couple on his side of the family start the line dance.

Best Memory
After Vincent and I had the first dance,  we did a surprise performance for guests along with the bridal party.

Top Wedding Planning Tip
Be sure to attend pre-marriage counseling.

Wedding Style
Vintage and elegant breaded dress. My earrings were my favorite wedding accessory.

Bride: Nikia Coefield
Groom: Vincent Jallah
Wedding Date: 08/17/2014
Wedding Location: Celebrations – Bensalem, PA

Quick Facts

First dance song: All of Me by John Legend
Wedding menu favorites: Salmon
Bridesmaids gifts:  Personalized Bridesmaids decorative comb
Groomsmen gifts: Personalized matching socks for the Groomsmen

Vendors

Wedding planner/designer:  LilyV Events
Venue: Celebrations in Bensalem, PA
Photography: UBara Photo
Make-up: Koko
Hair: Ramatu Kargbo

Thanks for sharing your heart-warming wedding story with us, Vincent and Hawa Jallah!