LaQuita and Shaun’s romance began over a decade ago when they met online in 2005. Despite being together for so long, Shaun’s proposal was a complete surprise to LaQuita. She didn’t think anything was out of the ordinary when they drove to St. John’s University. Little did she know, Shaun planned a sweet proposal which took place in the parking lot where they first met.
Read all about their surprise proposal as well as their romantic and glamorous wedding in New York – featuring DJ performance by MunaLuchi Coterie member Mr. Matrimony (aka: DJ Spynfo)
Bride & Groom: LaQuita Alvaranga & Shaun Johnson
Occupations: Talent Acquisition Strategy Manager & Speech Therapist
Wedding date: September 3, 2017
Wedding location: Rosedale, NY & Woodbury, NY
Tell us how you met and all about the proposal. We met on Facebook in 2005! On our anniversary, Shaun drove back St. John’s University and proposed in the parking lot where we first met. I had no idea this was happening! We were on our way to dinner and I thought he was stopping by the campus to sign up for a friendly soccer team that he’s played with off and on throughout the years. He left the car and said he would be right back. He called and pretended to leave the check to join the team in the arm rest and asked that I check if it is there. He asked me to read the check and I did and he made me read it on the phone and it said “Will you marry me?” I was screaming so much I did not even realize that he was standing in front of the car!
What was wedding shopping like for you? Wedding shopping was fun, but frustrating because I have a very opinionated Mom and maid of honors. Everyone had an idea of what would worked best for me. When we found the dress we all knew it was the one. My dress was a mermaid form fitting style with some extra glam at the bottom.
Did you incorporate any culture into your wedding? We are Jamaican and wanted to ensure that our culture was reflected in the music. We played lots of dancehall and reggae and it kept the dance floor packed at all times.
Bridesmaids/Groomsmen gifts: The bridesmaids received necklaces, earrings, personalized robes and makeup bags. The groomsmen received personalized flasks and shot glasses.
Favorite item on the menu: The mashed potatoes and shrimp were a hit!
First dance song: Major – “Why I Love You” by Major and “I’m Ready” by Tevin Campbell
What is your best memory from your wedding? My favorite memory was meeting Shaun at the aisle. I was so frazzled the night before and walking up to him and seeing him there was so perfect. We smiled so much throughout the entire ceremony and I loved it.
What is the best wedding advice you can give to engaged couples? Definitely research, create a budget, and get a day of coordinator. The day of coordinator should be a priority if possible.
Vendors:
Photography: Angelo Ghislandi, Dream Life Photography
Videography – Domini Alcantara, Dream Life Photography
Day of Coordinator – Simone Vega, Coordinated to Perfection
Bride’s Dress – Bridal Reflections
Furniture Rentals – Evolution Event Rentals
Photo Booth and Poker Table – Ovation
Florist – Vanessa Polanco, Verde Flowers
Dance Floor Wrapping – SHOUT!
DJ – DJ Spynfo (aka: Mr. Matrimony)
Linens, Chargers, and Chair Accents – The Finishing Touch
Makeup – Amanda
Hair – Nastassja Clark & Tonii
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