Jasmine and Mark have known each other for years. They met in high school after being introduced by a teacher, and they soon developed a strong friendship. Call it coincidence, fate or destiny: Jasmine and Mark decided to go to the same college in Florida. After a month of college, their friendship evolved into an intense romance. Years later, Mark pulled off a nostalgic proposal. He took Jasmine to their high school bus stop and asked her to marry him at the place where he first laid eyes on her. Since they currently live in New York City, this fun loving couple decided to allow Cendino Teme Photography to capture their excitement, while posing in front of famous NYC landmarks. You are going to love the funny faces Jasmine makes in some of her pictures. She is so adorable. We wish them the best of luck on their big day.
- Bride to be: Jasmine Fowlkes- Entertainment TV Research Analyst
- Groom to be: Mark Clennon, Jr.- Digital Advertising Account Manager
- Wedding Date: 02/15/2014
How They Met
Mark and I met sophomore year of high school after being introduced by a teacher. We had a history class together, and lived on the same street. Through the remaining years of high school, we developed a close relationship and eventually became good friends. Coincidentally, we both decided to attend the University of South Florida. After one month of being away at college, we began officially dating. Seven years later, the rest is history. I feel blessed to be marrying both my high school friend and my college sweetheart.
The Proposal
This past December, Mark and I flew back home to Florida to spend the Christmas holidays with our families. On the afternoon of December 27, Mark insisted that we revisit our high school bus stop. After much hesitation, I finally agreed. Once we arrived at our old bus stop, Mark got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. I was in total disbelief and shock. Mark wanted to ask me to marry him at the very place that he first laid eyes on me – our bus stop. It was special and unique, much like our relationship. We spent the afternoon dining at a restaurant on the beach. I will never ever forget that day.
The Engagement Session
Mark and I currently live in New York City. Being that the wedding will be held back home in Florida, I wanted to make sure our engagement session showcased our current lives as New Yorkers. I wanted the focus and emphasis to be on the landmark sights of New York City, while still casually capturing our fun-loving personalities and this special time in our relationship.
I instantly fell in love with Cendino Teme Photography after seeing his e-sessions and weddings featured here on Munaluchi Bridal and ESSENCE Online a few months before we got engaged. I loved the way his revealing images really represented the couples’ relationships. After finding out that he was also a fellow Floridian, I knew I had to hire him to capture that special time in our lives.
Looking Forward to…
Jasmine says: “walking down the aisle to marry my best friend and the love of my life, while sharing that same love with our friends and families during Valentine’s Day weekend.”
Mark says: “seeing the girl that I’ve seen grow up since she was 15 years old, finally walk down the aisle to me.”
Wedding Planning is Tough
I’m learning that planning a Florida wedding from New York City is not easy, but with the help of my wedding coordinator and our families, everything will work out fine. The wedding will take place during Valentine’s Day weekend, so it’s important that our wedding guests really enjoy a loving experience on our special day.
Vendors
- Cendino Teme Photography: www.cendinoteme.com
- Save-the-Date Banner created by 5280 Bliss: http://www.etsy.com/shop/5280bliss
Pamela Davis
Jasmine I am so very happy for you and Mark. You are like the neice I never had you actually feel like a blood relative to me. I”ve been blessed to have a glimpse into the love affair of you and Mark and it has been such a fabulous experience. I am so proud of you, and seeing all that you have accomplished with Mark by your side has been amazing. You two are a beautiful couple and you have shared some once in a lifetime experiences together. I only see this journey to marriage being equally adventurous. Thanks for sharing the view that has been captured by these stunning photo’s. Wishing you both a beautiful journey to marriage and beyond!
Ms. Toni
Hi Jasmine,
Congratulations!! I’m so happy for you and Mark. I’m also so very proud of the beautiful lady you’ve become. Of course I expected no less but wanted to say so.
I pray God’s blessings over you and Mark. Much happiness, joy and everything God has in store for the two of you.
Lots of Love, Ms. Toni (Ivory says Hi & Congrats 2)