Vanessia and Corey's Romantic Village Engagement Session in North Carolina -Munaluchi Bride

Whether it be coincidence, fate, or a higher power at work – Vanessia and Corey’s meeting was certainly of noteworthy circumstance. By connection of a mutual co-worker, a position opening in Corey’s hotel would lead to Vanessia transferring from one to the other. The puzzle pieces of their lives would fall together at just the right time to ensure their love would unite on the path to forever.

Read all about Vanessia and Corey’s love story, surprise proposal, and wedding day aspirations in their romantic village engagement session in Raleigh, North Carolina – beautifully captured by MunaLuchi Coterie member Ronald Parker of Artije Photography.

Bride & Groom-to-be: Vanessia & Corey
Wedding Date: August 19, 2017
Wedding Location: Popular Springs Christian Church; Raleigh, NC
Engagement Shoot Location: Lafayette Village in Raleigh, NC

Tell us how you met.
His Version: I met Vanessia at work (Hilton North Raleigh) through a mutual coworker who trained us both in the hotel chain. I called our mutual coworker (Mrs. Theresa) one day to see if she knew anyone that would like a job at The Hilton due to an opening we had. She got back with me a few days later and gave me Vanessia’s information to refer to my manager. Without knowing or seeing who this lady was, I knew that she would be a good fit at The Hilton because Mrs. Theresa would send over hard and dedicated workers.
Her Version: I was actually working the split shift at Embassy Suites. Due to my schedule, I noticed it would be easier for me to transition over to FT Night Audit. When I made this statement Mrs. Theresa (one of my front desk trainers), advised me of a position opening at The Hilton. She stated that she would suggest me to Corey (who already worked there). The two of them had worked together previously and felt that she could convince him that I was a good candidate. Although I had heard a lot about Corey, I didn’t physically meet Corey until my first day on the job (September 2015).

Tell us all about the proposal. The proposal was January 15, 2017 at BUKU restaurant in downtown Raleigh, NC. This was supposed to be Corey’s Birthday Celebration (his birthday is on January 16th) so some family and friends were there to help us celebrate. When the main meal was over, I began seeing cupcakes come out. I LOVE good food so I’m looking at everyone get one except myself. I’m in the middle of asking yet again for a red velvet cupcake (there were 2 types; chocolate and red velvet) when suddenly I turned around and there was a waiter (whom I actually went to NCSU with) bringing a beautiful plate with chocolate covered strawberries and a RING BOX in the middle! Our photographers came out and began capturing the new journey. I think I was shocked that this was happening and so overwhelmed with JOY all at once. EVERYONE KNEW EXCEPT ME! Tears began to flow, Corey took the ring, got on one knee and stated, “Vanessia, you mean the world to me, I love you dearly. Would you do me the honor of taking my hand in marriage?” I didn’t hesitate at all! I always knew he was THE ONE!

Describe your engagement session. We wanted it to be classy and just show our love. Our wedding theme is “True Love Conquers All.” The photographers came up with the location because it looks like Paris, France a location known for love and romance.

What did you do on your first date? To be honest, we both can’t remember our “first date” because we had such a beautiful friendship that merged into a relationship. It was like we had known each other forever so the only thing that changed was our status and some of our mannerisms towards each other but other than that everything else remained the same.

What’s your favorite thing to do as a couple? We love watching movies of all genres’ but seem to get a kick out of horror movies and we definitely enjoy trying new foods.

How has the wedding planning been so far? We were able to obtain some good pointers from one of my Mentors & God Aunts whom is a wedding planner (Mrs. Terry Spicer CEO of Spiced Elegance). I took what she said along with the information I found online via various wedding sites and hit the ground running. The actual wedding planning has been very smooth. The “planning” process was completed within the same month that we became engaged.

Tell us what you are looking forward to most on the wedding day?
Corey: “I’m just looking forward to seeing her pretty smile and dress.”
Vanessia: “Just taking in the actual day in its entirety. Looking at my wedding venue decor as we walk in, seeing my handsome man, spending time with my family & friends, and last but not least – the moment when we are pronounced husband and wife…at that time I’ll be like, Jesus IT IS FINISHED!”