So, I married the love of my life last year. While I won't divulge every intricate detail, I want to share some moments with ya’ll. From the morning preparations to the wedding ceremony itself, every step was filled with surprises, love, and pure joy.
The Night Before/Morning Preparations
We had decided to jump the broom a long time ago. So, the night before, we wrapped our hands around the broom and prayed (with both belief system respected) over our marriage and bond. It felt intimate, sacred, and reflective. We’ve come so far. The morning of our marriage ceremony excitement filled the air. My wedding dress that I acquired from Lulus with the help of Ken and Sanket, awaited me in the closet. However, a minor alteration was needed to perfect the fit. The boobie area was too big, ya’ll! Shout out to Jhajha for styling me! Looking for a makeup artist was a hassle but I found one right on time! I found a makeup artist who respected my desire for a natural look, free from airbrushing and false lashes. Face Factor Glam, a delightful walk-in salon with a sweet aroma of peaches and sugary delights, became my sanctuary. The owner enhanced my features while sharing heartwarming stories of love and weddings. She ain’t have me looking as though I was an entire different person and she was gentle. Feeling at ease, I left the salon and headed home, only to encounter traffic that tested my patience. In that moment, I centered myself, focusing on the most important thing: marrying my honey bun with the extra glaze.
The Stain on the Dress
In the midst of the chaos, a small mishap occurred as I accidentally got foundation on the neckline of my dress. I tried the simple tricks to clean it off. NOPE. Panic threatened to overwhelm me, but I remembered the wise words of someone dear to me (Alivey has always been a resourceful one). Inspired by their resourcefulness, I swiftly blotted the stain with an unexpected ally: white nail polish. Relief washed over me when our photographer and former colleague, Jamie, couldn't even spot the mishap (She took wonderful shots!). From that moment on, I knew everything would be alright.
Jamie did a great job. Especially gathering everyone together to take great shots. If you need a photographer: https://jamiegiambrone.com/
He’s Gotta be Here to Walk me Down the Aisle!
Just as I was about to leave for Love Park, (where we got married) my phone rang but I missed call due to haul assing my way to Love Park. To my surprise, it was my father. He had planned to drive me, a gesture that touched my heart deeply. He was right behind me too. However, parking became a challenge for him once he reached Center City. Thankfully, the park ranger allowed him to park right in front of Love Park, ensuring that my father could walk me down the aisle and witness our sacred union. However, he had to move his car quick, fast and in a hurry after the ceremony was over. Time was also of the essence though, as Love Park weddings adhere to strict schedules. Fortunately, he made it in time, fulfilling my long-held dream of having my father by my side on day I get married.
Marriage Ceremony
Love Park embraced us with Philly tourists, our loved ones, and regular Philly shit (IYKYK). There was a beautiful addition though: butterflies danced alongside our joyous gathering. The surprise appearance of my uncle added an extra layer of happiness to the day. Uncertain if he could make it, his presence brought good shimmies to my heart. As I walked down the aisle with my father, I stood beneath the Love statue, ready to join my partner and the chaplain. Just as the ceremony was about to begin, a moment of panic struck me—I had forgotten my vows in my totebag! Thankfully, my other uncle's partner swiftly came to my rescue, handing me my bag. Determined to express my love and commitment, I found my yellow paper, ensuring that not a single line or vow was missed. Nope, our loved ones was finna hear my mushiness and commitment to my honey bun! Excitement radiated through me as I stood there, smiling from ear to ear, alongside my beaming partner. In that moment, I felt an overwhelming sense of certainty, happiness, and yes, the scorching heat. It was 85 degrees, and the humidity was on what-the-fuck-is-this-percent.
Exchanging Rings and Beyond
The exchange of rings marked a significant milestone, solidifying our commitment to one another. It really set in for me when Reign slipped that ring on my finger. It felt like a seal of authenticity—this person beside me was meant to be my lifelong partner. With gratitude in my heart from the journey we traveled and eagerness to strut forward with the journey ahead, I felt solid. Uncontainable ecstasy, ready to weather any storm, navigate any challenge, and cherish every moment until the very end—which surprised me because people told me that being that Reign and I have lived together for years, nothing would change and the ceremony would feel dull. Whew, those people were wrong!
As the ceremony concluded, we jumped the broom, celebrating to the rhythm of Beyoncé's "Summer Renaissance." My father, uncle, and beloved auntie's in-law remained by our side throughout the day, capturing precious moments in photographs and sharing in the joyous occasion. Looking back, their unwavering support and presence meant the world to us. In a beautiful gesture, my father and uncle even accompanied us upstairs to the courthouse, further solidifying the bonds of love and family.
Being that we got married in Philly, on a Wednesday and in the middle of the day, many of my loved ones had to leave. My father? That man was there ‘til the next day to take Reign and I anywhere we wanted to go. I-....I got me a good father, ya’ll. Anyway, my father, mama in law, siblings in laws, aunties in-law and niece in-law Enjoyed a lovely dinner at Harper’s Garden—thanks to my mama in-law. She also gave a delicious marriage cake that only lasted 4 days. We tried to keep one slice in the freezer...that wasn’t happening. Afterwards, my spouse, siblings in-law and I had a few drinks that were hella strong.
Our marriage ceremony was a tapestry woven with love, surprises, and cherished memories. From the morning preparations fraught with last-minute fixes to the heartfelt moments shared with loved ones, every moment was filled with happiness, a lil’ bit of panics and genuine connections. Love Park became the backdrop for our union, forever etching its image in our hearts.
A year later and...I’m glad I married my honey bun with the extra glaze. In September, we’ll make six years of being together. Time flies
10 years in this thing (slurps my luxurious ramen noodles and sips my bougie instant coffee). Anyway…I wanted to celebrate a decade as an indie author with the release of my eighth poetry collection, Rising From the Shadows. Pre-orders are now available for a December 10th release!