Ciarra & Shawn

As they danced, it was just the two of them in the room (or so it seemed). They gazed into one another’s eyes, the love shone on their faces, in the smiles, in the stares, in the way they held onto one another. The moment was fleeting, but for them time froze. It could have lasted forever. Ciarra and Shawn’s first dance was one that will remain etched into my heart forever. Some first dances are just that-a first dance-a couple awkwardly swaying back and forth in front of hundreds of their closest friends and family. Not this one. Ciarra and Shawn were able to, in that moment, be whisked away to a place alone-just the two of them. You could just see the love they shared, the excitement they have for the future, and the pure joy they felt of being in that moment

-as husband and wife.

To say that Ciarra and Shawn’s wedding was beautiful is quite honestly the understatement of the year. Set at The Kentucky Center for African American Heritage (naturally beautiful and unique in its own right), this exchange of nuptials was fit for a King and Queen B (wink, wink Beyonce fans). Under the direction of Pamela and Lauren Broadus of Splendid Events, LLC, the stage was set by Millennium for a delicate, feminine, and classy evening with eye-catching florals, flowy fabric, and bouquet lanterns. The three tiered, semi-naked cake by Cakes Unlimited was a dynamic mixture of deep florals, gold leaf, architectural genius, and greenery. It tied all of the aspects of the wedding together in one amazing edible work of art.

Ciarra and her entourage were fun and upbeat, posing for impromptu photos and stories of earlier times. The bridesmaids were helpful and attended to Ciarra’s needs amid the nerves, happy tears, and wardrobe malfunctions. Her maid of honor even showcased her seamstress skills a time or two. Ciarra was a radiant vision in her Justin Alexander Signature dress. From the neckline to the sleeves down to the hemline, the exquisite detail on the garment seemed to be tailored specifically for her.

Jaw-dropping gorgeous she was!

Surrounded by the chill of the guys, Shawn could be found pacing with a quiet nervousness. As he read a sweet note from his bride to be, I could tell that he was so in love and couldn’t wait to be her husband.

The ceremony, officiated by the bride’s brother, was sweet and elegant with touches of humor. Ciarra’s mother, Zina, was beaming with pride as her gorgeous daughter was escorted down the aisle by her husband. I bet for a moment she thought back to the day they become husband and wife.

Ciarra and Shawn said “I do” and then it was time to party.

Let me say this. I have been to many receptions, and although this reception had all of the usual elements, first dance, garter and bouquet toss, cutting of the cake, etc., it was a party atmosphere. This couple came to slay on everything.

The party was lit!

DJ Z-Nice kept the music pumping and the dance floor was alive the entire night.

Thanks to Pamela, Lauren, and the amazing team at Splendid Events LLC, this beautifully orchestrated day will be one that Ciarra and Shawn will remember fondly for the rest of their lives.

Ciarra and Shawn, it was an absolute pleasure to witness the day you became one. I count it a high honor to have been able to capture the essence of your wedding day and freeze some memories for you. I wish you all the best that life has to offer in your future. With your sweet adoration for one another and love for fun, I have no doubt that you guys will be forever happy and in sweet, sappy love forever.

 

Vendor List

Planner/Coordinator: Splendid Events, LLC

Photography: Shannon Drummond Photography, LLC

Venue: The Kentucky Center for African American Heritage

Decor/Florals: Millennium Events

Videographer: Abdul Sharif

Cake: Cakes Unlimited

Caterer: Wick’s Pizza

Favors: Sugar and Spice Bakery

Groom/Groomsmen’s Attire: Geno’s Tuxedo

Bride’s Dress: Justin Alexander Signature

Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Adrianna Pappell

DJ: DJ ZNyce