Tell us your love story!
“We met the good old-fashioned way…on the internet” – Christian
It all began with an episode of Shark Tank on a cold, Friday night in January of 2015. There was a pitch for a new dating app, Coffee Meets Bagel. Christian and I watched independently and decided to give the app a try.
A few weeks later, a match was made. I was visiting friends in New York City and interviewing at several law schools when I messaged Christian wishing him a ‘Happy Valentine’s Day.’
We began talking to each other and learning about each other’s lives. We soon discovered we had much in common, notably our love for our tan and white bulldogs. After a few weeks of messages and texts, we decided to meet in real life.
We met at a library in Fort Lauderdale, FL in late February 2015. We decided to grab a bite to eat and a beer at a nearby pub. We shared a drink and a less-than-gourmet chicken & waffles meal, which would later become our signature dish.
As the first date drew to a close, we knew we wanted to spend more time together. Christian fell in love with my green-grey eyes, quick-witted sarcasm, persistent quest for knowledge, and “Jamerican” cooking. And I quickly fell for his compassionate love of animals and the natural world, his dry humor, and his Southern gentleman-ness. Our love blossomed and continues to grow to this day.
How did he propose?
On a New Year’s get away in Asheville, NC, Christian asked me to marry him in a bookstore, just like it start
How did you choose your venue?
In the summer of 2017, it felt like we toured every outdoor venue in central Kentucky. We wanted an outdoor/garden ceremony that was near the center of Lexington. Waveland was one of the first venues we visited, and we loved the scenic beauty and the proximity to the city center.
What elements were most important for your wedding day to you?
My family is from Jamaica and I grew up in South Florida. So, it was important for me to have tropical elements shine through in the Bluegrass setting. Florals, vibrant colors, and flavorful foods were the driving forces in planning our perfect day. We wanted our Southern and Jamaican families and friends to come together and celebrate in a casual, fun, and elegant outdoor space.
What advice would you give other brides?
It is your day! Be confident about your choices. Do not let family, friends, or vendors force you into any decisions. Invest in a great photographer and delicious food.
Photography: Burtch Photography
Ceremony & Reception Venue: Waveland State Historic Site
Suits: Geno’s Formal Affair
Wedding Planner: Amanda Carrico
Caterer: Fida’s Caribbean Cafe
Cake: Caramanda’s Bake Shoppe
DJ: KY Sounds
Florals: The Added Touch
Rentals: Purdon’s Rental & Sales
Hair: Melanie Day, You’ve Got Curls
Officiant: KY Sounds
Rehearsal Dinner Caterer: Red State BBQ
Bridal Shower Location: Palmers Fresh Grill