How did you meet?
Christopher and I met while working at Wal-Mart in 2006. At first we became good friends. He was my confidant and someone I could get a male’s perspective from. After conversing for approximately six months, we attended our first date.

Tell us about Sheila & Christopher
Sheila – In my professional life I serve as a Register Nurse. However, I still enjoy several activities outside of work, such as traveling, shopping, and spending quality time with my Chris.

Christopher – I work for the U.S. Army as a Mobility Warrant Officer. On my days off I enjoy the opportunities to travel, attend sporting events, the gym, and brushing up on world history.

How did the proposal go? 
Christopher was working in Virginia. In celebration of his return, I planned a welcome home seafood boil for him. I had a feeling that he may have been up to something due to the fact he was very persistent about my parents who lived in Houston being present at the event. As the celebration was nearing its end Christopher asked the DJ for the microphone. He proceeded by giving a speech and at that point, my heart started pounding. He began to play a video that he had created for me, which consisted of pictures of him and I throughout the years. At the end of the video he got down on one knee and asked me to be his wife and of course, I said I yes!

Where was your ceremony held and why did you pick this site?
The ceremony was held at the Arbor Room. We originally decided on that location because of the fountain, which makes a beautiful backdrop for any outdoor ceremony. However, due to the weather our elaborate ceremony was moved inside of the facility, which was turned into a fairytale space.

Where was your Reception held and why did you pick this site?
The reception was held at the Arbor Room. Overall we fell in love with the space because of its versatility. The Arbor Room has a modern look that can easily be transformed and highlighted by any color palette. Not to mention the venue’s food was divine and a must have.

What unique or special things did you do at the reception? 
We had all sorts of unique and special people who helped us put a personalized stamp on our wedding. For example, we started off our reception with a Violinist who played modern R&B music during our cocktail hour. Later on, in the evening we had a performance by one of New Orleans well-known artist. Then to top the night off we ended our celebration with the Free Agents Brass Band who was followed by a Mardi Gras Indian and a tramp. We also provided several other things such as rescue flats and a magic mirror photo booth, which was a big hit with our guest.

Pick one moment in the day that was your favorite thing?
If there was one moment that I would chose as my favorite, it would have to be being presented as husband and wife shortly after we said our I Do’s.

Did it really go by as quickly as everyone says?
Yes, it did! The night went by so fast; it felt as though we did not spend as much quality time with our guest as we originally intended to. Our guest count was about 225!

What was the inspiration behind picking the color palette and decor that you picked?
We wanted a color scheme that was unique and rarely used for weddings, not to mention I just love the color black and how tiffany blue accents complement it.

From the Bride – When you first saw the groom, what were you thinking/feeling?
The very first moment I saw my groom I felt elated. I thought that he was the most handsome man on earth and I was so honored that I was becoming his wife.

From the groom – When you first saw the bride, what were you thinking/feeling?
When I first laid eyes on my beautiful bride I was taken back and amazed by my beautiful queen. It almost felt as though I had butterflies in my stomach.

Who was your baker, what was the flavor of your cake? Was it delicious?!
We used Berry Chic Nola as our baker. We had 2 flavors amaretto and pineapple and traditional wedding cake. It was super delicious and everyone loved it!

Did you do a first look? If so how did you feel about it? If not, do you wish you had?
Yes we decided to do a first look. We are so glad we made that choice, because it helped us calm our nerves and it also allowed us to have some private time together before our ceremony.

Did you have a coordinator or did you plan everything yourself? If you didn’t have a coordinator any advice for brides planning their own wedding?
We decided to have Lavishly Chic Events by Delia design and coordinate our wedding. Delia was amazing! She paid attention to every little detail. The overall outcome and experience were truly beyond measure.

What was your first dance song? Why this song?
Our first dance was to Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn’s-If This World Were Mine. The song represented our relationship throughout the years as well as the deep love that has transpired between the both of us.

Band or DJ? Did they rock it?
We had both a band and a DJ. Yes they rocked the house the whole night!

We want to hear YOUR advice for future brides.
As a future bride you should try to enjoy every moment of your adventure, from planning to your big day, because it all will go by very quickly. Also, do not sweat the little things such as forecasted rain, because ultimately everything will still turn out perfect!