Real Weddings: Courtney & Kevin

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In the hallowed halls of the academia, where research papers meet late-night laughter, Courtney and Kevin’s love story unfolded. Kevin, who possesses a bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University but was striving for his doctorate degree in Chemistry met Courtney, a graduate of University of North Carolina, while she was also furthering her education by attending the University of Michigan for her doctorate in psychology. It was a late-night bus ride after hours of research and teaching, where an unexpected moment of hilarity led to a shared chuckle that sparked a connection. Courtney immediately noticed Kevin’s great smile and complimented him. Though, that night they went their separate ways. Three months later at a church-sponsored event, Courtney and Kevin ran into each other there, and Kevin knew not to miss that opportunity to get Courtney’s phone number. They have been together since. Going from those first chuckles to forever, Kevin, now a Senior Manager in Business Insights & Analytics, was ready to propose to his sweetheart. He and Courtney, who went on to be the founder of a consulting advisory and a freelance writer, planned a pre-engagement photoshoot in the heart of New York City. Kevin knew this would be the right moment. As the wind gently swept through the city, and the photographer directed Courtney’s poses, she overheard a collective gasp filled the air. While her back was turned, Kevin got down on one knee with a ring box open, ready to take the next step in their love story. She spun around to see him proposing. The duo used a planner to help execute a red-carpet laden afternoon wedding in May of 2023 in North Carolina. With 170 guests bearing witness to their union, Courtney’s father walked her down the aisle, marking the beginning of a beautiful chapter in their lives. In a nod to tradition, both sets of parents gave them away, and in Congolese culture, Courtney and Kevin honored their godparents, adding cultural significance to a day filled with music, love and joy.

Wedding Details

LOCATION: High Point, NC

TIME OF YEAR: Spring

WEDDING STYLE: industrial, textural, classy

CEREMONY & RECEPTION: The Loft at Congdon Yards

MENU: Cocktail hour featured passed bites of lobster wontons, spinach shooters, raspberry brie pastry bites, and a 4-foot artisanal charcuterie board. Later, a Greek salad was presented to guests to begin the dinner services, then a spicy butter chicken breast or a butter salmon in a honey bourbon glaze for the entree. sides included a rice pilaf and garden style veggie medley. Signature drinks such as tropical pineapple daiquiri and a guava margarita. Guests were treated to late night snacks of chicken biscuits. There was also a mobile champagne bar.

DESSERT: Wedding cake and cupcakes

FIRST DANCE SONG: “Perfect” by Ed Shereen featuring Beyonce

INSPIRATION: Their vision was a classy, formal affair akin to a gala to contrast the industrial design of the space

SPECIAL FEATURES: a red carpet with a step-and-repeat; groom and his groomsmen all wore a custom suits by Garçon Couture; couple did the jump the broom tradition; had the dancing in the clouds smoke effect on the dance floor; bride changed into a reception dress; guests were asked to sign a canvas portrait with well wishes as the “guest book”, Courtney’s aunt made boutonnieres and the bridesmaids’ bouquets which included pearls from Courtney’s grandmother’s own jewelry woven into throughout the flowers; bridal party did the “Cuff It” dance choreography as Courtney and Kevin were walking down the aisle after they jumped the broom; non-traditional adult flower “girl” and “guy”; photobooth; live violinist played; mobile champagne bar

HONEYMOON: St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

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