Real Weddings: Lashonda & Jonathan

By Mae Wagner

Jonathan first became interested in Lashonda after seeing her aesthetically pleasing Instagram page, which showcased many well-curated and attractive pictures of her. He was interested in getting to know her and confident that he would be able to wow her with his charm and charisma. Luckily for him, he and Lashonda, who is an economic developer and grant writer with a degree from Virginia State University and a Master’s from North Carolina A&T State University lived in the same county and they even had several mutual friends who were able to set up a meeting in real life. And as they say, the rest is history. Jonathan, a retail consultant who received both a bachelor’s and an MBA from the University of Arizona, decided to make a grand gesture for his proposal to Lashonda. He contacted Vivian Green, a Grammy-nominated singer, and requested that his proposal be made a part of her performance at the Hampton Coliseum Valentine’s Day show with an audience of 20,000 people. He made sure that Lashonda’s family members were able to witness the performance via Facebook livestream. The couple planned their wedding to be held at Mankin Mansion in Richmond, VA, an award winning estate that combines luxury with history. It felt “foundational to our sense of happily ever after” the couple says. During their reception, Lashonda and Jonathan’s 150 wedding guests were This elegant and sophisticated wedding was truly Lashonda and Jonathan’s happily ever after.

Wedding Details

LOCATION: Richmond, VA

TIME OF YEAR: Summer

WEDDING STYLE: romantic, royalty, grand

CEREMONY & RECEPTION: Mankin Mansion

MENU: Guests noshed on fruit, artisanal cheeses and rope sausage during cocktail hour. Next came entrees of smoked chicken pieces and barbecue smoked salmon, with sides of jalapeño mac and cheese, collard greens, salad, slider rolls and cornbread. The couple featured signature cocktails cleverly entitled the Golden Groom made of D’Usse and lemonade, the Blushing Bride made of Skyy Vodka, Peach Schnapps, lime juice and cranberry juice and the Something Blue made of Skyy Vodka, Blue Curaçao and lemonade.

DESSERT: Wedding cake made with flavors of lemon and strawberry swirl

FIRST DANCE SONG: ”Good Love” by Usher and “You Change Me” by Jamie Foxx

INSPIRATION: The couple was inspired by their national award-winning wedding venue for their luxurious yet romantic aura.

SPECIAL FEATURES: birdcage was used to house cards; the couple did the jump the broom tradition; bride and groom broke out in a coordinated dance during first dance; groom wore custom made velvet suit

COLORS: