Real Weddings: Raina & Daniel

Love blossomed on the vibrant campus of Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX for Raina and Daniel, two ambitious souls pursuing their undergraduate degrees. Their dating journey began when both were working in the athletic department for the football team — Daniel was intrigued by Raina’s beauty, smarts and knowledge of sports. She was the complete package. Raina was equally impressed, and the two became an item. By May of 2022, Daniel, who became a talent management and software development entrepreneur, was eager to propose. He orchestrated a proposal that turned a routine photoshoot into a momentous occasion. With family and friends in on the scheme, Raina, a real estate professional, felt the love surrounding her as she exclaimed “yes” as soon as Daniel surprised her by popping the question. The stage was set for a June wedding in 2023, and what unfolded was nothing short of magical. Raina walked down the aisle, escorted by her proud father, at their ceremony in front of 220 guests, and for the reception, the couple took the festivities to new heights with personalized dance entrances by the bridesmaids and groomsmen. There was a dreamy first dance on a cloud, and being that Raina is a proud members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, they included the Delta Sweetheart Song as one of their late-night necessities. From the sidelines of college football to the center stage of matrimony, Daniel and Raina found an everlasting love as college sweethearts.

Wedding Details

LOCATION: Colleyville, TX

TIME OF YEAR: Summer

WEDDING STYLE: classic, beautiful, romantic

CEREMONY & RECEPTION: Aristide Colleyville

MENU: Passed starters were chicken quesadillas with an avocado cream. For dinner service a salad called Walter’s Wedding Estates Salad was presented. The entree choices were either grilled salmon steak and a marinated and roasted chicken breast, served with lemon herb sauce. Both were accompanied by a roasted broccolini and roasted potatoes. The signature drink was named “Love Potion” and it was a white wine spritzer featuring strawberry puree and sprite.

DESSERT: Wedding cake

FIRST DANCE SONG: “ICU” by Coco Jones

INSPIRATION: the couple wanted to stick with a traditional, classic theme

SPECIAL FEATURES: dancing on the clouds smoke affect; a Rolls Royce send off car; the couple gave out chocolate chip cookies as favors and midnight snacks; bride Raina DIY’d the seating chart using items from Etsy; the bride changed into a reception gown; photobooth

HONEYMOON: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

COLORS: