Real Weddings: Shante & AJ

Shante and AJ’s love journey began through Facebook. Through their shared interest in things like traveling and watching movies, as well as many other characteristics of course, the pair dated for four years before AJ knew it was time to ask Shante’s parents for their blessing over a marriage proposal. To ask the big question, AJ gathered the couple’s friends and family at one of Shante’s favorite local restaurants for a brunch. Everyone there was in on the surprise that they would be witnessing him propose. Shante assumed nothing out of the ordinary, and was shocked to see AJ get down on one knee to propose just outside the door. The couple entered the restaurant and Shante was blown away by all of their people shouting “surprise!” Shante played a big part in planning the wedding; she also did some DIY but used wedding planning professionals to assist in execution of their dreamy nuptials. AJ and Shante exchanged vows before 75 guests. Shante was ravishing in the classy ballgown that happened to be the first she tried on. Their wedding incorporated many odes to AJ’s background, which is Ethiopian. The table numbers and cake topper that said “love,” were printed in gold in the language of Amharic. These were just some of the ways the pair were able to honor AJ’s culture and family traditions. The global tradition of joy, laughter and dancing were ubiquitous, as Shante and AJ celebrated their new status as husband and wife with those closest to them late into the night.

Wedding Details

LOCATION: Madison, VA

TIME OF YEAR:  Summer

WEDDING STYLE: cultured, natural, friendly

CEREMONY & RECEPTION: Early Mountain Vineyards

MENU: The starters included seasonal greens salad and zucchini bread, then an entree of cabernet-braised short ribs and pan-seared salmon filet alongside chickpea tomatoes and cauliflower curry, and tender, braised collard greens, Basmati rice and roasted seasonal vegetables. Signature drinks were the couple’s favorites of Jack & Coke and a tequila sunrise

DESSERT: Lavender and vanilla cakes

FIRST DANCE SONG:  “Caught Up In The Rapture” by JoJo

INSPIRATION: Their love for their families and their Ethiopian background played a big part in their wedding decisions. The bride wanted natural elements to be included; the couple had a unity plant that they watered as well as they did the tradition of jumping the broom

SPECIAL FEATURES: Shante commissioned an artist to draw the wedding venue and all their guests signed the artwork, this served as their guests book; the bride’s cousin is a professional singer who sang at the wedding; Shante and AJ wore a traditional Kaba that is commonly worn at Ethiopian weddings; favors were Berbere spices; the bride made all of the wedding signs; bride’s grandmother is a minister and was the officiant; tea station

HONEYMOON: Maui, HI

COLORS: 

Vendors

• Photographer: Amy Smith Photography
• Videographer: Digital Pride Films
• Florist: Urban Flora
• Wedding Planners: Karissa Coffey and Favored by Yodit
• Event Designer: Andrew Roby Events
• Ceremony & Reception Venue: Early Mountain Vineyards
• Officiant: Minister Julia Rogers
• Caterer: Roadside Chive
• Cake Designer & Desserts: Maliha Creations
• Lighting & Rentals: Beggars Banquet Rentals
• Transportation: Easy Riders Bus Company
• Entertainment: Zandi Entertainment
• Soloist: Shacara Rogers
• Print Materials: Charm Cat and Deseta Design
• Calligraphy: Just Write Studios
• Make Up Artist: Blush by Makki
• Hair/Salon: Ayanna Hair Salon and Educe
• Bridal Gown: Sottero & Midgley at Zoya’s Atelier
• Bridesmaids Dresses: BHLDN
• Groom & Groomsmen: The Black Tux
• Guest Book Artist: Heidi Nelson