It all began in middle school when a mutual friend’s attempt at playing cupid would become an epic fail for bride Sheavan Butler and groom Reynold Smith Jr. The two would call it quits after only six days of dating in the 7th grade. “There seems to be a discrepancy about who broke up with who, said Sheavan.” ‘However we’ve been best friends ever since.” More than 15 years later the two would take their friendship to the next level and rekindle old flames. The only difference this time was that these flames would last for a lifetime. Engaged three years later the two would begin a journey of embracing the essence of true “black love.” The two wed in the Spring at the most picture-perfect venue conveniently located near the harbor. The floor to ceiling window could not have made the ceremony ballroom more fitting as guests overlooked the spectacular inner harbor view. The couple was careful not to take away from the amazing scenery, choosing to keep the ceremony décor simple and clean using the color palette choice of ivory, mauve, dark purple, silver and rose gold. “I have an insane obsession with rose gold, so we incorporated a lot of metallic elements into the reception decor as well, said Sheavan.” “I’m known for my unique personal style, so it was really important to me my personalities reflect in our wedding style as well.” The wedding was truly one that will be reflected in Mr. and Mrs. Smith’s minds forever.

Paula and Tricien met by chance when he asked for her business card at her salon booth after passing by her workspace several times. That chance encounter brought them together, and later down the aisle. When asked about her wedding, one unique experience Paula recalls is the stress free experience. She said, “My wedding was unique because It was obstacle free. Most wedding stories I’ve heard start off with how stressed the bride was and all that went wrong. But I didn’t have a hitch and my only concern that day was walking down the aisle.” Working with Eliana from ellyB Events, the wedding style was classic and beautiful with a hint of royal inspiration. Choosing The Temple House for their venue was the perfect backdrop for both the ceremony and reception. Accents like lush purple mood lighting, highlights of gold and pink, and a 7 layer white and gold masterpiece cake engraved with the couple’s initials and created by Lux Cakery helped to create the timeless and elegant style. Paula’s gown by Pantora Bridal featured gorgeous beading and an off the shoulder style. The reception decor included trees of fresh flowers by Akeem Clayton Designs, as well as a rose background for the ceiling and walls – to add a romantic touch. Honeymooning in Sandals Royal Caribbean in Jamaica in a bungalow over the water was the perfect piece of paradise for this lovely couple to celebrate their newly spoken vows. Paula has some simple advice for brides who want a stress free experience — hire ellyB.

While Brandy and Cornelius Miller’s family members were patiently waiting for their wedding day, the stealthy couple was in fact planning an elopement in the most romantic city in the world. “Besides my husband and I, only three people knew what we were up to! As we planned our elopement, we led our family and friends to believe we were having an actual wedding. We did everything from sending out wedding invitations, to creating a wedding website,” Brandy said.