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The Couple. Kenneth, a 37-year-old IT administrator, and Monique, a 31-year-old accountant, met at a Chinese church on Sunday after a service. The two introduced themselves, and quickly learned they had a lot in common—watching tennis, listening to similar music, hiking, and eating good, authentic Chinese food.
The Proposal. December 23rd, 2012, Kenneth and Monique set out to visit the Christmas Town in Williamsburg, Virginia. Little did Monique know, Kenneth had also researched romantic spots in the area, including the Crim Dell Bridge, the legend of which, has it, that if two lovers cross the idge together and kiss at the crest, they will be together forever. On a late morning, he took her to the idge, got down on one knee, and proposed. To cele ate, they enjoyed lunch at a nearby romantic restaurant.
The Ceremony. After deciding that they wanted to get married by the water, Kenneth and Monique set off for the Eastern Shore, where they fell in love with Osprey Point Inn for its gazebo outside, and restaurant inside. Opting to marry in a small outdoor fall ceremony, the ide and groom exchanged their vows in front of 38 people; Monique in an A-line Christo dress and a pink cashmere shawl, and Kenneth in a metallic silver suit by Calvin Klein. After her father walked her down the aisle, Kenneth sang for her—two moments Monique says she’ll never forget.r
The Decor. Monique and Kenneth selected a pink and gold color palette with laces, burlap, lanterns, and Mason jars for a romantic and rustic feel. The ide made most of the decorations, from the from escort card display, to the guest book, the wedding signs, and the mason jar candleholders. Outside, Monique’s dad set up a foosball table for the guests’ entertainment.
The Food. During cocktail hour, guests enjoyed stuffed mushrooms, crab cakes, and chicken satay, in addition to hot apple cider. For dinner, they dined on their choice of salmon, beef tenderloin, or sea scallops.
The Details. Monique took on many of the details herself. With a longtime love of stationary, she designed everything from the invitations, to the escort cards, menus, and programs. The ide also made Mason jar candleholders, burlap signs, the guest book, pom-poms, and other wedding details. Opting not to hire a DJ or a band, the couple selected the music together. They even performed a duet. For dessert, the ide and groom chose a sweet potato cake from a Korean bakery, and green tea and red bean mocha ice cream for dessert.r
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The Honeymoon. After the wedding, Kenneth and Monique headed off to Oregon for a week. They started in Portland, where they spent a day sightseeing before driving to the coast, from Cannon Beach to Newport. Following Newport, the two went hiking in Silver Falls State Park, and then spent three nights by Hood River. They checked out Multnomah Falls, and other area waterfalls before heading to Mount Hood and the Trillium Lake, and home.
The Ever After. These days, Kenneth and Monique say they are getting adjusted to each other, learning what each other likes and dislikes, learning to be considerate and helpful for each other, to apologize first, to forgive, and to love unconditionally. Earlier this year, they bought their first house together, and they’re in the process of decorating, buying furniture, and making their house their home. They hope to expand their family soon.r
First dance:
“Know You by Heart,” Dave Koz
Father/daughter dance:
“Cinderella,” Steven Curtis Chapman
Florist:
Eagle Hill
DJ/Band:
Friend
Caterer:
Osprey Point
Cake/desserts:
Shila Bakery
Dress:
Christos/Hannelore's
Bride's Shoes:
Stuart Weitzman
Men's attire:
Calvin Klein/Macy's
Jewelry:
Blue Nile
Stationary, favors:
DIY
Photographer:
tPoz Photography
Rentals:
Eastern Shore Tents and Events
Hair/makeup:
Hair for a Special Affair
