Georgia is a special place for #Black Southern Belle. Between the modern amenities of Atlanta to the traditional charm of Savannah, we can’t get enough of Georgia. Amber and Andrew are a Georgia bred couple that represents all the state has to offer. Now based in Atlanta, this southern duo is planning the southern wedding of their dreams and today we are featuring their Atlanta engagement session.
Bride Name:
Amber Monique Shaw
Groom Name:
Andrew Robert Vassell
Engagement Location:
Centennial Olympic Park, Atlanta GA
Engagement Date:
6-19-2015
Alma Mater of Bride:
Kennesaw State University
Alma Mater of Groom:
Georgia State University
Current City where you live:
Atlanta, GA
Bride Hometown:
Augusta, GA
Groom Hometown:
Lawrenceville, GA
Bride Sorority:
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.
Groom Fraternity:
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc.
How did you meet?
We met through a mutual friend at a club in Atlanta
How long have you dated?
6 years on October 11th
How did he propose?
It actually started the day before the proposal when me and my girlies all went to get manicures. Honestly, we hadn’t hung out in a while so I didn’t think anything of us going to get our nails done. All week Drew told me that we were going to a birthday dinner for one of his close friends, but it turned into such much more. On the day of the engagement I got home after a long day of work, got dressed and honestly I never told him this but I almost didn’t go because I was so tired. I had a really rough week and just wanted to relax. Imagine that, spoiling my engagement because I was too tired. He told me that the dinner was at 7:30pm and to make sure I was ready in time. Once we got downtown he let the cat out of the bag that dinner was not at 7:30pm but it was actually 8pm. I got a little upset with him because I thought he PURPOSELY told me the wrong time because he thought I’d be late (I’ve been known for being a little tardy). But, then he tells me that he wanted to take me to a nice part of Centennial Park he had seen while running the week before. Now, I’m giving this disclaimer that my lovely fiancé (boyfriend at the time) loves to run, so his idea of “it’s not far” is something close to a two mile walk…and I had heels on so I know the ladies can relate!! So, pouting most of the way, I began to walk toward the location! Once we get there he hands me a lovely card which expressed how much he loves me and can’t wait to spend the rest of our lives together. Hindsight 22, the card screamed “WILL YOU MARRY ME” but me being me, I didn’t even realize what was happening. Then he turns me around and hands me an old fashion glass Coke bottle that said “Share a Coke with My Fiancé”. Folks, I promise I still didn’t realize what was happening until he actually dropped down on one knee and pulled out the ring! I FINALLY realized the love of my life was asking me to be his wife, so there was only one answer…YES! Right after I realized this was really happening his fraternity brother popped up out of nowhere and began taking pictures! He was there the entire time and captured every moment of it! It truly was the best day of my life and I could not have asked for a better proposal!
When did you know he was the one?
Honestly there was not one moment, one date, or time that I said he was the one. It is the 6 years of growth, change, and love we went through that made me realize he was the one.
What is the cutest thing he has done for you without you asking?
My man is always sweet but, at his house he has hardwood floors and I would complain about how my feet would hurt and ache! So one day I came home and he had bought me a brand new pair of house slippers! It was something so small but meant so much to me!
What is something you love about him that has completely changed your life?
He is truly a Man of God! Seeing how God truly changed his life changed mine. Seeing him pray, worship, and praise God unashamed is something I love and has changed my life.
What part of wedding planning is making you crazy?
List! List! and more List! Everything has been smooth sailing but getting our guest list down has been the hardest part. We (my fiancé) is pretty organized so we stay on top of most wedding planning.
What part of wedding planning can you not live without?
Just the experience of being engaged
What was your first thought the day after your engagement?
“I’m a Fiancé eeeek!!!”
What did you love about taking engagement pictures?
I loved that we were being just us! We were not trying hard we just did our thing!
Who did you tell first about your engagement?
WELL, I was the only one who did know! All of my friends and family knew and NOBODY spilled the beans.
Are you used to the ring yet?
Uh Yes! I would put a picture of my ring in this spot if I could! I love my ring!
How many times do you accidentally say girlfriend instead of fiance in a day?
-1 or -2 lol honestly never!
Photography courtesy of Chanel French.
FULL GALLERY
Images via Chanel French
Comments
Michiel is a Black Southern Belle living a lowcountry life. I love all things fashion, home decor and southern! When I am not running around doing fun stuff for Black Southern Belle, I live in antique stores and have a minor obsession with historic homes :)
AWESOME!!!! Jessica, thanks for sharing your beautiful daughter and future son-in-law with RLK.
You two were made for each other, love the story and remember to always keep God first and what God puts together let no man/woman come between! You two are a beautiful couple.