Carolina love is something special and NaKeshia and Bryan’s NC/SC love story is definitely what dreams are made of. This beautiful Durham based couple has roots in both Carolinas and it shows in their love for each other and their love for their home states. Learn more about this cute duo today as we wish them the best on their wedding and marriage!
XOXO
Michiel
Bride Name:
NaKeshia Pulley
Groom Name:
Bryan Melvin
Engagement Location:
Columbia, SC
Engagement Date:
7/20/14
Alma Mater of Bride:
University of South Carolina, Columbia SC
Alma Mater of Groom:
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, NC
Current City where you live:
Durham, NC
Hometown:
Bride – Columbia, SC Groom- Fayetteville NC
How did you meet?
We were at a party and towards the end of the night John Legend’s “Tonight” played. We ended up dancing together and exchanged numbers. We met for a walk around Lake Lynn and lunch the next day.
How long have you date?
We dated a little over a year before the engagement.
How did he propose?
He took me on a surprise trip to Atlanta and put together a dinner with my best friend and some of my close sorority sisters in the area. After hanging out in Atlanta for the weekend, he surprised me on the way home by taking me to see my parents. We sat and talked for a while with my parents and after some time he asked me to go to my room so he could get my last gift. I waited in my room until he told me I could come back in the living room. When I came back, there was this box on the floor. I started to un-wrap the box and found an envelope inside. I opened the envelope to find a cardboard tube. I opened the tube and started to unravel the banner. It was a pink and green banner with “Will you marry me?” written across it. I was so shocked and overjoyed at the same time. I checked with my dad to make sure Bryan asked him first and if he was ok. Bryan then got down on one knee with the most beautiful ring. We hugged, I cried, my parents cried, and then I cried some more.
When did you know he was the one?
I realized he was different very early on when we first started dating. He was so sincere and genuine. I showed my mom a picture of us before we were “official” and I remember her saying “he’s special, it’s something about his eyes.” My mom has never said that about anyone before and it always stuck with me. I knew he was the one, when I found myself wanting to be better for him and our relationship. I learned to trust him and he became my closest friend. I saw in him the strength and leadership I saw in my dad and the love and compassion I saw in my mom. He allowed me to be myself and loved me for me.
What is the cutest thing he has done for you without you asking?
Bryan knows I love Tank. TGT were performing in Raleigh on his birthday in 2013 and he actually bought tickets for us to go see them! He used his birthday to plan a date he knew I would love.
What is something you love about him that has completely changed your life?
Bryan’s spirit is amazing. He’s so strong and such a leader but also very loving and compassionate. Seeing his love and devotion to his family and his friends changed my life. It is so comforting and inspiring to me. I want that type of love and devotion for our future family.
What part of wedding planning is making you crazy?
We decided to take a long planning period and I am so thankful we did. It’s given me a chance to just enjoy this time with him and get adjusted to the major changes going on in our lives. I have a really good wedding planner and bridal party who have helped keep me grounded. I think I get really excited more than anything.
What do you love about planning a southern wedding?
There’s just a special charm to it. There’s a lot of love put into it. The most important things to me in this wedding are family, food, and fun. My best memories are with my family and friends. Good food always seems to be involved, whether it’s the holidays or a random get together.
What makes a southern relationship special to you?
We can share stories about our childhood and relate easily. We also share similar values when it comes to family and faith. I remember our first holiday together where I met his family and I felt right at home. His aunts, uncles, and cousins reminded me of my own family.
What part of wedding planning can you not live without?
Our bridal party! I love being able to talk with my girls about different ideas and hear their feedback. They are so creative and understand what’s important to us. I love the guys Bryan has chosen and I look forward to the rest of this experience with everyone.
What was your first thought the day after your engagement?
“Oh my goodness, this is real. We’re really getting married”
Photography by Sonja Matheny, Durham NC
Gorgeous couple!!! I LOVE love!! ::Deep sighs:: 🙂
I absolutely love them! Keshia is actually my cousin so of course I’m protective of her, but Bryan does a wonderful job of keeping her happy and safe. I couldn’t have pictured a better match for her and I’m SO excited to be a part of this beautiful union!