Alexia & Ashton

from Black Bride Magazine: 2018 Winter Issue

Salena & Jonathan

In 2011, Alexia and Ashton were introduced to each other by a mutual friend on the campus of Florida A&M University. They majored in Criminal Justice, joined Greek organizations in the same year, shared academic courses and had a similar social circle. However, it was post-graduation when they reconnected. Ashton asked Alexia out on a date and after a few months, he asked her to be his girlfriend. By August 3, 2019, they’ll make it to their fourth year as husband and wife!

Engagement Story

After purchasing the wedding ring in November of 2017, it was just a matter of planning the perfect surprise proposal. Months later while on the phone with my mom, she told me about the surprise dinner Alexia was planning for my birthday on April 20, 2018. Weeks leading up to the dinner, it was both funny and difficult at times to plan a surprise at my “surprise” birthday dinner.

The most memorable moment was walking into the room and pretending to be shocked seeing all our friends and family there, including Alexia’s parents who told her they weren’t going to make it. After thanking everyone for attending, I thanked Alexia for planning it and everything else she does to make my life better, and then I got down on one knee and asked her to be my wife.

The Proposal {His Story}

Leading up to the engagement, I attempted to propose on several occasions, but something always came up. Either there was a change in scheduling or it just didn’t feel right. My mom told me about the surprise dinner Alexia was planning for me, and a lightbulb went off. I knew that was it! The planning of the engagement was very easy.

I just had to ensure Alexia’s parents were present, and due to Alexia planning my birthday dinner, she made all the other arrangements. I only needed to prepare my speech.

Q: What makes your love special?

A: The love we share for each other comes very naturally and easily. We challenge each other to become the best version of ourselves in addition to encouraging and respecting each other. We’re sympathetic towards the needs, wants, and desires of the other. We also value our friendship and individualism.

Q: What was the theme of your shoot?

A: We wanted a very elegant shoot that captured different aspects of our relationship. We’re both members of a Divine Nine Greek Letter organization, proud graduates of Florida A&M University and share a similar sense of humor. Mr. Jules captured every aspect beautifully!

Q: Were there any memorable moments during the shoot?

A: Ashton is not a dancer! So, when Mr. Greg instructed us to dance, seeing Ashton’s attempt tickled me completely! That was my first time seeing him dance full out, with no music! We laughed so hard, we could barely complete the moves.

Q: Have you started planning your wedding?

A: Yes! We will say “I Do” on August 3, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia! All the planning has been completed except for a few minor details.

Q: What are you most looking forward to about your wedding?

A: We are excited to witness all our preparation unfold, as we celebrate with our family and friends. Being a daddy’s girl, I am also looking forward to having a father-daughter dance, as I transition from being daddy’s girl to Ashton’s wife.