Sweaty from the 10K she ran that morning  and certainly not looking like her prettiest self, Tiki stopped by Big Lots to quickly purchase two new pillows, with the intentions of going  straight home to enjoy the rest of her Saturday afternoon.  The last thing she expected, was to meet her future husband.

Unbeknownst to her, Ricky spotted her in the parking lot and was instantly taken by her beauty.  After working up the nerve, he approached her and sparked a conversation inside the store.  The small talk continued up and down the aisles of Big Lots; however, Tiki was secretly hoping that Ricky wouldn’t hang around too long, because all she wanted to do was buy her pillows and go home.

But as the scenario most often plays out, Ricky asked for her number and Tiki listed off a number of reasons she wasn’t interested… Ricky played it cool and respected her answer, which obviously threw Tiki for a loop, who decided to go ahead and give him her number.

The two spent the next six months, getting to know and falling in love with one another.  The rest is history…

Tiki and Ricky’s were married in a small and intimate, Friday evening ceremony.  The Sonnet House was the perfect location for the affair.  The evening was full of fun little twists, that reflect Tiki and Ricky’s personality, relationship, and love for family.

The image below is probably my most favorite image of the day. After getting dressed (don’t you just LOVE her dress,) Tiki spent a few quiet moments to read the card that Ricky gave to her. Meanwhile, Ricky was next door getting ready for the evening. Tiki and Ricky decided to have a first look moment, before exchanging their vows. I sooooo love when couples have first looks… It gives the bride and groom a special moment during an otherwise hectic day, to just enjoy one another and soak in the anticipation and excitement of the day.  THIS first look was hands-down, all joking and exaggeration aside, the BEST first look I’ve ever captured. Ricky’s reaction and emotion was so genuine, pure, and touching.

Their ceremony took place in the backyard of the Sonnet House at sunset. As you’ll notice, Tiki isn’t carrying a bouquet. Her sister had a very special role in the event, as the honorary flower girl. As she walked down the aisle, she  distributed flowers to Tiki and Ricky’s parents . As Tiki approached her groom, she gathered those flowers. Ricky then gathered them into a bouquet for her. I’ve never seen this done at a wedding, but totally love the concept. Couples are always looking for ways to honor their family and I believe Tiki and Ricky have come up with a great way of doing just that.

The reception took place in the courtyard, after sunset.  Full of surprises and personal touches, including a duet in place of the first dance, a Beyonce´ inspired flash-mob for the groom, and a Soul Train line! 

At the end of the evening, the guests were instructed to blow bubbles as Tiki and Ricky exited. The couple had one last surprise planned… bubble guns!  

Tiki and Ricky’s Trusted Vendors: Sonnet House // Cupcakes by Meg // elle Danielle Photography // Sun Dolphin Videography // DJ Ray Boykin // Hair by Darrius Peace // Makeup by Deondra Brooks