It wasn't unusual for Ashia and her girls to throw parties throughout high school and college. It also wasn't unusual during that time for Ashia and her girls to invite people to attend these parties from surrounding cities especially New Haven. This cold winter December night in 2007 at Rockin' Robin's was no different than any of the other times. Ashia was eager to catch up with her close friends and family and have a fun night after the first semester away from college and first quarter teaching. Clev was looking forward to connecting with his crew after moving back home to New Haven from school in North Carolina. What was unusual is that Ashia and Cleven would have a chance meeting and introduction from mutual close friends that would change their lives forever. Some people's stories do indeed stop there. "And they lived happily ever after..."" NOT OURS! Our story however took a different path. We spent 3 years together and then went our separate ways. We all know what post college adulting was like.... Ashia will tell you she thought it was over for them and Clev will tell you he always knew they'd find their way back to each others. Clev was right. 7 years later (sheesh... it took us 7 years to get it together) Ashia and Clev started over and learned that many things had changed about each of them but one thing underneath it all stayed the same and that was their love for each other. They like to say, "We aren't perfect, but we're perfect for each other.".

Ashia and Clev had a lot to look forward to this past December. Christmas was just around the corner and they were 8 days away from a 7 day vacation in Ochos Rios, Jamaica to bring in the new year. While Ashia was enjoying sleeping in on her first day of winter break Clev joined her on the side of the bed and shook her awake. To be clear for our more visual folks .... Ashia was cuddled in bed with her head scarf on, nightgown, and as Clev would say rockin' the morning breath. When Ashia turned around Clev was on his knees with the ring in his hands. After some beautiful words were exchanged followed by him popping the question, and her replying yes they shared a kiss and that sealed the deal. 12/21 marks the day they met, the day they were engaged, and will be the day they become man and wife. Ashia and Clev can't wait to see you in Hartford!