We're Joining Houses!!

We've been watching the coronavirus situation closely and even though things seem to slowly be improving we've made the thoughtful decision to postpone our wedding celebration until 8/7/2021. This is a potentially lethal situation for certain people we love very much and want those in attendance to not have to social distance at our wedding. We wholeheartedly understand if you will need to change your RSVP answer but we only ask that you update your response on the site as soon as possible only if it's a different answer than previous. Sending you all love and wishes for good health. From: The Future New Grates

Nakia and Dwayne worked for the same company for a number of years but never knowingly crossed paths until 2010 when Dwayne became a new addition to a division of the department Nakia had been working. Prior to this the no nonsense, strict, by the book work persona that was Nakia was one of Dwayne's 1st introductions to her. He experienced a touch of this when she emailed him to not touch an account that was specific to her department. Until this day Dwayne and Nakia playfully disagree on the tone of the email but neither knew they were speaking to their future spouse. In 2012 Dwayne transitioned over to Nakia's department which was fate at play presenting the opportunity for them to SEE one another. Nakia was showing Dwayne some of the ropes of his new position which required a trip to the post office. While walking Nakia made the effort to walk on the inside of Dwayne and stated "I'm not for sale". She then broke down the history and meaning behind this which probably seemed like nothing to her but did wonders to pique Dwayne's interest. Her peach cobbler definitely played a part as well lol. On the surface Dwayne saw Nakia's confidence, self respect, humor, and beauty and made a decision early on a Sunday morning to let her know he was interested. That Monday, while Dwayne was away from his desk, he asked Nakia through text, “Can you keep a secret?” Nakia imagined him being on an interview and securing a new job. They exchanged numbers maybe a week prior but kept things friendly. Nakia never saw him as her “type” for a myriad of reasons but thought he was a “nice guy” nonetheless. In the short time that they got to know each other, Nakia learned that he was easy to work with, still believed in chivalry, and possessed a warmth that felt different to her. It’s important to note however, that earlier that year, she ended her previous relationship and was still on the defensive. Nakia was not looking to date anyone at the time let alone someone from work.

So, after receiving the text she simply replied, “yeah, what’s up.” He responded with, “check under your desk.” Dwayne had placed a box underneath Nakia’s desk before she arrived to work that morning. Inside the box was a number of homemade coupons. One was for dinner and a movie. Another was for a wine and cheese date. There was a coupon for a kiss on the cheek, a hug, a long walk... she responded with “what is all of this???” He said it was “something to let you know that I would like to get to know you better.” 'What a creative gift', she thought. No one had ever pursued her in this way. They continued to exchange text messages that day discretely and met briefly on the train platform that evening. The tone was still friendly because Nakia was still hesitant, but she tried to remain open minded with the encouragement of friends and loved ones. The following day however, Dwayne sent a bouquet of lilies to the job for Nakia while he was away on vacation. When she asked, “and what does THIS mean,” he responded with, “Well this is something to let you know that I think of you outside of work.” The date was 12/18/12. This is the day that they would eventually choose as their anniversary. They began communicating more and more after that. She found him to be special and different from every man she had ever met. She stared at and smelled those lilies in the following days as if she was under a spell. Her guard had been destroyed by his friendly warm eyes, deep enveloping voice, refreshing honesty, and confidence. They became each other’s safe place and are committed to curating their love story with intention, passion, warmth, and gratitude.