Doors open at 4:45PM Ceremony begins at 5PM 1526 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036
It all started with two simple words: Hey Beautiful. One could’ve never imagined that our love and union would hinge on what some might call a cheesy pick up line. We were both young college students, active within our respective campuses and communities, beloved by our families and individual friend groups. We were two strangers basking in the days of our youth, while slowly creating identities in the newfound freedom that the college experience typically affords. Like many young adults of our time we found ourselves swiping left and right on random faces in search of new friends and adventures on Tinder (not a sponsor). In February 2017, we swiped right on each other. “Hey Beautiful” must have been just the right words as it led to a conversation that has yet to end. We spent weeks texting, getting to know one another. Both of us, having experienced the rollercoaster of tinder flings and fails, were cautious yet intrigued in our conversations. Texts led to phone calls, and phone calls to FaceTimes, before we could realize we were each other’s good morning and good night.
Later that Spring, things began to feel like more than just simple conversations and date nights instead, each day it felt as though we have known each other for years. It was clear that we were spending a lot of time together and we enjoyed each other’s company, but we had not discussed what we were doing. "One could assume but we were also at that age where people casually date. I knew I wanted more and so that there would be no misunderstanding, I asked her to grow with me and do this forever. This as in me and you, just the two of us, and see where this goes." - Tony "I've never had anyone ask me to grow with them. It was the first time in my life that I felt like someone was truly seeing me for me and choosing to learn how to love every part of that." - Kera
We have both changed tremendously over the course of four years. Mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Tony’s family was planted at the Ark of Safety Christian Church and served in ministry for many years, and Kera would later visit, love, and soon join as a member. Our faith in Jesus Christ drew us closer together as we both sought to grow. We would go on to worship together, and even face challenges that brought us together in prayer. Our shared passion for the creative arts would also bond us together. In our hearts we’re both storytellers, whether through images or words, movies or monologues, songs and spoken word, we love a beautiful story. We’ve just started writing a story of our own. It’s not perfect, but it’s purposed, and that’s why we’re sharing it. In this chapter we are engaged to be married (as of December 18, 2020)! Wedding planning is a journey of its own. Kera continues to work in production, while also leading Sisters N Christ non-profit organization. Tony serves in ministry and works in the Executive Office of the Mayor. We live in Cathedral Heights with our cat and dog (Ava & Lucky), and are surrounded by family and friends who love us deeply. And most importantly, covered by an incredible God. This is our story, we’re just getting started!