Picture it...Essence 2017. While walking in the Convention Center, who would have thought two people meeting for the very first time would end up in love... Andre caught Vachella's eyes when the two of them were walking in the Convention Center at Essence Festival 2017 Empowerment Seminar. The two were walking in opposite directions, not knowing they would have their very first encounter. Upon meeting each other, Vachella had already noticed Andre and was wondering, “Who does he think he is?” This question came to mind because Andre was very upright in posture and seemed to be a little over confident about himself. Despite that, the two engaged in a conversation which led to Andre asking Vachella to take his number, but she said she would get it later. In return, Andre being who he is, insisted that she take it but she said, “No, I will get it later.” To smooth things over, Vachella invited Andre to her first Birthday/Christmas celebration to be held at her house in December of 2017. Of course, Andre was interested in attending because he was impressed by her beautiful appearance, strong personality, and wanted to get to know this “Pretty Lady.” Andre was so excited to be in Vachella’s presence again that he was the first to arrive at the Birthday/Christmas party. The party was a hit with friends, family and good food. Vachella, being the creative person she is, prepared Christmas Carols to be sung. Andre was one of the loudest singers in the house and the rest is history...

In the spirit of the holiday, after a two year courtship and wonderful friendship that started with phone calls in the morning while on the way to work, meeting for lunch, spending time over dinner and phone calls before bed, Andre asked Vachella to spend the rest of her life with him and she said, “YES.” Before asking for Vachella's hand in marriage, Andre had to seek out a few others to get their approval. Although nervous of what would be said, Andre asked Jarrell, Briell and Ariel if he could marry their mother and they said "yes!" Great, it's over and everybody approved.....not so. There were two more ladies that had to be asked, Vachella's mother, Mrs. Catherine Brickley and Godmother, Mrs. Dorethea LaBeauve. Jarrell assisted with keeping Vachella occupied in a conversation with her and her mother while Andre asked "Nanny" if he could marry Vachella. Nanny immediately hugged Andre and said "Yes, you have my blessing." Finally, the big day was here. It was Sunday, December 29, 2019, and Andre was on his way back to Prairieville. He texted the girls, Jarrell, Briell and Ariel to let them know that he was on his way. Being girls, they needed time to get up and get themselves together because everyone in the house was sleeping, including Vachella, who was asleep on the sofa. To stall a little, Andre stopped at the store to get Vachella's favorite flowers, ROSES. He pulled up to the house, rang the doorbell, kissed Vachella on the forehead, and then got on one knee. And she said, "Yes." Their love is centered around God, family, and having a true friendship. Love is patient, love is kind, and above all, love is the greatest gift one can share! We're so excited to celebrate this next chapter in our lives with you.