Our Love Story: Vernell & Amanda Chapter One: Spring Beginnings It all began in the vibrant blossoms of Spring 2014 at the Mayberry Café, nestled on the charming campus of Southern University. During the lunch rush, while greeting a mutual friend, our paths crossed, weaving the first threads of our story. Chapter Two: From Acquaintances to Best Friends Over the next year and endless in-depth conversations about our dreams and fears, we transitioned from mere acquaintances to friends, passing in between classes, Amanda made it her mission to make Vernell smile whenever she saw him. Vernell's unwavering support during Amanda's aspirations and Amanda’s knack for making Vernell see the lighter side of life cemented a bond built on trust, respect, and admiration. Chapter Three: A Test of Distance As college days whirled by in laughter and achievements, soon came the trials of early adulthood. Vernell’s burgeoning career in civil engineering took him far from the knolls of Southern University to the bustling cityscapes of Washington and Utah. And Amandas career as a new educator took her back to her hometown, Houston. Despite the miles, our connection only deepened. We mastered the art of long-distance friendship, with midnight calls and endless FaceTime talks weaving threads into the tapestry of our relationship. In that space between, our hearts realized that home wasn't a place, but wherever we were together. Chapter Four: Falling Deeply As God would have it, a career opportunity for Vernell finally bridged the gap between us, bringing him to Houston. The city of sprawling skies and shimmering lights welcomed him with the promise of new beginnings. It didn’t take long for friendship to blossom into love—a deep, soul-touching love like neither of us had ever known. We went on our first date in June 23rd, 2023 and made our relationship official July 7th, 2023. The days after consisted of roaming the city, from the historic trails of the Museum District to the tranquil walks in Memorial park, and events with both sides of our families, falling even more in love with each step we took side by side.

The Surprise Proposal On Saturday, October 19th, 2024, a family Christmas photoshoot was cleverly planned as the backdrop for a momentous occasion. After two months of meticulous organizing by Amanda's mom, sister, dad, and Vernell, the stage was set for a surprise proposal celebration. Walking through the gate of her parents backyard to what Amanda thought was the set of a photoshoot, Amanda saw a long aisle lined with roses, rose petals, and tea lights, “MARRY ME” in large letters with a heart, rose wall, and her soon-to-be fiancé waiting for her. After being greeted by her dad with roses, Amanda saw her future in laws, her college best friend, and Vernell’s best friend there cheering them on for her big moment. Amidst the festive setup, Vernell gracefully knelt, a lighted ring box illuminating the promise of eternity in his hand, and passionately asked Amanda to share a lifetime of love and laughter with him. Amanda's tears of joy and an emphatic "yes" signaled the start of a new chapter in their lives.

Epilogue: Bank on Forever Now, as we prepare to unite our lives in marriage, we invite you to share in the joy of our union. We will vow to continue this beautiful journey together, banking on it forever amidst friends and family who have witnessed every step of our love story unfold. We can't wait to see you on our special day as we turn our love into an everlasting commitment. We ask that you join us for laughter, love, and celebration as we step into the future hand in hand, with hearts full and promises deep, never forgetting that it all started with a shared moment at Mayberry Café. Vernell & Amanda Joining Hands, Hearts, and Futures #BankingOnForever