Meet : Karimah + Dane

I am so happy to share with you one of our fantastic couples getting married this upcoming August. I have been working with Karimah + Dane for quite some time + it has been such a fantastic planning experience! We have found them an A-list team of vendors for their big day, one of which is Kayleen Kelsey Photography who created their sensational engagement photos a while back. Check out their photos HERE!

Orlando wedding planner, At Last loves "showing off" our couples + sharing their planning experiences for all of the new brides out there so grab a cup of coffee + read all about Karimah + Dane!

Where did you two meet?
I like to say at a social gathering while attending college but the truth is we met in Ybor City at a nightclub. It was both our favorite spot but we never ran into each other until that night. We were both surprised to find out we attended the same college but never saw each other. It's crazy how things work out and I  definitely believe everything happened when it was supposed to.
How did he propose?
We typically have date night once a week so I wasn't expecting my night to be any different. I was told i have to be blindfolded but that didn't shock me because he did that before. he likes to test me to see if I am aware of my environment. After driving around for what seemed like forever we made it to our destination. I thought we were in Clearwater but turns out we were at a secluded location at USF near the botanical garden. It was our first Valentine's Day location and it was set up the exact same way. He created a nice, romantic candlelit picnic and  cooked a scrumptious meal. We talked about our future and everything in between. Before packing up he explained he dropped a few things while setting up. I helped him look for what ever I thought he dropped with the light of my phone. I almost gave up but then I spotted a heart shaped container of starburst (my favorite candy) and became excited. Then I noticed a note with the words "Karimah, Will You Marry Me?" written. All I could say was "are you serious?!" I was in complete shock then turned around and saw him on one knee. I began to cry with excitement but mostly relief because he finally asked after six amazing years together. I don't remember what he said while on his knee but the only thing I kept saying was "are you serious?!" as tears poured down my face. I finally said yes and immediately texted my family and close friend the picture of the ring.
What is the style/theme of your wedding day?
Modern Caribbean Flair is the style that we have envisioned. My parents are from Jamaica, Dane was born in the Virgin Islands, his mother is from Guyana and his father is from Antigua so we would like to have an island vibe.
 Which vendor has been the most important to you and why?
At Last because Jaclyn has helped us stay within our budget without sacrificing quality. She makes sure we are getting what we want and keeps our wedding planning process running smoothly. We also love our photographer Kayleen with Kayleen Kelsey Photography. She was a pleasure to work with for our engagement photos. We felt comfortable with Kayleen and she did an awesome job capturing our love for each other. I look forward to our wedding day and having her there.
 What has been the biggest hurdle in your wedding planning?
Budgeting was definitely our biggest hurdle. When you have to pay for all the expenses, you have to sacrifice so much and monitor your spending.
SPOILER ALERT: What will be the most unique aspect of your wedding day?
We found a great officiant for our big day. He gave us a booklet with options to customize our vows to make them personal. Also, Dane is a member of a fraternity and they will be performing a traditional stroll and singing a hymn to us.
What has been the best decision you have made throughout your planning process?
Hiring Jaclyn was the best decision we made. We couldn't imagine doing everything on our own. She was able to get discounts with vendors and keeps us within budget.
¨ What has been the best part about planning your wedding?
Karimah: Spending time with my mother and future mother-in-law. Dane: Not having to plan anything and the food tasting.
Has your groom been involved in the planning? What has been his favorite part so far?
Yes. Food and cake tasting is definitely his favorite part of the planning process. he also enjoyed registering for cookware and kitchen electrics. he loves to cook and grill :)
      Will you be honeymooning? If so, where?
Yes, Dane is planning everything so it will be a nice surprise.

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