The Lucky Lady: Juliette Senior, 36, Equity Compensation Manager
Her Leading Man: Terrance McKay, 33, Union 638 Steam Fitter
The Big Day: October 13, 2014
Where and how did you meet your man?
My cousin introduced us via a “friend suggestion” on Facebook. After I accepted his request, Terrance messaged me his number and proceeded to navigate through my Facebook page and comment and like more than a few pictures and posts. And, thus our friendship began.
What was your past dating life like?
I met Terrance exactly one year after ending an eight year relationship. Prior to that, I was in college and my main focus was completing my degree.
Were you looking for love at the time?
I was with my ex most of my “growing years” and never had the chance to grow individually. I was fresh out of a long term relationship and reconnecting with myself, so no, I was not looking for love or even a relationship for that matter. On top of that I was focused on my career and my small side business. I said 2011 was all about me. There was no room for love at the time. We were really good friends for over a year before we officially started dating.
What was your first impression of him?
I thought he was handsome and very laid-back but at the same time very direct.I could tell from the very beginning that he loved his family, that he was a go getter and that he was a very passionate and loving man.
Did you play hard to get?
No. I was upfront with him. He knew the space that I was in and that I was not looking for anything serious. He was very understanding.
Describe your most romantic date ever?
Like every other date, we always sit across from each other, even when we are seated at a booth. However, on this particular date Terrance asked me to sit beside him instead of across from him. When I moved my seat beside his, it changed the entire mood of the date. I felt more connected to him than ever before. One simple gesture changed the dynamic of our relationship and let me realize that he would always be there beside me. I remained nestled under his arm during the entire dinner and from that date forward we’ve always sat beside each other.
How long did you date before you got engaged?
Seven months.
Did you have a hunch he was going to propose?
I had no idea. I was oblivious because there were many activities in preparation for my birthday party.
How did he pop the question?
He proposed on my birthday, 12/12/12. We spent months planning my birthday celebration which was taking place that Friday, December 14th. Unbeknownst to me, Terrance was making plans of his own; public proposal plans that he shared with my parent’s, sister and a few close friends. Terrance and I planned to go to the Beres Hammond concert at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY on my actual birthday. I left work an hour earlier than usual that day in order to ensure that I had enough to time to get glammed up for the concert. My work day was stressful so I was looking forward to the concert. While I was getting glammed up I received a phone call from work that truly disturbed me. The conversation left me fuming. As I was in the bathroom doing my hair and makeup, Terrance came in and said that he wanted to put a smile on my face since I had such a rough day. He asked if I wanted to open one of my gifts. I said sure. He gave me a box and as I was opening it, I saw that he was getting down on one knee. “I was supposed to wait until Friday to do this but one; you are having a horrible birthday. Two, this is a once in a lifetime day and you are a once in a lifetime woman. You are an amazing woman. Would you do me the honor of making me the happiest man alive and spend the rest of your life with me?” Since he was supposed to propose in front of my friends at my birthday party on Friday, he had to propose twice. No one knew that he proposed earlier.
