The Lucky Lady: Kendra Wheeler, 26, Media Relations Specialist and Grad Student
Her Leading Man: DePaul Davis, 26, Loan Closer
The Big Day: May 11, 2013
Wedding Location: Cleveland, Ohio
How does your love story begin?
Paul knew who I was before we officially met. My senior year in high school, I was a debutant in a cotillion. A group of us, with our escorts, went out for dinner and bowling. Paul was there although he wasn’t in the cotillion, but was friends with one of the guys. I didn’t notice Paul that night, but he noticed me. He saw me around the city two or three more times after that night, but still didn’t approach me. A year later, I was home from college on summer break at a party. Paul was there, saw me again, and this time knew that he couldn’t let me get away. He approached me and we had a short conversation. I was attracted to his demeanor, so I gave him my phone number.
Was love on your mind?
I was 19 years old and entering my sophomore year in college. I definitely wasn’t looking for love. If anything, I was looking for someone to hang out with for the summer while I was home. But, my plans aren’t always the same as God’s plan.
What was your first impression of him?
That he was shy. I remember being on our first date and me leading the conversation while he sat across the table smiling.
What was your first impression of her?
I fell in love with Kendra because she pushes me. She motivates me to always give 100 percent and never to settle for mediocrity.
How long did you date before he popped the question?
We’ve been dating for seven years.
How did he propose?
It was Valentine’s Day and we had dinner at a nice restaurant with a great view of the lake. We brought gifts to exchange at dinner. He had this extremely heavy present. I was thinking that there was no way my ring was in there. I opened it to find a jewelry box engraved with “Two Hearts. One Love.” Inside the jewelry box was a watch I wanted for Christmas and the engagement ring. As I reached for the ring, with a huge smile on his face, he asked “Will you marry me?”
Fill in the blank: If you’re spying on us on a Friday night, you’ll probably catch us ________.
…trying out a restaurant we’ve never been to.
Best gift he ever got you (second to your ring of course!)?
For Christmas 2006, he got me a Yorkshire Terrier. I named her CoCo.
Second to his heart, what’s the other sexiest part of DePaul’s body?
I love his legs! They’re long and muscular.
Photography: Tracy Tucholski Photography