The Lucky Lady: Leah McDowell, 27, Production Coordinator
Her Leading Man: Brandon Williams, 27, Field Marketing Manager
The Big Day: 8/22/14
Wedding Location: Brooklyn, NY
Where and how did you meet your man?
We met at our home church. He is one of our minister’s cousin and he was invited to service. His family eventually became regular attendees and he joined our youth group and our friendship began to develop. I was 15 and he was my first boyfriend.
Did you play hard to get?
We were young so, of course, I acted like I didn’t like him. I played it off by acting like he was annoying and I would call him names.
Was it love at first sight?
When I first saw him I nonchalantly told my sisters that I was going to marry him. I based this on the fact that I had told God I wanted a tall, cute guy, and voilà, there he was. (Laughs!) After that my goal was to become friends with him so that I could invite him to my sweet 16. I wouldn’t say it was love at first sight, but I felt something strong toward him. Since I was only 15, and didn’t want to sound crazy, I just kept it to myself.
Most romantic date ever?
For one of my birthdays he cooked a full meal for me. Just being able to relax, sit down and talk and enjoy his home cooking and the company of one another was just perfect. (And, yes he can cook!)
When did you know he was ‘The One’?
There wasn’t really a particular event that made me realize. Eventually over time my cares changed and were no longer about the superficial. I started to honestly and truly care about his wellbeing and I knew he would add value to my life. Time really just made me realize even more that God placed this man in my life for a reason.
How did he pop the question?
It was September 20th, 2013. I was at work and we had been talking throughout the morning. I thought he was at his job as well until he surprised me during my lunch break. He set up a little corner in the restaurant located in my office building. He completely caught me off guard and proposed while the entire restaurant cheered and applauded. It was so very exciting!
Photos: MPW Media Group