Just Engaged: Leigh Ann and Darren's Engagement Story

The Lucky Lady: Leigh Ann Sennette, 28, Defense Analyst

Her Leading Man: Darren Sheffield, 26, Recreational Specialist

The Big Day: October 4, 2014

Wedding Location: Dallas, Texas

How did you meet your man?
My coworker had a happy hour at her house and invited me along with a few other coworkers and friends who attended Spelman College with me. A mutual coworker invited Darren—who was home in D.C. for the summer before completing his last semester at Palm Beach Atlantic University. We were introduced to each other and our love story began.

Were you looking for love at the time?
No. A few of my friends were because we were all around age 25. I was enjoying my first “real” job, the new city (Washington D.C.) and meeting new friends. I was just having fun.

What was your first impression of him?
He seemed like a cool guy, and I thought he was really cute, but when he told me his age (he’s two years younger than me) I was like, aww, can we be friends? I really didn’t date guys younger than me.

Best vacation you ever took together?
When Darren came to Texas to visit my family and friends back home. Living in D.C. I met most of his friends and family before he met anyone from my side. We went to my hometown of Bryan, Texas and Dallas to visit my mom. It was a blast! This was also the first time my dad met Darren, and I am still thankful that my dad was able to meet Darren before he passed away in September 2013.

Who said “I love you” first?
Darren said it first. I was shocked, happy, elated, and felt butterflies all at the same time. I didn’t say it back immediately at the time, but I told him a couple of weeks later on Christmas. (Smiles.)

Why is he the best man for you?
He gets me and he is honestly my best friend. We are both God fearing Christians that love to work hard and play hard. We are also both very much alike, but at the same time very different which helps us to complement one another really well.

How did he pop the question?
Darren came to my place on a random “Taco Tuesday” night. He brought over something that I needed for the tacos and there was a box with my ring inside in the bottom of the bag. I turned around and Darren was down on one knee.

What was really going through your mind as he proposed?
I was surprised and overcome with joy. I knew he was going to do it, but I honestly thought it would happen on Thanksgiving Day, so I was not dolled up the way I imagined that I would be when the time came. Later on I found out that he planned to propose on Thanksgiving Day but ditched the idea at the last minute because he wanted to catch me off guard because I’m so hard to surprise. Well, he succeeded!

Photos: Judah Avenue Photography