The Lucky Lady: Precious Shalom Umunna, 32, Senior Financial Analyst
Her Leading Man: Jairus Williams, 32, Urban Planner
The Big Day: May 25th, 2013
Wedding Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
How did you meet your man?
I met Jairus at church during a young adult ministry event. I was greeting people at the door and he kept coming by the table asking if I needed water or a break from greeting people. It was odd, but then I realized, oh, he’s interested in me!
Were you looking for love at the time?
No. Although he showed immediate interest, I had a standoff mentality. Yes, he wooed me. And, I am so glad he did!
Did you play hard to get?
Oh, absolutely!
Was it love at first sight?
No, but it was immediate chemistry at first sight. As I got to know him, and saw the depth of his heart, and his love for God, cupid shot me!
What made you fall in love with Precious?
It definitely wasn’t a single event or thing, but I fell in love with her early on. It was her depth and substance as a person. Wells on top of wells of treasures!
Did you know she was ‘The One’ right away?
Right away? No, that only happens in scripts. Ha!
At what moment did you know he was “The One?”
The night we danced to Teddy Pendergrass’ “You’re My Latest Greatest Inspiration.”
Who said “I love you” first?
I did! Then, I ran out the car.
How long did you date before you got engaged?
Five years.
Did you have a hunch he was going to propose?
I did not. I knew it was coming, but I was not expecting it on the day it happened.
Jairus, were you nervous about proposing?
More nervous than a game 7 on the road.
How did he pop the question?
On New Year’s Eve, he took me to a cozy family-owned Italian restaurant. After an amazing meal and conversation, he gave me a scrapbook that chronicled my life. When I got to the last page, my hands were shaking and my eyes were teary as I read, “What is next…?” Then, he got down on one knee and popped the question. I still smile at that moment. It was so perfect.
Fill in the Blank: When we’re (finally!) husband and wife, I can’t wait to _____.
…make babies.
Who would you cast to play your future hubby in a movie?
Idris Elba.
Fill in the blank: If you’re spying on us on a Friday night, you’ll probably catch us ______.
…in a heated debate or discussion about a movie.
Photos: Delia White Photography