Shawntia and Jason met in San Antonio, Texas when they least expected to find love. After one and half years of bliss, they decided to make their love official in the bride’s hometown of Birmingham, Alabama.
Bride Name:
Shawntia Gordon
Groom Name:
Jason McNeil
Wedding Location:
Bessemer/Birmingham, AL
Wedding Date:
November 7, 2015
Alma Mater of Bride:
Tennessee State University
Alma Mater of Groom:
Texas A&M University
Current City where you live:
San Antonio, Texas
Bride Hometown:
Birmingham, Alabama
Groom Hometown;
San Antonio, Texas
How did you meet?
Jason and I met in San Antonio! We were definitely not the typical couple you would expect to be married now! I was all about career, traveling, and being independent better known as “STUBBORN” and Jason was all about his motorcycles! However, over time the two of us soon found out that we had more in common than we thought!
How long did you date?
We met in February 2013 and dated for 1 and a half years.
How did he propose?
The closer he and I got the more I wondered about a pending engagement. I imagined on the day he proposed that I would be dressed immaculately, flawless makeup, and perfect hair! Well, needless to say, this was not the proposal I received. However, the proposal I received was well thought out and definitely memorable! On September 2, 2014, it was 100 degrees outside and we had just closed on our first home. As I approached the door, Jason asked me to stop and told me he wanted my mother to take a picture of us in front of the house. As my mother pretended to take a photo, Jason began to profess how far we had come and our love. I couldn’t hear a word he was saying because I was distracted by my mother, whom was telling me to smile for the camera and I was slowly melting in the sweltering heat, before I could say “Mom, seriously!?” I turned around and Jason was on his knee proposing! Shocked! Although, I was wearing no makeup and a t-shirt and jeans, I couldn’t have been happier!
When did you know he was the one?
I realized Jason was the one for me when I actually decided not to relocate from San Antonio. I have never considered staying in one place for longer than three years until I met Jason.
What is the cutest thing he has done for you without you asking?
The cutest thing Jason has done without me asking has been keeping the “spontaneity” of the relationship going. I come home after work and I have flowers in random places in the home or at the front door so that when I walk out or come home I am surprised!
What is something you love about him that has completely changed your life?
What I love the most about Jason is his ability to find the balance and positive in any situation and remain spiritually grounded. I am always running a mile a minute and never have time to sit and take in life. He has come into my life and made me sit and take moments to reflect on all the blessings that God has given us and to be thankful!
What part of wedding planning made you crazy?
The RSVPs! I didn’t imagine this would be the most difficult part of the wedding planning however it was a pain.
What part of wedding planning could you not live without?
The part of the wedding planning I could not live without would be my mother’s input on the cake and décor.
What was your first thought the day after your engagement?
My first thought was, “Am I really engaged?! OH No, I have to plan a wedding, I am used to helping others but I am not ready to plan my own.”
What was your favorite part about the ceremony?
My favorite about the ceremony was the moment in which the doors opened and I saw my future husband as well as everyone who came for miles to join us on the special day.
What was your favorite part about the wedding?
My favorite part about the wedding was the reception. Our families, friends, and wedding vendors all came together to dance during the reception. It was a blast! The dancing moments eloquently captured are priceless.
Did you do any DIY? If so, what?
Yes! I made a custom matted sign and guest book which included one of our favorite photos taken by our wedding photographer, Taneisha Tucker (Photography with TK ).
Who were your wedding vendors?
Wedding and Event Planner: Shannel Aiken Weddings and Events
Photographer: Photography with TK
Wedding Cake: Cakes by Kim– McCalla, Alabama
Catering- Byron Rickard Catering– Birmingham, AL
Venue Decor and Flower Arrangements: Shannel Aiken Weddings and Events
Bridal Hair- Phase Two Hair Studio (Sheryl Johnson) – San Antonio, TX
Bridal Makeup- Tasha’s Makeup Beautique– Birmingham, AL
Bridal Dress- Impression Bridal
Bridesmaid Dresses- Alfred Sung
Grooms Suits- Men’s Wearhouse (Tailored Suits)
Custom Entrance Centerpieces – Balleria Mays- Bessemer, AL
Ceremony and Reception Location: Bessemer Civic Center, Bessemer, AL
What were your wedding colors?
Navy, Silver, and Ivory
What was your wedding theme?
Traditional with a touch of Southern
What is your favorite part about being married to each other?
Our favorite part about being married to each other is knowing that you will always have someone who will support you, laugh, and hold your hand through each phase of your life.
What did you learn about each other through the wedding planning process?
We learned during the wedding planning that Jason was actually the person who was the most interested and particular about the photography. I think he chose a great photographer might I add!
There were two important southern traditions incorporated in our wedding. The most important two things in a southern wedding: prayer and tradition! What’s a southern bride without prayer and pearls? One of the biggest things for me and my family is prayer. Prayer being a pivotal part of my family culture was incorporated before I walked down the aisle. I asked a close friend to lead a circle of prayer to bless those with us for the day and in the future. The second southern tradition that we did at the wedding was the something borrowed, something blue, something old, and something new. My father purchased the most amazing pearl necklace, I had blue “I do” crystals on the bottom of my shoes, and I borrowed a family members pearl bracelet she wore in her wedding.
Did you have any southern food on your menu? If so what and why?
Of course! We had shrimp and grits, buttermilk chicken tenders, smokehouse pulled pork, and more.
What southern decor did you include in your wedding?
We incorporated a traditional southern chandelier and draped backdrop for a touch of southern décor.
What did you love about being a southern bride?
The best thing about being a Southern bride was having my mother place me in my wedding dress, my father walk me down the aisle, all in my hometown of Alabama during the beautiful fall season, surrounded by family, friends, love, and joy.
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Michiel is a Black Southern Belle living a lowcountry life. I love all things fashion, home decor and southern! When I am not running around doing fun stuff for Black Southern Belle, I live in antique stores and have a minor obsession with historic homes :)
