We know that wedding planning can be a bit of a roller coaster for couples. At times, with so many details to keep in mind, it’s nice to see that you are not alone in the experience of planning a wedding. In this feature, Love Bride Leilani shares glimpse into her now husband, Terence, love story, details on planning, and key advice for brides-to-be. 

How did you meet your husband? Tell us a little about your relationship? 

“We met in college in August 2013 in English class on the campus of Lincoln University (PA). He was on the baseball team with a friend that I knew from high school.”

What were your first impressions of your husband?

“He was nice and we flirted a lot but it seemed like he also took himself very seriously. I later realized that it would take a while for him to let his guard down. He actually is very laid back, family oriented, goofy/funny and a dedicated, hard working man.”

When did you first know that you were in love with your husband?  

“I first knew I was in love with him when I met his family. I knew he was family oriented from the way he talked about his parents and siblings, but seeing him with his family showed me that he would be an amazing husband and father. Let’s just say, I was right!”

How did the proposal happen? Describe your engagement story.  

“The proposal happened at our apartment on January 9, 2021. We usually have a holiday party with friends from college each year, so we hosted that year and my friends and husband disguised the proposal in our Secret Santa. I was assigned to one of my friends and when it was her turn she had no gift for me. Then my husband told me I was his secret Santa and my ring was my gift!”

When was your wedding?

“April 10, 2022.”

Where did the wedding take place?

“Middletown, NY – “The Barn” at Villa Venezia.”  

Why did you choose this location?

“I really wanted a rustic/upscale barn themed wedding and this was the perfect venue! The location was also ideal for family.”

What were the first steps you took to begin your wedding planning process?

“First we chose who our bridesmaids and groomsmen would be, then a budget for the wedding and brainstormed locations that would work best for family to travel.”

What was most important for you and your husband when planning the wedding? 

“The most important thing for us was that the food was good and that we had open bar. People always remember their food!!”

What was your first dance song and why? 

“Our first dance song was “Adorn” by Miguel. We didn’t want to dance to a really slow love song, and my husband actually picked it. Fun fact: For our one year anniversary in 2017, I made a collage video with pictures of us and this song played in the background.”

What moment from your wedding will you never forget?

“I will never forget my mom’s speech and Terence’s dad’s speech. All of our guests got to witness first hand how loved we both are from of our families.”

What is one piece of advice you would give other brides-to-be?

“Wedding planning can be stressful, try not to let it cause problems in your household. The wedding is not more important than the marriage. Make sure you and your partner are on the same page and don’t let outside influences, including family, get in the way of your relationship.”