DeAndrea and Marcus met in 2012 when they were both working at Macy’s. They saw each other from afar but they didn’t actually pay attention to one another until they were properly introduced by a coworker. After receiving Marcus’ number on a piece of receipt paper, DeAndrea decided to text Marcus a few days later. The pair eventually decided to meet up with friends one night, and from that moment on, they formed a connection and became an official couple on September 11, 2013. After four and a half years together, Marcus proposed, and of course, DeAndrea said yes! Check out their special day filled with fun and romantic looks, captured by Civic Photos.
Bride’s full name, age and occupation: DeAndrea Jame, age: 27, CPS Adoption Worker
Groom’s full name, age and occupation: Marcus James, age: 29, Service Sales Representative
Place of residence: Houston, Texas
Engagement shoot location: Downtown Houston
Wedding date: April 27, 2019
Engagement story:
On January 24, 2018, Marcus proposed at the TGI Friday’s where we had our first date. On the day before, Marcus did everything he could to make me upset. As the day ended, when I was getting ready for bed Marcus asked me if I wanted to attend a bible study with him the following day. I responded “Yes, because we need it.” The next day, I had a busy day at work and texted Marcus about bible study. Marcus replied, and told me that we were going to TGI Friday’s instead because he was hungry, and I had a friend there that would give us free drinks. I said okay, and didn’t think anything of it because we went there often. Later that evening, around 6 p.m., I was stuck in traffic making my way back from a faraway home visit for work. I finally made it home and took my time getting ready for dinner. Little did I know, my whole family was waiting patiently at TGI Friday’s. Marcus also stayed calmed and allowed me to take my time. We then made it to TGI Friday’s and as we walked in, I looked to the left and saw my entire family sitting at a table. I was so nervous and confused. As we walked closer to the table, my family started laughing and smiling. I turned back to Marcus and he was on one knee and proposed. I thought I was dreaming! I cried and of course I said yes!
For the Groom: Walk us through the behind the scenes of creating this special day
I had plan “A-E” strategically in place. I wanted to propose in a place where we met, or had been before. I also wanted family around. The proposal at TGI was plan “E”. Her best friend and I had other creative ideas that didn’t go through. A few days before the engagement, I had a small scare because I could not get in contact with her dad to ask for his blessing. I became nervous, and wondered if I had to postpone the engagement. I thought he didn’t approve of me. Turns out, her dad wasn’t ignoring me! His phone was dead, and he text me back the following day. I was able to go by her parents’ house to talk with her dad earlier that day before the engagement. We all laugh about that situation today. The day of the proposal I told her we were going to TGIFriday’s to eat, and I stayed calm. After she had made it home from work, she got ready, and we headed to TGI Friday’s. I arranged for her family to be present, and when we walked in she was surprised. The proposal was great, she cried, and of course she loved the ring.
What makes your love special?
I think our love is special because Marcus and I are best friends. We are always in awe, at how much we connect. From the moment we met, I felt like we had known each other for years. He gets me, and I get him. We are also strong. We have endured many ups in downs, and I love that we never broke. We kept God first, and evolved. I love that we had a chance to watch each other grow up. We grew up individually, but most importantly we GREW together.
What was the theme of your shoot?
A classic stroll through downtown Houston.
Were there any memorable moments during the shoot?
During the shoot downtown, to our surprise, Marcus’ cousins spotted us as we were taking pictures. It was a pleasant surprise! Also, my best friend Braden was there for support. She means so much to us, and we couldn’t have done the shoot without her there. Also, a funny thing happened at the shoot. During our outfit change, Marcus discovered that he’d forgotten his shoes. I was so upset, but we made it work by going barefoot in the grass. It totally wasn’t in the plan, but it worked!
What are you most looking forward to about your wedding?
We are most looking forward to seeing each other for the first time on the wedding day. I think a first look is priceless, and in that moment we wil
l both know that it is really happening! We are also looking forward to seeing our family and having a good time on the dance floor.
Have you started planning your wedding?
Absolutely! As the bride, I am very organized. Marcus and I agreed to handle everything early to avoid any last minute stress. I think we have a good system going, and I have completed our checklist about halfway.
Congratulations to the happy couple! We wish you a fruitful wedding and marriage.
