Vibrant Haitian Sunflower Georgia Wedding

Suzanne and Joel met about nine years ago at a book club meeting that Joel was hosting. Joel at the time was rocking an afro and Suzanne was still going through the monthly pangs of relaxer pain. Needless to say, there was still much change to come. But since that very early time, there was the potential for something; an invisible string that kept them interlinked despite the transitions that they’d go through. Now they’ve united as a forever pair with a vibrant sunflower themed wedding that was coupled with a southern flair at the King & Prince in St. Simons Island, Georgia. Check out this unique blend, captured by River West Photography.

Bride’s full name, age, and occupation: Suzanne Rochelin, 38, CPA

Groom’s full name, age, and occupation: Joel D. Dixon, 39, Real Estate Developer

Place of residence: Atlanta, Georgia

Wedding date: May 27, 2017

Wedding location: King & Prince, St. Simons Island, Georgia

Wedding theme: Southern Haitian Hospitality

Honeymoon Destination: Bangkok, Phucket and Phi Phi Island in Thailand.

Engagement story:

Joel proposed on my birthday, January 6, 2017. When he proposed, he showed me the movie stub our first date in 2008 as well as other memorabilia that were significant in our relationship (cards, poems, clothing and so on). He kept all these items because he realized that I was special and unique.

What makes your love special?

We dated for a year but then broke up for five because we still had some growing to do. Five years later, equipped with better hair, better style, but most importantly better hearts, we rekindled our relationship. We remained friends even during our years apart.

We both served as board members of Educate Haiti Now and came to create a strong, underlying partnership that provided the basis for our friendship. We came to know each other well and to recognize that the invisible string that had made our paths continuously cross was in actuality the gentle hand of God. He was our shepherd the whole time, preparing them for a future together as husband and wife. Turns out, the timing was just right.

Your most memorable moment:

After the ceremony pictures, the wedding party did the customary “intro” to the wedding reception. When Joel and I were introduced, we were dancing and strutting into TI’s “Bring Em’ Out” and it progressed as planned. Then all of a sudden, towards the end, Joel picked me up and twirled me around for what felt like a minute. Everyone was so surprised and looked to make sure he didn’t drop me. Of course he didn’t and it’s a moment I’ll never forget.

From the Bride:

The wedding took place on a beautiful sunny day. I woke up with a big smile on my face and had breakfast with Joel, then we both went our separate way to get ready for the ceremony. Everything confirmed the soundness of our decision to be married. We were surrounded by our friends and family and felt their encouragement and love throughout the day. Even the heavens seemed to be celebrating our love with the lovely scenery that surrounded us, from the rays of the sun to the ocean waves and the soft breeze.

From the Groom:

I was full of joy and felt very, very calm. There was quite a bit going on that day but everything was just so peaceful in my mind and spirit. Everything really went smoothly and seemed to flow well for the day. I enjoyed breakfast with my bride just to get in some “us” time together before the fullness of the day. I really enjoyed connecting with my groomsmen and taking pictures before the wedding. The day was so beautiful and I was so blessed and thankful as we performed our vows in front of blue beach water and green lawns while I looked at my gorgeous bride. I never really i
magined my wedding day growing up, but the feeling I had resulted in so much happiness. I don’t think I could have imagined it any better than it turned out.

Wedding song:

K-Ci & Jojo’s “All My Life.” Joel picked the song because he thought the lyrics exemplified our journey. Plus, 90s R&B is just the best!

Favorite wedding detail:

We had a Haitian DJ that drove in from Atlanta. It definitely brought in Caribbean flavors into the wedding and made for a fun and enjoyable day. Everyone was on the dance floor and didn’t want to leave the party.