Shantonya and Marcus' love story began in 2007 at a local nightclub in Bay City, MI during their college undergraduate years. They smiled into each other’s hearts and have been together for 8 years now. “I love our story and have always found it funny because I never imagined meeting my husband at a bar! He approached me and some of my girlfriends and we exchanged phone numbers. I wasn’t really expecting him to call, but he did," said Shantonya. It turned out that Shantonya and Marcus attended the same college, Saginaw Valley State University, but hadn't met before seeing each other at the nightclub. The two celebrated their union with “A Night To Remember” spring wedding this year. Check out their special day captured by Neringa Ridges of NeriPhoto.
Bride: Shantonya LaKeiva Scott, 30, Academic Advisor
Groom: Marcus Anthony Scott, 28, Retail Manager
Place of residence: Grand Rapids, MI
Wedding date: 5/15/15
Wedding location: City Flats Ballroom – Downtown Grand Rapids
Wedding theme: “A Night To Remember”
Honeymoon Destination: Cancun, Mexico
Engagement story:
Shantonya was gearing up to head to Europe to study abroad for her Master’s program. She and Marcus were also house hunting at the time. Marcus proposed at the closing of our new home, which was the same day of our wedding (May 15th).
From the Groom:
Although I was a little nervous leading up to the ceremony, I was happy and excited that Shantonya was about to become my wife. With all the love and happiness in the air, I knew this day would be the most memorable day of my life!
From the Bride:
My wedding was the perfect day. I felt so humbled and honored to become Marcus’ wife. The day was filled with love, happiness, fun, and laughter. I had the best time of my life!
What makes your love special?
Real love is when you touch someone with your spirit, and in return they touch your soul with their heart. We carry one another in our spirits and we protect each other’s hearts. We’re the PERFECT match and our love is unconditional…We’re Soulmates!
The couples best memorable moment:
Our best most memorable moment was our 1st My husband and I are very laidback and somewhat shy people. We don’t normally dance nor like to be the center of attention. However, for our big day we decided to step outside our comfort zones and be bold. Our dance started out with “You and I” by Avant and Keke Wyatt, with a brief interruption of Bobby Shmurder (while we did the Shmoney dance LOL), then we finished with “You and I” resuming at the end. Our guests were shocked and entertained, and we truly enjoyed our performance together as husband and wife.
Wedding song:
“Real Love” by Eric Benet. We chose this song because it expresses our love in its entirety. We have a genuine, consistent, and everlasting love that will continue to enhance and grow until the end of time.
Favorite wedding detail:
Our favorite wedding details were our attire. We were in LOVE with our ivory ensembles! Marcus’s custom made-to-fit suit by Malcolm Staples and my gorgeous Leighton gown by Hailey Paige were definitely show stoppers and highlights of our day.
What are you most looking forward to as a married couple?
Spending the rest of our lives together, raising a family, and continuing to grow professionally.
Advice for a Bride/Groom on their wedding day:
Remember that it is YOUR day and take it ALL in. Enjoy every moment of your special day and don’t let anyone or anything steal your joy.
Congrats to Shantonya and Marcus! We wish you many more years of wedded bliss!
Vendors:
Photographer: Neringa Ridges of NeriPhoto
Ceremony and reception location: City Flats Ballroom
Bridal gown: Hailey Paige from BiAnka Bridal
Bridesmaids Dresses: Exclusive Ingrid Dress
by Pia Gladys Perey from White Runway
Groomsmen Suits: JF J. Ferrar End on End Suit from JCPenney
Groom’s tux: Malcolm Staples
Cake: Desserts by Lori
Wedding planners : Ashley Mason – Chic & Pretty Events
Music: Adrian Butler – DJ AB
Hair – Rochelle Knox
Makeup – Martina Ruffin
Flowers: Elizabeth Schenk – Posh Petals Floral
Stationery: Minted.com
Signage & Décor: Events by i.candy
Linens & Décor: Special Occasions Linens
Videographer: Matt Trubac – TruVision
Curated by our Wedding Features Editor, C.K. Alexander. C.K. is the owner and founder of Love Ink and Brownstone Bridal. Keep up with C.K. on Twitter here: @Love_Ink
