A Timeless Wedding in Washington, DC

Kayla and Emmanuel both attended Oakwood University but, as fate would have it, they did not officially meet until January 2022 at a mutual friend’s law school graduation celebration. The two started dating and have been together since April 2022. After a year and a half of growing together in love, Emmanuel asked Kayla to become his wife! The lovely couple tied the knot in an elegant wedding ceremony, captured by Patty Betts Photography. 

Bride: Kayla Key, 28, Public Health Program Analyst 

Groom: Emmanuel Key, 31, Government Consultant 

Photography By: Patty Betts of Patty Betts Photography 

Place of Residence: Arlington, Virginia 

Wedding Date: November 3, 2024 

Wedding Location: Metropolitan Seventh-day Adventist Church– Hyattsville, Maryland and Hilton DC National Mall– Washington, DC 

Wedding Theme/Motif/Inspiration: Classic 80s inspired church wedding; A combination of glam with orchids and moss 

Honeymoon Destination: Rosewood Little Dix Bay in Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands 

Briefly tell us about your wedding experience and how the both of you felt on your big day. 

Our wedding day was truly the most beautiful and joy-filled experience of our lives. Throughout the entire weekend, there was an overwhelming sense of gratitude and excitement in the air. Every detail—from the heartfelt vows we exchanged, to the energy on the dance floor at our after-party—felt like a perfect reflection of our love and the community that surrounds us. 

Walking down the aisle and finally locking eyes with each other, we both felt an incredible sense of peace, knowing we were stepping into this next chapter together. The love from our family and friends was palpable, and we were intentional about soaking in every moment. The day flew by, but we left with full hearts, feeling deeply loved, supported, and beyond excited for our future as husband and wife. 

Wedding song, and the significance of the song: “So This is Love” by Sneha Prakash

What are you most looking forward to as a married couple? 

As a married couple, we are most looking forward to traveling the world together, immersing ourselves in new cultures, and experiencing the joy of trying new foods in new places. We’re looking forward to documenting every phase of our new lives together on film, a hobby we share, knowing we’ll be able to look back on those moments for years to come. More than anything, we’re excited to build a life filled with adventure, curiosity, and creativity. 

Congratulations to the happy couple! We wish them a lifetime of wedded bliss.

Walking down the aisle this year? Get inspired by more gorgeous bridal inspiration and wedding planning tips, order your copy of Black Bride Magazine.