From Mardi Gras to Glamorous Vows: A New Orleans Love Story

Naja-Achee and Deion first met at the 2012 Mardi Gras festivities. However, it was not until three years later that the two decided to start dating. After eight years of growing together in love, the couple tied the knot in a gorgeous wedding ceremony in the city where it all began! See more from their celebration of love, captured by Duke Images and previously featured in the winter 2023 issue of Black Bride Magazine.

Bride: Naja-Achee Jones, 29, Registered Nurse

Groom: Deion Jones, 28, Atlanta Falcons Linebacker

Photography by: Duke Images

Place of Residence: Atlanta, GA

Wedding Date: July 9, 2022

Wedding Location: Mardi Gras World, New Orleans, Louisiana

Wedding Theme/Motif/Inspiration: Different shades of browns, with a hint of orange, because orange is our favorite color.

Honeymoon Destination: A two week tour of Italy

Engagement story (please tell us the story of your engagement proposal):

Usually I plan everything because Deion is typically in football season. We wanted to go to Mexico in June, and in the midst of me planning, he wanted to take over everything. When we arrived at the hotel, Deion told me to change clothes so we could eat poolside. The hotel photographer came up to us and said, “I like the background you guys are in, do you mind if I get some photos?” When she started taking my photos, she told me to face the water, and when I turned around Deion was on one knee and asked me to marry him!

Your best/most memorable moment:

Deion’s most memorable moment was seeing me walk down the aisle in my dress. My best moment was walking down the aisle, the reception reveal, and seeing how everything came together.

Wedding song, explain choice for song:

“This Is Why I Love You” by Major. He performed the song for our first dance. We chose this song because we feel as though it symbolizes our love.

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

Continuing to grow together as a married couple and grow our family. We are excited to start traveling and viewing different cultures.