From Thailand to H-Town: Akilah & Devin’s Black and White Wedding

Devin and Akilah’s love story began halfway across the world in Thailand. In November 2019, they met during a group trip with Black Travel Worldwide—Akilah had won her spot through an Instagram giveaway, while Devin was traveling with friends. Their connection was instant, and by December 31, 2019, they officially began dating. For the next couple of years, they navigated a long-distance relationship, with Akilah living in New York and Devin based in Virginia. In 2021, Akilah moved to the DMV area, solidifying their bond even further. Surrounded by loved ones, they recently celebrated their next chapter with a beautiful wedding in Willis, Texas.

Bride: Akilah Shanks, 32, Professional Development

Groom: Devin Shanks, 39, Finance

Photography By: Michelle Harris

Wedding Planner: The Tiffany Effect

Place of Residence: Atlanta, GA

Wedding Date: March 22, 2025

Wedding Location: The Homestead in Willis, TX

Wedding Theme/Motif/Inspiration: Modern Elegance with a timeless black & white palette

Honeymoon Destination: Sicily – Cefalu and Taormina

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

It’s hard to put into words finally experiencing the two years of planning for our special day. We were both surrounded by the village that has poured into us since the very beginning. Emotions were all over the place, as they generally are; but the moment we saw each other at opposite sides of the aisle, a sense of calm took over. We knew everything was meant to be. 

Wedding song, and the significance of the song: 

PJ Morton & Ledisi – “Anything for You” (Duet)

When in a committed and balanced relationship, doing something for your partner should never feel like a burden. We were in a long distance relationship shortly after we met, and when you combine that with the pandemic, one wouldn’t be wrong for believing circumstances were tough. However, we both took it as an opportunity to show what lengths we would go to make the other person feel wanted and appreciated in our lives and it felt good knowing effort was at the top of both of our lists.

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

In our minds, we were married well before the wedding! If there is anything in particular though, it would be the lineage that starts from us. We’ve appreciated the elders in our families and what they’ve done for their children, grandchildren, etc. – & I (Devin) have always said I look forward to sitting in my rocking chair 40+ years from now (God willing) smiling at the family we’ve raised. All the work we’ve put in will come to fruition and I can only hope our kids and their lineage will appreciate us as well.

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.