Breonna and Dequon both share the same love for their families, friends, and their home state of North Carolina. So, it only made sense that they would meet in North Carolina through mutual friends. But, neither could have predicted falling in love with someone from a rival university! Thankfully, though Breonna and Dequon remain passionate about their alma maters, they’ve been together for four years, shared a sweet family-centered engagement surprise, captured engagement photos with Andre Brown in Miami in preparation for their August wedding day last year. See more from this stunning engagement session previously featured in the summer 2021 issue of Black Bride Magazine.
Bride: Breonna Liles, 27 years old, Childcare Director
Groom: Dequon Swann, 28 years old, Amazon Transportation
Place of Residence: McLeansville, North Carolina
Engagement Shoot Location: Secret Gardens of Miami in Miami, Florida
Wedding Date: August 14, 2021
Engagement Story:
I remember it like it was yesterday because it was one of the best days of my life. At my uncle and auntie’s 5th year wedding anniversary gathering, my auntie began her thank you speech, and she said, “This event isn’t for us. Could the guest of honor come to the microphone?” I noticed Dequon walk past me – my immediate reaction was a loud, happy yell of “Oh my gosh!”
He began expressing his feelings and when he got down on one knee my family was so hype – it was just an amazing moment.
For the Groom: Walk us through the behind the scenes of creating this special day:
I knew I wanted to propose with her family and friends around because she’s family oriented, just like me. Her mom pitched the idea of me tricking her into thinking that we were having an anniversary party for her mom’s brother and his wife.
The day finally came, and I was a nervous wreck. The time finally came and, in that moment, I knew I was making God proud.








What was the theme of your shoot?
“Swanns in the Garden”. Dequon’s last name is Swann and there were two swans at the location, so we figured it was the perfect spot.
Were there any memorable moments during the shoot?
Dequon and I wanted to have a shot near this beautiful waterfall. Instead of taking the long way, we decided to take the shortcut, and Dequon fell and messed up his attire. Our photographer had to help us figure out what poses to do. Funny thing, those specific poses by that waterfall were my favorite photos out of the bunch.
What are you most looking forward to about your wedding?
I look forward to marrying my fiancé and celebrating our union with our close family and friends.
Congratulations to the happy couple! We wish them many years of wedded bliss!
Additional Event Information
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- Photography
- Andre Brown
- Venue
- Secret Gardens Miami
- Planning & Design
- De’Veilope Events
- Makeup
- Beauty Karma Studios