Valerie & Ray's Wedding
May 18, 2025, 12:00 PM
The Balcony Ballroom
RSVP closes by Feb 21, 2025.
OUR STORY
JOIN US IN CELEBRATING OUR LOVE
Who knew that in East New Orleans, amidst the laughter and music of a friend's birthday party, a simple request for a photograph would spark a love story that would transcend miles and years, leading me to the woman who would forever change my life.
I first met Valerie in New Orleans East, Louisiana, at a friend's birthday party on February 28th, 2015. The moment I saw her, she was gracefully capturing memories as the official photographer at the party. Her radiant smile and focused demeanor drew me in like a magnet. I approached her and asked if I could take her picture.
"Sure," she said with a gentle nod as she passed me the camera.
"Can I be in the picture with you?" I asked.
To my delight, she agreed and we found someone to capture an unforgettable moment for us.
"I would appreciate a copy of our picture?" I asked casually.
"Its digital, so how are you going to get the picture?" she responded.
"Well," I replied with mock seriousness, "I suppose you'll have to give me your number. "
We exchanged numbers and agreed to see each other, but no interaction with family or friends. For months, we met each other for dates and outings in public places but never at each other's home.
June 2015, I accepted a job in Miami with the Veteran's Affairs Administration (VA).
Therefore, in July 2015, we started our long-distance courtship.
Despite the miles between us, our bond grew stronger with each visit back and forth between Miami and New Orleans.
December 2015,we embarked on our first vacation abroad together to celebrate my birthday in the Dominican Republic.
August 2016, Valerie surprised me with an unforgettable cruise to the Bahamas. She spared no expense, booking an ocean view cabin with a balcony where we could gaze at the endless horizon together.
After 18 months of dating, we decided it was time to officially become a couple and began introducing each other to our families and friends.
Over 9 years of our courtship,we've traveled across the United States and several countries, creating countless cherished memories. We've enjoyed cruises and thrilling motorcycle rides; one unforgettable journey took us from Miami to Slidell, covering over 1,300 miles.
Our love story reached new heights after returning from Mexico celebrating my birthday on December 10, 2023. In a moment that felt like pure magic, I proposed to Valerie at a very special couple's home. The joy in her eyes as she said "yes" is something I'll treasure forever.
There are a plethora of pictures posted in the gallery to document our courtship journey. Many thanks for joining us as we cement our love for one another via marriage.
WITH LOVE
WEDDING DETAILS
TRAVEL INFORMATION
TRANSPORTATION
New Orleans is a city full of life and excitement, and getting around is a breeze with the many transportation options available. We highly recommend taking a ride on the iconic streetcars, which offer a unique and charming way to see the city. If you're looking for a more convenient option, Uber and Lyft are readily available and easy to use. No matter which mode of transportation you choose, you'll be able to explore all that New Orleans has to offer. If you're flying in, the local airport, MSY, is just a short ride away from the heart of the city.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Discover comfortable accommodations in New Orleans to make your stay enjoyable. We want your visit to be as amazing as our special day. Click here to see local hotels.
GIFTS & REGISTRY
Your presence at our wedding is the greatest gift of all. For those who wish to honor us with a gift, please click the store below to visit our registry, for some ideas.
Can't decide? We would greatly appreciate gift cards, Cash app, or Apple Pay. Your contribution will help us furnish our new house and make it feel like home.
