Arthur and Justene began their love story on the internet. After seeing at least 7 ads in a span of two hours for a popular dating site, a hesitant Justene decided to take the plunge and give joining a go. “That day, I found Arthur’s profile and felt an instant attraction. I next reached out to him and received a response within the week. Two weeks after exchanging texts and speaking on the phone, we decided to meet” shares Justene. Arthur mapped out the date for their first meeting but decided to skip the details and instead surprise her with the plans. “He picked me up from grad school one night and surprised me with an Alicia Keys concert! It was actually my first concert. After, we spent the night watching the Knicks at a bar near Madison Square Garden. It was an amazing first date” says Justene. The rest was indeed history as the couple’s love only blossomed from there.
Fast forwarding two years, the pair were living together and decided to throw a fun, fight party. The couple invited all of their family and friends to revel in a good time. But little did Justene know, she was in for yet another surprise from Arthur. “I worked hard to prepare a spectacular event; however Arthur needed to leave for Baltimore to attend a wedding. While that was fine, he spent more time than planned with his friends and left me to do practically all the work for this joint event” says Justene. And an upset Justene, reacted by refusing to speak to him that night.
“At some point during the evening, Arthur left and returned with a huge aluminum tray. As I was talking to my guests, he requested everyone’s attention. Out of the tray, came a cake with our picture and a quote that talked about a king needing a queen. I thought, ‘what a nice apology cake’ because he also admitted to everyone that I prepared everything at the party and was thankful. We kissed and all was good” shares Justene. But as she turned to walk away, Arthur called her back to come cute the cake. Though she was confused as to why she was tasked to do this, she obliged and headed his way.
“As I was doing this, he started to play “Matrimony” by Wale and got down on his knee. I screamed and ran away. He shouted across the room ‘will you marry me?’ Suddenly it all became real. It was actually an engagement party that happened to also be a fight party. Everyone knew and attended to witness the event. The ironic part is, I actually did everything for my own engagement party!” laughs Justene. What an adorable story!
The two wed this spring the Mansion At Timber Point in Great River, NY and bride, Justene incorporated several special details into her Gold Glam themed ceremony. All of their decorations were gorgeously hand crafted and featured sentimental value from, the mirror used to greet their guest (which included the nostalgic dates in their relationship) down to their table numbers! “Every table had a special number, like 10701 Yonkers (where we live now) 1,745 (pictures we shared). I was really proud!” laughs Justene. Another cute detail – her DIY tinsel and bubble gum-ball topped drink stirrers that sat perched by the bar.
Scroll on for more photos from this Gold-Glam wedding captured by coterie member and photographer, Kesha Lambert.
Bride: Justene Adolphus
Groom: Arthur Miller
Occupations: Justene: Fourth Grade Teacher | Arthur: NYPD Police Officer (Domestic Violence Unit)
Wedding date: 4/9/2016
Wedding location: The Mansion at Timber Point in Great Plains, NY
Did you incorporate any culture into your wedding?
We didn’t incorporate anything particular. It was important for us to recognize Arthur’s parents, who are both deceased. I asked a bridesmaid to bless the food with love instead of a prayer. She wrote a heartfelt poem that really captured us as a couple and it felt like everyone was there with us in spirit.
Describe your wedding dress & your favorite wedding accessory!
I randomly went alone one day after work to Lotus Bridal in Brooklyn. The selection was beyond incredible. I went alone because I wanted to base my choice on my happiness. My dress was an Essence of Australia, lace, sheath, mermaid fit. It had a sweetheart neckline with off the shoulder short sleeves. My veil, garter, and belt were made by my sister in law. We went to Mode in NYC to get all the supplies and saved hundreds. My belt was my favorite accessory. It was made out of crystals and perfectly fit me.
Quick Facts
Wedding theme: “Gold Glam”
Favorite item on the menu: Prosciutto wrapped shrimp with risotto
Wedding Cake Flavors: Vanilla cake with vanilla creme
First Dance song: “If I Ain’t Got You” by Alicia Keys
Mother/Son Dance: “Mama” by Boys II Men
Mother/Daughter Dance: “I Feel Good” by James Brown
Best Man Gift: Invicta watch | Maid-Of-Honor Gift: Satin robe & Swarovski necklace and earrings
Bridesmaids/Groomsmen gifts: Groomsmen: Engraved flasks | Bridesmaids: Satin robes & Kate Spade drop earrings. Earlier bridesmaids received a handmade jewelry box, with their names in gold. Inside the box was a “no ugly crying” handkerchief, a pinch provision emergency kit, nail polish, a personalized shot glass, and a skinny tumbler with their name and the words “I’ve been drankin.”
What is your best memory from your wedding?
Being that Arthur is a police officer, he surprised me during the garter removal by wearing his cop hat and using his baton as a prop. He also danced to “Bad Boys” (the Cops theme song). It really was a great moment.
What is the best advice you can give to engaged couples?
Invitations and save the dates get thrown out! Flowers die. The wedding party loves you and doesn’t need to be wined and dined. Spend your effort creating an atmosphere that people remember. Personal decorations, good food, and music made our night. It’s only one night, so make it special by creating memories.
We had a blast working with this team of vendors and look forward to working with them again in the future. If you or someone you know would like us to photograph your event, Contact Us today for a free consultation.
Vendors
Photographer: Kesha Lambert
Wedding Dress: Lotus Bridal
Flowers: Pedestals Florist
Venue: The Timber Point Mansion
Music: Absolute Entertainment
Bridesmaid Dresses: Vow To Be Chic
Shoes: Badgley Mischka
Jewelry: Swarovski (Borrowed from the Bride’s Sister-In-Law)
Videographer: Parker Ave Studio
Makeup: Perfectly Made-Up By Milena
Hair: Hair By Kat
Cake: Rolling Pin Bakery
Decorations & Veil/Garter/Belt: LaRae Miller
Officiant: Linette Gomillion-Ellis
Invitations: Minted
RSVP Cards: Wedding Paper Divas
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