The Lucky Lady: Cherene Douglas, 33, Corporate Training Manager- Ashworth College
Her Leading Man: Paul Johnson, 36, Technical Consultant- Microsoft Partner
The Big Day: March 14, 2015
How did you meet your man?
Ironically I met my handsome groom-to-be at work. I had a laundry list of “do’s” and “don’ts” when it came to relationships, and dating at work was certainly a “don’t.” I was prepping for a training class late one evening and I saw this handsome hunk of chocolate zoom past me by the copy machine. I had been employed only a few short months and had never seen him before. We were later introduced by a colleague and began to build a friendship from there. After a few months of getting to know each other and a double blind date gone wrong, Paul suggested we court each other just to “see” what happens. I cautiously accepted.
Were you looking for love at the time?
I’ve never been the type to look for love. But at that time I was ready for God to bless me with someone that I could take seriously. A grown, decisive man!
Was it love at first sight?
We became friends and began to build on the foundation of trust.
Most romantic date ever?
My first birthday date with him was completely shocking. We went to a local Asian restaurant followed by a surprise of over 25 gifts. There were a variety of items that I needed for my home (be it old or broken.). The gifts ranged from a 12-piece knife set and a can opener to a lotion/perfume set. It was amazing. He paid attention to detail and picked up items I would never get around to purchase for myself.
Best vacation moment?
We went to the Dominican Republic. It was relaxing and we over indulged in food.
Who said “the L word” first?
He did…sucker!
How did he pop the question?
We had been dating for months and Paul casually mentioned a work trip to Las Vegas. He knew that was my favorite place to visit and asked me to accompany him. Months later, I got a call from the CEO of the company. He boasted about Paul’s talents and their interest in sending him to Vegas for a Microsoft conference. He followed by asking if I would be interested in attending as an honorary “spouse.” I instantly said, “Of, course!” Upon my arrival in Vegas, I promptly met with Paul to explore the city. That evening we were booked to attend the conference dinner. I made it a priority to get dolled up by getting my make up professionally done (per his suggestion) and put on my favorite crisp white suite. We caught a cab and headed over to dinner. As we walked in, I could hear distant chatting from the guests. As I entered the dinner, I heard the overwhelming shout of “surprise!” I began to see familiar faces. One of which was my bestie who dropped me off at the airport a few hours back, and the other, my childhood best friend since third grade. I spotted a slew of Paul’s closest friends in the crowd. I came to the conclusion they all flew out to celebrate my early birthday. I swiftly turned around to thank Paul with open arms. To my surprise, he was smiling from ear-to-ear kneeled on one knee with a tiny burgundy box and diamond ring. There was never a Microsoft convention scheduled…we partied the entire weekend!
Photography by Billie Board