It was love at first sight for Indianapolis Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin when he first met his future wife, Khandice Dyson, during their freshman year at Syracuse University. “Our paths crossed, and we’ve been inseparable ever since,” Zaire confirms, picturing that serendipitous day so vividly. “It was almost like I knew something special was happening. From the moment she told me her name, I just knew she was meant for me.” Three months later, he told her that he was going to marry her one day – and he was right.

Years later during the Colts’ bye week, the couple took a weekend trip to Houston. After dinner at Nobu, Zaire proposed to his beloved in their hotel room. “I couldn’t stop smiling. It was the perfect intimate proposal,” Khandice remembers. Upon returning home, they began planning their dream wedding. Since Zaire is from Pennsylvania and Khandice is from Connecticut, the newly betrothed decided to wed in New Jersey, a middle-ground destination close to family and friends, and selected a gorgeous venue that marries Old World charm and modern luxury.

“The look of the wedding was a reflection of a ‘Bold + Tender Romance’ – a grand celebration where vibrant hues reverberate with a sense of passion and authority,” shares the bride of their vision. The ceremony focused on romance with an angelic all-white look accented with ornate black-and-gold gates framing the couple as they exchanged vows.

With God at the core of their union, they asked Reverend Dr. Alyn E. Waller – the senior pastor at Zaire’s childhood church, Enon Tabernacle – to officiate the ceremony. After they said “I do,” the newlyweds jumped the broom and recessed up the aisle as husband and wife to “I’m Ready” by Tevin Campbell.

“The flowers were immaculate and every guest was stunned by how beautiful and intricate they were.”

To continue their theme into the reception, the décor scheme blended ivory and blush details representing romance with chic black elements to symbolize the strength of their love. Tables were strewn with ebony linens and showcased one of two designs: grand estate tables adorned with a sea of candles and flowers seemingly growing out of the center and round tables topped with striking candelabras. The newlyweds’ elegant sweetheart table was most impressive, situated in front of a draped backdrop of black velvet and surrounded by a garden of vanilla-toned blooms.

“The flowers were immaculate and every guest was stunned by how beautiful and intricate they were,” Zaire notes. Centerpieces highlighted a romantic floral story of anemones, anthuriums, baby’s breath blooms, phalaenopsis orchids, ranunculuses, calla lilies, hydrangeas, double tulips, and Playa Blanca, Quicksand, and Vendela roses, all of which were accompanied by modern tablescape elements. Gold-rimmed chargers were layered with black-rim clear dinner plates, and midnight-toned flatware, ribbed candle votives, and smoked glassware completed the sophisticated look.

While he was involved throughout the planning process, the groom was most excited about the entertainment of the evening, hiring his good friend as the DJ. “He crushed it!” exclaims Zaire. “Even though he did play ‘WAP’ in front of my aunts and uncles, we followed it up with Marvin Gaye, so all is forgiven,” laughs the groom. When “Got to Give It Up” played next, a Soul Train Line started, instantly becoming Zaire’s favorite part of the day. “I literally felt like I was in the middle of a movie. It was giving The Best Man and The Great Gatsby vibes for sure,” he smiles.

The revelry continued with dancing into the night, as well as Zaire and Khandice singing the ceremonial songs of their respective fraternity and sorority along with their friends, who knew them at the start of their relationship. “It was the perfect combination of close family and friends, eating, drinking, and celebrating love,” muses the bride of the perfect day. “We could feel the genuine love and support for our union from everyone in that room all night long.”

This real wedding was originally published in the Spring 2025 issue of Inside Weddings magazine. 

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