Though Lynnette Wright and Curtis Lewis grew up in the same neighborhood, their families knew each other, and their brothers were on the high school football team, the couple's first date didn’t come about until they reconnected 20 years later. Nevertheless, in spite of being nervous and quiet, playing bingo at a local restaurant drew out their competitive sides and foretold that they were a winning combination.

Besides providing valuable input regarding the details when it was time to plan their nuptials, Lynnette’s mother was also the person she asked to accompany her when she was shopping for the ceremony and reception gowns. “As the only girl in our family, it was the best decision to have my best friend with me every step of the way,” she reveals. Being her favorite color, Lynnette chose purple as an accent hue for the celebration, which was beautifully displayed in such elements as the luxurious gatefold wedding invitations, as well as vibrant bridal and bridesmaids bouquets.

The couple looked for a unique venue on the lakefront that would be memorable for their friends and family. Touring the Adler Planetarium, the groom was immediately captivated by the views of the water and iconic city skyline. Since Curtis is a fan of science, “the exhibits were just an added bonus,” notes the bride with a smile.

Inspired by the season, arrangements of sunny roses and white hydrangeas brightened the modern ceremony space. The couple’s monogram – composed of canary petals – embellished the aisle runner. “I felt very secure and loved as both of my parents held my arms down the aisle,” says the bride, who looked regal in a grand satin ball gown with a cathedral train. Her elegant groom donned a heather grey suit and a purple calla lily and orchid boutonniere.

During the service, Lynnette and Curtis dedicated a moment to present roses to their mothers to “recognize the support and love they have given us,” she says. As the vow exchange concluded, the newlyweds jumped the broom to honor those who paved the way for African-Americans to get married long ago. “It also signifies a fresh start – sweeping away the past and starting anew,” adds Lynnette.

For the reception, tall and petite floral designs of golden roses and ivory hydrangeas created a striking effect against satin lavender linens and Byzantine lighting. “The colors flowed together perfectly,” notes the bride. Lime grilled salmon, oven-roasted airline breast of chicken, and purple potato lasagna with ricotta cheese were the delectable entrée options on the menu.

The father-daughter dance to “Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole was an emotional moment. “It wasn’t long enough, just for him to hold me in his arms and tell me that he loved me made my heart melt,” shares Lynnette, who changed into a beaded gown with delicate straps, dazzling chandelier earrings, and a headdress for the evening.

The entire event exceeded the couple’s expectations. “Having a wedding planner who was a true professional was the best decision that I made during the planning process,” notes the bride. She looks back fondly at the photos that captured their special day saying, “My pictures will be [what] I will be able to share with others who were not there and little ones to hopefully come in the future.”