October 27, 2023
Jonika and Mason met on a night out at a restaurant in Richmond. Jonika was a regular at the establishment and Mason, a new employee, was working the front door. A bartender friend of Jonika’s encouraged Mason to strike up a conversation with her. After chatting for a few minutes, Mason gave Jonika his number, and a few weeks later, they went on their first official date.
In June 2022, the couple went on vacation to Destin, Florida. On their second day Mason arranged a parasailing excursion. As they soared into the air, Mason pulled out the ring and asked, “Will you marry me?” This left Jonika surprised, shocked, and excited. With tear-filled eyes and a beaming smile, she said “YES!” Of course, he waited until their feet were back on land to put the ring on her finger!
The two wanted a timeless, elegant, and romantic feel for the wedding. Pinterest and Instagram served as guides for curating themes they envisioned. Despite the stress of wedding planning, the process was also seen as exciting and rewarding. Jonika adds a reminder to other couples to “be patient with each other.”
The ceremony took place outdoors in front of a bold oak tree draped with linen flowing in the wind, truly embracing the venue’s natural beauty. After the ceremony, the party started in a vintage greenhouse overlooking a vast lake on the property. As the celebration ended, Jonika and Mason danced to You & I (Nobody in the World) by John Legend, then were sent off with a grand bubble exit!
Since the wedding, Jonika and Mason have recently purchased their first home. The happy couple is enjoying being new homeowners and all that comes with it.
