Meet Leah and Darius aka Team Bowen: We Made it to the Big Time!!!

1. How did you meet?

Leah: We met in January of 2014 while attending Tuskegee University. I was a part of the Golden Voices Choir, and Darius was a part of the ROTC program. I was asked to sing the National Anthem at their battalion by one of the members in the choir who also happened to be in the ROTC program. When I arrived to the program, out of everyone in uniform, Darius stood out the most. He was standing up tall and had a huge grin on his face. I then asked my friend who he was, and she was clueless, especially on his relationship status. So then the investigation began. As she returned with answers she said, “He is single and will be talking to you after the program.” My body flooded with nerves, excitement, and acute nausea. I could not bear the anticipation, so I left the scene shortly after the program. While walking to my car I received a call from my friend saying, “Girl where did you go? That boy went running after you!!!” So I suddenly stopped and reversed my trail. While turning the corner, I saw Darius and my choir members walking side by side as if family were giving away the groom to his bride. In the midst of obvious embarrassment I made up my mind. This time I was going to be myself. We locked eyes, I took a deep breath, and we began to talk.

2. What was dating like?

Darius: Dating Leah was like gaining a new best friend. Never had I known someone that I had so much in common with. We grew in grace, love, and maturity right in front of one another's eyes. We laughed, smiled, and talked everyday. Wherever we went people were in awe at the sight of our connection. When I asked Leah to be mine, I knew that there would never be another for me. Ever since that moment she has been my partner in life. This wedding is a celebration of our love to share with our loved ones and to honor the perfection of the union God has blessed us with.

3. What will the wedding be like?

Leah: I hope that when Darius sees me that he knows that I am ready and so excited to be his. I want this to always be a memory that will last the rest of our lives. I pray that this wedding will be full of joy, love, unity, and pure fun! Our wedding party will be full of friends, family, and loved ones. The music and atmosphere will be beautiful and will capture our personalities and taste. Most of all the genuine love for one another will be displayed and experienced. We want God’s love and acceptance to be a message to all of our guests. I look forward to committing and sharing my life with Darius with God continuing to be in the center of our relationship.

4. What do you want to be the legacy of your marriage?

Darius: I want our marriage to be an example for a new generation of people. An example that true love can exist as long as you are always your true self. An example that the best part of you will never fade with time. To open your heart in an unfiltered way will attract more and more legitimate love into your life.

Photos by Amanda Summerlin

Amanda Summerlin beautiful engagement photos

AMANDA SUMMERLIN

Hello, my name is Amanda Summerlin, and I’m an artist and explorer. At least, that’s what my business cards say. I’ve been an artist since I first held one of those nice chunky Crayola crayons. I’ve never wanted to be anything else. I drew my first portrait when I was four. Even though it was on the wall, it still counts. All through grade school, I drew on anything that would hold still (including myself and some of my friends and most of my textbooks too). Then I went to art school, where I earned a BFA in painting, and while I was there, took my first few photography classes and was hooked for life. Although I still draw and paint, and I will always love painting, for the past few years photography has completely stolen my heart.