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Kierra Rodgers and Derek Flowers’ love story “is one of destiny and perfect timing,” the bride says. The two were introduced in 2014 by a mutual friend in Dallas. “She knew Derek was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and I was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and believed we would hit it off,” Kierra remembers. “But unfortunately, I was living in Louisiana at the time.” Two years passed—then fate brought them back together again. “I moved back to Dallas, and one evening in November 2016, that same friend and I attended a concert at the House of Blues. Afterward, we met up with a group of her friends, and that’s where I met Derek. At first, I played it cool—but it wasn’t long before I fell head over heels for him.” The two went on an official first date the following week, “and from that day on, we knew we were meant to be together forever.” On Easter Sunday 2021, Derek proposed.
Kierra had been envisioning a floral-filled wedding since she was a little girl—marrying a man with the last name Flowers was just the icing on top—but when it came to finding a theme for her big day, she wanted to celebrate not just her own love story but the love stories of Black couples everywhere. “Derek and I wanted our celebration to represent something meaningful,” she says. “We wanted to showcase the beauty of Black love and send a message of hope and encouragement to other Black couples, reminding them that their love is valuable and deserving of celebration.”
They prioritized incorporating elements that honored their values and beliefs, and worked with diverse vendors to bring their vision to life. “As we planned our dream wedding, we were committed to supporting Black-owned businesses and showcasing the talent and creativity of Black wedding vendors in our area,” the bride says. “We wanted to support and uplift Black entrepreneurs in our community. From our wedding stationery to our delicious cake, every detail of our special day was crafted with love and care.”
The results were breathtaking. Keep scrolling to see all the pretty details of their November 19, 2022, wedding day, planned by Paula Ewers of Truly Ewers Events and photographed by Pharris Photos + Films.
“It was also important that our wedding day felt uniquely ‘us,’ so we sought to incorporate personal touches wherever possible,” Kierra says. “We wanted to infuse our love of flowers into every aspect of our big day—after all, we were about to become Mr. and Mrs. Flowers!” So, they integrated florals into the wedding in ways both obvious and subtle, such as the envelope liner on 250 green-accented wedding invitations.
“To make sure my complexion looked great on my wedding day, I started a regular skincare routine about six months before the big day that involved hydrafacials, dermaplaning, and microdermabrasion treatments,” the bride shares. “Taking care of my skin in advance helped me feel confident and beautiful on my big day.” For her makeup, she requested a look that was feminine and soft; for hair, soft waves that evoked old Hollywood glam.
Kierra worked with London-based designer Alonuko to create a totally custom hand-beaded fishtail gown via virtual fittings over the course of 10 months (and she collabed with a local tailor to ensure the perfect fit once the gown was in hand). “Not only was I drawn to Alonuko’s intricate embroidery work, but I was also thrilled to support a woman of color-owned business,” she says.
For her bridesmaids, “I was inspired by the way emerald green looked on our skin tone,” Kierra says. “And, because our wedding was going to be held in the fall, I knew it would be the perfect accent color for our day.”
Derek also opted for something custom from a Black-owned business, Houston’s own Well Groomed Man. His ivory tuxedo jacket featured a subtle floral texture. “I’ve always embraced a minimalist approach when it comes to accessories, preferring simplicity over extravagance,” Derek says. “Aside from the elegant cufflinks, my watch took center stage as the sole accessory.”
The ceremony took place in Knotting Hill Place’s breathtaking Cathedral Room, a space Kierra describes as a “bridal fairy tale.” “For the ceremony, we led with a sophisticated color palette: white and touches of gold,” says floral designer Katy Lee of Belle Decor. “Pristine white florals adorned the entry chapel door, the altar, and the aisle. Opulent florals like playa blanca white roses, snowflake spray roses, tulips, freesia, ranunculus, and fresh orchids were elevated by the flickering flames of dozens of candles, creating a truly romantic atmosphere.”
When the cathedral doors opened and I saw Derek waiting for me, it was a moment I will always treasure.
“When the cathedral doors opened for me to walk down the aisle and I saw Derek waiting for me, it was a moment that I will always treasure,” Kierra says. Derek agrees. “The ceremony was my favorite part of the day,” he says. “The most special moment was when Kierra walked down the aisle and I saw her in her wedding dress for the first time.”
The couple exchanged personal vows in private, then spoke the traditional vows in front of their gathered guests during the ceremony.
Simplicity can be incredibly impactful.
The newlyweds were rendered completely speechless during a private room reveal of the reception space. “From the elegant floating arrangements above the head tables to the dramatic arches, every detail was perfectly executed,” Kierra recalls. “Even the place settings were adorned with delicate orchids, adding an extra layer of sophistication to the overall aesthetic. It was truly a floral wonderland that we will never forget.” Shantung cream linens were overlaid with ivory sequin runners for a touch of sparkle, and the room was bathed in the golden glow of candlelight. “This wedding design was a true testament to the notion that simplicity can be incredibly impactful,” says designer Katy Lee.
“One of our favorite surprises was the DJ booth wrap that said, ‘Black love is revolutionary,’” Kierra shares. “Arranged by our wedding planner, Paula, it was a small detail that perfectly reflected the sentiment we wanted our wedding to express.”
The couple kicked off the party with their first dance to “Find Someone Like You” by Snoh Aalegra.
To encourage everyone to stay on the dance floor all night long, the couple set up a station of Rescue Flats for the ladies. “Guests were able to slip off their heels and into a pair of stylish flats whenever they desired,” the bride says.
As another favor, the couple offered up four different matchbooks in a variety of colorways with different messages.
Their opulent wedding cake reflected the reception decor, and a groom’s cake featured the logo for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, one of the things that initially brought the couple together.
“Derek and I are self-proclaimed foodies, so we wanted our guests to eat well!” Kierra says. Following a sit-down meal of smoked chicken, seared Atlantic salmon, and shiitake stirfry, a pair of late-night food trucks rolled up. “We provided our guests with delicious sliders from Easy Slider and fresh, hot beignets from The Beignet Bus. It was such a great addition!”
The bride changed into a second dress with a statement bow, and paired it with white Chuck Taylors to dance the night away before a cold-firework exit. “It was the perfect second look to cap off an unforgettable day,” she says.
“Our advice to couples planning their wedding? Keep your love at the forefront of planning,” Kierra says. “Remember why you’re there and everything else will fall into place.” And, she adds, “in the spirit of inclusivity and community support, we encourage all couples to consider supporting Black-owned businesses. By doing so, we can help to uplift and celebrate the diversity of talent and creativity within the wedding industry.”