Shante and Clayton wed on May 8, 2023 at the Park Savoy Estate.

Their Story

Shante and Clayton’s love story began with a swipe. “I was at a crossroads in my life and a single mother to a 6-month old infant—I know, I know, who has time to date with diapers. But to be completely honest, I was encouraged by friends and co-workers that despite my circumstances I shouldn’t give up on love,” says Shante. “Although I was terrified of meeting Clayton or anyone in a romantic capacity!”

Shante says Clayton was not only charming, understanding and patient, but honest and fearless. “Clayton without hesitation took on a scarred heart while simultaneously stepping up to the plate to be a bonus dad to my (our) daughter Aeris,” she says.

“Clayton was so intentional in dating me, that he would plan breakfast dates after my daycare drop offs and lunch dates at the local lake during my lunch breaks at work. Things slowly progressed to playdates with my daughter Aeris and slowly all the shame, pain and fear melted away.”

The Proposal

Clayton asked Shante’s sister in North Carolina to babysit her then one-and-a-half-year-old daughter. He then flew Shante to Paris and, on February 9, 2020, proposed in front of the Eiffel Tower before whisking her off to Nice, France to celebrate their engagement.

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Details of the Day

“I wanted to capture the essence of spring, which captures the rebirth and renewal of new life,” says Shante.

Florals were all white—hydrangeas, orchids, roses and more—complemented by sage greenery. Accent colors were gold and navy blue.

The couple loved the Park Savoy’s chapel with its rustic-modern feel and the architecture.

Bride’s Gown

Shante chose a two-piece gown with a detachable beaded overskirt and a studded, strapless A-line dress. “My reception dress was what I call va va voom—it was sexy, low back with a mermaid frame and long beaded train with lace sides.”

Favorite Moment

Shante’s favorite moments were the sand ceremony the couple performed at the ceremony with little Aeris, which signified the blending of their families; having a soloist sing Shante down the aisle to John Legend’s “Conversations in the Dark,” and having her toy poodle be the ring bearer.

Advice for Other Couples

“Have fun, eat and smile and laugh at all the small things and moments. The day flies but the moments in that day slow down just enough for you to appreciate and absorb all of the love surrounding you.”

Honeymoon

The couple went to Madeira Island off the coast of Portugal in August for eight days.

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