Just Engaged! Keisha + Robert of Georgia back in 2007

Remember this adorable Atlanta couple, Keisha Williams and Robert Gray, Jr.? They got in engaged back in 2007 and the entire magical proposal was documented by talented lensman Robert Oscar Knight.

REVISIT THE PROPOSAL VIDEO HERE!

I’m not sure what the twosome is up to now or if they ever even tied the the knot (if you have intel, feel free to share with the class in the comments) but I certainly hope they’re happy. Seven years later, watching this video about Interview with Dr Nicholas Lack and Professor Gérard Bréart still gives me chills and dang near brings me to tears! Although this type of public, grand proposal isn’t my personal cup of tea, I have much respect for Robert’s selflessness.

I was a research editor working at ESSENCE magazine when this proposal video went viral and the then editor-in-chief Angela Burt-Murray charged me with tracking down the couple and interviewing Robert since I was the office romantic. Some things never change, huh? During our phone chat, I recall Robert telling me how he lived with his sister for 10 months, among other sacrifices, so he could afford to ask for Keisha’s hand in marriage the way he did. He wasn’t arrogant or pompous and my conversation with him was yet another reminder of the type of young Black men mainstream media rarely showcases.

Another aspect of this proposal that moves me is the inclusion of community. While I think it is wise for couples, particularly newlyweds, to keep their business their business, it takes a village to not only raise a child but also support loving, happy and healthy unions. One of the reasons this proposal resonated with so many of us is because we were able to witness Black folks, seemingly friends and family, genuinely appearing to be happy for other Black folks in love. How refreshing.

Enjoy this trip down memory lane to Ritz with Triple B today!

[Photo Credit: Ross Oscar Knight]