Beyond the love they have for each other, this romantic engagement shoot captured this couple’s love for basketball and higher education.

Greg and Erica’s love for each other did not start on the basketball court, but the sport is very much part of their relationship.

The groom, a graduate of Prairie View A&M in Texas, is a former college basketball Hall of Fame player and Euro League professional. Currently, he is a financial planner and high school basketball coach. So, “It was only fitting that we took pictures inside a gym,” said Erica. But it wasn’t any gym! Greg and Erica, both from Michigan, opted to take the photos at Michigan State University, the bride’s alma mater.

“Greg and I are very passionate about MSU and higher education, so it meant a lot to us to have a session that reflects our values as a couple. Although Greg didn’t attend MSU, we have deep rooted connections to the University,” said Erica.

The Love and Basketball inspired shoot was just half the beauty of this engagement shoot. The rest took place around MSU’s campus. Erica admits she wanted to have part of the photography session a little more glamorous! “The session perfectly displayed both our personalities equally,” said Erica.

Read on to learn more about the couple and their upcoming nuptials.

How did you meet?

My fiancé Greg and I met in 2010, a few years before we “officially” started dating. Greg is best friends with my cousin and we knew each other as casual friends. In January 2012 after a few weeks of direct messaging each other on Twitter, Greg decided to ask me for my phone number so that we could continue our conversation over the phone. Greg and I talked on the phone every day for two months, due to our long-distance status, before we had our first date in March of 2012. Our first date (dinner & a movie) was lovely! Because we were already familiar with each other, everything felt really natural. A few months later we made our relationship official, and the rest is history.

Tell us about the perfect proposal.

After dating for more than five years, Greg decided to make me his fiancé by preparing a very special proposal at his company’s annual black-tie ball. During the event, Greg went on stage to give a very heartfelt speech about his love for me and I was completely taken off guard. When I heard my favorite wedding song, “You” by Jesse Powell, I became overcome with emotion and couldn’t stop tears from flowing. Greg called me onstage, got down on one knee and asked me to be his bride! The proposal was absolutely perfect; very thoughtful and emotional.

How is the planning going?

Wedding planning has been exciting! I am such a planner that I feel like I am completely in my element. It has also been nice to connect with family and friends who are very interested in all the details of our big day and who can provide a lot of input and recommendations.

Any vendors making the process a breeze?

I think the referrals that I am getting from friends have been amazing. It makes the planning process so much easier. My venue, the Piedmont Room, has also provided me with recommendations of vendors that have worked in the venue a lot, which is great as well!

What is the biggest thing you are looking forward too on the day of?

I am looking forward to getting glammed up and enjoying the company of friends and family. My fiancé Greg and I love to spend time with our loved ones and it will be exciting to have everyone we love in one place. I am also looking forward to dancing the night away to really good music!

Thanks for sharing your love story with us Erica and Greg! We cannot wait to see your wedding pictures.