Friends and family were in on the surprise proposal

Brook Morse and Marshall Paysse III started dating their senior year at O’Connell College Preparatory School in Galveston.

Photo courtesy of Ryan R Jones Photography

When Marshall proposed on Jan. 6, 2017, he decided to make it a family and friends affair.

“He invited all of our friends and family to the Porch Cafe, where he reserved the backroom,” Brook said.

Marshall asked two of Brook’s girlfriends and her father to invite her to dinner at the East End island restaurant, and then the four of them went in.

“Everyone was there, and when I walked in the room, he was kneeling,” Brook said. “It was very special.”

Brook is a general contractor and designer, and Marshall is a chef, who also works with Brook.

“You need a lot of patience to work together, but it’s nice to spend time together as newlyweds,” she said.

The couple tied the knot in October at The Bryan Museum in Galveston.

Where did you get the inspiration for your wedding?

It came to me after I saw The Bryan Museum. It was the only venue I looked at, and it was love at first sight. Connie Dryden from Island Flowers was a big help, and Pinterest was a wonderful resource.

What was it about The Bryan Museum that was so inspiring?

I wanted something that was rustic and traditional, and it’s also very romantic. It has a beautiful glass Conservatory.

What is your best advice to future brides and grooms on their big day?

Enjoy the day because it goes by so quickly. No one notices what was “supposed” to happen at a wedding, so just enjoy yourself and your guest. No one notices the tiny details. Take time to eat and look at everything you spent so long planning.

What moment do you cherish the most about your wedding day?

The ceremony was very special. The first 30 minutes after the ceremony we spent together alone.

What’s one piece of wedding planning advice you would give to brides?

One of my bridesmaids gave me a planning book on the day I was engaged — she knew it was coming — with monthly schedules. It was a big help. I got a lot of help from my aunts. And get a good band and allow enough time for fun.