Esther and Shola's Yoruba Traditional Engagement Ceremony

Although the temperatures outside Divine Grace Church in Arlington were sweltering, inside, the shimmering colors Esther and Shola chose for their traditional engagement ceremony were cool and refreshing to the eyes. While Yinka with The Perfect Look tied the bride's gele to perfection, guests eagerly awaited the bride's grand entrance.

Esther, escorted by both brothers and her Aso Ebi, danced in joyfully as guests sprayed bills.  Many prayers were prayed and more than one eye filled with tears as emotions ran high from the weight of the occasion and the remembrance of those who have passed on.

Esther and Shola's Traditional was a feast for the senses!  Check out part two of their wedding weekend here.

Akin + Abi's Wedding

I love how Akin first got Abi's phone number.  

While a group of students were sitting in the school cafeteria for lunch on campus at Abilene Christian University in Texas, Akin got phone numbers from everyone in the group; supposedly so he could get everyone more involved in the African Students Association.

There's just one catch.

ACU didn't have an African Student's Association.

Abi found this out later that evening when Akin confessed to only wanting her phone number.

Smooth, very smooth.

Akin's approach definitely caught Abi's attention, but she still took her time in letting him get close.  Akin eventually won her heart, and in his words when they officially started dating he felt like he had won 3 marathons in a row.  Years passed and their relationship grew closer despite Akin's move to Dallas and the long distance trips to Abilene.  A sunset dinner overlooking the Dallas skyline was the perfect setting for Akin's proposal.

Their wedding was full of color, tradition, class, and most of all love.  Abi & Akin, it has been my supreme pleasure to work with you and document your love story.  I hope your story continues to inspire others & that you someday travel the world together; maybe even that world tour!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

*update

Here are all the fabulous vendors that did such a wonderful job on this wedding

Planner:  Elegant Nuptials and Events // Baker:  A Slice of Life and Romano's Bakery // Caterers:  Afro Kitchen Catering Services, Chrisco Catering, Cooking Pots Catering Services, His Glory Catering Services //  Head-ties:  The Perfect Look by Olayinka Ojo // Bride's Make-up Artist:  Kassie Coleman // Photographer:  Izehi Photography // Reception Decor:  Elegant Affairs, High Fire Designs // Reception Entertainment // Kebe, Genesis Band // Videographer:  Bosfem Productions // Venues:  Ceremony - Reedemed Church of God Household of Faith Arlington, TX; Reception - Sheraton Hotel Arlington, TX // Bride's Wedding Dress - Demetrios // Men's Suits - Al's Formal Wear