Love is so beautiful! It is what dreams are made of. Every woman wishes to find her Prince Charming while every man prays to find his better half. When this happens, it’s simply magical. For Belinda Ajoke Adenuga and Jameel Adetokunboh Disu, their fairytale came true when they were joined in holy matrimony on the  24th of April 2010. Their wedding ceremony took place at the Cathedral Church of Christ in Marina, Lagos, Nigeria. For Bella & Jameel, it was the solemnization of a love story that began years ago when they met and was taken to the next step when Jameel proposed during a trip to Monaco.

Before the main event on the 24th of April, the couple formally began their journey towards their formal union during an introduction of their families on the 5th of April 2010. On the 10th of April 2010, their traditional engagement took place at the British International School grounds in Lekki, Lagos. It was a beautifully festive day, the hall was lushly decorated with pink flowers and swaths. Bella & Jameel were both dressed in gold iro buba and agbada respectively. Bella’s traditional look was accentuated with gold and coral accessories. Culture was celebrated as the couple went through the formal Yoruba engagement rites. After the event, they along with their families and friends enjoyed a party with performances from musical legends King Sunny Ade & Sir Shina Peters.

Up next was the pre-wedding dinner, a soiree for the couple and their close friends. There were performances from all over the world including musical performances by Banky W, ChiDynma, 9ice, PSquare and then various unique acts from Las Vegas & India.

Bella & Jameel’s white wedding was gorgeous! The bride was breathtakingly beautiful in her exquisite wedding gown. With its jewel encrusted sweetheart neckline, lace inserts, rosette hip details, corseted bodice and full skirt, the dress was beautiful and even more breathtaking on the bride. Bella’s dress was perfectly accessorized by her upswept hair with a diamond & pearl hairpiece, earrings and bracelets. Finally, her crystal embellished cathedral length veil truly transformed her into a princess. The groom, Jameel was dressed in a modern blue suit paired with a white shirt, white tie and an elegant boutonniere. Yellow and gold were the colours of the day so the bridesmaids were in flowy yellow dresses with a single rosette strap while the maid of honour was in a pale gold dress. The groomsmen matched them with yellow ties and pocked squares while the best man wore a pale gold tie. The reception was held at the Landmark Centre, it was an exquisite vision with twinkling lights, gold swaths and luscious yellow & ivory flowers all around the venue.

The couple embraced their special day and thoroughly enjoyed it with their friends and family as they  smiled and posed for photos stunningly captured by photographer, Jide Alakija. Musician Darey Art Alade and his band entertained as did the Shuga Band. There were also musical performances from the Mo Hits Crew  including Dr Sid & D’Banj and a special musical rendition by the couple’s friend, musician – ChiDynma  who dedicated her song “Obimmo” to the couple along with all the traditional wedding reception milestones such as the romantic ‘first dance’, bouquet toss which Bella acrobatically performed, the cutting of the cake and the groom’s eloquent speech. After the ceremony, it was not over as the couple and their friends proceeded to dance the night away at the wedding afterparty.

An absolutely showstopping wedding for a beautiful couple.

BellaNaija wishes Bella and Jameel a blessed, happy, fruitful and fulfilled marriage filled with love, laughter and joy.
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White Wedding

Pre-Wedding Dinner

Traditional Engagement

Family Introduction

Photography: Jide Alakija
Event Decor & Flowers: Newton & David
Event Managers: No Surprises Events/The Wedding Company
Makeup: Banke Meshida-Lawal
Additional Photography: Jeffrey Photography

Thanks for visiting BellaNaija.com!
Photographs are copyrighted by the couple and photographers. We respectfully ask that you do not copy or republish.

The post A Fairytale Come True: Bella Adenuga & Jameel Disu Wed appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Ok, everyone at BellaNaija Weddings has been awwing over this photoshoot all day and we just have to share it!
The Wedding Company Nigeria‘s innovative “LoveStruck” photo series started with the “Partners in Crime” shoot. For episode 2, the team has gone in a totally different creative direction!

Read all about it below.
****
For Episode 2 of our Lovestruck photo series, we used gorgeous newlyweds Adeola and Wale (yes, a real couple, we heard you!). At the time of the shoot, they were just one-week away from their wedding, and as the photos clearly demonstrate, the chemistry and sense of fun between these two is absolutely palpable! This engagement shoot was inspired by Tiwa Savage’s ‘Ife Wa Gbona’ music video. We wanted a village feel and a sense of a couple meeting in a secluded area, savouring a few moments away from prying eyes, to revel in their love.

It was such a pleasure working with this couple. They could barely stop laughing and it’s that authenticity that really brought this engagement shoot to life.

Speaking on how he proposed, the ever jovial Wale tells us: “The proposal came at a time when she was on her way to resume for the N.Y.S.C. orientation in Nasarawa State. We were standing on the check-in queue at the MMA 2 and I pulled her out of the queue, knelt down and popped the question while magically conjuring the ring. I could hear people clapping, but it was so distant……of course she said YES”

This photoshoot took place at the Lekki Conservation Centre (complete with its ‘Beware of Crocodiles’ signs), where we were able to utilize the rural setting and rustic feel to anchor our vision for the couple. A huge thank you to the fantastically talented photographer – Jide Alakija and happy married life Wale and Deola!

Enjoy the pictures and stay tuned for more themeD shoots from LoveStruck brought to you by The Wedding Company.

Vendors Credits
Director: The Wedding Company
url: theweddingcompanyng.com
twitter: TheweddingcomNG
Facebook: facebook.com/Theweddingcompanynigeria
Google +: +The Wedding Company

Location: Lekki Conservation Centre
url: http://www.ncfnigeria.org/

Photographer: Jide Alakija
url: http://www.alakija.com
Twitter: @Alakija
G+: Jide Alakija
Facebook: Alakija Studios

Stylist: The Fashion Portal
Dress: House of Marie – Available at The Fashion Portal showroom; 5 Ribadu Road off Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos
Website: www.myfashionportal.com

Make-up Artist: Bimpe Onakoya
url: www.bimpeonakoya.com
Twitter: @bimpeonas
Facebook: Bimpe Onakoya

Hair Stylist: Toyin Meriben
Facebook: EToyin 60
Twitter: @etoyin60

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We love weddings as much as you do! Get in touch…
weddings (at) bellanaija.com
www.bellanaija.com/weddings
www.twitter.com/BellaNaijaWed
www.facebook.com/BellaNaijaWeddings

The post “Ife Wa Gbona” with Newlyweds Adeola & Wale | Episode 2 of “LoveStruck” by the Wedding Company Nigeria appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The LoveStruck Series by the Wedding Company just keeps everyone at BellaNaija Weddings swooning and smiling.
We don’t want to let too much out of the bag but scroll down to experience an amazing “wedding”…for Just the 2 of Us!

Here is what the Wedding Company team had to say about this episode of LoveStruck!
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Happy new month, all!

We return with our fourth photoshoot in our monthly LoveStruck series.

Here at The Wedding Company, we love working with couples, to execute their ream wedding. For some, their preference is elaborate, bustling events, while others seek a more demure option. Whether you want your wedding to include whistles and bells, or delicate chimes, what’s most important is the forthcoming marriage.

This photoshoot, using fabulous models, is a celebration of elegance, excellence and at the centre of it all- the couple, their affection and expression of love on their big day. The perfect planning enables you and your partner to have as much fun as your guests, if not more, after all…it’s your wedding day! If you’d like our LoveStruck team to work with you and your beau – contact us via lovestruck@theweddingcompanyng.com

Without further ado…Enjoy!

P.S Check out the ‘Behind the Scenes’ video of the ‘Ife Wa Gbona’ photoshoot via TWC’s brand new website! Click HERE

Credits
Concept and Production – The Wedding Company
Website: theweddingcompanyng.com
Twitter: TheweddingcomNG
Facebook: facebook.com/Theweddingcompanynigeria
Google +: +The Wedding Company

Models
Bride: Makida Moka of Sleek Models
Groom: Austin Igwilo of XA! Models

Location – Oriental Hotel (Lagos New Grand Ballroom ,Staircase and Terrace)
Website: www.lagosoriental.com

Photographer – Jide Alakija for Alakija Studios
Website: www.alakija.com
Twitter: @Alakija
G+: Jide Alakija
Facebook: Alakija Studios

Flowers and Décor – Flower Plus
Website: www.flowerplusonline.com
Email: Info@flowerplusonline.com

Make-up Artist – Remi of Sleek Studios
url: www.sleekmakeup.com
Facebook: Sleek Models Nigeria

Hair Stylist – Toyin Meriben
Facebook: EToyin 60
Twitter: @etoyin60

Wedding Cake – Cakes By Tosan
Website: www.cakesbytosan.net
Twitter: cakesbytosan
Facebook: Cakes by Tosan

Videographer – Asurf Films
Website: asurftv.blogspot.com

Wedding Stationary – Jimmy Ubong

Styling – Ezinne Chinkata
Website: Zinkata@tumblr.com
Twitter: Zinkata1

Stockists
Imani Swank – 23A Emma Abimbola Street, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos | +234 817 003 8986
Mai Atafo Inspired – Plot 95 Block 7, Omorinre Johnson, Off Admiralty Way, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos | +234 803 4057800
Enzo – The Palms Shopping Mall, Lekki

Attire – Details
Wedding Dress: Imani Swank
Classic Black Tux: Mai Atafo Inspired
White Shirt: Enzo
Black and White Bow Tie: Enzo
Groom’s Shoes: Enzo
Floor length dotted sweetheart Neckline Dress: Imani Swank
Groom’s Outfit: Enzo

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We love weddings as much as you do! Get in touch…
weddings (at) bellanaija.com
www.bellanaija.com/weddings
www.twitter.com/BellaNaijaWed
www.facebook.com/BellaNaijaWeddings
www.instagram.com/BellaNaijaWeddings

The post Just the 2 of Us! Prepare to Fall in ❤ with the Latest Photostory from the Wedding Company’s “LoveStruck” Series appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The singer formerly known as ChiDynma D’Voice is re-branded, re-energized and Chee is ready to go!

Chidinma Okebalama first came into our lives with the music video to her single “Obimmo” back in 2011. And, ever since then, she went on quite a hiatus from the scene ‘to regroup and wait for the perfect moment for a return’.

“Having the right label or management, working with the right producer and just generally being in the right mindset are critical to having a successful career. I felt I needed to pause and put all the necessary structures in place before I moved on with my career. As life may have it this process has taken close to 2 years”

But, she wasn’t too far away from the limelight as she continued to hone her stagecraft by performing at high profile events and weddings such as The CAF Awards and most recently, the Mid term dinner for President Goodluck Jonathan’s Transformation Team in June 2013.

It was off these feats that she got herself a GLO endorsement back in May 2013 and is ready to make a solid comeback under her own record label imprint, Republic of Chee.

“With months of tireless work in the studio, Chee is now more than ever ready to go. She will be officially announcing her return to the mainstream music scene with a new single aptly titled “A Nom Ebea” an Igbo phrase, which translates to “I Am Here”. The single is scheduled for release on Tuesday, July 8th 2013.”

The single is produced by Burna Boy‘s only producer, LeriQ.

Check out her new promo photos!

Photography: Jide Alakija for Alakija Studios

For more information on Chee – Facebook – OfficialChee | Twitter – @officialchee & @republicofchee | Instagram  – officialchee

The post Nigerian Singer ChiDynma D’Voice is now “Chee” – New Look, New Sound | Check Out Her New Promo Shots appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Happy New Month! To celebrate all things fresh and new we have the amazing “Aspire” collection from designer and wedding coordinator Timi Ejiwunmi of Love, Tims. The bridal line is called “Love, Tims” because each dress is a well conceptualized labour of love. Basically a love letter to each bride – signed off with Love by Tims (Timi’s nickname). The line is part of Timi’s wedding solutions company – I Do Weddings –  providing wedding planning and on site coordination.

The Nigerian bridal label started this year, in 2013, and has been consistently making waves – the dresses and accessories have been worn by BN brides and celebrity bride Annie Idibia in her destination wedding in Dubai. The line includes bridal accessories such stunning veils, bridal sashes/belts and much more. Love, Tims is also caters for the Nigerian bride by offering an array of options including boleros, cap sleeves and illusion sleeves.

BN Bridal brought you her first collection, and we hope you enjoy this one. We love how the dresses have evolved – different silhouettes and necklines, all elegant, beautifully tailored and sweet. In this collection, each dress has its unique name and personality, to suit yours for your special day. Our favourite is split between Gabriella and Mary Anne. It’s just sooo hard to choose!

There are even more dresses which weren’t featured in this shoot. You can go in store to try them on and they will be in the next Love, Tims look book.

Enjoy – xoxo

Gabriella: She is flamboyant, confident, fashionable and fabulous. A princess without being so in the traditional sense.

Amelia: named by the creator of Aisle Perfect … ‘Amelia is full of grace, she is a woman of dreams, enchanting with every step. Her lace tells a story of love and life. She is Aisle Perfect.‘

Joy: She’s romantic, soft, demure and conservative. She believes a bride should remain covered and leave more to the imagination so she opts for the illusion look.

Layla: She is delicate, unassuming and simple. Not flamboyant, her bridal philosophy is less is more.

Mary Ann: She is a conservative, elegant and timeless bride. She wants to cover up without looking frumpy.

Tara: This dress is reminiscent of the designer’s own wedding dress. She’s romantic, soft and dreamy.

Selina: No frills or fuss, hers is a mermaid silhouette to enhance her figure.

For info, orders and more contact – phone number:+234 7037177442 | email: info “at” idoweddingsng.com | website: idoweddingsng.blogspot.com | Facebook: www.facebook.com/idoweddingsng | Instagram and Twitter: @idoweddingsng

as of 10/28: For phone, kindly contact Nina Onyemelukwe- 08074600639. Thanks

Credits:
Wedding Dresses: Love, Tims for I Do Weddings
Photographer: Jide Alakija for Alakija Studios
Model: Uju Chimezie
Makeup and Hair: ShoMya

______________________________________________________________________________________
We love weddings as much as you do – get in touch for inquiries, inspiration & more!

The post BN Bridal: The “Aspire” Collection by Love, Tims from I Do Weddings appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Happy Monday! Our BN Spectacular Weddings series is coming to a close soon, but not before we take you to one or two more splendid weddings! It’s been such an exciting way to celebrate our 7th anniversary. You’ve rode with us on a spectacular journey around Nigeria – from the North, South-East, and today we are in the South West – Yoruba land, for the beautiful and amazing wedding of Bisoye and Lanre. Lanre is the super talented photographer behind the lens at Libran Eye {Click}.

***

~ Pre Wedding Photos – Dotun Ayodeji

How They Met … they set their wedding date on their 1st date!
We were introduced by Bisoye’s cousins (Bime & Cynthia), Cynthia was dating Lanre’s friend (Francis) at the time, they’ve been married for 5yrs+ now. So 3 of them basically introduced us. Bisoye was sleeping over at her cousin’s house and Lanre and Francis were hanging out. We had both just gotten out of relationships and these THREE people thought it best that we meet. We met up at News Cafe and spoke for hours after our introduction and on that day I told Bisoye I would marry her … we even fixed wedding dates 🙂

The Proposal
It was the evening after my mum’s 10th year remembrance. We had argued a lot all through the day and she had even abused me for the first time ever, calling me names. So it was not the ideal day for a proposal really. Even though we fought, Bisoye still decided to stick around while I was doing some work in my home office… As I walked up the stairs going to bed myself, I made up my mind to propose with the ring I had bought 3 months earlier.

So as she lay in bed sleeping and looking ever so beautiful, I held her close and searched for her finger and gently slipped on the ring. She came out of her deep sleep as she felt the ring on her finger and just started screaming YES YES YES while crying. I asked that we pray and so we prayed together, and of course, we were no longer arguing 🙂

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For their traditional engagement, Bisoye and Lanre looked resplendent in red. Bisoye in a stunning sequin gele and the groom in a patterned aso-oke agbada and fila.

Two days later, the couple was married at a beautiful Catholic mass. The bride wore a plunging v-neck a-line silk chiffon and lace gown with chantilly, embroidered with silver and white beads. The groom looked dapper in his despoke royal blue Mark Marengo Savile Row three piece suit.

There were so many touching moments at the wedding! For the groom it was seeing his beautiful bride in her gorgeous wedding dress as she walked towards him. At that moment, he says,

“I couldn’t hear a thing and I couldn’t see anyone else but her, I was about to be married to the most beautiful woman I know, I was about to be married to my best friend, I was about to be married to the girl of my dreams.”

For Bisoye, the father and daughter dance, although very funny as it wasn’t planned or rehearsed, it was a very emotional moment for the bride. {editor: it was so adorable!}

Since the couple planned their wedding, they have some advice to share!

“You will come up against a lot of opposition from family as everyone has an ‘idea’. Stick with what is important to you and ensure that when the day is done you’ve TOTALLY enjoyed your day and you won’t have wished for any other type of event. It’s also very important to keep all important parties in the know so nothing that happens is a surprise to them. Just make sure you have a day you ENJOY. We are quite certain all guests enjoyed themselves as much as we did :)”

BellaNaija Weddings wishes Bisoye & Lanre love, laughter and beautiful babies!

***

~ White Wedding – Alakija Studios

~ Traditional Engagement – Alakija Studios | Additional Photography: Lumi Morgan

Thanks for visiting BellaNaija Weddings!
Photographs are copyrighted by the couple and photographers. We respectfully ask that you DO NOT COPY OR REPUBLISH.

~ Photography: 

Dotun Ayodeji |www.dotunsblog.com

Alakija Studios | www.alakijablog.com

Lumi Morgan | lumimorgan.com

Wedding Details

Wedding Dates 
Traditional Engagement: 11th April 2013
White Wedding: 13th April 2013

Wedding Attire
Bride’s Wedding Dress: Udabe by Pronovias
Groom’s Suit: Mark Marengo – Savile Row
Bride’s Make-up & Hair: BM|Pro
Bridesmaids Dresses: April by Kunbi
Groomsmen’s Suits: David Wej
Make up for Bridal Train: BM|Pro
Bride’s Bouquet: Newton & David
Couple’s Traditional Attire:
Aso Oke: Bisbod
Aso Ebi: Kwamuhle Fabrics
Couple’s 2nd Outfit Fabrics: Kwamuhle Fabrics
Groom’s Traditional Shoes: Lolu

Church: St. Agnes Catholic Church, Maryland, Ikeja, Lagos

Venue – White Wedding Reception & Traditional Engagement: Grandeur Events Centre, Oregun

Wedding Concept & Planning: Bride & Groom

Traditional Engagement – Vendors
Coordination: 2706 Events | info “at” 2706events.com | 07068047170
Food: Malas | Pamela
Palm wine/Cocktails: Eventi Verdi
Small Chops: Keemchops
Drinks: Rahcool
Cake: Absolute Elegance
Decoration: Ball Events Concepts
Ushers: 2706 events
Band: Faith Band
Alaga for both Families: Mrs Sewoniku
Videography: Caleb Ventures
Security: Mr Adegboyega Ganiu

White Wedding – Vendors
Coordination: 2706 Events | info “at” 2706events.com | 07068047170
Chairs: Chiavari Chairs | Arcor Chairs
Invitation Cards: Universal Cards – India
Food: Kemabom | Malas | Onion Catering
Small chops: Keemchops
Desserts: Helado Delicia
Drinks: Spronks Creations Ltd
Cocktails: Elles Ice Box
Cake: Absolute Elegance
MC: Tee A
Decoration: Oaken Events
Ushers: 2706 Events
DJ: Dj Lami
Band: Demola Olota
Videography: Caleb Ventures

______________________________________________________________________________________
We love weddings as much as you do – get in touch for inquiries, inspiration & more!

The post BN Spectacular Weddings: Bisoye & Lanre appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Genevieve Magazine turns 10! And what better way to celebrate than with a styled wedding shoot? They teamed up with Once Upon A Destination – a luxe event planning outfit with tons of international experience, and a dream team of wedding vendors to bring their perfect wedding vision to life. Hear from the team about their inspiration and work:

Afternoon tea at the Palm Court of The Ritz, considered to be one of the finest hotels in the world, was the perfect setting for the meeting between, Seyi Olusanya of Once Upon a Destination, Elizabeth Solaru of Elizabeth’s Cake Emporium and Betty Irabor, Publisher and Editor in Chief of Genevieve. The discussion revolved around creating an amazing styled shoot for the wedding edition of the magazine in honour of the 10th anniversary of the publication.

Once Upon a Destination has a reputation for planning the most impeccable and memorable global events in destinations such as London, Dubai, South Africa and France. With easy access to the best vendors the wedding industry has to offer, Seyi set about sourcing some of the best venues and a team of experts to help make the vision a beautiful reality.

The breathtaking shoot wonderfully captured by the amazing duo at Urban Cinematography, featured wedding gowns created by multi award winning couturier and silhouette king Yemi Osunkoya of Kosibah, the luxurious and versatile bridesmaids dresses were from twobirds bridesmaid, all beautifully styled by Senamin. The handcrafted suits for the groom were from exciting designer Kay of Indivisual.

The models were flawlessly made up by the highly acclaimed  and award winning Kemi Kings and the meticulous hair styling was by celebrity hair stylist Dionne Smith.

The lush flower arrangements by Essential Couture were packed tightly with blush, pink and lavender roses, celosia, autumn hydrangeas and assorted greenery and teamed with rich gold ‘bonsai’ tree accents and hanging candle globes

To complement the flowers, Seyi added specially commissioned art deco style pink and gold stationery and beautiful gift boxes from Bola Akinseye of Lovicci, rich texturised linen from Over the Top Rentals.

The beautiful dessert bar of delightful treats was provided by world renowned cake artist, Elizabeth Solaru of Elizabeth’s Cake Emporium.

The authentic French macaroons were kindly supplied by Ganache Macaron.

Overall the video demonstrates how the creative vision of Seyi Olusanya was brought to life. This shoot, the team involved, offer a little glimpse of the excellent service and attention to detail Once Upon a Destination offers its select clientele!

To find out more you will need to get your copy of this month’s Genevieve Magazine, the wedding issue – on sale now all over the country.

See some screenshots from the video taken on set:

~ Videography: Urban Cinematography

Videography: Johanna Lawrence & Apos Goris, Urban Cinematography, www.urbancinematography.com
Photography: Jide Alakija with Jeffrey Kwame Osei-Tutu, Alakija Studios www.alakija.com

Vendors
Space Design & Creative Styling: Seyi Olusanya: Once Upon a Destination, www.onceuponadestination.com
Wedding dresses and evening dresses: Yemi Oshunkoya, Kosibah, www.kosibah.co.uk
Menswear: Keye Oduneye INDIVISUAL FASHION – www.indivisualfashion.com;
Cake, Cupcakes, Cakepops and Sweet tables: Elizabeth’s Cake Emporium, www.elizabethscakeemporium.com
Flowers and props: Essential Couture – www.essentialcouture.co.uk
Bridesmaids Dresses: Twobirds Bridesmaid www.twobirdsbridesmaid.co.uk
Make up: Kemi Kings Imevbore-Uwaga, www.kemikings.com
Hair styling: Dionne Smith, www. dionnesmith.com
Fashion stylist: Senamin, olufunkesenamin456@btinternet.com
Jewelled head dresses, tiaras: Fabledreams, www.fabledreams.co.uk
Bridal millinery and headpieces: Ms Esther, www.msesther.co
Jewellery: Bookola Accessories, bookola@yahoo.com
Venue: The Savoy, London, www.fairmont.com/savoy
Stationery and Gift Boxes: Bola Akinseye. LOVICCI, www.lovicci.com
Linen: Over the Top Rentals, www.overthetoprentals.co.uk
Macarons: Ganache Macaron, www.ganache-macaron.co.uk
Chairs and Chaise lounge: www. icechairhire.co.uk
Models: Gayle Thompson-Igwebike, Lisette Mibo, Cherelle Quartey-Cofie, Teju Ibrahim, Lauren Sweeney Fenton, Rachel Williams, Rosemary Chileshe
Male Models: Adrian & Lincoln Larmond

______________________________________________________________________________________
We love weddings as much as you do – get in touch for inquiries, inspiration & more!

The post Once Upon A Destination & Genevieve Magazine present “The Savoy Shoot” – An Elegant Styled Wedding Shoot appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Congratulations T-squared!

Tiwa Savage & Tunji “TJ/Tee Billz” Balogun are about to tie the knot in Dubai. These are their first photos by Alakija Studios.

Makeup is by Joyce Jacob Beauty. Hair by Debola Falana. Planned by Prive Events – Elohor Aisien. The bride is wearing Vera Wang and a cascading bouquet of white orchids. The groom and best man Banky W are wearing Mai Atafo.

Refresh for more photos!
***

Unofficial Photos!

BN Fam, Cameras aren’t allowed but we’ll do our best to keep you updated!

Tiwa & her father walking down the aisle.

6pm: Guests were seated waiting for the couple

Decor

Past 6pm: Now guests are crying from the bride’s speech!

Quote from Tiwa: “Sometimes when you listen to what society says you miss what God has to say to you.”

Aww ! Guests crying

During the ceremony, both Tiwa and TJ cried as they said their vows.

Doves were released in the venue.

7:40 pm The couple is taking portraits.

The cute flower girl!

7:51 pm – The guests are waiting to get into the lovely reception hall.

Wow! We spotted this custom for the TT wedding on Bizzle’s Instagram.

8:07 pm – ChiGul is starting acknowledgments in the hall. The guests are seated waiting in the reception.

Aww! The bride, groom and wedding party cheese it up for an Oscar selfie on the way to the reception.

8:30pm: The couple is in the hall. The reception is lit with chandeliers and the couple is on the grand dance floor.

We can 100% confirm that Don Jazzy got Tiwa Savage a car as a wedding gift!

The bride has let her hair down = time to party soon!

Tiwa & the Mavin crew

9pm – Time for speeches!

Dr Sid just confirmed his wedding is in July.

Banky W – the best man, is giving his speech now. Wow! Spot the suspended wedding cake on the right.

Banky W giving his speech! Spot the stunning suspended/hanging wedding cake to the right.

A closer look at the wedding cake!

9:59 pm – Time for the couple’s first dance! They’re dancing to “Hold On, We’re Going Home” by Drake.

Then the couple danced with their parents.

10:15 pm – Theodora – Makeup artist of Doranne Beauty caught the bouquet. You’re next girl!

10: 20 pm – Toolz took over the DJ-ing so DJ Xclusive (the wedding’s official DJ) could try to catch the garter. Guess who caught it? Iceberg Slim!

Toolz & DJ Xclusive

After Party Time!
Check out Tiwa in her party dress!

The post Tiwa Savage & Tunji “Tee Billz” Balogun wed in Dubai | First Official Photos & Live Updates appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Love Tims is the bridal line of Nigerian based wedding solutions company I Do Weddings.

Hear from the creative director, Timi, about the new collection,

“The 2015 collection shows us paying attention to the back of the wedding dress which can sometimes be overlooked. The collection is simply inspired by some beautiful women/starlets that we admire who embrace their gorgeous bodies such as Melania Trump, Penelope Cruz, Dania Ramirez and Salma Hayek.”

Enjoy!
***

Credits
Dresses: Love Tims by I Do Weddings | instagram.com/idoweddingsng | info (at) idoweddingsng.com | idoweddingsng.com
Photography: Jide Alakija for Alakija Studios | instagram.com/alakijastudios
Makeup: Faces by Labisi | instagram.com/facesbylabisi
Models: Maris and Uju

The post BN Bridal: Love, Tims 2015 Collection appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Benedette aka “Bee” and Martin met at church.

Their regal wedding in Abuja and Yola was reflective of their beautiful culture, taste and the love they have for each other.

Enjoy and be inspired by their beautiful wedding!

BellaNaija Weddings wishes Bee and Martin a lifetime of love as One.

***

Pre-Wedding Photos by Alakija Studios

How We Met
From Bee
I met Martin at his parent’s house in Abuja in 2003. His sister invited us to get ready for our graduation dinner at their house as we had just graduated from secondary school and he was on holiday from university. Apparently, he had seen me previously at church and asked his sister about me but I don’t recall the church meeting 🙂

The night we met at his house we chatted for a bit before I left for the dinner and my first impression of him was smart, cute and interesting. A few days later I got a call from him and it was a long phone conversation, which sparked a friendship and a few dates until it was time for him to go back to England. I thought I would be leaving to study in England as well which meant we would live happily ever after. Alas! My parents decided to ship me off to Canada to study, our relationship continued but it was break up after make up and make up after break up for years, however, we always remained friends…

In 2010 Martin started making more effort at rekindling the relationship. Looking back, HE WAS ON A MISSION! In 2011, I moved to England for my Masters and that was when we decided to make it work and it’s been amazing relationship since then.

From Martin
For a cynical mind like myself, it’s funny that how I met Bee is a cliché of Nigerian courtship: “If you want a good wife, go to church”.

I was on holiday from university and after a Sunday mass, my sister stayed back to have a quick chat with some girl, I asked her afterwards who it was that she was talking to and she said: “Oh, her name is Benedette, you’d like her” and I responded with a little modesty: “yeah, she is a fine girl”.

I unwittingly stalked her and eventually got her number from my obliging sister Angela. This was following a brief conversation we had at my parent’s house in Abuja on the day of her school prom. Angela had invited her classmates to get ready at ours, so I was on the lookout.

I hesitated calling her at first because she was only 17 and I was 21. I felt like a cradle snatcher. I finally got round to doing so by convincing myself that it wouldn’t matter a year on from then. It was a good thing that I did because our first phone conversation was very fluid; we spoke for close to an hour. I knew that she was definitely feeling me when I received a text the next day from her during my lunch break, it read: “how now?”. I smiled.

It so happened that Bee didn’t move to England for her undergraduate degree as we had thought would be the case. She was shipped off to a land far far away called Canada.

So over the following 10 years, through several breakups and make ups, mastering different time zones, MSN and Yahoo chats, international calling cards, Skype video calls, BBM chat, marathon flights and road trips, clear and hazy phone networks and ultimately our resilience, we kept coming back to each other.

The Proposal
From Bee
Martin proposed to me in Vienna. I was on a summer program and he was on holiday so he decided to make Vienna one of his stops. On the last day of my summer program I invited him to join me and my course mates for an after party following the closing ceremony of the program. Halfway through the closing ceremony he called to tell me he was feeling horribly ill and couldn’t make it to the after party. He said I needed to come and get him to an emergency clinic as soon as possible. Right after the ceremony I said bye to my friends since I obviously wont make it to the after party, rushed in a cab and headed to pick him up for the hospital.

A million thoughts crossed my head on the ride to his apartment but none of it was getting proposed to. He kept calling while I was on the way and I assured him I was on my way and there was a bit of traffic. When I got to the door of his flat I could feel the heat there but I didn’t think anything of it. I opened the door and it was very dark, there were about 300 candles lit all over the apartment with rose petals all over the room, a chair in the middle a box and a rose. I was in complete SHOCK!… I threw my purse on the floor and it took me a good few minutes to take it all in. He was sat there sweating!! Poor guy, I only saw him 2 hours before and he had transformed the place all by himself.

He told me to sit down and told me how much he loves me and wants to spend the rest of his life with me. Of course … I said YES!!!

From Martin
Shortly after Bee and I met in 2003, she played a prank on me. She called me randomly one day saying that she was really ill and had been admitted into a hospital in Abuja. It was all fun and games, but I was determined to get her back.

In July 2012, Bee was on a summer program in Vienna, so I took leave off work in order to spend some time with her. It was a really good holiday. On the first weekend, we went to Paris. I was later to find out that her friends had suspected that I would propose to her there. Fortunately I didn’t have any plans to do so. It was a very rainy weekend anyway, Bee had developed a flu and parts of the city were cordoned off due to the French national festival.

Back in Vienna, Bee would go off to attend classes during the day and I was left all by myself to scheme.

It was the last day of her program and there was a graduation ceremony to attend in the evening. We agreed to have me join them afterwards for a celebratory cocktail. Meanwhile, I had been back and forth with the jeweller and was informed that the ring had arrived in Vienna on that day so I went into the city centre to pick it up. Just as I did, I received a call from Bee asking me where I was and if we could meet up for lunch. Now, the ring came in a chunky box and my attempt at concealing it in my pocket would definitely have spiked her curiosity. I jumped on an earlier suggestion of hers that I get an umbrella instead of walking about back hunched and hands deep in my pockets whenever it rained. I do not like carrying them so I had been stalling on the idea. On this day however, it was going to be my decoy. I bought a compact one from a corner shop, threw the jeweller’s box in a plastic bag together with the umbrella and tied the top into a knot. I had no sooner finished doing this when she turned up and asked: “what did you buy?”, I gave a very curt answer: “an umbrella”. To prevent her from seeing the outline of two objects in a bag in my hand I asked if she could keep it in hers. You see, Bee likes to carry bags so big one could fit anything in them so this was no problem.

Once we got back to my place she tossed my carrier bag at me and made her way out again. And so, taking a page from her book, I called her to say that I wasn’t feeling too well. I called her again a couple of hours later after most of the work had been done to explain that things had gotten worse and that I needed her to come back and take me to the hospital, possibly for food poisoning. I put on my best sick voice.

The reality was that I was sitting on a sofa in the sweltering heat and tending to over 300 very stubborn flickering candles that kept going off.

I called her for the third time and this time she said: “I am in the lift”. I sat on the sofa and waited for her to come in. I was half expecting her to be mad at me.

She freaked out when she walked in. Her phone and keys dropped to the floor and she seemed stunned. She leaned back against the door shut behind her. I walked up to her and said:

“I got you”. Double entendre.

I led her to a chair and I did the obligatory: down on one knee, incomprehensible profession of sentiments and placing the ring on her finger.

We went back for the cocktail after all. It ended up being be a very good engagement party.

~ Pre-Wedding Cocktail by Jesse Ochulor Signature Studio

Wedding Photos by Alakija Studios

“For the white wedding we wanted to have dreamy and heavenly atmosphere and accentuated with a very bold statement piece. We achieved this by using soft colours for the decor as well as an elevated dance floor and low hanging statement chandelier. Our vision was very well executed by our attentive wedding planner/decorator Ayiri of Oaken Events.”

~ Traditional Wedding by Jesse Ochulor Signature Studio

“Martin is very much in tune with his cultural heritage and the traditional homecoming ceremony that took place at the Chief of Mbula’s palace in Borrong, Adamawa state introduced us to his people. We crossed a dried up river Benue to get to his village.” “There was a thanksgiving service at the village church after which we had a series of traditional events at the palace courtyard that signified welcoming me as a bride to the family.”  “These included a formal dressing by the grooms father in traditional regal attire as well as presentation of gifts that symbolize marriage in the land.” “These include the broom as a prayer for a happy homestead and the calabashes as a blessing of abundance. I was also chaperoned by the grooms aunty who taught me how to dance traditionally as an expression of joy and acceptance.” “The Mbula people are a horse riding warrior tribe. So Martin was also presented once more to the people as he rode on a horse.”
“We were then treated to several traditional dances from the Mbula and Bachama kingdom before making our long way back to Yola town.”
***
Photography
Pre-Wedding Photos & White Wedding: Alakija Studios | Email: enquiries (at) alakija.com | Instagram.com/AlakijaStudios
Traditional Wedding & Cocktail: Jesse Ochulor Signature Studio | 08078057808

Wedding Info – Venue | Date
White Wedding: Ibeto Hotel Marquee, Apo, Abuja | 24th May 2014
Traditional Homecoming Ceremony: Murum Mbula’s Palace courtyard, Borrong, Demsa LG, Adamawa State| 31st May 2014

Wedding Attire
Bride’s Wedding Dress: Kosibah | instagram.com/yemikosibah
Bride’s Reception Dress: Pronovias
Bridal Makeup for White Wedding/Cocktail: Mamza Beauty | instagram.com/MamzaBeauty
Bridal Hair: Bassey Ninads Salon
Bouquet: Event Designs by Lilly | instagram.com/lillysconcept
Friends’ Asoebi: Designer’s Muse | instagram.com/designersmuseng

Groom’s Suit: Okunoren Twins
Groomsmen Suits: Kola Kuddus | instagram.com/KolaKuddus
Bridesmaids Dresses: Dzyn | instagram.com/dzynbabe

Bride’s Traditional Dress: Dzyn | instagram.com/dzynbabe
Bridal Makeup for Traditional Ceremony: Planet Mschera

Vendors
Church Decor: Event Designs by Lilly | instagram.com/lillysconcept
Wedding Planner & Reception Decor: Oaken Events | instagram.com/oakenevent
Wedding Cake: Cakes by Tosan
Food: Kas Catering; Melting Pots
Drinks: Cheche Liquor
Cocktails: Juice Place Abuja
Desserts: Sweet Tooth Desserts
Live Band: Shyne Band Abuja
Invitation Cards: Studio Twenty-four, Toronto
Security: Play Security
MC: Matilda Duncan
DJ: DeeJay El Plaga
Sound: Option A
Wedding Programme: Whitechapel and Partners
Favours: Swish Ideas/Bride

The post BellaNaija Weddings presents Benedette & Martin’s Regal Celebration appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Alakija Studios, headed by esteemed photographer Jide Alakija, is holding a workshop on March 7th, 2015 in London.

Email: workshops (at) alakija.com to register.

________________________________________________________________

Sponsored Content

The post Learn from the Best! Alakija Studios Photography Workshop in London – March 7 2015 appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

7 years and 75,000 miles later, Tola Sunmonu & Dele Balogun started the next chapter in their love story with a spectacular engagement ceremony in Lagos & breathtaking wedding in London, where the bride wore two Vera Wang dresses for their dream day!

The gorgeous and driven couple have a love story for the ages. The bride, a graduate of Stanford, is an MBA student at Wharton and the groom is CEO of Celebrations Cards & Gifts in Abuja.

The couple met at a club, the summer before the bride started university. Tola says, “We met at Club CC in 2007 at a carnival after-party! I know it’s not the typical place that you meet your significant other but we were lucky to have found each other that night. 10 days after we met, I went to start college at Stanford and that marked the start of a 7 year long distance love story”.

The proposal was quite a surprise! Tola shares the funny story with us,

“Dele was in London for work…or so I thought. Two weeks before he travelled he had asked me to meet with one of his friends who was interested in investing in the agricultural sector. On the day of the meeting, I had had a long day at work and really just wanted to go home. His friend was adamant that I come and meet him and even when I suggested a restaurant in Ikoyi near my house, he insisted that we meet in Victoria island. Needless to say I was very irritated. Anyway I show up for the meeting and we end up having a really good conversation for about an hour. During the meeting my boss called and so I took the call. While I was on the phone I realized that someone had sat next to me at the bar. I looked to my right, saw Dele and did a double take and started screaming. The whole time I thought he was in London but there he was sitting next to me grinning sheepishly.

My scream must have burst my boss’s eardrums, needless to say he suggested we continue our conversation the next day at work lol. Once I fully registered that Dele had made this surprise appearance I knew that I was getting a ring. I text my sisters saying, “I’m getting engaged tonight” lol. We had dinner and before the appetizer he handed me a gift bag. I almost fell off my seat. I opened the bag trying to appear calm and on the inside practicing my smile for the inevitable Instagram engagement ring pics. Imagine my surprise when I opened the bag to find a scarf and a car phone charger. I was dumbstruck.

When Dele turned around I shook the bag in the hopes that I had missed the ring. Needless to say I didn’t have much of an appetite after that. Somewhere between slowly sipping my soup and getting the bill, Dele started to profess his love for me and how he wanted to us to be together forever. Out of nowhere, a waitress comes out with champagne and sparklers and then I start screaming again because of course I knew that that was ‘the moment’!

The rest is a bit of a blur, I remember Dele getting down on one knee, lots of laughing and lots of crying. It was the moment we had both been waiting for for the last 7 years of a long distance relationship spanning the UK, America and Nigeria.”

***

Tola & Dele’s wedding was covered by three amazing photography companies – Alakija Studios for their pre-wedding shoot in London, DuduGuy Photography captured the fun and emotional moments at their traditional engagement while they came full circle to London, where they met, for their regal white wedding covered by Adebayo Deru Photography.

The couple, whose theme was based on their love story (more on that below!) thoroughly enjoyed themselves at the wedding and shared their top moments with us,

“Walking down the aisle was surreal! We both agree that the first dance was very special to us. The final highlight was when a bunch of us stormed through the after party in a ‘Wolf of Wall Street’ style procession lol.”

They also have this advice for brides and grooms-to-be:

“Definitely get creative! Everything about the wedding really reflected is and our relationship. Also remember to have fun! We danced so much! It was the best day of our lives so far.”

BellaNaija Weddings wishes Tola & Dele a happy and fulfilling life as One.

Be inspired!

~ White Wedding by Adebayo Deru Photography

“Our wedding theme was based on our 7 year love story. The entrance of the Royal Exchange said ‘7 years and 75,000 miles later, Tola and Dele wed’. 

The cake was 7 tiers and each tier had an animation representing that phase of our relationship.
Every guest received a short story book depicting the 7 years of our relationship and in the cocktail reception there were 7 huge blown out pictures of us arranged art gallery style to give our guests a sense of how our relationship progressed. It was beautiful!

We also had 7 signature cocktails named after us and reflecting the different stages of our relationship. The whole thing was just magical!”

~ Engagement Ceremony by DuduGuy Photography 

Photography

Wedding: Adebayo Deru Photography | instagram.com/adebayoderu

Engagement: DuduGuy Photography | instagram.com/duduguy1

Pre-Wedding Photos: Alakija Studios | instagram.com/alakijastudios

Wedding Info
Wedding Date | Venue | Colours
Traditional: April 5th | The Ark, Lekki | Aqua & Silver
White: April 26th | The Royal Exchange, London | Blush Pink, Ivory & Gold

Wedding Attire
Bride’s Ball Gown and Reception Trumpet Dress: Vera Wang
Bride’s 3rd Dress: Custom made in New York
Bride’s Shoes: Louis Vuitton
Bride’s Hair: Bunmi
Bride’s Makeup: Claire de Graft
Groom’s Blue Suit: Ozwald Boateng
Groom’s Black Suit: Sidi Bespoke
Bridesmaids: Vera Wang
Groomsmen: Weiss

Traditional Attire
Bride’s Makeup: Banke Meshida-Lawal of BM|Pro | instagram.com/banksbmpro
Bride’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin

Vendors
Traditional Wedding Planner: Funke Bucknor-Obruthe of Zapphaire Events | instagram.com/Zapphaire_Events
Traditional Decor: Yvent Kouture | instagram.com/YventKouture
White Wedding Planner: Nneoma Odozi of Ophir Events | instagram.com/OphirEvents
Wedding Cake: Elizabeth’s Cake Emporium | instagram.com/ElizabethsCakeEmporium

The post BellaNaija Weddings presents Tola Sunmonu & Dele Balogun’s Fairytale Wedding appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

We love creative couples! Tolani and Ibukun are gearing up for their August wedding and they shared this save-the-date video with their family, friends, and now you, the BN fam!

They made their own music video to Woju and it’s funny and cute! Watch!

Video by B3nkay Films

Bride-to-be: Tolani Ayo-Vaughan
Groom-to-be: Ibukun Eweje

The Love Story!
From the bride, Tolani
I think the story starts when one day in class. A friend asked me if I had met this new guy named Ibk. I told him no, and he proceeded to tell me all about him. He said Ibk had moved here (to the US) from Netherlands but is Yoruba, from Nigeria, and in the corps of cadets etc. It’s funny because we both do not remember the exact day we met, but we think it was at an African Students Association (ASA) meeting back in 2009.

Fast forward two years, I was organizing a scholarship pageant and needed some volunteers to help with the event. I reached out to him asking if he was interested in being one of our hosts and he agreed (till today he is convinced that I asked him to participate in the event because I was ‘interested’ in him).

Later in the year we started talking frequently on Facebook and then through texts and then phone calls everyday. We quickly learned that we had a lot in common, both really into Nigerian music…both engineers…both God fearing… both oil kids growing up in different countries…both hate olives etc and so our friendship grew quite rapidly.

Ibukun is truly a blessing to me. He has this natural gift of lighting up a room by bringing smiles and laughter to everyone with his outgoing personality. I admire his drive and dedication in everything he does, and I really appreciate that he also motivates and pushes me to strive for my best as well. He is my very best friend and I don’t know what I would do without him. He has been a constant source of happiness in my life. I thank God every day for bringing him all the way from Netherlands to Texas and into my life, and I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with him.

From the groom, Ibukun
Words cannot describe the amount of joy and happiness I have experienced since I started my relationship with Tolani. She is one of the most caring, thoughtful and selfless people I know. She is smart and beautiful. Majority of females seem to have either one or the other. Sometimes, none.

I am blessed and highly favored to be the one she chose to spend the rest of her life with. From the day I met her, I always thought she was too good for me. I know there is a God when he decided to show grace in aligning our paths. She is my best friend, my close companion, my adviser, my love.

We took our time in getting to know each other. We were both attracted to each other but did not want to rush things. The pace of our relationship seemed to bug people as they would often say, “Make it official already!”

I will like to attribute the success of our relationship to our love for God and our deliberate focus on building a solid foundation of friendship. We learnt each other’s likes and dislikes: the fact that she claims to hate green but seems to purchase items in that colour the most, or her utter repugnance of guacamole.

Tolani is a woman of many talents: A dancer, 5 star Chef, an engineer, an athlete, and a classy beautician. She is a shining example of the perfect wife and I am sure that the Lord has a future full of blessings and prosperity ahead of us.Photo Credit: Alakija Studios | instagram.com/alakijastudios

Video: instagram.com/mr_dilly | Email: ben.kehinde (at) gmail.com | Vimeo: vimeo.com/moboladekehinde

The post Tolani & Ibikun made the Cutest Pre-Wedding Music Video for “Woju”! appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Hope you’re sitting comfortably wherever you are because Ruby and Dipo’s love story is a long but worthwhile read. The groom Dipo AKA Diamond, wooed daddy’s only girl, Ruby, who has five ‘brothers’.

They met a little over 8 years ago, by chance, when he dropped by a cousin’s house to get food. On 8/8/15, they tied the knot in an elegant celebration at Grosvenor House Hotel in London, put together by Just as Planned.

BellaNaija Weddings wishes Ruby and Dipo a blessed union!

~ Pre-Wedding Shoot in Paris, by Alakija Studios

Our Love Story
by Dipo, the groom
For the past 3 months Ruby has been asking me to write “Our Story”. The amount of times that she asked for my finished article still rings in my ear. “Dipo, you still haven’t done this thing”?

Where do I start from I thought? Ruby and I had come through so many testing times. What do I include? What do I leave out? After all this, was to go into our wedding programme.

Do I leave out the day, years ago now, when a very close friend of mine told me that “Dipo, Ruby is going to be your wife” or the occasion that I invited Ruby’s 5 brothers (I say 5 because the other two are cousins that Ruby takes as brothers, anyone that knows Ruby knows how much she loves her family) out to dinner alone to inform them of my intentions to marry their sister. How daunting does that sound? Or the times Ruby would invite me around but I would park down the road and ask her to come outside because I wasn’t ready to go inside yet and meet her Dad. She is Daddy’s only girl you see.So many ideas and thoughts on how to structure and write our own Disney fairy-tale story ran through my mind. However, each time I started I was never able to construct more than a few sentences before I became unhappy with how the story was evolving… It simply didn’t capture the innocence in our meeting eight and a half years ago nor could it do enough justice to highlighting Ruby’s holistic beauty.

Ruby in her reassuring manner would advise me actually, in fact complain for want of a better word frustrated admittedly by my perceived lack of urgency as she saw it. Thinking that I wasn’t forthcoming with this story that she had been for many months asking for. She would finish by reassuringly telling me to “just write from my heart and express whatever our story may be”.

One day I was at home sulking as I hadn’t seen Ruby for around 3 days, she was busy getting ready the favours that are on the wedding tables and it dawned on me that her absence was what was affecting my mood. I then realised that this story of ours was not really that hard to write. I hadn’t caught up with her that day and I needed my daily injection of Ruby’s words.Then suddenly it all dawned on me, I just needed to write and share how God ordained our coming together along with highlighting her many, many attributes and conclude with how she became a part of me and the tell tale signs that assured me that I wasn’t making a mistake when I asked Ruby to marry me.

I therefore, start our story quoting the dictionary’s interpretation of the word fate. Fate is “a prophetic declaration or happening of what must be” and as such, our love story is actually the benediction of prayers and God’s decree of what must be. Finding and attracting your soul mate is everybody’s prayer and as such our story is one that I am proud to share.

Indicators, that you’ve met your soul mate are often misguided, love at first sight can be an indicator although it isn’t a prerequisite. However, when you do meet the One, there will be some form of instant connection. You will realise that you both have things in common from your individual journeys which could be social factors like tastes in music or fashion. Ruby is forever teaching me new dance moves and songs, not that I have mastered “the shoki” yet but still she never gets tired of trying to teach me.

There will be other important factors such as moral values and a deep spiritual understanding and realisations or challenges that you both have in common. Each of you will know and understand that you have a destiny and a life purpose not only as individuals but also as a couple. You both know on some level that you were brought together for a reason. The details may not be set, but you feel that you came together to do something. You have a mission to accomplish together and like Ruby likes to always remind me, “only we know each other’s story so far and we will help each other write a beautiful future”.

Every moment, heartbreak, experience leading up to the one in which you meet your future husband or wife somehow shapes you and prepares you for that person you were fated for.

The previous heartaches and dark days, the lonely cold nights, are all crucially important in the grand scheme of things because we need to experience the negatives to be able to appreciate the positives. Other tell tale signs that the person you’re with could be your soul mate and quite possibly the most important signal of all is your own intuition. The comments of family and friends that see your spiritual and mental growth as you start your journey with that person. My sister would tell me “Dipo, Ruby is the prettiest girl that I have seen you with”. Moreover, when I think of it, I strongly believe that our coming together was all part of God’s plan.

My late grandmother who filled my head with wise Yoruba metaphors, would often emphasise a prayer point whenever she always prayed for me. She would always pray emphasizing that, “Iyawo’ re o’ni kor’ ja la gbara olohun” (please pardon my spelling) literally meaning you will not let my future wife bypass you. Words are often lost in translation and the wisdom of this metaphor certainly doesn’t serve justice to the knowledge lost when translating it into English.

So perhaps I could start this story with a little bit of history as to enable you the readers to appreciate what is so special about ‘Princess Ruby’.

The whole “girl meets boy, boy and girl fall in love, boy and girl get married” is way too simplistic to describe the story of Ruby and I.

Like I said in the first paragraph; our love story had actually started before Ruby and I actually met.

The reason I firstly suggested you could describe our coming together fate is because I remember one day (eight and a half years ago now) leaving work early just to get away and get something to eat. (I LOVE MY AFRICAN FOOD). So I decided to pop in and see my cousin who was local to me and get something to eat.

Little did I know that, the stop and diversion I made that day would lead to me meeting that special one.

The first time I met Ruby was not simplistic nor was it overly dramatic so I can’t give you times or dates but I still remember the occasion as clear as if it was yesterday.
As I left work directed by the smell of food, I stopped and walked in and said hello to all including three young beautiful girls whom I had noticed sat down watching TV. I now know that two of those girls were her cousins and also on the bridal train. My eyes were immediately drawn to one of them. Unbeknown to me at that time, Ruby was the girl that my eyes were immediately transfixed upon. Those that know Ruby well will know that she is a people person and affectionate to everybody around her. Ruby is the kind of person that would give her time and service away to anybody in need of it.

Coupled with Ruby’s beautiful features and an eye to behold even on a casual day. You will understand why Ruby had many admirers also. I cannot say at that first initial meeting I heard a choir of angels singing, or a bright Halo light shone upon Ruby like some supernatural vision from God, but there truly was an instant attraction to her. Just my kind of girl I thought, I was further intrigued by her warm welcome and her calm composure as we spoke that day. (come to think of it, a young 19 year old girl that day). I immediately asked about her as I tried to find out who she was.

The reply came as my cousin told me that someone was speaking to Ruby already that day.

However, I introduced myself to all the girls and asked names as I tried to force conversation with the girls. You never know I thought.

I introduced myself to her and she introduced herself also to me as Ruby. I had been nicknamed “Diamond” and the fact “Ruby’s ” name also belongs to a gem wasn’t just a coincidence I thought I remember telling her that day.

Although, on that day I did not think anything was to come of it because she left without even saying bye to me.

Ruby and I then became friends, seeing more of each other due to the fact that we shared similar social circles. The time I knew that I started falling for Ruby was when I found myself suddenly becoming jealous when I thought perhaps she dressed to provocatively. I used to comment on how beautiful she looked dressed in a maxi dress but started feeling funny when other boys drew attention to the same beauty I was seeing. (I still love Ruby in her maxi dresses).

So in this regard that is why I now believe that our story could be described as been more eventful than fate. It is the fruition of God bringing to pass one of his one of his promises, because I can honestly say that I have met my best friend as we become one flesh (Genesis 2:24). The story is not one that I would be able to finish and write in only the few pages I get in this magazine coupled with the fact it is an ongoing positive story by God’s grace means that there simply wouldn’t be enough pages to finish it.Our story, I believe is one where two precious gems that float along, rubbing off each other and teaching and learning each other on a journey shaped through our experiences. The word best friend is simply bandied around too loosely. Ruby is more than a best friend, she is a true friend in times of adversity and forever motivating me to be the best that I can be. Ruby also does not entertain not devoting a certain part of our lives to God. Admittedly, on the Sunday mornings after a Saturday night out that I was feeling lazy Ruby would even after knowing that I had only had 3 hours sleep ring my phone until I picked up and remind me of the need to go to Church and give thanks to God.

We have had our ups and downs our doubts and clouds but the fact that Ruby and I have ended up at the altar is ultimately down to God.

So how do I know she is the one? Like I stated previously, the majority of the signals that I deemed important when choosing the partner to mother your children and be the woman behind every successful man pointed me to a yes.

As Ruby and I became better acquainted friends, I realised that the similar humanitarian values we shared coupled with our deep spiritual realisations were incredibly alike.I started admiring Ruby’s characteristics and found myself able to trust her with my most innate and personal feelings. Our relationship transgressed three years later on from meeting Ruby to the point whereby we became more than friends, formulating in the union of two kindred spirits. We started loving the same things such as going to the theatres or Ruby dragging me along to Rihanna‘s concert because according to her I am her boyfriend who else is she meant to go with. To enjoying the moments with Ruby that we shared watching and discussing the far fetched reality T.V shows that Ruby got me into. As Ruby and I enjoyed travelling not just abroad, but discovering other parts of the country I think was ultimately what sealed our friendship as we would spend hours talking on the motorway about the future and what we pray it beholds for us.

We had ultimately started seeing the future as one, although the journey only became official on 08.08.15, the journey has been a long story that unfolds into the blessed union you see today. Ruby’s moral beauty always told me that Ruby was a girl you could take home to meet the parents. As time went on, it got to the stage I would remember my grandmother’s prayers for me. Ruby would always make sure that I was OK and she would make an effort in trying to know and get acquainted with all my family.

She is also very family friendly and she would extend herself to all her family and everybody, this trait I also deemed important.

Her kindness and support for all her family and friends would emanate the darkest of glooms. I knew therefore that I had to make Ruby my wife and Thanks be to the glory of God she said “Yes” when I asked her to marry me.

Oladipo Omiyale

P.S
Mrs Ruby Omiyale, as we reach this new milestone in our journey I decree the blood of Jesus over our union, our friendship, and our marriage. Mark 10:9 promises that “What therefore God has joined together, let not man put asunder”. I pray for good health and long life for us and our new family. God will give me the strength to provide for and look after you. With all my heart I give my Love to you Ruby…

Yours, Dipo.

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Wedding Video by Special Functions Media

White Wedding at Grosvenor House Hotel in London Photos: Alakija Studios
Video: Special Functions Media

Wedding Attire
Bride’s Dress: Kosibah
Groom’s Suit: Morts & More
Bride’s Makeup: Toni Kemi
Bride’s Hair: AVOS Hair
Bridesmaids’ Makeup: Beauty Boudoir
Bridesmaids’ Hair: Deborah Lola
Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Berry_Haute

Vendors
Wedding Planners & Event Design: Just As Planned
Venue: Grosvenor House, A JW Marriott Hotel
Church: St Paul’s Knightsbridge
Flowers: Your London Florist
Decor: Dream Occasions
Production: Kudos
Caterer: Sapna Catering
Cake: GC Couture
MC: Wale Gates
Stationary & Wedding Art: Maestro Creativity
DJ: DJ Unbeetable

The post An Enrapturing Tale of Love: Ruby & Dipo’s Wedding at Grosvenor House | Just As Planned appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Dami Olowoyo and Ayo Romiluyi are every parents’ dream – the doctor bride and petroleum engineer groom met when the bride was in medical school.

Although Ayo immediately caught Dami’s eye, it took him years to capture her heart.

Dami was all about her books, even when he wanted to go all out with grand gestures, she was satisfied with just friendship.

Persistence eventually paid when she was in her final semester at med school, so she took a chance and went with him on a date. Ayo’s charm and humor completely won Dami over, and she then realized the amazing man and love she had been missing out on.Three years later, he proposed with an amazing surprise – the bride recounts it with such humor! – and they walked down the aisle as man and wife in 2015.

Here’s their love story, lush and jubilant Atlanta wedding, captured by photo genius Jide Alakija of Alakija Studios.

The couple has this advice for intending couples on wedding planning and building a solid foundation –

• Please put GOD first in your relationship. I cannot emphasize how much pre-marriage counseling is important to build a good foundation for your marriage. It has helped us a lot as we are navigating life together.
• Communication is key. Ladies – he cannot read your mind ! Open dialogue is key in avoiding a lot of arguments down the road.
• Regarding planning – set a budget (then add 30% more money!) It is soo easy to go past your budget. You have to stay organized. If you cannot keep track of your budget and vendors please invest in a good wedding planner. It pays off in the end.

BellaNaija Weddings wishes Dami and Ayo a blessed and beautiful life as One.

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~ Photography: Alakija Studios

How We Met
from Dami, the bride
Hmmm… where do I begin this epic story of ours so many years in the making! I would love to say immediately I met Ayo my heart stopped and it was love at first sight – Ha! In fact from our first meeting I would never have guessed we would be on the way to the altar many years later. So rewind to 2007 a mutual friend of ours was visiting from Nigeria and was staying at Ayo’s place in Atlanta. Prior to this Ayo and I had never met even though we lived in Atlanta for many years. So that night I decided to link up with this mutual friend of ours at a restaurant just to hang out and catch up.Ayo came along and we all met at the restaurant. I have to say I didn’t really think much of our meeting, we chatted a little exchanged numbers and that was it. I really was not expecting him to keep in touch. During that period I was smack in the middle of medical school. I barely had time for anything except reading! I have to give it to my darling Ayo – he was persistent! He used to call all the time to check up on me and try to hang out but I really didn’t give him any room. Infact there was a time I was in Miami for my clinical rotations and he called because he wanted to come visit. I gave one excuse or the other and avoided any sort of commitment. Fast forward to early 2010 I was wrapping up med school. I only had a few more months and I was back in Atlanta. My persistent Ayo called me again to hang out. At that point I was like you know what let me go out with this boy so he would stop disturbing me (I know I was terrible!) So we finally went on our “first date” and I was totally caught off guard. We went out for dinner and I was so surprised how funny Ayo was! He was so easy to talk to and he kept me laughing all night! I felt like we had been dating for years at the end of the night. Ayo was a perfect gentleman during our date and I had begun to see his true personality and I was very impressed. This was a big lesson of never judge a book by its cover! By 2010 this boy had totally worked his juju (magic) on me! We officially started dating then and the rest they say is history …

The Proposal
December 2013 we decided to take a trip to Puerto rico to celebrate my birthday. I didn’t suspect a thing since I pretty much planned the trip. So my birthday rolls around, that morning Ayo gave me a gift before we left the hotel to do the usual touristy stuff. The funny thing was a good friend of mine called for the usual birthday greeting and jokingly she mentioned, “ah Dami I can see you coming back with a ring oh.” I just laughed and didn’t think much of it. I actually jokingly mentioned it to Ayo and we both laughed and moved on. I usually am able to guess if Ayo is hiding something from me but I didn’t get any vibe of that sort at all!

So evening comes around and Ayo said he wanted to take me for dinner. I was like – okay, nice way to round up the evening. Birthday dinner here I come ! I started getting ready. I put on this sexy black dress. I told my darling oga to help me zip up. Next thing I knew Ayo broke my zip ! Arghhhhh ! I was pissed off ! The dress I had been dreaming of rocking since. SMH. Anyhow I was like okay fine its still my birthday I got over it quickly. But I had to settle to wear some random dress. So we went off to the restaurant, when we arrived I was very impressed. The location was beautiful – on the beach, it was like we had our own little island to ourselves. Throughout our meal Ayo kept talking about how we met and our journey throughout the years. Honestly I wasn’t really listening. I was soooo interested in the food. Kai that food was to die for ! I even requested to meet the chef. (I know am a grub) The staff was so attentive, the chef even came out to say hi to me. So time for desert, next thing I knew I heard a Naija song playing in the restaurant – “I love you” by Praiz (it’s the first song on our website 🙂 I was like what in the world is going on here – a Nigerian song in PR ??

Next thing Mr Ayo was kneeling in front of me with a ring. I almost passed out. I couldn’t even hear what he was saying. I burst into tears ! He put the ring on and the whole restaurant burst into applause…White Wedding Dami – “This was one of our best moments – we went back and forth about deciding to do a first look. I really wanted one but Ayo didn’t. I finally convinced him to do one!

I am so happy we did it. We had time before the ceremony to enjoy each other’s company and have a little alone time before the ceremony. Plus more time to take more amazing pictures !

I definitely recommend having a first look.” “Another precious moment for me was the father – daughter dance during the reception. It was so emotional for me. I had no idea I would end up crying ! I will have to blame it on the song 🙂 ” Chrisette Michele – Your Joy

Traditional Wedding

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Photography: Jide Alakija for Alakija Studios | www.alakija.com | @alakijastudios
Bride’s Review: “He is hands down the BEST wedding photographer ever!”

Wedding Info – Dates, Venues, Colours
Traditional Wedding: July 31st 2015 | The Biltmore | Emerald Green and Gold
White Wedding: August 1st 2015 | 200 Peachtree Event Center | Blush Pink and Gold

Wedding Attire
Bride’s Three Wedding Dresses: Custom Made by Orient
Bride and Bridesmaids Makeup: Makeup by JayTee
Bridal Bouquet: Blush & Ivory Flowers – garden roses, spray roses, and blush peonies by Victoria Brown
Bride & Groom’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin
Wedding Ceremony and Reception Suits: Miguel Wilson Collection
Groomsmen’s Attire: Miguel Wilson Collection
Bridesmaids Attire: Blush Pink mermaid dresses, Custom Made by Orient
Aso Oke: Bisbod

Vendors
Traditional and Wedding Cake: Ivel Cakes
Wedding Planner and Décor: Victoria Brown
Traditional and Wedding Food: Meeting Pointe Catering

The post From All About the Books to All About the Boy! Dami Olowoyo & Ayo Romiluyi’s Lush Wedding & Sweet Story appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.