Dara, an adjunct professor and Bisi, a geologist met through match-making family members but didn’t meet until an entire year after their first phone call. After their first date in the summer of 2012, their friendship blossomed, and the two soon realized they were a match made in heaven!
They had their Nigerian wedding at Eastridge Park Christian Church in Mesquite, Texas.
Tell us about how you met and all about the proposal!
We met through match-making efforts of family members. It took a year after Bisi’s initial phone call for us to meet in person. Our first date led to countless hours on the phone discussing life and everything in between. Six months later, Bisi drove 6 hours from Lubbock, TX to Dallas, TX, asked my father for his permission to propose, and then met me at the Mustangs of Las Colinas later that day. I had no idea what was coming. At the Mustangs of Las Colinas Museum, Bisi mentioned that he needed to get his eyeglasses out of the car. Little did I know that he went to get my engagement ring! He returned shortly thereafter, told me he had something important to say, got down on his knees, and asked for my hand in marriage!
Wedding Style
My wedding dress was a taffeta ball gown with a beautiful ruffled halter neckline, from the Mori Lee ‘Blu’ collection which was purchased from Mockingbird Bridal in Dallas, TX. Wedding dress shopping was a breeze, thanks to my amazing mom and sister who went to every bridal shop in town with me. I found my dress after five months of shopping! I tried on the Mori Lee dress, my mom approved, and I said “Yes to the Dress!”
Culture
Yes! We had lots of Nigerian food and music. We also changed into our Nigerian native wear during the reception for the “Money Dance.” The cultural implication of the money dance is that our family, friends and social circles, particularly the groom, are publicly declaring and showing their commitment to take care of the bride and meet all her needs for the rest of her life. This is why in the end, all the money goes to the bride to use as she pleases. The dance can last for hours. Typically, it continues for as long as the bride or anyone from her social circle keeps dancing.
Memories
My favorite memory was walking down the aisle as Mrs. Ajiboye…and all the events before and after. It was such a perfect day and ceremony. Every moment was incredibly special!
Help a bride-to-be out!
Work together, learn together… and do these always putting the interest of your partner first! You are both in this for the long run. It’s about more than just the wedding day, it’s about having each other there for support for a lifetime. Planning a wedding can be stressful; I couldn’t have done it without Bisi’s constant support and reminder that everything was going to okay.
Vendors:
Photography: Ivy Weddings
Venue: Eastridge Park Christian Church
Wedding Coordinator: Biel Events
Wedding Gown Designer: Mori Lee
Wedding Gown Retailer: Mockingbird Bridal
Veil: Bridesmaid, Janelle Miller (The “Something Borrowed”)
Hair & Makeup: Bride’s friends, Jessica Agwamaro and Tope Oguntona
Jewelry: Charming Charlie
Groom’s Attire: International Suit Wearhouse
Florals: Belle Fleur
Cake: Yum Scrum Cakes
Catering: Royal Catering
Linen: AM Linen Rentals
Entertainment – MC: Awestruck Inc
