I had such a great time photographing my favorite wedding of the year (so far). Bolanle and Daniel threw a big, high-energy, traditional Nigerian wedding with two different ceremonies on a recent Saturday. Then Marci Curtis photographed their third — more intimate — Western-style ceremony on Sunday. Both the traditional Yoruba engagement and traditional Yoruba wedding are very meaningful and packed with symbolism.

From the web: A Yoruba traditional wedding, known as Igbeyawo, is a vibrant cultural celebration uniting the two families. The event centers around the family introduction (Momi mo e), the presentation of the engagement list (Eru Iyawo), respectful prostrations (Idobale) by the groom, colorful aso-oke attire, and lively hosting by traditional MCs (Alagas).

The entire event was beautiful and masterfully orchestrated. Enjoy just a few of my favorite photos here:

Some of Bolanle and Daniel’s wedding party mess around during their official portraits before the first wedding.

Daniel reflects upon his first of three different groom’s outfits.

Bolanle’s father playfully greets some of Daniel’s family.

Daniel’s family members check the fit of their traditional Nigerian outfits.

Bolanle in the first of her three fabulous wedding gowns for the weekend.

A few of the many bridesmaids before the first ceremony.

Daniel’s family members relax out in the hallway before dancing in.

Daniel’s father and his twin were born 12 minutes apart.

Hanging out and getting just a little rowdy on the party bus parked outside.

Bolanle’s parents and family dance into the hall to start the ceremonies.

Then Daniel’s parents and family dance into the hall.

Daniel’s family greet Bolanle’s family.

Bolanle’s family is so cool.

Next, Daniel and his crew dance on in.

With dollar bills strewn out all around them, the groomsmen lie prostrate in front of the assembled families.

Daniel asks to be accepted by Bolanle’s parents (SPOILER ALERT: he was!)

Workers at Greenfield Manor in Dearborn sweep up some of the dollar bills, thrown often throughout the ceremonies.

Next to enter, Bolanle’s maid of honor dances in with the official response to Daniel’s marriage proposal.

And then, amidst fog and fanfare, Bolanle and her crew dance on in.

It’s a joyous occasion as the bride enters.

Daniel’s mother washes Bolanle’s feet, as is tradition.

Bolanle’s family members watch all the festivities.

The couple seem happy, don’t you think?

Daniel and Bolanle cut the cake.

I told this guy I loved his style and took one single snapshot of him. I think it worked.

But wait, who or what is this masked apparition, appearing in just a momentary flash, on the party bus?

 

Rodney Curtis is a recovering journalist and author of four books.

Check out Rodney’s books here.