Nigerian Wedding in Houston, TX | Sam + Ifeoluwa
I could write for hours about these two, but I’m going to try and keep it brief. Bear with me.
Every wedding I photography is special, but nothing tops photographing one of your best friend’s weddings. Sam was Jake and I’d roommate all throughout college and a very dear friend to us both. When he met Ifeoluwa, or as we call her B, we knew she was the one. She could throw jokes right back at him and pushed him outside of his comfort zone. Jake was Sam’s best man and I got to photograph the day, both such an honor!
While B’s family is originally from Nigeria, she has relatives who now live in Houston, Texas. We traveled down and spent a few days in the area before the wedding. The actual wedding was north of Houston in Magnolia, Texas at a venue called the Meekermark.
The couple started the day in traditional American wedding clothes, although Bada still put a twist on the outfit by choosing a pantsuit. It was a balmy 90 degrees day in late June with full sun, so we spent a lot of time mingling and hydrating in between photos.
Their ceremony took place under a stunning outdoor chapel and was short and sweet. We managed to get a photo of Bada’s entire extended family afterwards and knowing how far people traveled for this day, it might be my favorite family photos I’ve ever taken.
After the ceremony, the couple and groomsmen changed into traditional Nigerian wedding attire. They included several Nigerian wedding traditions into their reception. For example, it is customary that the groom and groomsmen prostrate in front of the bride’s father as a sign of respect. This signifies that the groomsmen are strong enough to support the groom, and the groom is strong enough to support the bride through their life together.
Another tradition is the money spray, where the couple’s friends and family shower them with money as they dance in order to bless their future with wealth and prosperity. Family members acted as the bank, giving change to people with larger bills, and some guests even brought dollar guns. This packed the dance floor and it stayed that way for the rest of the night.
I probably cried a hundred times this day. To grow up with someone and see them start their future with so much happiness is all you could ever wish for a friend. Sam and B, your friendship means the world to us and we can’t wait to see what the future brings for you. So much love for you two!
Venue: The Meekermark
Dress Designer: Bridal Sense
Wedding Planner: NXT LVL Houston
Caterer: Heavenly Smiles Catering & Latinwo Catering
