Proposals

Bruno And Priscila’s Love Story Will Totally Melt Your Heart

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The story of Bruno and Priscila is completely heart-warming.

Priscila’s mum taught Bruno when he was about 8 years old but for some reasons, they lost contact after a period of time.

With the odds definitely in their favour, it happened that Bruno worshipped at the same church as Priscila and her mother in 2012.  He was thrilled to meet his teacher and (obviously) her daughter again. Bruno and Priscila became very good friends in 2014 and soon after Bruno and Priscila consistently started coming home from work together since they both lived nearby.

One beautiful day, he invited her to see an exposition of Salvador Dalí. They had an unforgettable time. After that night, their bond grew even stronger and it blossomed into a very beautiful relationship.

The couple will be tying the knot on May 12, 2018. We look forward to their beautiful union!

Photo Credit: srta_ptenorio

Planning

10 Ideal Questions To Ask Before Hiring A Make-Up Artist For Your Big Day

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Poorly done make-up is capable of ruining a perfectly good day. You don’t want anything raining on your parade on your big day. Neither do you want your groom to wonder about your weird transformation.

What are we trying to say? A good make-up artist who knows his/her onion is major.

Fixing a date for Q&A with your makeup artist before fully committing is equally important.

According to Weddingwire, here are a  few questions to ask before diving in.

1. Are you available on my wedding day?
This is the first question you’ll want to ask. Why? If the artist of your dreams isn’t available on your date it’s good to know sooner rather than later. Make sure to ask when they’re available for trials, as well!

2. What’s your standard rate and what does that include?
You’re going to have to fit your wedding makeup artist into your budget, so cut to the chase and ask about cost at the beginning of your conversation. Specifically, you’ll want the balance for pre-wedding trials, your wedding day services and any additional costs.

3. Can you travel for my wedding day?
This is a key question if you’ve planned something out of town. Wedding makeup artists aren’t always available to hop on a plane or train as they may have other obligations or clients to tend to. Ask your artist whether they are able to follow you to your destination right out of the gate. If not, it’s on to the next one. If you want to skip the hassle and cost of travel, look for an artist who already resides in or around your wedding destination.

4. Can I book a trial appointment?
No matter how much you trust them, you don’t want your first appointment with your makeup artist to be your wedding day. Request a trial run or two so that you can try out different styles and products to see what works before committing completely.

5. Do you have a portfolio?
Flipping through your makeup artist’s portfolio will give you an idea of their personal style and ability. If your artists looks like he or she cakes on the makeup and you want a more natural look for your big day, now may be the time to start looking at other options. Testimonials and references will also help you determine whether you’ve found “the one”.

6. What products do you use?
Anyone with problematic skin knows that the wrong product can wreak havoc on your face. You’ll want to get the lowdown on what products and brands your artist plans on working with so that your skin doesn’t freak out on your big day. Side note: If you care about things like parabens, cruelty-free brands or all-natural cosmetics, now’s the time to ask about those, too.

7. How can you make my look last and look good in photos?
You’re wedding day will be a long one, filled with emotions and probably a healthy dose of tears. Make sure your artist is up to the task of keeping you looking pretty no matter what the circumstances. Ask what they can do to minimize shine, lock on your foundation and keep those mascara tears at bay.

8. Are you able to do my bridal party’s makeup as well?
If you want your bridesmaids to have a cohesive look, having the same wedding makeup artist is key. Though one or two of them can probably do a killer job of applying winged liner, you don’t want to leave the others floundering around (that’s just asking for some makeup mishaps). Having your makeup artist handle your entire party means that you won’t have to put your faith in more than one person. After all, if he or she does a great job, why keep hunting?

9. What look would you suggest for me?
Having trouble picking out a look for yourself? Getting a few tips from your wedding makeup artist is a good idea.

There’s a good chance that your artist has worked on many brides with different face shapes, features and colouring – meaning they have an idea of what’s flattering and what’s best avoided on your wedding day.

10. Can I see your contract?
Asking to see a copy of your makeup artist’s standard contract should take care of any unanswered questions.

Their contract should lay out all pre-wedding day, wedding day services plus any additional fees that may impact your balance (like travel fees, parking, etc.). Once you’ve seen a draft, you’ll know exactly what you’re in for.

You are on way to looking like royalty on your big day. Let nothing stop you!

Photo Credit: LionessesOfAfrica, Shutterstock, Adomonline

Planning

Lack Wedding Gift Ideas? These List Is All You Need To Get Started

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If you are having problems thinking of a gift for a couple who’s about to wed, you need not bother because we got you.

Gifting newly weds can be knotty but it’s not as difficult as you think. Some people are usually careful not to buy gifts that may seem too forward, too cheap etc.

Wedding gifts originated from the notion of a bride price or dowry that was paid to the bride’s family.

It usually included land, animals, money, and other forms of historical wealth. The first recorded dowry was exchanged in 3,000 B.C.

Below are a few ideas that would help you if you are faced with the challenge of gifting newly weds.

1. Kitchenware

These are usually not so high priced and will go a long way to help the bride out as she is probably starting out her life and needs all the help she can get.

2. Home Appliances

Even if the kids are yet on their way, this would ease the couple’s stress.

3. Paintings

These are amazing because they subtly send deep and soulful messages and beautify their home too.

4. Books

Especially books that are likely to aid in personal growth both as individuals and a couple.

5. Personalized Items

Gifting the couple with personalized items is quite endearing like throw pillows, mugs, frames and even T-shirts.

6. Baby Essentials

These signify that you actually do wish them a fruitful marriage.

Hopefully this cures you of your gift worries…what’s more? The couple can create a gift registry here  and share with guests so they can contribute collectively and get them gifts of their choice with ease.

Photo Credit: OrganicWedding, UniqueWeddingGifts

Planning

Here’s What You Should Ask Your Prospective Wedding DJ

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No ceremony can ever be complete without good music and that’s where an excellent DJ comes in.

According to Wikipedia, a disc jockey, often abbreviated as DJ, is a person who plays existing recorded music for a live audience.

Hiring a good DJ is just as tricky as hiring any other vendor for your wedding. Here are essential questions you are expected to ask before engaging them according to TheSpruce.

1. Can I meet the person who will actually work at my event before we sign a contract?

If you’re working with a DJ company who employs several different DJs, you’ll definitely want to make sure you’re comfortable with the actual person who’ll be at your reception. Do they seem cool, fun, and also respectful?

Are they listening to the questions you’re asking, and giving you thoughtful responses? Do they seem like someone you could have a fun time with?

2.Will you work with my playlist and my do-not-play list?
Wedding DJs love to have autonomy and play whatever they want. Since it’s your wedding, you should have input about what gets played and what doesn’t.
If you have some “deal breaker” songs, be sure to share them with your potential DJ and make sure he or she understands your wishes.

3. Will your equipment allow you to mix one song into another so that there are no breaks in between songs?
One of the top reasons to hire a wedding DJ rather than just using an iPod is that they should be able to provide a seamless flow of music. If they can’t, it’s time to look elsewhere.

4. Will you take breaks? If so, what happens during the breaks?
Again, unlike a band or an iPod, a DJ should be able to have a seamless flow of music with no breaks.

5. Will you take requests during the wedding?
Some wedding DJs love requests, while others don’t like having to hunt for an obscure song or interrupting their playlist.

6. How many weddings do you DJ each year? Will you have another event on the same day? 
Since DJs often work corporate events, bars and birthday parties, you want to make sure he or she is comfortable with weddings and the higher level of sophistication required.

You’ll also want to make sure there aren’t any possible scheduling conflicts as a result of having multiple events booked for the same day.

7. Have you worked at our reception site before?
If he or she already knows the setup and staff there, it can make things more seamless on the day of the wedding.

It’s not necessary, but it’s nice to have that reassurance that your wedding DJ is familiar with the layout and setup.

8. What sort of equipment do you use? Do your prices include the sound system, speakers, wireless microphone for the toasts, etc?
You’ll want to make sure he or she has the necessary equipment required to fill your event space with sound.

Each of these extras can add up quickly. Your event space may already have them available, but it’s good to have backups in case of equipment failure.

9. What do you do if nobody is dancing?
If for any reason your guests aren’t feeling the musical selections, how does the DJ handle it?

10. How current is your music collection? 
Does he or she have access to the newest music? Do you want the newest pop hit played at your reception or do you just want to stick to your old favorites?

11. What if we really want to hear songs that aren’t in your music collection?
If for some reason the DJ doesn’t have some music or songs that you really love, will he be able to acquire it or is that not possible?

12. Will you advertise your services to our guests? Will you be discrete?
Your wedding is a job, not a networking opportunity. You want to make sure the DJ you’re working with doesn’t seem sleazy or slimy, or like he’ll be looking for his next job while in the middle of working your wedding.

13. What do you wear as a wedding DJ?
You’ll want to ensure that your wedding DJ is dressed appropriately for the formality of your big day.

14. Can I see a video of you playing at a wedding?
Ask to see footage of your DJ working at a wedding so you can get a feel for his or her style, personality, and character.

Answers to the above questions would let you know if you are on the right path as regards hiring a suitable DJ for your wedding.

Photo Credit: TheSpruce, Naija DJ Pool

Planning

8 Questions You Should Ask Before Hiring A Caterer For Your Wedding

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Catering is an integral part of any ceremony especially a Nigerian wedding. In all you do, ensure your catering is topnotch or assign a trusted person to do so.

 

Here are a few relevant questions you need to ask before hiring any caterer.

1. Are you booked on my wedding date?

If the caterer is not available on your date, it’s a no-NO.

2. Have you ever worked at my venue before?

Some venues only allow approved caterers to work on their premises.  Whether or not that’s the case, it’s a good idea to find a caterer who is comfortable at your venue, though not a deal-breaker.

3.  Can I take a look at a sample menu?

Start by telling the caterer about your wedding – your style, the guest count, how you visualize the food, etc. and ask to see a menu from a wedding that’s similar. You’ll get a sense if you and the caterer are on the same page in terms of style.

4. Do you allow couples to customize their menus at all?

If you have specific requests or dietary restrictions, it’s important to find a caterer that’s flexible. Find out if the caterer would be open to preparing family favorites, if that’s important to you.

5. Will there be a pre-wedding tasting?

If so, is there a fee involved? Having a pre-wedding tasting is an important part of the planning process. Find out how the caterer’s tastings work – are they done before or after the contract is signed? What is included?

6. Do you provide rentals like tables, chairs, linens, etc.?

If the answer is no, your venue should be able to assist you with finding a rental company to work with.

7. What’s your typical ratio of servers to guests?

This depends on if you’d having a buffet or sit-down dinner. Usually sit-down dinners will have around a one server to 20 guest ratio or less, while for a buffet the guest count will be higher.

8. Who will be on site on my wedding day?

You’ll want to be sure that you meet the coordinator who will be at your wedding beforehand.

Whatever you do, make sure everything is 95% in order in the catering department.

Photo Credit: Cruise Africa, Bella Naija

News

7 Meals You Can’t Miss At A Typical Nigerian Wedding

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The average Nigerian loves food and we cannot even argue this. For every wedding ceremony that takes place in Nigeria 70% of the guests are there for the food as much as they want to celebrate with you.

Nigerian meals are quite interesting and toothsome.

Here are meals you would surely see at most Nigerian weddings.

1. Jollof Rice

This is the king of all Nigerian meals at any occassion. How can you not have Jollof at your wedding?.Based on its name, the origins of Jollof rice can be traced to the Senegambian region that was ruled by the Jolof Empire. Somehow, Nigerians have ‘owned’ this delicacy and presented it in different amazing ways.

2. Pounded Yam

It is a delicacy prominent to the south-western part of Nigeria. Iyan , as it is called by natives, has its root among the people of Ekiti state in south western Nigeria. Pounded yam is a special food for special occasions in Nigeria such as in marriages, coronations, house warming, funeral to mention a few.

3. Fried Rice

This tastes differently from jollof rice and sometimes served side by side with jollof rice.

4. Porridge

Yam porridge is made with yam, oil, vegetables and preferably tomatoes.

Pottage is cooked in many different ways in accordance with national food cultures,customs and traditions.

5. Ofada Sauce

Ofada sauce got its name from the local rice which it is usually served with (Ofada rice), the sauce is called Ayamase.

The pairing is just splendid.

6.  Moin Moin

Moin-Moin is a Nigerian steamed bean pudding made from a mixture of washed and peeled beans, onions and fresh ground peppers.

7. Small Chops

Nigerian small  chops are finger foods served at parties.

These include spring rolls, baby puff puff, samosas, peppered gizzards, chicken kebab, asun, stick meat, mini sausage rolls, Nigerian fish rolls and a lot more.

Small chops can be quite filling too. Nigerian meals add their own quota in making a wedding colourful and spicy.

Photo Credit: Afrovibe, Omgvoice, SisiJemimah, Afrotourism, Dealdey, Kitchenbutterfly

Celebrity

We Can’t Get Enough Gabriel Afolayan And Banke’s Sparkle On Their Introduction

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Gabriel Afolayan, director and singer reportedly had his introduction ceremony a few days ago in Osogbo, Osun State.

Born to Adeyemi Afolayan(Ade Love) he is part of the renowned Afolayan entertainment family that comprises Kunle Afolayan and Aremu Afolayan.  Afolayan’s acting debut was in “F Opawon” by Baba Sala.

The actor is a graduate of Theatre Arts from University of Ibadan. Gabriel and his bride-to-be are way too gorgeous.

Celebrity

5 Times Rita Dominic’s Jumpsuits Were The Perfect Wedding Guest Inspiration

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Smoking hot Nigerian actress, Rita Dominic, who has an incredible eye for fashion and turns heads steadily everytime she makes an appearance, is an avid lover of wide leg pants, culottes, palazzo and jumpsuits.

She always looks smashing in them. Below are 5 times her jumpsuits easily passed for the perfect outfit for a wedding.

1. White Sleeveless Jumpsuit

She looked breathtaking in this immaculate outfit.

2.  Royal Blue V-Neck Jumpsuit

Dominic stunned in this ensemble with a brooch perched underneath her cleavage.

3. Black Jumpsuit With Brown And White Flaps

Rita queened in this number.

4. Pink Prints Jumpsuit

Rita paired this attire with a small silver purse.

5. Checked Jumpsuit With White Shirt

She donned this along with a gold purse and nude peep-toe heels.

Jumpsuits are amazing as they come off as simple but yet chic and they are ultimately easy to wear. If you have run out of outfits for the next wedding you have to attend, you may want to try jumpsuits.

Photo Credit: IG – @ritadominic