February brought with it a double celebration in the beautiful Akwa Ibom State. Love, culture, and old friendships came together in a spectacular celebration as my brother tied the knot with his lovely bride. And guess what? It was his birthday too! What a perfect way to start a new chapter in life! The bride hails from the charming Ini LGA, while we proudly call Ibiono Ibom our home.
The air was filled with excitement as family and friends gathered to witness the union of two hearts, two souls, and two families. Ini and Ibiono Ibom, coming together in joy and unity.
The ceremony itself was steeped in traditional customs and rituals that have been passed down through generations. It was a beautiful fusion of old and new, where modern vows were exchanged, but respect for tradition remained at the core. A true feast for the senses, an experience unlike any other, as the essence of our culture shone brightly through every aspect of the event.
Watch My bro’s unongho mkpo ndo – Traditional marriage rites in Akwa Ibom State
Of course, no Nigerian wedding is complete without the colorful attires, captivating music, and mouthwatering delicacies that left everyone’s taste buds dancing. The couple, bride’s and groom’s parents were adorned with accessories from the one and only Stylemoe. The wedding feast was an absolute delight, with Edith and my cousin, Mfon, taking charge of the delectable small chops, and Agnes showcasing her culinary prowess. But let’s not forget our culinary skills too, as we hosted a delightful pre-wedding feast at our house, cooking up a storm to treat our guests to a taste of home. Food was also cooked for the event.
My brother’s friends proved to be real troopers, ensuring that the drinks flowed despite a few dramatic moments. But hey, what’s a celebration without some exciting stories to tell afterward?
Click the link to watch the behind the scenes
Now, let’s talk about the preparation – phew! We almost thought we’d be fashionably late due to the meticulous efforts we put into looking our absolute best. But hey, it was all worth it when we stepped into the gathering, receiving warm hugs from friends and family.
Reconnecting with our university buddies added an extra layer of joy to the occasion. It had been over 12 years since we last saw many of them, and some had embraced their wisdom with graceful gray hair, a testament to the challenges and beauty of family life, the economy, and the passage of time. Nevertheless, the camaraderie and laughter remained unchanged, rekindling memories of the carefree days we shared.
The wedding wasn’t just a gathering of friends, but a beautiful family reunion too! Uncles, aunties, and cousins all came together to bless the happy couple. When I say all, I mean both paternal and maternal including those who lived far away. Naming a few – our Ette Idung, Obong JJ Akpanuwa, Uncle Barrister, Eka Ndifreke, Eka Edomma, Uncle Effiong as Ette ndo, Uncle Etetim as family representative (I shall return with the ibibio translation), Aunty Ene, Uncle Etim, Eka Emem. Aunty Ikwo would have loved to be there. The joy and excitement were palpable as we rejoiced in witnessing the union of two souls, destined to be together. It felt like a glimpse into our future, contemplating when the rest of us will follow suit and take the leap into matrimony. 😄 When will you marry?
But that’s not all! We had the one and only Edwin Ebiese, aka MC Governor, as the Master of Ceremonies. It’s incredible how life’s paths intertwine – Edwin, my brother, and I were all part of the same faculty during our university days. I shall talk about the arrival time someday. Ini Ememobong, or Timi as we fondly call him, was the Chairman of the occasion. Just so you know, he is now an Honorable so, put some respect to the name #dignitaries. Our very own Honorable in-law graced the event, Hon Essien Nse, aka The Indomitable – the #loml of my cousin’s life.
The entire process of getting married in Akwa Ibom was nothing short of captivating. The colorful ceremonies, the rhythmic music, the traditional dances that made our hearts skip a beat – it was an experience like no other, truly unforgettable! I’m genuinely proud to showcase a glimpse of our rich culture to the world. 🌍🎉
Getting married in Nigeria is a fun and enjoyable journey, with each ceremony and tradition holding its unique significance. The festivities don’t just unite two individuals but also bring together communities, fostering a sense of togetherness that is simply heartwarming.
As I look back on this incredible celebration, I am reminded of the treasure trove of traditions and the unbreakable bonds that hold us together as a family and community. Witnessing my brother’s marriage was not just witnessing the union of two souls but also an affirmation of our heritage, culture, and the strength of friendships that stand the test of time. I can’t help but cherish the memories of love, laughter, and cultural splendor. To my dear brother and his lovely bride, may your journey together be filled with endless happiness and cherished moments. And to all my friends and family, thank you for being part of this unforgettable experience!
Here’s to love, unity, and the rich tapestry of Akwa Ibom’s culture! 🥂💕
Watch the full video here: Traditional Marriage Celebration in Akwa Ibom
