There are some weddings that stretch far beyond the bounds of a camera lens– days that etch themselves deep into your soul. Held in the heart of Rochester, NY, at the stunning Arbor Midtown, Femi & Hattie’s event was a sacred, joy-filled union of cultures, families, and hearts. Truly one of the most meaningful celebrations I’ve ever had the honor of documenting.
June 27th began with a traditional Nigerian engagement: an emotional and vibrant ceremony filled with dancing, laughter, heartfelt singing, prayer, and countless moments that radiated so much love. Witnessing Hattie’s family accept Femi’s marriage proposal with grace and celebration was powerful in itself, but it was only the beginning. From there, the couple transitioned into their white wedding ceremony, where nearly every continent (Antarctica aside) was represented by loved ones who traveled across the world to celebrate them.
It’s hard to put into words what made this day so incredibly special, but if I had to choose just a few moments that left a lasting imprint on me, they would be:
- The spiritual unity that filled both ceremonies. Guests prayed the blood of Jesus over Hattie and Femi, singing and lifting their voices in unison. The presence of the Holy Spirit was so tangible in the room that I still get goosebumps every time I speak about it.
- The endless color and cultural beauty expressed through vibrant attire and all the guests’ dedication to travel in for this event. Femi’s family and friends brought the most effervescent energy into this celebration with their stunning garments, beautiful Nigerian traditions, and infectiously joyful personalities. It was so amazing to see guests from across the globe embrace different traditions and come together to celebrate this sweet couple.
- The Nigerian dwarf goats (!) that made an appearance after the engagement ceremony… three tiny, sweet baby goats that guests got to hold and snuggle. They were not only a fun surprise, but also a beautiful representation of Femi’s heritage and the merging of two worlds in such a joyful way.
Honorable Mention: the showering of money upon the couple at every opportunity possible! You’ll see it throughout the entire blog post, but Femi & Hattie’s guests participated in the Nigerian tradition of spraying the couple with money as a form of well wishes and good fortune in their marriage. (This is my formal petition to adopt this into American wedding celebrations because it was so insanely fun!)
Femi & Hattie–
Your wedding is one I will always carry with me. I cannot describe what an honor it was to document all these precious memories for you two. Thank you for welcoming me with open arms and allowing our team to capture all the beauty. May your entire lives be drenched in joy and love equally as much as this sacred day was!
Thank you to the vendor team & incredible people who traveled from far and wide to make Femi & Hattie’s wedding such a beautiful celebration!
Photography: Hannah Bryerton Photography
Venue: Arbor Midtown, Rochester NY
Florist: Ashley Kirnan of Tarry Grove
Coordinators: Autumn Desmarais & Funkazi Tobun
Entertainment: DJ Ish
Nigerian Engagement MC: Dr. Tiffany Oloke
Wedding Officiant: Pastor Akinbobola Modupe
Makeup Artist: Makeup By Layla M
Hairstylist: Pin And Prose Bridal Styling
Decor/Rentals: Something Borrowed Rentals and Tarry Grove
Desserts: Patisserie of Skaneateles
Catering: Fare Catering, Max Gordon
Bride’s Gown: Heart to Heart Bridal, designed by Maggie Sottero
Bridesmaids Dresses: Birdy Grey
Groomsmen/Groom’s Attire: INDOCHINO
