Perfect proposal

A kiss for the bride from her new husband.

By  Wilberforce Okwiri

Who:Leah Gondi and Kevin Ogondi, Where: St James ACK Buru Buru, Nairobi, Reception/photo session: Arboretum Gardens and Serena Hotel, Budget: Sh800,000, Guests: 600

EVE BRIDAL: How did you two meet?

Leah: We met at Utawala Academy, on a visiting day. I was visiting my nephews and he had accompanied my brothers. So, while relaxing on a mattress after lunch, Kevin came and kicked me on my back asking, “Where were you when people were sleeping?” I was so furious at him. Later on, I bumped into him on Moi Avenue in Nairobi and we went for coffee at Coffee World. He played a gentleman and offered to drive me home that evening. Then one thing led to another, and here we are!

EB: What attracted you to each other?

Kevin: Her beauty, especially her eyes and commitment to me.

Leah: The list is endless, but he is open with me, he tells me everything I need to know, he is caring, loving and he works hard to make sure I’m happy.

EB: How was the dating experience?

Kevin: Awesome! The ups and downs made it interesting as I got to know my partner better!

Leah: I had so much fun… especially during the first days when I used to run away from home just to be with him!

EB: What did you like about it?

Kevin: Having her good company.

Leah: I enjoyed the coffee dates, the trips and expeditions all over Kenya, his company and his love!

EB: How did he propose?

Leah: We had visited my uncle in Kileleshwa to celebrate his 70th birthday in September last year. There was a band playing ohangla and in the midst of it all, he picked the microphone while guys were dancing and call everyone to attention. At this point, he went down on his knee asking for my hand in marriage. I was overwhelmed, most of all happy. Please note that the whole clan was there, the entire Gondi family and friends.

EB: What was the most interesting part of the wedding?

Kevin: When she walked down the aisle.

Leah: Seeing him smiling as I walked down the aisle. I wanted to run so fast just to hold him. The feeling was nice!

Then again, when our parents, (the Gondis) surprised us with a car. A Toyota Avensis, new model from Britain. Dad called it “A small gift”. It was such a huge surprise! The Luo in him… but do we say?

EB: What challenges did you encounter during the planning?

Kevin: My family was not cooperating with me and that was discouraging.

Leah: I almost gave up at some point because I felt that we were alone in planning for the day, but my sister, Barbra, and mum kept encouraging me not to give up.

EB: Where and how was the honeymoon?

Kevin: It was at Baobab, South Coast for one week, then Mauritius for another one week! All I can say is, it had its positive results!

Leah: One word. Legendary.