Basketful of surprises

BRIDE: Elizabeth Nthambi GROOM: Francis Kangere DATE: August 23, 2014 NUMBER OF GUESTS: 700 CEREMONY: Regina Caeli Catholic Church RECEPTION: Karen Blixen BUDGET: Sh1.9 Million   FIRST DATE Elizabeth: In mid 2011, we started dating and our love blossomed to what led us to getting married. Our first date was just before my birthday in 2011 and we went out for dinner. THE PROPOSAL Elizabeth: He called me on my birthday and said he wanted to take me out after work. He picked me up and we headed to Sankara Hotel where he had made reservations earlier for a set up for two. We then had some refreshments and an evening snack. It was quite romantic from the music to the special attention accorded to us. He then asked me if I was ready to leave and I looked at him in shock because I thought it was too early to leave. As we drove off, I noticed that he had taken a detour to Limuru Road and I wondered where he was taking me. Our drive ended at the Tribe Hotel where we alighted and were warmly received. We were then ushered to the swimming pool section, which had been romantically set up for two. I was lost for words in amazement of what was going on. We were then served with sparkling wine and a finger-licking dinner. The set up was complete with petals from red roses and a romantic selection of music and lighting. He kept whispering sweet words in my ears and told me how much he loved me. I thought to myself that this must be a very romantic birthday outing. When we were done with dinner, he stepped out and told me he was going to sort out the bill. A few minutes later, our attendant for the evening came to me and told me that Francis had requested that we shift to The Nest; a restaurant in Tribe Hotel located at the roof top for a glass of champagne. I followed the attendant to the elevator and when we got to the top floor, the door of the elevator opened and I saw Francis down on one knee holding a rose flower and a ring in a box on his other hand. On his side stood two men one with a wrapped gift and another with a beautiful cake written ‘will you marry me’. I broke down in tears of joy and accepted. We then had a toast of champagne for the engagement. It was so romantic. THE DRAMA The planning was quite involving and tiresome but at the same time exciting.We planned the wedding just the two of us. However, we later incorporated our friends and requested them to assist us in co-ordinating the various activities as agreed with the suppliers. IN HINDSIGHT Couples planning a wedding should put God first in everything they do and let the Lord be their number one planner. Start planning early to avoid the last minute pressure. MEMORABLE MOMENTS He kept the honeymoon a surprise all along and not even my wildest guess could have gotten it right. I came to learn that Dubai was our honeymoon destination when we got to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. It was an enjoyable and romantic honeymoon and will form part of the most memorable highlight of our wedding. PHOTOS AND INTERVIEW: WILBERFORCE OKWIRI/STANDARD