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BRIDE: Gladys Wanjiru Nga'nga
GROOM: Gilbert Guchu Otieno
DATE: November 22, 2014
GUESTS: 500
VENUE: Mariakani Church of God, South B
BUDGET: Sh600,000
FIRST DATE
Gladys: We met on a rainy morning when I was running late for my lessons at a college in town. Here he comes, a young, handsome but very stubborn guy insisting on getting to know me. He was soaked from the rain. That was our first encounter. We never got to talk too much because of time.
Gilbert: I met this beautiful girl carrying a bag. She was heading to town and I was going upcountry to see my parents. I said hi and the response wasn’t good but I insisted and she answered and moved on. I followed her to her school to get her no and I started calling her on her phone. For a long time she played hard to get but she seemed to like my ideas. Luckily for me, I did not lose hope though she told me later that she didn’t like the shirts I wore.
THE PROPOSAL
Gladys: For a long time, he tried to take me out for dinner but with a tight schedule and strict parents, it seemed impossible. I had to sneak out to my aunt’s place in order to fulfill a date I had been excusing myself from for a long time. Little did I know what was in store for me. He took me to a restaurant in town and he was all dressed in a black suit. A dinner well served with the waiters all looking suspicious. I came across the ring in my favourite food while he went down on his knee. I could not hold my tears because it was a surprise and yes was the answer.
Gilbert: I had kept the ring in my pocket for a long time as I waited for the right moment.
THE DRAMA
The wedding was postponed almost three times. We were supposed to do have the wedding in April then August. The tension that was really putting us on edge. Then the process of obtaining the special certificate was another obstacle because it was so close to the wedding day. It rained in the three weeks before the wedding and it made us anxious. Luckily it did not rain from Thursday through the wedding day on Saturday.
IN HINDSIGHT
We had a lot of support from our parents and the church. We have learned to be patient with each other a journey that must continue with the help of each other. Given time I would have changed the cars and used a horse and carriage. We could have taken our guests to the hotel for a reception later in the evening. If you’re planning to wed, start your plans at least 9 months to the wedding. Make your decisions together. It is good to understand each others likes and dislikes. It strengthens your friendship.
MEMORABLE MOMENTS
Gilbert: The colourful mixture of the ladies outfits worked well.
Gladys: The vows and the dancing by our parents and guests were most memorable. Given the short notice it was amazing that we had so many friends and family turn up for the colourful event.
PHOTOS AND INTERVIEW:
WILBERFORCE OKWIRI
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