God made a way for us

Bride: Jennifer Cimpiyan

Groom: Benson Leyan

Budget: Sh1.8million

No. Of guests: 600

Wedding venue & photo shoot: Teen-Ranch gardens, KAG Noomayianat, African Asia Lodges, Amboseli

First date

Jennifer: We had been friends from way back, then on June 16, 2008 he took me out for lunch at Hotel Intercontinental. At the lunch, he had invited some of our very close friends. He gave me a friendship ring as a declaration of his interest in taking our friendship to the next level. I accepted his offer and it went to record as our official first date.

The proposal

Jennifer: On March, 23 2012, he proposed while at a retreat. I had been expecting the proposal but not on the said day. It came as a surprise and brought me to tears of joy.

The drama

Jennifer: When I introduced him to my family, my father was very skeptic about the marriage. Being a loving, caring and protective father to all his children, he thought that I was a bit too young and inexperienced to get married. According to him, I would start considering marriage once I was done with college and my internship at the Kenyatta National Hospital.

Benson: However, with time he warmed up to the idea and wedding plans were underway. During the planning period, I was so busy with work at my accounting firm and I had to juggle between work and planning. It became exhausting, but we held on to each other and God. My wife was also studying for her final year exams in medicine school and it was hectic. Despite all the mountains, God made a way for us.

In hindsight

Jennifer: As individuals, we had ideas that differed and hence needed to come together and find a middle ground. Sometimes one may defend their idea to the extent of bringing up a fight. This is where compromise, forgiveness and patience come in handy.

Benson: Communication is key for a couple to make any progress. I learnt how to listen to my wife even if I am the head and visionary of this union. This is because I not only love but also respect her.

Related Topics