Flowers Abound in Classic Multicultural Wedding in Washington, DC

Featured in MunaLuchi Bride Magazine, Issue 28, this gorgeous, classic multicultural wedding in Washington DC celebrates Nigerian culture and African-American traditions.

Nearly 9 years ago, Olu and Heather met by chance. Both living in St. Louis, Missouri, they caught each other’s attention at a mutual friend’s party. However, neither one of them made a move. They were both “playing it cool.” Shortly after, they met again and went on two dates back to back. And so their journey began! 

Knowing they wanted to spend forever together, Olu surprised Heather with a birthday dinner proposal. He made the night even more special by inviting their friends and family to join in on the surprise. When he dropped to one knee, of course, she said yes!

Tying the knot on June 4, 2022, in Washington DC, Olu and Heather were so excited to simply be surrounded by loved ones again. Heather shared, “I was brought to tears when I looked into the crowd at our reception and saw all our family and friends. The COVID-19 lockdown kept us all apart. It was amazing to see everyone come together to celebrate our love story.”

More sweet details from their classic multicultural wedding below!

• Couple: Olukayode Ajibulu & Heather Brown
• Occupations: Olu is an Engineer & Heather is an Attorney
• Photographer(s): Nana Annan Photography  & Trene’ Forbes 

Quick Facts:

• Wedding Date: June 04, 2022
• Wedding location: Washington, DC
• Theme: Classic, multicultural wedding, with a twist!
• Bridesmaids/Groomsmen gifts: Bridesmaids received a Nigerian hand fan, a robe, pajamas, and sunglasses. Groomsmen were gifted a flask, shot glasses, and cuff links. 
• Favorite item on the menu: Strawberry Cake 
• First dance song: “First Began” by PJ Morton

How they met…

We met nearly 9 years ago by chance. At the time, we were both living in St. Louis, Missouri. One night we went to a party hosted by a mutual friend. We both noticed each other, but neither of us made a move. We tried to play it cool. A couple of weeks later, we met again. Shortly thereafter, we went on two dates back to back and our journey began.

The proposal…

Olukayode loves photography. For my birthday, he booked a studio for a photo session. After the session, we went out to dinner. We love trying new restaurants. When we arrived, the host escorted us to a private dinner with our loved ones. He got down on one knee and I said yes!

Wedding style & shopping experience…

I wanted something classic with a twist. Wedding dress shopping was a bit stressful. My sister joked that I wanted ten different dresses in one. I visited four shops before I found the one at Pantora Bridal in Brooklyn, NY. I loved the fact that I could also support a Black woman designer. 

Here comes the bride…

Cultural elements…

We are a multicultural couple. Olukayode is Yoruba (Nigerian) and I am African-American. We held a two-day wedding. On Friday, we celebrated Olukayode’s culture and had a traditional wedding. It was so fun to see all of our friends and family in traditional Yoruba outfits! On Saturday, we honored my roots by jumping the broom. 

Mr. & Mrs…

Wedding party…

Best wedding day memories…

Heather: I was brought to tears when I looked into the crowd at our reception and saw all of our family and friends. The COVID-19 lockdown kept us all apart. It was amazing to see everyone come together to celebrate our love story.

Olukayode: Watching Heather walk down the aisle with her dad. It made everything seem real.

Coming in hot…

Sweet details…

Advice for engaged couples…

Don’t sweat the small stuff and don’t compare yourself with anyone! Enjoy your day!

Looking for more classic multicultural wedding inspiration?

Click here.

Vendors:

• Planning: Tum Socials 
• Photography: Nana Annan Photography 
• Assistant photographer: Trene’ Forbes 
• Video: Henry Adewale Films 
• Reception Decor: BCG Events 
• Reception Decor Collaborator: Bella Fiori Events 
• Production: 27 Studios 
• Bridal Gown: Pantora Bridal  
• Bridesmaids Dresses: Jessica Angel Collection 
• Bridal MUA: Already Perfect Artistry
• Bridal Hair:  Dolled by Nueye 
• Groom’s Tux: Stan Lion Clothing 
• Cake: Rume Bakes 
• Emcee: M C Tunde DuDuskii 
• DJ: DJ Baggins, DJ TeeCee, DJ Yung Flo
• Saxophonist: Raymond Robinson 
• Ceremony Decor: Lal Moya Weddings & Events 
• Ceremony: Oxon Hill Manor 
• Reception Venue:  Ritz Carlton, Tysons Corner