R&B Diva Monifah’s Luxurious Purple Destination Wedding in Honolulu, Hawaii

“What I love most about my wife is her ability to really listen and hear with her heart…”

“What I love most about my wife Monifah is her beautiful heart, infectious laugh and gentle spirit.”

When, “R&B Diva,” Monifah and her wife Terez describe their love for each other, it cannot help but bring a smile to your face. You may remember when Terez pulled off a surprise engagement to Monifah on the TV One series “R&B Divas.” Well, this beautiful couple had a gorgeous Hawaiian wedding full of music, love and luxurious décor, and we have exclusive pictures and details straight from Monifah and Terez and their incredibly talented planner Brit Bertino!

The inspiration for the couple’s wedding design was drawn for Monifah’s unique engagement ring, an amethyst stone. Guests were wowed as soon as they stepped into the ceremony space, which according to Brit included, “a custom bridge built over a pool for Monifah’s entrance and over 4000 stemmed ombre orchids place over a driftwood canopy, accented by delicate petals lining the aisle.” Both Monifah and Terez chose to wear fabulous black gowns! They opted not to have a wedding party, which allowed them to just focus on each other and on planning a fashionable and personalized wedding.

Their nuptials were full of sentimental moments and gestures. As guests entered the reception space, they wrote down their best wishes and advice for the couple at the “Keys to Success” table. Monifah also shares that they honored those who could only attend in spirit by, “having beautifully framed, intimate photographs of our transitioned loved ones in specials seats at the wedding and reception.” Music played a big part in their wedding. Brit recalls, “Mahi performed during the ceremony, as did Rahsaan Patterson. Other close friends performed at the reception, including Keke Wyatt and Syleena Johnson.” The couple also shared their love for sweets with their guests. Three delectable wedding cakes were prominently on display, and Terez had to have her “Fat Snacks Table,” which included yummy vegan cookies made especially for her. Frank Amodo Photography beautifully captured all of these amazing details and special moments.

Needless to say, Monifah is loving life! She excitedly shares, “I’m currently looking forward to releasing my album in the Fall 2014. In addition to many new exciting endeavors being cultivated. I’m blessed and happy to be singing, creating and living my best life outloud. God is so amazing!” Monifah and Terez are “living their best life” indeed, and we couldn’t be happier for them.

• Brides: Monifah Carter of R&B Divas and Terez Thorpe and now Mrs. and Mrs. Carter Thorpe
• Wedding Date: February 8, 2014
• Location: Honolulu, Hawaii

Wedding Style

Monifah: My dress started as an off-white, mermaid-style wedding dress I picked out the day I had the Divas with me at Fabulous Frocks. It was the exact fit I wanted, but not the style I desired, so I had that dress deconstructed & only used the base. It was then overlayed with flesh-toned silk and black English Netting. The bottom of the dress was black silk Organza & black tulle, that was frayed at the edges to give a slight Gothic effect. My favorite accessory was my new Bride!!!

Terez: My favorite accessory was my sexy purple Orchid bouquet made by Teresa Sena and my sexy new wife to be.

Most Memorable Moments

Terez: My best memory was watching Monifah walk over the bridge to the altar. She was glowing and looked like an angel. She was so full of emotion after she said her vows, that she wanted to kiss me MUCH earlier than she was supposed to. It was hilarious! I laughed and cried at the same time.

Monifah: Walking over the bridge toward a beaming & emotional Terez, knowing that our lives would forever be changed for the better. Our first dance was special because I really surprised Terez with a serenade of “Resurrected Love” a song that I co-wrote for my forthcoming album “Invincible”. I believe we both resurrected the idea of experiencing real, true love in each other’s lifetime.

From their wedding planner Brit: We drew inspiration for the design of the event from Monifah’s engagement ring, an amethyst stone. The color allowed us to bring in some natural earth elements, and to incorporate nautical touches, as both brides wanted an earthy feel to the overall design. We carried the ombre concept through the stationery, linens, cakes, signature drink and florals, and the result was as unique as the beautiful couple themselves.

Monifah: Our three wedding cakes (this is where not having a big wedding party paid off!) were made by Cake Works and they were absolutely delectable. The main cake was a Strawberry Shortcake with fresh whipped cream (our fave). We also had a “Fat Snacks Table” for Terez, which had various other sweet treats for our guests and even incorporated my famous vegan peanut butter cups, via Alicia Silverstone’s delicious recipe!

You Make Loving You So Easy

Monifah; What I love most about my wife is her ability to really listen and hear with her heart, on a level I’ve never experienced before we became friends. She’s also really smart & has a dry sense of humor that I really love. Oh, did I mention that she is FIIIIIIIINE?!!! LOL!

Terez: What I love most about my wife Monifah is her beautiful heart, infectious laugh and gentle spirit. She is truly my best friend. Our connection in love and life balances each other.

Vendors

• Wedding Producer: Brit Bertino of Brit Bertino, Event Excellence
  
• Photographer: Frank Amodo Photography
• Ceremony/Reception: The Modern Honolulu
• Décor/Floral: Teresa Sena Designs and White Orchid Weddings
• Cake: Cake Works
• DJ: DJ Spark
• Invitations: Paper and Home
• Linen: Wildflower Linen
• Entertainment (Ceremony/Cocktail Hour): MRS-Events
• Audio Visual: PSAV
• Hair: Derek J
• Make up: Reign Brice
• Officiate: Dr. Allyson Abrams (info here)