Mekdes and Joseph don’t call their introduction fate, they call it a blessing. The pair were originally connected through a mutual friend who thought the two would make a good match – and apparently this friend was spot on. Fast forwarding through their whirlwind relationship, Joseph knew it was time to make Mekdes his bride, but he couldn’t pop-the-question without receiving her parents permission and blessing first.
“Joseph surprised me by having his Uncle fly to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to ask my parents permission. He knows I’m old-fashioned and I wouldn’t say no if he asked me directly. But he knew it would mean so much more to me if he asked my parents first and that’s exactly what he did” shares Mekdes. After receiving her parents permission, Joseph proposed to Mekdes during a large family dinner that featured Indian cuisine – which happens to be the couple’s favorite food!
The couple wed in a sophisticated, plum and ivory ceremony in Washington, DC captured by coterie member, Edward Underwood.
Gander on for more from this charming couple below.
The Couple: Mekdes & Joseph Oppong
Wedding date: 08/08/2015
Wedding location: Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, DC
Describe your wedding dress!
Wedding dress was by Demetrios, it was a fitted A-line with a sweetheart neckline & beaded embroidery that flows on to the skirt. The back features crystal buttons and semi-chapel train.
What was wedding shopping like for you?
Very stressful b/c I’m not a big fan of shopping! I go to a store to pick what I need. I don’t do wind shopping or walk around the mall. The bridal boutique at Tysons Corner was my second and last stop. I didn’t shop around a lot like other brides would do. I ordered my dress 5 month before the wedding. I was just lucky to get it on time!
Did you incorporate any culture into your wedding?
We both are from Africa. I’m Ethiopian & he is Ghanaian. There was Ethiopian and Ghanaian cuisine as well as American. The music similarly reflected our respective cultures.
Quick Facts:
Bridesmaids/Groomsmen gifts: Gift cards
Favorite item on the menu: Vegetables for me & Jollof rice for Joe:)
First dance song: “Have I ever told you Lately”, Rod Stewart
What is the best wedding advice you can give to engaged couples?
Hire a wedding planner!
What is your best memory from your wedding?
Everything, to be honest! Of course, walking down the aisle & the first dance were remarkable moments. From the morning of the wedding day where Joseph sneaked in to my bridal suite & got me a coffee to the last minute of it. :)
Vendors
Photography Company: Edward Underwood Photography
Videographer Company: Video Express
DJ/Band Company: DJ Life
Wedding Cake Provider: Fluffy Thoughts
Decoration/Linen Company: DaVinci
Wedding Planner/Coordinator: Weddings by Tanzi
Nigerian Food Caterer: Fransar Catering
Ethiopian Food Caterer: Dama Catering
Makeup Artist: Jennifer Lee
what a stunning wedding !www.fancyflyingfox.com