Meet Dami and Melanie, a couple whose love story is as vibrant and unique as their backgrounds. Hailing from Nigeria and the Philippines, they met at a Valentine’s or anti-Valentine’s Day party—depending on who you ask—and their connection was instant. This dynamic duo celebrated their union with two weddings, each representing their distinct cultures.
Today, we’ll dive into their Nigerian traditional wedding held in the heart of Brooklyn, NY, at the stunning 26 Bridge event venue.
Venue Choice
The couple’s love for Brooklyn made it the perfect location for their wedding. They chose 26 Bridge for its tall ceilings, open floor plan, built-in bar, and exposed brick, which offered a unique and urban touch while allowing them to incorporate their cultural food. This venue not only matched their aesthetic but also resonated with their shared love for the city’s vibrant energy.
The Wedding Day Atmosphere
On a warm New York summer evening, Dami and Melanie’s wedding was nothing short of spectacular. The event was vibrant, entertaining, and educational, offering guests a deep dive into the rich Nigerian Yoruba culture. The mood was set with beautiful decor, moody lighting, and an atmosphere filled with joy and celebration.
Attire and Significance
The couple and their wedding party wore authentic Nigerian Yoruba attire, specially made in Nigeria. The fabrics and lace were chosen with care, and each bridesmaid and groomsman selected their own unique design. Dami and Melanie’s attire symbolized their deep connection to the groom’s heritage and added a colorful and meaningful touch to their special day.
Color Palette
With the venue selected, the focus turned to the color palette. Melanie’s favorite color, green, served as the starting point. They settled on a palette of emerald green, tan, white, peach, and burnt orange, creating a vibrant color story that beautifully represented Nigerian culture.
Special Family Traditions and Moments
The wedding was rich with cultural traditions and had some modern touches such as a heartfelt dance between the groom and his mom. The Yoruba traditional engagement ceremony added a burst of cultural vibrancy. Both a live Nigerian band and a DJ kept guests of all ages entertained. Toward the end of the night, the couple changed into another set of Yoruba outfits..
Unique Touches and Decor
One of the standout decor elements was the stage design, which is always a focal point in traditional Nigerian weddings. A unique centerpiece featuring a Yoruba drum highlighted the importance of music, dancing, and rhythm in Nigerian culture. Nostalgic Nigerian games like ludo, ayo ayo, and whot added an extra layer of fun and connection for guests.
Special Moments
A particularly memorable moment was the first look with the couple near the bridge. Additionally, the customized one-page wedding program resembling a book page detailed the symbolism of a Nigerian Yoruba wedding, a nod to Dami’s love for reading and their commitment to educating their guests about their culture.
Vendor Selection and Collaboration
The couple discovered our services through our website, drawn to our design aesthetics and the vibe we presented. As a Nigerian-American, I understood the importance of blending both cultures seamlessly, ensuring that all traditions were honored and represented. We’re thrilled to share this wedding as it perfectly captures the essence of Dami and Melanie’s special day.
Unique Vendor Contribution
One of our unique contributions was the custom design we created for their wedding, which the couple absolutely loved. This personalized touch really allowed their wedding to be a true reflexion of them as a couple.
Testimonial
Check out the couple’s heartfelt testimonial about their wedding experience here.
Instagram of Key Vendors:
- Wedding Planning and Design: @eventdesignbybe
- Photography: @mannyphotos_
- Venue: @26_bridge
- Florals: @funfetefabulousevents
- Brides MUA: @tishahbeauty
- Catering: @bolaskitchen
- DJ: @djelg @dreammasterevents
- Rentals: @prestigeluxuryrentalsllc
- Cake: @buttermilkbakeshopny
- Alaga: @mc_bukenkoalaga
- MC: @mc_tunde_duduskii
Dami and Melanie’s wedding was a bold, culturally rich, and fun-filled celebration at 26 Bridge. It was a perfect blend of tradition, modernity, and personal touches that left a lasting impression on everyone who attended. If you’re considering a 26 Bridge wedding, we hope this story inspires you to create your own unforgettable day.
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