It all started with a misplaced letter addressed to Tosan’s mailbox. “That was the first time I ever saw the name of my soon-to-be husband,” Tosan recalls. All signs were leading Tosan to her future husband, but she was not aware at the time of the signs God was sending her. God has a way of letting us know our destiny through the simple things; It could be something quiet and subtle or loud and celebratory. For Tosan and Emi, they never got the chance to meet when they were both living in the same apartment complex in Lafayette, Louisiana. Tosan moved to Texas for work, and eventually they connected through LinkedIn. Tosan was amused to get a request from him, mainly because of the misplaced mail she received while living in Louisiana and especially discovering that he was the mystery man who had been taking her preferred parking spot. “We started exchanging messages, eventually spending long hours on the phone. He was such a great guy to talk to and full of humor. But I refused to let him in – usual fronting. Let me just say that when I decided to tear down that wall, I found my soul mate.” she shares.
The proposal took place on the captivating island of Maui. The calming island breeze, gentle splashing waves, romantic candle lit dinner overlooking the beach, and exciting helicopter tour ride of the island, all completed their engagement. It was at dinner where Emi knew the time was right to propose to his future wife. He did not plan to propose the day he did but he knew in his heart it was time. He got down on one knee and told Tosan he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. in shock, it took Tosan a while to realize that her dreams were coming true. It was heaven sent.
The wedding hall was lavishly filled with the royal elegance theme that Tosan envisioned. Chioma of Dure Events performed as an exceptional wedding planner. From helping Tosan choosethe perfect wedding dress to keeping the design details cohesive, Chioma made the couple’s wedding stress-free. Culture was a prominent part of the ceremony. The couple incorporated a Nigerian tradition called aso-ebi (cloth of the family). Each of their families and friends wore different fabrics and colors to take part in the tradition. Emi wore a traditional look from his Kalabari – a Nigerian ethnic group – culture. The reception was filled with rich, colorful, vibrant, patterns and colors. The wedding was truly a royal event!
This luxe purple and pink wedding is featured in our Fall/Winter 2015 issue, available online and on select newsstands now!
Quick Facts
Wedding flowers: Hydrangeas, garden roses and stock flowers
Wedding cake flavors: Vanilla strawberry, lemon raspberry, vanilla and rich fruit cake
Favorite item on menu: Mashed potatoes
Bridesmaids/groomsmen gifts: Personalized name totes, gold teardrop earrings,
jewelry pouch, and a cosmetic case/ walking canes
First dance song: Etta James “At Last”
Wedding advice
It’s very easy to get confused with the amount of dresses out there. Set a budget and do a lot of research online or look in magazines before you go to the store to get an idea of what you might want to try on. After the visit to the salon, try to narrow down your choices on your own. If you go to the store confused you may never find what you’re looking for.
Vendors
Bride’s dress: Allure Couture
Bride’s shoes: Sergio Rossi from Bergdorf Goodman
Bridesmaids dresses: Virgos Lounge
Cakes/desserts: Edet Okon
Catering: Cafe Natalie
Ceremony: Chateau Cocomar
Event decor/design: Dure Events
Entertainment: DJ E Cool
Event planner: Dure Events
Flowers: Flora Eventi
Groom’s attire: Ralph Lauren Suit &Christian Louboutin Shoes + Versace Suit
Groomsmen attire: Calvin Klein
Hair: Lyzadora
Makeup: Lyzadora
Photography: Rhphotoarts
Reception dress: Tarik Ediz
Reception venue: Chateau Cocomar
Stationery: Isabella Invitations
Videography: Mia Productions
Tosan & Emi you look gorgeous! I have really searched for this wedding and I’m glad I have found it here. There is somewhere I saw your dress No 2. Tosan that dress is fatabulous, you reallyrocked in it. Kindly share also in other sites. Wish you God’s blessings in your Marriage. Lucy, Nairobi, Kenya.