When you know someone almost your entire life it may not immediately dawn on you just how perfect you are for each other. It takes that moment of realization in which you see them in a new light, or as if for the first time. For Ijay and Cecil, having known each other for over twenty years, that moment took place one summer in Maryland fourteen years ago – and they’ve been together ever since.
Read all about Ijay and Cecil’s Western and African traditional wedding experience!
Bride & Groom: Ijay & Cecil
Occupations: Medical Doctor & Business Owner
Wedding date: September 3, 2016
Wedding location: Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate
Tell us how you met and all about the proposal. Ijay & Cecil met over 20 years ago, but officially began dating in May 2002. Their families had been long time friends, but it took a summer in Maryland for us to realize that we were interested in each other. After 11 years of dating, countless trips to LA and San Francisco, Cecil proposed on August 19th 2013 in Pensacola, FL. On the day of their wedding, they will have been together for over 14 years, which is almost half of their lives.
Did you incorporate any culture into your wedding? Yes, we wore traditional garments during our Reception that reflect our cultural backgrounds; mine being Nigeria and Sierra Leone, and my Husband’s being Sierra Leone.
Bridesmaids/Groomsmen gifts: Bridesmaids Gifts-Personal bags, Floral romper, Kate Spade mugs and journals, earrings, band coin purses, and lipgloss. Groomsmen Gifts- Whisky, Swiss Army knows, RD Crest Badges, and RD Pins.
Favorite item on the menu: Bride & Groom signature cocktails; Dark & Stormy and Jojo Mojo Margarita.
First dance song: “All of Me”- John Legend
What is your best memory from your wedding?
My best memory was seeing Cecil at the end of the aisle with all of our loved ones smiling and crying as I walked down.
What is the best wedding advice you can give to engaged couples?
Enjoy your day and take a moment to be with each other. Take it all in. It goes by very fast.
Vendors:
Venue: Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate
Dress: Solutions Bridal Designer House
Photographer: Unashamed Imaging
Videographer: Unashamed Imaging
Flowers: Fiora Design Studio FDS
Officiant: Eleanor Collins
Cake: Maricelle England of Patisserelle
Decor: Orlando Wedding and Party Rentals
Hair: Elite Hair Care
Makeup: Jo Michelle & DareShawn Henry
Day-Of Coordinator: Blush by Brandee Gaar
DJ: DJ.NoName
Dress Care: Loftis Production Services, Inc.
Who is the designer of the groom’s tux? I love it!