Modern Design Meets Artistic Flare at Polished Black-tie Wedding Featuring Stunning Couture Fashion, Snatched Bridal Looks, and Dreamy White Florals

Modern design meets artistic flare at Nikki and Philip’s polished black-tie wedding featuring stunning couture fashion, snatched bridal looks, and dreamy white florals! Their glamorous wedding celebration is featured in Issue No. 33!

Where it began…

Nikki and Philip first met as teenagers at a Christmas party. While Nikki enjoyed the party, Philip couldn’t keep his gaze from drifting to her. When a mutual friend told Nikki that he was interested in getting to know her more, Nikki was hesitant but decided to give Philip a chance. The simple decision to share her number changed their lives forever. 

The perfect proposal…

Philip made Nikki happy cry with the perfect surprise proposal at their favorite Italian restaurant. He disguised the occasion as a special pre-birthday dinner, ensuring she would be dressed up and ready for the big moment. Nikki shares, “Upon arrival, the host directed us to a different area than usual, explaining there was an event that evening. As we walked toward the double doors, we entered a private room filled with red roses and a floral wall displaying the words, “MARRY ME?” Music began playing, and I immediately burst into tears as Philip got down on one knee. After what felt like a lifetime of waiting for this moment, I said yes to forever.”

The Wedding…

For the ceremony, Nikki wore a stunning, custom 2-in-1 couture dress with a fitted bodice and gorgeous beadwork, giving her a sexy and regal look. Philip’s white and black tux was also custom-made, along with the groomsmen’s, to create a cohesive appearance for their special day. An impressive curling ribbon-like structure was decorated with white roses and baby breath for their ceremony, adding a modern and artistic flare to the clean and polished atmosphere. 

To celebrate their Ghanaian heritage, they had a traditional ceremony before their Western wedding and included Afrobeats and Ghanaian Highlife songs for their entrances and reception. 

Nikki shares, “The ceremony was nothing short of dreamy and intimate… Seeing Philip overwhelmed with emotion as I entered made me emotional…it felt like we were witnessing our answered prayers unfold before us. As our pastor put it, this was truly authentic love.”.

See the stunning details of their glamorous black-tie wedding below!

*Pre-order a copy of Issue 33 on our Muna Shop.

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• Couple: Nikki & Philip
• Occupations: Nikki is a Makeup Artist. Philip is a Licensed Sprinkler and Fire Protection Installer.
• Wedding date: November 19, 2023
• Wedding location: Vaughan, Ontario, Canada
• Photographer: Stanlo Photography 

Quick Facts:

• What gifts did you give to your bridesmaids and groomsmen: 
  • Groomsmen: Flask and Cigars. 
  • Bridesmaids: Candles, Gold Bottega Prosecco Bottles, and Touch-Ups for their makeup including MAC Powder and lip gloss.
• Gifts for one another: Groom – Movado Watch; Bride – Bouquet of flowers, Apple Watch, and a Diamond Necklace
• Ceremony entrance song: “Will You Still Love Me” by Lana Del Rey
• First dance song: “Heaven” by Pink Sweat$
• Wedding flowers: White Roses and Baby’s Breath
• Favorite item on the menu: Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon

How did you meet?

Philip and I first met as teenagers at a Christmas party. Although I hadn’t noticed him at the time, he had certainly noticed me. He expressed his interest in getting to know me to a mutual friend. Initially, I was hesitant when our friend shared this with me, but after some consideration, I decided to give it a chance and passed along my number to Philip.

Tell us about the proposal.

On February 13, 2021, just three days before my birthday and the day before Valentine’s Day, Philip told me he had planned a special pre-birthday dinner and asked me to get dressed up. Despite the blizzard, typical for Canadian winters, Philip picked me up, and we headed to our favorite Italian restaurant, La Luce Ristorante. Upon arrival, the host directed us to a different area than usual, explaining there was an event that evening. As we walked toward the double doors, we entered a private room filled with red roses and a floral wall displaying the words, “MARRY ME?” Music began playing, and I immediately burst into tears as Philip got down on one knee. After what felt like a lifetime of waiting for this moment, I said yes to forever.

Describe your wedding attire. What was the wedding shopping experience like for you?

Wedding Dress: I wore a custom 2-in-1 couture gown by Lena Berisha. All of my inquiries and follow-ups were handled online and over the phone, and I didn’t have a single fitting. I only tried on the dress once it arrived, but having researched Lena’s gowns thoroughly, I was confident they could bring my vision to life. The experience exceeded my expectations—the team was professional, and the quality of the gown spoke for itself.

Reception Dress: For the reception, I wore a custom corset-fitted gown by Albina Dyla, featuring light blue beaded crystals, one off-the-shoulder sleeve, and a thigh-high slit. Despite placing my order with less than two months to spare, Albina Dyla was incredibly efficient and professional, delivering a stunning result.

Groom’s Suit: Philip’s suit was custom-made by 4MenUnited in Vaughan, Ontario. The team provided a personalized experience, allowing him to try on various styles to perfect his look. They also styled all of the groomsmen, ensuring a cohesive and polished appearance.

Did you incorporate any culture into your wedding?

Before our Western ceremony, Philip and I celebrated with a traditional Ghanaian marriage, where we wore custom traditional attire. During our wedding reception, we incorporated various Afrobeats and Ghanaian Highlife songs for our entrances and to open the dance floor, adding a vibrant and meaningful cultural touch to the celebration.

What is the best memory from your wedding?

The ceremony was nothing short of dreamy and intimate. We took a moment to pause and soak it all in. Planning the décor had been one of the more challenging aspects of the wedding because we had no clue where to start. Although Philip and I had seen sketches and mock-ups, we truly had no idea what to expect. Ethereal Creators far exceeded our expectations—it was breathtaking.

One of the most unforgettable moments for me was being walked down the aisle by my father, who has always been my primary parent. Seeing Philip overwhelmed with emotion as I entered made me emotional as well—it felt like we were witnessing our answered prayers unfold before us. As our pastor put it, this was truly authentic love.

What is the best wedding advice you can give to engaged couples?

God first, and everything else follows. Prayer is essential throughout your marital journey, from the beginning to the end. If you don’t believe in a higher power, remember that positive thoughts lead to positive outcomes. Therapy and counseling are crucial for maintaining a healthy and happy marriage. Communication is key, but if you and your partner aren’t speaking the same language, you’ll never truly connect.

When it comes to wedding planning, hiring a qualified professional is invaluable. A planning and coordination team can make or break your wedding experience. Since you’re already investing in the event, why not invest in the support that will give you peace of mind? Weddings are inherently stressful, so let a planner handle some of the load. If a full planner isn’t feasible for your budget, consider hiring a day-of coordinator—you won’t regret it.

Finally, take time to pause and enjoy the process. Savor your engagement because you only get married once (that’s the prayer), so make the journey to the aisle meaningful with date nights and breaks from planning.

Advice For Brides From the Bride

To all the brides feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath—you’re not alone. Planning a wedding can feel like a whirlwind, but remember why you’re doing this: It’s about celebrating love and the beautiful journey you’re starting with your partner. When things get stressful, don’t hesitate to ask for help or take breaks, but most importantly, PRAY. Ask God for strength and patience and to cover your union throughout your process.

Surround yourself with people who genuinely support you, and don’t be afraid to lean on them. It’s important to prioritize your well-being and enjoy the process. Oh, and don’t forget to drink your water, eat clean, and mind your business. Lastly, give yourself grace. No wedding is perfect, but it will be perfect for you and your partner. Stay present, soak in the special moments, and trust that everything will come together beautifully. He makes all things beautiful in His time. You’ve got this, and God has got you!

Looking for more black-tie wedding inspiration?

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Vendors:

• Planner and Coordination Team: Leigh Event Group
• Design and Decor: Ethereal Creators 
• Photography: Stanlo Photography 
• Cinematography: Inft Films 
• Venue: Venetian Banquet Centre 
• Stage & Floor Wrap: Paragon Design 
• Cake: Fine Cakes by Zehra 
• Bride’s Wedding Dress: Lena Berisha 
• Bride’s Reception Dress: Albina Dyla 
• Bride’s Morning Gown: Babyboo Fashion
• Bride’s Shoes: Aquazzura 
• Bride’s Hair: Esther Tutu of Hair by Estylez
• Bride’s Makeup: Lynne Nuamah of Avaya Noelle 
• Bridesmaids’ Hair: Michelle Arthur of Arthur Hair
• Bridesmaids’ Makeup: Philippa Frimpong of MsPhilly 
• Bridesmaid Dresses: Superior Bridal 
• Bridesmaid Shoes: Chinese Laundry 
• Groom’s Suit: 4 Men United 
• Groomsmen Suits: 4 Men United 
• Bridal Bouquets: Flowers of the World Toronto 
• DJ & Dry Ice: DJ Shorty 
• MC: MC King K 
• Photobooth: Ineffable Views 
• Sparklers: Sparktacular 
• Drapery: Backdrop Inc.
• Bridal Room Decor: Janet Siaw of Desire 2 Impress Events