Wedding: ‘We met after my my friend’s boyfriend ‘dumped’ me at his friend’s place’

Where did your love story begin?  

Linda: I was applying to join Kimathi University’s parallel programme and being low on cash, I organised with a friend who was already a student to spend the night at her room in the campus hostel.

The day I arrived, my friend’s boyfriend wanted to take her out, so he ‘dumped’ me at his friend’s place.

I remember him (my friend’s boyfriend) telling me that he wanted me to meet someone, so he took me to the school’s canteen, where I met a young man named Jimmy running it.

I remember he made me a vanilla tea and I found myself assisting him wash the utensils for that day.

We ended up talking till 3pm and I even forgot I was to meet my friend after they were back.

When I reported to school two weeks later, we met up again and like they say, the rest is history. 

How was the proposal?

Did he ever propose? (laughs) Anyway it was on my birthday in our home. When I woke up, I found a ring next to me in bed.  That was in 2015.

Had you already moved in together?

Yes.  We met in 2011 and moved in together in 2013.

How was your wedding planning process?

It was a smooth process since we had begun planning about nine months before the wedding. We did the planning with the help of a few close friends. We only had one committee meeting to plan logistics of the D-day.

How important was it to start planning early?

First, we were able to compare different services, which helped with getting less confused and getting good providers who gave value for money.

Secondly, we were able to budget and pay for services in installments, so, no last-minute search for money to fund the wedding.

What were some of the memorable moments of the day?

Walking down the aisle and saying ‘I do’ for me was a memorable moment. I couldn’t believe that after staying in a ‘come-we-stay’ arrangement we were finally making it formal.

Also, seeing all my friends and family come to witness this moment was special to me.

Is there anything you would change about your big day? 

I would budget for a large number since the attendance was almost double what we paid for. I would place most of the budget on food so that no one misses out.

In addition, I would budget a little more for the rings, since it is something one will wear for long time. Also, I wish I was more relaxed during my wedding. I was so nervous on that morning that I almost forgot to enjoy my day.

Advice to couples planning their nuptial?

Let the wedding be a celebration of your love and may it bring a bond and happiness between you two.

Don’t do it for show or to please other people, rather let it be a memory you’ll cherish for the rest of your life. Do what is comfortable and affordable for both of you with no pressure to please.

SUPPLIERS;

Photography: Okaka Photography

Tents and chairs: Exquisite Events By You

Cake: Keki za Koku (everyone loved the cake)

Catering: Grashy Finest

Gown and bridesmaids dresses: Arnold Muriithi Nairobi London

Men suits: Bespoke by Austin Bolo

Make-up: MakeUp by Gathoni