Serena Beach Mombasa Kenya Wedding

FROM THE BRIDE:

HOW/WHEN/WHERE DID YOU FIRST MEET?

We met at my friend Nicola's 21st birthday party at the University of Westminster in London.

HOW/WHEN/WHERE DID THE PROPOSAL HAPPEN?

He proposed on our anniversary of the day we met on the beach in Flic en Flac, Mauritius.

WHAT WAS THE VISION FOR YOUR WEDDING, THE STYLE/COLOR/SCHEME?

I wanted a Moroccan theme for the Nikah giving it a traditional Arabian vibe. The color scheme for my reception at Serena was blushing pink, white, and gold. A romantic theme perfect for summer beach weddings.

HOW MANY GUESTS?

200 at Nikah in Diamond Jubilee hall and 110 at Serena Beach reception.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR WEDDING VENUE?

Diamond Jubilee is a historic venue named after the Queen's mother, Elizabeth. It's a well-respected venue in Mombasa and was the best choice in terms of location for my guests and for having a traditional Swahili celebration.

DESCRIBE THE CEREMONY, WHICH MADE IT UNIQUE/SPECIAL:

I had a traditional Swahili Nikah celebration with traditional food, music, and dancing. Even though I was married in the afternoon, I hadn't seen the groom all day and it was a very special moment when my husband entered the hall to collect his bride as is our tradition.

DESCRIBE THE RECEPTION, WHICH MADE IT UNIQUE/SPECIAL:

Serena Beach Hotel is a gorgeous venue! Having my reception outdoors overlooking the Sea amidst the palm trees was truly special.

DESCRIBE THE FLOWERS USED FOR FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS:

White and Blush pink roses were used for the centerpieces and my bouquet. We had lovely flowers hanging on our stage which added to the decor

WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION FOR YOUR WEDDING CAKE?

I wanted to keep it simple I kept with the theme and had a vanilla cake with white icing and blush pink flowers on the tiers.

PLEASE LIST THE DESIGNER FOR YOUR WEDDING DRESS, SHOES, VEIL, AND JEWELLERY:

The white Wedding dress was designed by Sophia Tolli, Shoes Marks & Spencer, Necklace was John Lewis, and the earrings and Crown were rented from a local bridal accessories shop in Old Town, Moroccan bridal dress was by Layla Amraoui, headpiece John lewis.

PLEASE LIST THE DESIGNER FOR GROOM’S ATTIRE:

A suit designed by George Brummell, Savile Row. Tie and pocket square by Moss Bros.

PLEASE LIST THE DESIGNER FOR BRIDESMAID'S DRESSES:

All Bridesmaid's dresses were bought from Asos.com Designers included TFNC London and Asos.

PLEASE LIST YOUR WEDDING VENDORS:

Catering By Serena Beach Hotel, Local caterers, and family.

FEW WORDS ABOUT THE BRIDE AND GROOM EXPERIENCE:

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR WEDDING?

We loved having all our family and friends there, and our guests flew out from all over the world to share our special day from the USA, UK, and Israel to the UAE.

FROM YOUR EXPERIENCE, WHAT ADVICE OR TIPS WOULD YOU SHARE WITH OTHER COUPLES?

Sticking to cultural and family traditions as unfamiliar or familiar as it might be will make your wedding truly memorable and also please your family. Enlist the help of aunties and elderly figures to give it that traditional flair and combine this with your modern vision to make it your own. Pinterest was a great help to us for inspiration in terms of decor.

WHAT DO YOU THINK COUPLES WILL GET OUT OF THEIR EXPERIENCE WITH JAFASSAM PHOTOGRAPHY?

Lola is a great photographer, she makes you feel comfortable and relaxed, makes you laugh, and is great fun to work with. Not only will you get great memorable pictures that you'll treasure forever but you'll also have a really good time in the process.

YOUR FAVORITE LOVE OR INSPIRATION QUOTE?

"There is nothing as beautiful as marriage for two people who love each other" - Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

We are a Fine Art Photography studio based in Mombasa, Kenya. For availability please inquire about your date, location, and what you would like us to photograph.