Every wedding I capture is unique, but Mariatou and Ken's Nigerian celebration at the stunning InterContinental Sanctuary Cove was a true standout. From the moment we met them during their engagement shoot, we knew their wedding day would be extraordinary. Here’s a look at how their special day unfolded.
The morning started with excitement and anticipation as Mariatou and Ken got ready surrounded by their closest friends and family. Mariatou’s preparation suite was a vision of elegance, with flowers everywhere, complementing her two gorgeous wedding dresses on display. The bride’s first look was in a stunning white gown, later changing into two additional dresses, including a traditional Nigerian outfit. Her bridesmaids, wearing matching Gele headpieces, helped her with final touches, setting the tone for a day steeped in culture and love.
Meanwhile, Ken and his groomsmen, dressed in sharp suits, exchanged laughter and jokes, adding a touch of fun to the morning preparations. The couple also exchanged heartfelt gifts, surprising each other with stunning watches as tokens of their love.
The ceremony took place in the beautiful chapel at Sanctuary Cove, known for its breathtaking floor to ceiling glass window’s overlooking the water. Mariatou walked down the aisle to Ken who was standing in front of a lush floral arch, making the perfect backdrop to meet Ken at the altar. Surrounded by their seven bridesmaids and eight groomsmen they exchanged heartfelt vows, sealing their union with a kiss as the sunlight poured through the chapel’s windows.
After the ceremony, we captured family and group photos outside the chapel, with the water and lush greenery providing a perfect backdrop. The love and joy shared among their families were palpable, making each snapshot a timeless keepsake.
For their portrait session, we explored the stunning grounds of the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove. With every shot, Mariatou and Ken’s love for each other shone through, their smiles and laughter making every moment a joy to capture.
Adding to the magic, their bridesmaids and groomsmen serenaded them with a beautiful song and dance, creating a joyful and heartfelt moment that perfectly reflected the spirit of the day.
As the evening progressed, guests were welcomed into a beautifully decorated ballroom. The staircase leading into the reception was adorned with cascading flowers, setting the stage for a grand entrance. The full bridal party danced their way into the venue, setting an energetic and joyful tone for the evening. Following closely behind, Mariatou and Ken made their grand entrance, highlighted by large floor sparklers that illuminated the room as Ken showered his bride with cash in a lively money spray tradition, symbolising blessings and prosperity.
The couple’s first dance was nothing short of magical. Dancing on a cloud created by a fog machine, surrounded by sparklers, they swayed to their favourite song, creating a moment that felt straight out of a fairytale. This was followed by the cutting of their breathtaking six-tier cake, decorated with cascading roses, leaving everyone in awe.
Mariatou and Ken then embraced their heritage, changing into stunning traditional Nigerian outfits before re-entering the reception. As they returned, family and friends showered them with more money sprays, adding to the joy and celebration. While seated on luxurious thrones, the couple was honoured with a traditional Nigerian dance performed by two of their guests—a heartfelt gesture that celebrated their culture and love.
The evening continued with Mariatou and Ken’s final outfit change, as the bride emerged in a sleek white wedding dress and the groom in a sharp grey suit. The couple joined in the bouquet toss, followed by more dancing, singing, and vibrant energy that carried the celebration late into the night. The dance floor was alive with excitement, from traditional moves to modern hits, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Capturing Mariatou and Ken’s wedding was an absolute joy. Their love, energy, and the vibrant traditions made it a day we will never forget. From the intimate moments to the lively reception, every aspect of their celebration was a testament to their love story and their beautiful cultural heritage.
If you’re planning a wedding and looking for a videographer who can bring every detail of your big day to life, I’d love to hear from you. Whether it’s a grand cultural celebration or an intimate gathering, I’m here to help you preserve the memories that matter most. Let’s connect and create something extraordinary together.
