A DAY TO REMEMBER

Filed by Ono Yima, Lagos, 2/1/2023

Saturday, 26 November 2022 was indeed a day to remember for the families of Chief Adesanya Michael and Bosede, Adewale, and Pst. David and Victoria, Odewale. as they formally harmonized the love relationship between their children Opeoluwa Aderemi Adewale and Solomon Oluwaseun Odewale in a traditional marriage.

The impressive event had Hillcrest Event Centre, along Ago Palace Way, Okota, Isolo, Lagos as it venue. The venue is housed by a large Tent that occupies about three-quarters of the plot of land, with interlocks and manned access gate. The parking lot is spacious. The inside is fitted with functional standing airconditioners that kept the venue at ambient temperature throughout the event to complement this highbrow event.

Security men, dressed in white and black, manned the gate to the premises and the hall entrance, to ensure orderliness and safety. Each attendee, before entering the hall, was given a special branded Access Card, upon presentation of their invitation cards, and then turned over to the beautifully dressed Ushers to take them to their seat number printed on the Access Card.

Inside, the round tables were decorated with flowers and arranged in dinner fashion and the tables well spaced to create a feeling of airiness and ease of movement.

By about 12 noon when the traditional marriage rite was to begin, the large hall was already almost full with guests, each with matching attire for the occasion.

The traditional marriage rites began slightly after 12 O’clock. It was conducted at a section at the rear inside the hall; with veteran Alaga (traditional M.C), Mrs. Adesoye Oluyomi, directing the proceedings at that section of the event. There were some disagreements and agreements, back and forth, which is normal with such activity, before a final consensus is reached.

Bride’s father with some guests

The procedure went on for slightly above two hours before the marriage proposal letter by the Groom’s family and the counterpart acceptance letter from the Bride’s family were read aloud over the loudspeaker to the hearing of all the guests. That signaled that the marriage has finally been sealed and delivered, leading to the pronouncement by the Alaga, “You may kiss your bride”; which was followed by a reverberating cheers in the hall.

Groom’s friends

While the negotiations at the traditional rites were going on, Guests were entertained by the two drummers who were drumming and following the Alaga at every footstep she takes.

Food was generously provided in excess. Small chops was served when the traditional rites began. Towards the end of it, the traditional rites, the main dish, in assortment, was served according to each guest’s preference. Drinks were also in good supply. Serving was very orderly and coordinated unlike what one witnesses in even some high profile wedding such this. A big kudos to the organizers.

The proceedings transited smoothly from the traditional ceremonies to the Reception proper, with the traditional MC, Alaga, switching places with the circular MC cum DJ.

At that point, the event turned into a carnival of dances as the families of the Bride and the Bridegroom were each called out separately to dance with the newly married couple. The MC and the DJ were so good at music selection that they sent everyone dancing and hailing continuously throughout the remaining part of the programme, even while the photograph session was going on outside.

Both parents of the celebrants, while speaking to us separately, expressed their heartfelt appreciations to God that the event took place, and was very successful.

At this point we would like to inform also that their marriage at the Registry shortly preceded the traditional marriage earlier the same day in the morning.

Rareview News joins others in wishing the couple, Mr. and Mrs. Solomon Oluwaseun Odewale, a fruitful marriage and happy partnership as they walk on, on life’s journey.