Dani & Ayu // NYC Wedding in Central Park

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From the morning in Brooklyn, to an intimate Central Park ceremony, to the reception in New Jersey, Dani and Ayu's wedding was a wonderful and unforgettable affair. I feel honored to have participated in their special day.

While getting ready in Brooklyn, the room was filled with love. Friends were happily arranging flowers and styling the bride, the groomsmen cooked traditional Ethiopian dishes for the reception, and Dani sewed some last minute details on her groom's coat.

Upon arrival at Shakespeare's Garden, it was time for the ceremony. One of the most striking things about Dani and Ayu's wedding was how loving and supportive their family and friends were.

As Dani and Ayu exchanged heartfelt vows in English and Amharic, every face in the crowd wore a beaming smile. The ceremony included many personal touches, including endearing speeches from Dani's mother and father, and her cousin's moving rendition of Etta James' "At Last".  

Next up, it was party time! Dani's extended family graciously opened their home and hosted a reception, complete with a delicious home-cooked spread and festive tunes!

After changing into beautiful wedding attire straight from Ethiopia, Dani and Ayu enjoyed homemade cake, sparkling champagne, and thus, their married life was off to a very sweet start.

Writing Vows in Central Park // Dani & Ayu

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Dani and Ayu met in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia this summer and are getting married this Saturday in Central Park! Earlier in the week, we met to nail down logistics and for the couple to start writing their vows. 

Although Ayu had landed in New York from Ethiopia only a few hours prior, his face glowed as he gazed at his bride-to-be. Their affection for one another is immediately apparent, and so beautiful to witness. Their joy is infectious!

As Dani and Ayu drafted their vows, in English and Amharic, there was such a meaningful vibe in the air. In one particularly lovely moment, we realized that the bench they were sitting on was dedicated to a Catherine, a name also shared by Dani's beloved late grandmother. Later in the evening, we also were followed by a family of adorable ducks which has to be lucky!

Dani and Ayu definitely are a fierce couple! They have serious style, individually and as a duo.

With an exciting whirlwind love affair in their past, Dani and Ayu have a steady and strong marriage in their future. Congrats to the happy couple!