(Post 1 of 2) I was in Kansas City a few weekends ago photographing a wedding of my dear friend Bemni, who I know from our church in Colorado Springs. He met his bride, Saron, through a friend last year and the are both originally from Ethiopia. It was been 48 hours filled with new experiences and meeting some of the most friendly people I’ve ever had a chance to meet. Their hugs are so welcoming and immediately we’re friends. I’ve loved experiencing their culture and traditions — and of course, the 4 times I ate Ethiopian food. The best.
There have been many moments that stood out to me this weekend but one of the Ethiopian traditions I particularly enjoyed was when the groom sees his bride for the first time (3 photos of it below). After the groom and bride get ready in different locations, the groom goes to the bride’s home. So many people came along – the cars just kept arriving and people kept coming in. The home was packed and no one cared. They were all there to celebrate. There was worship, singing and clapping and cheering. Then the groom arrives. The family tries to keep the groom away from the bride and even the bridesmaids help, but eventually he makes it in and the time concludes with more worship singing.
More photos to come — many more! Sunday evening we had a more traditional dinner, with more Ethiopian food (YES!) with the bride, groom and 100 of their guests in traditional Ethiopian clothing. I can’t wait to share those with you.
