Nigerian and Northern Irish The Loft Templepatrick Wedding
Photography by Kalie Reid PhotographyAdeola & Simon’s wedding at The Loft in Northern Ireland was the ultimate celebration. Adeola’s heritage is The Yoruba tribe in Western Nigeria, who are widely renowned for their bustling parties, colourful celebrations, and, of course, lavish weddings! Simon was born in Northern Ireland, which is known for its beauty, hospitality, and craic. Undeniably, it sounds like a match made in heaven to combine these two cultures for a wedding day. The pair first met 8 years ago in London. Simon proposed during a theatre visit to see the theatrical adaptation of Amelie, which happens to be Adeola’s favourite film! For Adeola & Simon, showcasing their heritage was so important. The couple’s day was full of special surprises, traditional Yoruba outfit changes, and secret singing waiters that wowed their international guests.
Northern Ireland wedding at The Loft featuring traditional Yoruba wedding attire
Whilst a change in tradition may raise eyebrows, you have to plan a day that reflects your individuality and represents what is important to you as a couple. At the end of the day, everyone is there to celebrate you and you might even start some new traditions of your own.
Adeola & Simon
Northern Ireland Wedding at The Loft
Adeola & Simon knew they wanted to showcase both their Nigerian and Northern Irish heritages. They did this by starting the day with a legal ceremony at The Loft in Northern Ireland officiated by a registrar and then a religious blessing carried out by a Minister from the couple’s local church in London. The traditional Yoruba blessing was hosted by an MC known as an Alaga Iduro. She hosted songs and the presentation of engagement gifts (Eru Iyawo) brought by the groom’s family. Each item has significance for the couple’s marriage together. The Loft hotel venue features a cosy fireplace and elaborate floral chandeliers. It was the perfect backdrop for Adeola & Simon’s day.
Traditional Yoruba Wedding Attire
The overall vibe of the day was whimsical, chic and fun. But we think the wedding fashion is the standout part of this incredible wedding day, from the autumnal and metallic colour palette on the bridesmaid dresses to the traditional black tie on the groomsmen, to the multicultural colourful attire the wedding guests wore. Each outfit was full of colour and was so authentically beautiful. The couple’s favourite moment from their day was the surprise singing waiter. Right after the main course, a waiter 'falls' over while carrying a tray. The guests were in shock! That’s when the waiter bursts into song and gets the party started!
A deep rust and metallic colour scheme is a must for autumnal weddings!
We chose our wedding suppliers based on a number of factors; we needed vendors who shared the same vision and aesthetic as us. Another big consideration for us was looking for suppliers who would be able to cater to both sides of our families from Nigeria and Northern Ireland. From the venue, the food, the entertainment, and our wedding planner and coordinator, who served as the link between Northern Ireland and London.
Adeola & Simon
The bridal party looked beautiful and put together in autumnal bridesmaid dresses. Matching your wedding colour palette to the season is one of our favourite things ever. Your wedding photos always look so coordinated when the weather matches the vibe. Are you planning your own multicultural wedding? We spoke to the incredible wedding planner, Ave Creations, for all their advice on planning multicultural weddings and ensuring your cultures are represented.
