Dayton Wedding Photographer: Waheedah & Musa

Waheedah and Musa got married last Saturday, and their whole day was full of loving, thoughtful details that brought together pieces of both of their lives–lives that span two continents. They live in Swaziland, and came back to Waheedah’s home here in Dayton to be married. And, from dancing out of their wedding to the reception decor, their day was infused with their love for both Africa and for each other.

Also, Zack (my wonderful husband, who has up until now only been know as “the Mister”) came along to photograph this wedding with me. Some of the shots below are his!

First things first, though–can we talk about that brooch bouquet? It was absolutely stunning! And must’ve taken so much time and care to make!

brooch bouquet

dayton bride's brooch bouquet

The couple got ready at their church, Christian Life Center in Dayton.

dayton christian life center wedding

bride getting ready

brides watching bride getting ready

bride getting dressed

bride looking at herself in the mirror

Meet Musa!

dayton groom portrait

yellow bridesmaids dresses

brides with her bridesmaids

Waheedah looked ah-mazing.

dayton bridal portrait

Just to show you that it isn’t all glitz and glam! :) The church was under construction and in order to avoid some early-arriving guests, we had to sneak in though the unfinished part back to the bridal room. Waheedah’s bridesmaids stepped right up to make sure the bottom of the dress didn’t get wet or dirty as we walked.

bride walking with bridesmaids

wedding ceremony

dayton couple's first kiss

couple dancing out of their wedding

dayton wedding portrait

dayton bridal party

Yeah, yeah, jumping photos are kind of cheesy–but they are also totally fun!

dayton bridal party jumping

black and white dayton bridal portait

Also, can we talk about Waheedah’s dress? The longer skirt detached so, as soon as the ceremony was over, she just removed it to reveal her shorter dress. So practical!

bride and groom after their wedding

dayton wedding photography

Waheedah & Musa’s reception was held at the Knight’s of Columbus hall in Dayton which (we totally didn’t realize until we got there) is about 2 blocks from our house. We had no idea it was even there!

couple entering reception

african inspired wedding centerpieces

dayton couple's first dance

bride dancing with her bridesmaids

Congratulations to you both–I truly felt so lucky to be the one to capture your beautiful day. Have a wonderful trip back to Swaziland!