The grand wedding day

As the sun rose early in the morning on the grand wedding day, everyone was excited in both families. Noise filled the air, accompanied by the sweet aroma of food being prepared.

It was a long-awaited day. The family, friends, the entire community, and the would-be couples were fully prepared.

In the bride's household, the women were up by dawn, ensuring everything was in place. Auntie Paulina led the preparation, seeing that Justina's attire was flawless. The bride sat patiently as elderly women adorned her with gold jewelry: earrings, bangles, and a customized necklace.

Her face was gently smeared with traditional shea butter to enhance her natural beauty. Soon, she was fully dressed in her stunning kente, its vibrant colors gleaming in the morning light.

Meanwhile, at the groom's house, he was also being prepared by the elders of his family. He wore a majestic kente cloth draped over his shoulder.

His father blessed him, saying, "Today, you are no longer my son, but now you are a husband, a man who must lead his home with wisdom and strength."

By mid-morning, the groom's family set out for Justina's home. The women were dancing and clapping as they carried the marriage gifts: large baskets filled with yams, bottles of schnapps, bags of rice, and beautifully wrapped parcels.

Upon arrival, they were warmly welcomed but were made to wait at the entrance, following tradition.

The elderly one in Justina's family asked them what brought them there, and the Redeemer's spokesperson replied, "We have seen a beautiful flower in your home, and we have come to ask for her hand in marriage."

After a few conversations, Justina's family finally granted them entry, and the ceremony officially began.

The items from the marriage list were presented one by one, and the elders examined them to ensure everything was complete.

Uncle Kojo, representing Justina's family, smiled approvingly. "You have honored our daughter well. May your home be blessed."

Justina was then called out. She arrived, escorted by her bridesmaids, her head slightly bowed in humility. The women in her family showed her their blessings before she was presented to Redeemer.

To confirm her willingness to marry, Uncle Kojo jokingly placed five different men in front of her, including Redeemer. She was asked to choose her husband, and without hesitating, she chose Redeemer and gave him a drink, signaling her acceptance.

The crowd cheered and started clapping. Redeemer then gave her a special piece of cloth, symbolizing that he would provide and protect her.

With all the formalities complete, it was time to celebrate. The drummers began drumming, followed by the singers, and everyone stood up and started dancing to the rhythm.

The feast began with bowls of fufu with light soup, jollof rice, grilled chicken, and fried fish. Justina and Redeemer had a dance battle, showcasing their dancing skills. She was far better than her husband. Family and guests sprayed them with money.

As the sun set, the ceremony ended with prayers from the elders. Hand in hand, Justina and Redeemer left for their honeymoon at a very nice hotel.

They were ready to start their journey as husband and wife.