REAL WEDDINGS
THE MAGNIFICENT WESTIN Olaide and Dapo chose to get married at the Westin because of its flexibility and fantastic customer service. “From the first day we went there, they were so kind and accommodating,” Olaide says. “I wanted something a little different and the Westin provided that with their unique ceilings and light fixtures. I knew that with my great team of vendors, we were going to be able to transform the room into something magnificent.”
NOT THE DRESS In searching for the dress, Olaide knew she wanted two things: an overskirt and a simple silhouette. She initially scheduled consultations in Houston, Nigeria, and Ghana, before her planner Sade Okeowo directed her to Love Couture Bridal in Potomac, Maryland. “The [stylist] brought out four dresses, and I absolutely hated the first three,” Olaide says. “When I saw the last one, I told her, ‘You can take this back; it’s not my style,’” Olaide recalls. But the stylist insisted she try it on anyway. Reluctantly, Olaide agreed and 25 minutes later, she walked out of the shop, her mom’s face wet with happy tears, and the dream gown purchased.
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