23 Nov, 2019 is a date Amanda might never forget. While on a trip to Diani beach in Mombasa, Raphael Njumba, her boyfriend, proposed to her infront of their friends. She later introduced him to her parents at a small intimate family event held on 22nd February, 2020. They are set to hold a grand introduction ceremony later this year.
The Engagement
My fiancée never runs out of surprises! He told me his friends were planning a trip to Diani beach Mombasa and that he would love for us to join them if I was interested. Of course I bought the idea as soon as he brought it up because I love to travel. A month before we left for the trip, he reminded me about this trip, and asked that I get ready. On Nov 22nd, we set off but it was just him, one of his friends and I, so I thought the rest of his friends were not coming. We arrived at Diani at a few mins to midnight, took a short nap and partied till the next morning. At about 1pm the next day, his friend called him and told us to get ready and find her at the beach.
As we got ready, he insisted on choosing for me what to wear. When I asked why, his response was “It’s just because I love it so much on you, I’d prefer you rock it first before anything else you carried!” I paid little attention and wore his favourite floral jumpsuit.
When we got to the beach I got the biggest surprise of my life, I met my friends and the rest of his other friends who were meant to join us. At first I passed by them unknowingly because I was oblivious to everything. I had been communicating to and updating them about the whole trip, little did I know that they were on the same trip! I was puzzled!
Amidst this confusion is when they directed me towards a spot not far from where we were, which was decorated with flowers and two camels laying down next to the words ‘MARRY ME MANDY’ which had been written by hand in the sand. It took me about 20 seconds to process what was going on. I was just laughing hard the whole time and my fiancé́ was standing behind me with a nervous expression. Shortly after, I finally said YES to the love of my Life.
(But these friends that couldn’t even whisper!)
The Kukyala
Our Kukyala was held on the 22nd of February 2020 in Kyebando. It was a simple event that was attended by just a few family members. We only hired decorators (Decor by the Twins). The rest of the event was planned by our family members. Because of that, we did not face any challenges.
(I love how small and simple you kept it!)
Beauty
My makeup was done by Faith Imani of Imani Makeup and my hair was done by my personal hairstylist from Marianah’s Salon.
The Outfits
I designed my outfits. I sourced fabrics for both the Mushanana and changing dress with help from my friends. We found a tailor who put everything together with guidance. It was done in a few days. My fiancé́ and his Best man also bought their Kanzus from an outlet in Kiyembe, and their suits from a close friend who imports them from Turkey.
Lasting memory
The proposal is one thing I will never forget. I guess he won’t too. It was a fantasy that was brought to reality.
Credits
Makeup: Imani Makeup
Decor: Decor by The Twins
Photography: Mozart Pictures
To feature, drop Kadali an email to weddings@satisfashionug.com
