Billy's frustrated voice shattered my peace. "Mubarak can't be serious!" she exclaimed, "I just called him, and the nerve of him – he says he's too busy to pick us up!"
"I told you bringing my car would avoid these hassles," I sighed, pushing my teacup aside. "But noooo. And knowing Mubarak, even if he shows up, he'll probably be late and waste our precious time. Remember we have errands we need to run before the event."
We're back in Kaduna, and my wedding festivities have begun. Yesterday was my Sa Lalle, which we held at my father's compound after it was beautifully decorated. My bridal shower was also an absolute blast. My friends surprised me with a fantastic bridal shower, and we had lots of fun together. We danced, sang, and played games, making memories that will last a lifetime.
After spending the night at Spa La Rena, Fareed's Aunty's spa, one of the best in Kaduna, I received a unique bridal treatment. It was a gift from her, and it made me feel truly special. The staff there are exceptional, they carry out their jobs so well. Also, my personal beautician has been coming home every day for the past two weeks for gyaran jiki treatments, so my skin feels as soft and glowing as a baby's.
Now, thanks to these skincare treatments, I can't help but admire every aspect of myself. From my beautifully manicured hands and pedicured feet, adorned with stunning henna designs, to my glowing skin and beautifully braided hair, I feel like the epitome of a bride. I'm absolutely in love with every part of my appearance right now.
Maimoon slid onto the couch beside me. "What's the plan?" she asked. Just then, my phone buzzed with a FaceTime call from Fareed. A smile appeared on my face as I swiped to answer.
His handsome face filled the screen, with a passing scenery background. "Hey beautiful," he greeted, his voice husky. "How was your night?"
"Amazing, Alhamdulillah," I replied, still admiring the afterglow of the spa treatment. "Still at Aunty Humairah's though." I thanked a staff member who brought a tray of muffins for us. "Special treatment, indeed!" I whispered.
"You're welcome," Fareed chuckled. "I just picked up my outfit for tonight's event. Wushe Wushe or whatever you call it."
I rolled my eyes playfully. (Wushe Wushe, for those who don't know, is a joyous Kanuri tradition where both families come together to celebrate the upcoming wedding.)
"The problem is," I began, a slight pout forming in my lips, "we have no ride back home after the spa."
"Didn't you bring your car?" he asked with furrowed brow.
"Nope," I admitted. "Mubarak ditched on us, claiming he's busy, and Ya Sadiq isn't even in town."
He paused for a while as if in thought. Then, a smile tugged at Fareed's lips. "Don't worry, I'm actually close by. I'll swing by and pick you up."
My face lit up. "Really?"
"Consider it done," he confirmed. "I'll be there soon."
"See you soon. Love you Saahib!" I said, blowing him a kiss
"Love you more," he replied before ending the call.
"What's up?" Azrah asked.
"Fareed is close by, so he's on his way to pick us up. Let's wrap everything up before he gets here," I suggested.
"Alright then," they mumbled an agreement.
I slipped into a mint bubu cotton gown and veil. Billy, packed the bridal items into my mini suitcase. We bid farewell with the spa staff as we headed to the reception desk.
Aunty Humairah had informed me the night before that she wouldn't be at the spa early in the morning due to commitments. We said our goodbyes last night, and she mentioned we would meet in Abuja for my conveyance.
Suddenly, Fareed called to let me know he had arrived and was waiting in the parking lot. I informed the girls, and we made our way to the exit. Outside, we spotted his white Lexus, and he helped us load our belongings into the trunk before we settled into the car. The girls piling into the back while I claimed the passenger seat next to my soon-to-be husband.
As Fareed started the car, the girls chimed in with teasing greetings, "Hello, Mr. Groom."
With a smile, Fareed replied, "Hi girls. How are you all doing?"
They began conversing, leaving me feeling like a mere spectator in my own fiancé's car. It baffled me how effortlessly guys could sometimes ignore their partners.
When the chatter eventually quieted, Fareed turned to me, his gaze lingering on my hands adorned with henna designs. "Wifey, your henna is stunning."
I couldn't help but roll my eyes. "You are just noticing now, huh?"
His laughter filled the car as he reached for my hand, "I was just pulling your leg, baby. You know how I am."
I squeezed his hand gently. "Of course," I replied, feigning offense.
"Speaking of beautiful," he continued, his voice low, "Have I ever told you that you are the most beautiful woman on earth? You're glowing, darling, and I can't get enough of it. And this henna," he brought my hands to his lips, planting soft kisses on the designs. "It's perfect. The henna artist deserves a tip, for sure. Now, I'm curious to see your new braids."
"How much are you willing to pay?"
He pretended to ponder for a moment before replying, "I'm willing to pay with a kiss."
My expression turned stern as I glanced around to ensure the girls weren't eavesdropping. "Why do you always have to be so cheeky, Fareed?"
He chuckled, "Hey, you love the cheeky Fareed, don't you?"
I shook my head with a grin, "Never. You're impossible."
"Crazy in love with you, though,"
I couldn't help but shake my head in mock exasperation, but deep down, I knew I wouldn't have it any other way.
****
After Fareed dropped us off at home and left, we walked into a bustling scene. Friends and family had gathered, all here to witness my joyous day. I was already anticipating tomorrow's Nikah, knowing there would be even larger crowds in the house.
As soon as my aunties caught sight of me, they erupted into joyful ululations and began celebrating, referring to me as "Amarya," the bride. Especially the aunties I hadn't had a chance to meet since the wedding festivities began due to my busy schedule. I exchanged warm greetings with them, blushing and acting shy as they teased me about growing up so quickly and preparing to go off to my husband's house.
After managing to escape from the lively crowd downstairs, I made my way to Babaji's living room to greet Aunty Fatima, since I knew Babaji might not be around due to the wedding preparations.
The moment I arrived, I found Aysa and Aunty Fatima engrossed in a discussion about my wedding so I joined them for a while. Soon enough, Billy and the girls arrived with food, a welcome sight as we hadn't eaten anything satisfying since yesterday. I indulged to my heart's content, much to the teasing of Aunty Fati's sister, who jokingly commented that brides aren't supposed to eat much during their wedding. I just laughed it off, knowing that I wouldn't be able to survive if I don't eat.
After satisfying my hunger, I decided to check my social media accounts. The first post that caught my attention was about the celebrations from yesterday. Several wedding bloggers had shared pictures and videos, capturing the essence of our exciting occasion. Azrah had even created an Instagram account dedicated solely to updating fans on every aspect of our wedding. I was astonished to see that she had amassed over 200k followers in just five days. I admired how dedicated she was to posting new content every minute, showcasing the highlights of our special day.
******
"Please who knows how to tie a Laffaya?" One of the bridesmaids asked, her voice laced with anxiety.
"Has anyone seen my heels?!" Another bridesmaid shouted, as she frantically searched through the pile of shoes on the floor.
"You girls should stop lazying around and get ready! For God's sake." Aysa snapped.
Everyone is driving nuts trying to prepare for the reception which is taking place in the next 1 hour. As the bride, I'm seated comfortably on a chair watching as the renowned makeup artist; "Miss Glam department" carries out her magic on my face. While her assistant was capturing the process on video, ensuring that every detail was documented for my wedding movie transition.
Meanwhile, other bridesmaids were busy getting their makeup done by their own makeup artists while some were getting dressed in their matching pink and black Laffaya. It was a flurry of activity as everyone tried to get ready before the clock ran out.
After what seemed like an eternity, I was finally ready. Billy and Aysa expertly helped me tie the Shiny adorned golden Laffaya around me, and then carefully placed my gold accessories on me. My hair, which had been styled into a Kanuri hairstyle called Klayakku, completed the look.
"Ma shaa Allah, Bridey, you look absolutely stunning in this dress. I'm sure Fareed will be absolutely mesmerized when he sees you," Billy exclaimed, in admiration
"You will definitely get the award for the most beautiful 2023 bride, Meenah!" Azrah added, her voice filled with awe.
Surrounded by my closest friends, their compliments gave me flushed cheeks as I stood before the dressing mirror, ready for my Wushe Wushe event. Their excitement filled the room, as they captured snaps and videos of me, and, I couldn't help but feel like the most beautiful bride in the world.
To ensure we didn't waste any more time, we decided to leave the room and head outside. As we made our way out, the talented team at Hawthon Media Photography captured numerous photos of me, capturing the moment of joy. Finally, we reached the waiting cars and everyone got in before we made our drive to the venue.
*******
The moment we arrived, my bridesmaids elegantly formed two straight lines on either side of me, placing me in the centre so I would be the focus of attention. My face was veiled with the Laffaya as each of my bridesmaids held out a incense pots on their palm, releasing fragrant smoke to create an interesting atmosphere and enchanting fragrance.
Together we danced out way in into the hall with a melodious traditional tune playing in the background as everyone eyes was now on us.
I settled myself comfortably on the soft, plush king queen sofa that had been kept for Fareed and I. The atmosphere around me was a beautiful blend of traditional and modern elements.
As I glanced around, I noticed royal pillows placed beside my bridesmaids on the Turkish carpet, providing utmost elegance.
The opening prayer was said, and soon after, the arrival of the groom and his family was announced. The ladies first danced into the hall, their steps graceful and elegant. As I watched in awe, I couldn't help but feel nervousness building up in me.
And then, finally, Fareed appeared, walking into the hall majestically with his male friends. My heart skipped a beat at the sight of him. He looked absolutely dashing in his blue wagambari shadda. He completed the look with a red Dara hat; a Kanuri hat for men.
Soon after, he settled beside me on the royal seat, and entwined our fingers; in that moment, I felt safe, with the man I love.
As the melody of the background song filled the room, He leaned closer and whispered softly in my ear, "Hello wife, can I kidnap you for a while?" He asked, his warm breath tickling my skin.
A playful smile tugged at the corners of my lips as I turned to face him, "No you can't. I'm the bride and people will look for me."
He chuckled softly, with his gaze fixed on mine. "I just can't help it. You took my breath away the moment my eyes landed on you."
I blushed, feeling butterflies in my stomach, "You also did same. You look very handsome husband."
But our private moment was short lived, as the MC interrupted our conversation, "This lovebirds are so engrossed with each other. You people want to oppress us today too abi? Well it's your day so go ahead."
The crowd laughed, and I blushed, feeling a little embarrassed at being caught.
Fareed shrugged with a charming smile, his eyes still fixed on mine. I playfully nudged him on the arm, and we returned our attention to the event.
As the night wore on, the celebrations continued. We were treated to a performance by special traditional Kanuri dancers.
Finally, it was time for Fareed and I to take to the dance floor, the lively Ganga Kura tune filling our ears as we moved to the rhythm. Our families and friends joined in adding to the joy and excitement of the occasion.
"Moving on to the further agenda, uhm, There's a special surprise gift for the bride from the groom," the MC announced, drawing everyone's attention.
"Which surprise, Fareed?" I asked, as I furrowed my brows in curiosity.
"Let's go, I'll show you," he replied, rising from his seat and pulling me along with him. We made our way to the exit door, and the moment we stepped out, my breath hitched. There, gleaming in the sunlight, sat a stunning silver Mercedes Benz E-Class. My gaze darted to Fareed, who was holding out the car keys with a mischievous grin.
"All yours, baby," he declared.
I gasped as my hand flew to your mouth. I stared at the car in disbelief. This luxurious Mercedes, the latest model – it couldn't be real! considering how expensive the price is. Despite that he'd still gotten it for me. Now it all adds up why he had asked me to choose between Mercedes and BMW the other day—he had been planning this surprise all along.
"Fareed, you got me this car?" I asked, still in shock.
"Yes, babe. Do you like it?" he asked, his smile growing wider.
"Like it?" I repeated, throwing your arms around him in an embrace. "I love it! And I love you even more!"
I completely forgot about the people around us, who were snapping photos and capturing videos of the moment. Today, bloggers would definitely have something new to post.
"I love you more, beautiful. Take this as a wedding gift from me," he said when we pulled apart, but he still held my hands in his, and I looked up at him.
Tears welled up in my eyes, threatening to spill. As I managed to say, "Thank you."
"You're welcome, darling wife. Anything for you. This is just the beginning, Meenah. I promise to cherish you always, to spoil you rotten until the day you tell me to stop. As my wife, you'll never want for anything, In Shaa Allah." ," he declared, and I felt the love in my heart.
"I know I won't, Fareed. But none of that matters to me as long as I have you by my side always, because that's the most important thing," I said sincerely.
"And I promise you'll always have me by your side. I love you," he affirmed.
"And I love you more, my amore mio," I smiled widely.
Yey!❤️❤️❤️
The anticipated wedding of Fareed Jarma and Meenah Turaki has just commenced🤭❤️
Abun na manya neh 🤧
Join us in the celebration to see how it unfolds😘
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