If you are like me, you probably don't know much about the Eritrean Culture, so I was so so excited when Henok and Aster asked me to be a part of their Eritrean Wedding here in Indianapolis. I definitely had some research ahead of me so I could be on top of what was happening throughout the day, as not much of it was not in English. This beautiful Northeast African culture was incredible to witness. The traditions and rituals all included lots of singing, dancing, laughing and kissing. Lots of kissing! When I say it was beautiful, I mean it was BEAUTIFUL! 

The day started out at Aster's family home in Indianapolis, where the family shared a traditional meal and did a traditional coffee ceremony, meant to show hospitality. The coffee was served and popcorn flew through the air as women danced around the room and sang to the drum. When the bride is ready, she proceeds to the living room where both families and bridal parties are gathered to wait for the groom to enter. In a big dance, the groom is ushered into the house, to the beat of the drum, and dances toward his bride while everyone sings and dances around them. This is the "first look" in the Eritrean Culture. From there, all of the guests and family members proceed outside and all head to the church at the same time for the Wedding Ceremony. 

This Eritrean Wedding was Coptic Christian, so once all the guests arrived together to the church, everyone entered together, took off their shoes, and found their seats for the ceremony, which included so many beautiful traditions that are pictured below. 

I was so truly honored to be asked to be a part of this day, and had so much fun learning about this amazing culture and meeting these beautiful people. Please enjoy the photos from Aster and Henok's Wedding! 

Planner: Debora Yemane-Ghaim
DJ: Event One DJ
Venue: The Ritz Charles Garden Pavilion
Florals: Gillespie Florist
Tux: Top Shop
Dress: Heart to Heart
Band: Live Band Tekleet