Adeline and Olaolu met in Nigeria while they were visiting family for Christmas.
Although Adeline admits "I’m not someone that would normally say they believe in love at first sight," when she saw Lao for the first time at a party, she felt what she describes as "a strong intuitive feeling." She called her best friend in London later that night saying "I saw my husband tonight. I have no idea if he's nice or not - we didn't meet. But I just know it's him."
After a two year courtship, Lao proposed and the wedding followed three years later.
Adeline chose The Natural History Museum in London for a number of reasons. "It is one of the most stunning and celebrated buildings in London. The Waterhouse building is world-famous and I have always adored the Romanesque architecture. I attended a prep school around the corner from the museum and spent many afternoons wondering around the building in complete awe. It was a dream come true to be able to book the museum for the most important day of my life.
“BOTH LAO AND I FELT SO MUCH LOVE AND SUPPORT FROM EVERYONE AROUND US” - ADELINE JOSEPH
Also, supporting The Natural History Museum meant supporting crucial research and scientific study of the natural world. The museum signifies learning, development and enhancement. It is free to enter and is open to all. I felt honored that through my wedding reception I would be contributing to the preservation and the future of The Natural History Museum."
During the wedding planning process, the biggest challenge for the couple was the number of guests. A wedding of two Nigerian families was bound to be big. They started with a list of 750 and finally managed to get it down to 400. "It was no easy task!" laughs Adeline.
The wedding ceremony was held in St Luke’s Church Chelsea. It was perfectly moving, remembers Adeline, and although she thought she would be nervous she was relaxed and savored every moment.
"As we stood to say our vows before our loved ones", she recalls, "we had the most picturesque architectural surroundings. Both Lao and I felt so much love and support from everyone around us."
"We were relieved the day had finally come but most of all we were thankful."
WEDDING TALENT
Location: The Natural History Museum, London, England, UK; Caterer and Linen: Payne and Gunter, London, England, UK; Cake: The Hummingbird Bakery, London, England, UK; Planner: Once Upon A Destination, London, England, UK; Floral Design: Essential Wedding Hire, London, England, UK
Lighting: Wise Productions, London, England, UK; Stationery: Walton Street Stationery, London, England, UK; Wedding Dress: Peter Langner; Wedding Bands: Cartier; Cinematography: Urban Cinematography, London, England, UK
