they were married on a Friday; the holy day which is custom here. They went to primary school together and their families think they will be a great match. Rain for the entire day was a downer and made the usual festivities postponed and the dancing outside seem impossible but the wedding went on. Everyone pitches in and does their part to make the wedding day fabulous.
the rain and lack of power keeps us women all packed inside waiting for the bride to arrive…think no breeze and sweat!
shoes always must be removed before entering a home and the chai is ready and waiting for the men to return from the mosque
everyone arrives in their best attire and brings food, mats, or other necessities for the day
the bride is escorted in from the salon with a kanga over her head making sure no one can see her. She always stays in a room decorated for the occasion and everyone comes in to take pictures, pray, and wish blessings. She wears green as is custom because it is the color of blessing here. Lots of “umependeza” you have made your self beautiful! comments are made in whispers to her.
lots of waiting and mischief for some watoto
making friends
odi or incense is burned during prayers
everyone is dressed in their very best
and generations of women decked out in the brightest colors wait for a glimpse of the bride
time for the men to go make this thing official
saying vows and praying
the happy couple. 
the women hear the drums and sing along and sway (no dancing allowed remember!). some get a bit feisty what with all the money waving and kupiga vigelegele which I cannot really translate except to say crazy loud noises made by moving your tongue super fast…you have to hear it!
