Ghanaian-American Wedding | Charlottesville, Virginia

In the summer of 2014, Richard and Abbi crossed paths while enrolled in a health professions program at Virginia Commonwealth University. Although their initial encounter wasn’t characterized by love at first sight – Abbi being a bit resistant at first – Richard embraced the challenge and eventually won Abbi’s heart. Over the ensuing nine years, they embarked on adventures to five different states, six apartments (complete with the joys of moving), cared for three pets, earned two college degrees, and weathered one global pandemic, sharing tears and laughter throughout.

Fast forward to May 2022, when Richard decided to take the leap and propose to Abbi. After weeks of meticulous planning with the help of her friends, the significant moment arrived. Richard dropped to one knee in the heart of Richmond, where their story began, and asked Abbi to be his wife. In disbelief of this perfect moment, Abbi, with tears of joy in her eyes, wholeheartedly said yes!

Over the period of two days, Abbi and Richard partied, celebrated and honored their families with their two wedding events: a Ghanaian engagement and cultural celebration ceremony and a traditional American wedding.

The festivities kicked off on Friday at the Brick Cellar at Dairy Market in Charlottesville. The Ghanaian ceremony which culminates in the bride introducing the groom to her family, and the bride and her parents agreeing to join with the groom’s family, creating a new household was so much fun to witness! Abbi, Richard, their families and their bridal party all wore Ghanaian attire for the ceremony with hues of yellows and greens. The evening was filled with lively music and incredible food!

The festivities continued on Saturday with an American wedding at the Omni Charlottesville Hotel. The couple aimed for a cozy and romantic Christmas wedding, infusing the celebration with burgundy, green, and gold for warmth and elegance. They integrated elements from both of their heritages, including Italian-inspired desserts and soup selection for Abbi’s family and the use of kente during the ceremony to honor Richard’s culture.

Some cherished moments from their wedding weekend included the stunning Ghanaian attire, Abbi’s heartfelt first look with her Dad and brother, and the fantastic wedding party that made my job so much fun! Congratulations to the newlyweds!

Day One: Ghanaian Cultural Celebration Ceremony

Day Two: The American Wedding at Omni Charlottesville Hotel

Photography: Kylie Hinson Photography
Cake: Buttercream Dreams LLC
Bridal Boutique: Tiffany’s Bridal
Dress Designer: Essence of Australia
Shoes: Vans
Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie
Groomsmen: Men’s Warehouse
Florist: Poppy Street Florals
DJ & Photobooth: DJ Shaggi
Hair & Make Up Artists: Skylar Saint Ours and Scottie Carpenter from Mane Effect Inc.
Cultural Celebration Venue: Dairy Market
Wedding Venue: The Omni Charlottesville Hotel