Photo by Sarah Kate

Photo by Sarah Kate

Take the Cake: Since the bride’s favorite flower—hibiscus—didn’t jibe with the wedding aesthetic, D’marosay’s team incorporated them on day-of paper goods (right) and the dance floor. Artful interpretations also accented the five-tiered cake, which was topped with a custom topper made in the couple’s likeness.

Photo by Sarah Kate

Photo by Sarah Kate

First Impressions:The regal invitations were printed with gold ink on acrylic and arrived within an emerald green velvet box.

Photo by Sarah Kate

Photo by Sarah Kate

Say Cheese: Prior to the plated dinner, guests were treated to a lavish charcuterie spread during cocktail hour.

Photo by Sarah Kate

One Couple Hosts a Real Life Fairy-Tale Wedding at The Olana

By Jessica Otte

D’marosay McAfee & Gersom Adu
September 28, 2023

Gersom Adu wasted no time pursuing D’marosay McAfee after noticing her in their college chemistry class, and it didn’t take long for her to realize he was the one. “I had a list of things I was looking for in a man that I used to pray over,” she says. “When I met him, he was so many of those things.” Once engaged, the bride-to-be made sure every detail of her wedding would be just as she’d dreamed. The evening culminated with guests dancing to “Candy” by Cameo—a moment inspired by a scene in The Best Man. “Growing up, every time I thought about getting married, I pictured that moment,” D’marosay says. “When it actually happened, it was like, ‘Wow, this is actually happening! I’m getting my ‘Candy’ moment!’ ” —Jessica Otte

 

Real-Life Fairy Tale

Downton Abbey–obsessed D’marosay says The Olana captured the romantic chateau vibe she was looking for. Though Gersom initially had planned to wear a black tuxedo, D’marosay recalls that he “actually lit up” when he saw the intricately patterned, cream-toned fabric he ended up choosing for his custom jacket.

Pretty in Pastel

“We looked for opportunities to do something outside of the box, even if it was small,” says planner Rachel Willis of the color-blocked floral arrangements. Tablescapes included a neutral patterned linen, gold leaf chargers, and a Kate Weiser bonbon in an individual cloche. The head table was outfitted with green-rimmed dinner plates, but for guest tables, Rachel ingeniously commissioned round menu cards that mimicked the look.

One-of-a-Kind Beauty

“I make my own clothes sometimes, so I knew I wanted to have a custom dress,” says D’marosay, who brought her own sketch to Nardos Imam of Nardos Design. The designer took it from there, crafting the gown using hibiscus lace as a nod to the bride’s favorite flower.

Guests: 140

First Dance: “Here and Now” by Luther Vandross

Honeymoon: Thailand

Credits

  • Ceremony/Reception Site

    The Olana

  • Photographer

    Sarah Kate, Photographer

  • Bridal Gown Designer/Retailer

    Nardos Design (ceremony); Show Me Your Mumu (reception); Eliya the Label (exit)

  • Hair & Makeup

    All Things Glam by Jee

  • Groom's Attire

    Don Morphy

  • Bridesmaids’ Dresses Designer

    Dessy Group

  • Bridesmaids’ Dresses Retailer

    Alfred Sung; Teri Jon

  • Groomsmen’s Attire

    SuitShop

  • Flower Girl Dress Designer/Retailer

    Queen and Princess Shop (Etsy)

  • Flowers

    Petals Couture

  • Stationary

    Lyons Paperie (invitations); StoryBird Design (day-of pieces)

  • Cake

    Fancy Cakes by Lauren

  • Catering

    FGF Catering

  • Music

    European Ensemble Strings (ceremony); Jordan Kahn Orchestra (reception)

  • Videographer

    C.S. Preston Storyteller

  • Wedding Rentals

    Imperial Floor Rentals; Top Tier Event Rentals

  • Wedding Planner/Designer

    Rachel Willis Events

  • Charcuterie Display

    Boards by Bailey

  • DJ/MC

    CoHost Entertainment

  • Invitation Boxes

    Ivory & Fine Co

  • Bonbons

    Kate Weiser Chocolate

  • Custom Cake Topper

    Libie Handmade

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