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