The wedding day started at 6:30 am with the grooms party, which included us, assembling blocks away from the bride’s residence. The processional was led by a band of musicians and we were all carrying gifts, everything from pig trotters to cigarettes, for the brides family. Numerous ceremonies followed, lead by a priest accompanied by musicians, singers and dancers. There were ceremonies of greetings and hair cutting, symbolizing new beginnings. There were Songs about the 40 different types of fruit as a dancer beautifully passed offerings to all in attendance. All were invited to participate as the newly weds hands were symbolically tied together, and numerous other ceremonies and outfit changes. It was a beautiful and joyful celebration! We were fed breakfast, lunch and a magnificent dinner! Then we danced late into the evening with the music loud enough for the whole town to hear, although it seemed as if the whole town was dancing with us!
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