Ariana & Olabode: A Timeless Celebration of Love at Armour House

Weddings

August 15, 2024

There are few places as breathtakingly romantic as the Armour House in Lake Forest, Illinois, to host a wedding that marries tradition, personal touches, and unforgettable moments. The wedding of Ariana and Olabode (affectionately nicknamed Buddie) was nothing short of a fairytale; a tale that had been a long time in the making.

Ariana and Buddie’s love story began over a decade ago. College sweethearts who had been inseparable since the day they met, their relationship was one of shared dreams, unwavering support, and an unbreakable bond. After 12 years together, their wedding was a celebration of their journey, of finally reaching the point where they could say “I do” and start a new chapter as husband and wife.

The couple, known for their popularity and love for all things elegant, chose to split their guest list across two weddings, allowing them to honor both their cultural heritage and their personal style. Friday’s traditional Nigerian ceremony was vibrant and full of cultural significance, while Sunday’s intimate American ceremony at the Armour House was a reflection of their love for timeless elegance and attention to all of the little details.

Weddings at the Historic Armour House

With 140 guests, the American ceremony felt intimate yet grand. The historic Armour House, with its stunning courtyard and blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, provided the perfect backdrop for their vision. Every corner of the venue was transformed into a photo-worthy moment, reflecting the couple’s shared love for capturing life’s most beautiful details—an especially fitting theme, considering Buddie’s talent as a photographer.

Speaking of, Ariana and Buddie are a pair who love a good photo op, and they spared no effort to ensure their wedding was a series of memorable moments. From the moment guests arrived, they were greeted with a personalized welcome sign, setting the tone for the thoughtful details that would follow.

Ariana’s pearl-studded veil was a beautiful nod to her sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha, while Buddie, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, and his groomsmen sported shoes with the couple’s monogram that added a unique flair to their attire. The couple’s eye for design was evident in every aspect of the day, from the monogrammed bar and backdrop in the secondary dining space to the personalized selfie mirror that encouraged guests to capture their own memories.

Amidst the joy and celebration, Ariana and Buddie also took a moment to honor the loved ones who were no longer with them, including Buddie’s father. A collection of cherished photos was thoughtfully displayed atop a piano, serving as a reminder of those who had played a significant role in their lives.

Ariana and Buddie’s wedding at the Armour House was a celebration of their love, as well as a testament to their journey, their attention to detail, and their deep appreciation for the moments that matter most. It was a day filled with laughter, love, and memories that will last a lifetime. It was a truly perfect start to their happily ever after.

Creating Your Perfect Day with SouthWind Events

At SouthWind Events, we believe every love story deserves a celebration that’s as elegant and beautiful as the couple themselves. Just as we did for Ariana and Buddie, our team is dedicated to bringing your wedding vision to life with meticulous attention to detail, a passion for cultural celebration, and a commitment to elegance. Whether you dream of a grand affair or an intimate gathering, we are here to craft a day that is not only stunning but also a true reflection of your love story. With SouthWind Events by your side, your perfect day is just a step away. Inquire today to share more details about your dream wedding day.