Traditional Engagement

Wedding Day

Pool Party

Spring

Our Wedding

Andre's Story

I remember seeing Tobi at my nephew’s birthday party. She came over to borrow a lighter. Just a quick exchange nothing big. But I noticed her. There was something different about her energy. She didn’t say much, but there was this calm presence around her. I clocked it. But I didn’t act on it. Not yet. The second time, it was a few months later. We were setting up for my brother’s party. She was hanging up some decorations, and I being me told her one of the banners wasn’t straight. I knew it was fine. I just liked the view of her trying to straighten it. She gave me a little side-eye, a little sass, and I loved it. That was the first real spark, and I thought ‘Okay maybe she’s feeling me too’. What got me, though, was a moment she walked past a mirror, and I caught her reflection. I was watching her, but it wasn’t lust it was something else. I just felt drawn to her. Like, that woman is going to matter to me. It’s hard to explain. I just knew. From that moment, I made sure to keep the conversation going. I got her number. I stayed consistent. Our first date was perfect not because of what we did, but because of how she made me feel. She was terrible at pool, but it didn’t matter. She laughed at herself. She let me teach her and I got to get up close to her and create that intimacy as I showed her how to use the cues. She didn’t try to impress me. She was just herself. At the end of the night when I dropped her to her car, we sat talking for hours, the conversation just flowed. Finally, it was time to go, and she wasn’t giving me any signs that a kiss was on the agenda. She got into her car, and I thought I’ve got to leave her with something to remember me by, so I leaned in through her car window and I kissed her. I could tell she liked the kiss, I knew I would be seeing her again, I left her wanting more. There was no single moment when I realised, she was the one. It was a build-up the way she spoke life into me, the way she made me feel seen. Tobi is the kind of woman who pays attention. She knows how to take care of her king, and make sure all my needs are met. She doesn’t just listen she hears you. She remembers the things that matter. She calls you out when you’re off, but she does it with love. She pushes me to grow, not because I’m not enough but because she sees how much more I can be. I would say though that it was two years in when I started to see that this is definitely my wife. It was how we resolved arguments and got better at communicating and understanding each other, because we both wanted to find a way to resolve it and move forward. Tobi has taught me how to open up. I wasn’t always the best at talking through my feelings, but she created space for me to be honest and patient enough to wait for the words to come. I’ve taught her how to ease up sometimes, to enjoy the moment without needing to plan everything. And I taught her how to cook proper Jamaican food no packet seasoning, no shortcuts. She’s getting there. Her oxtail stew is serious now. Life doesn’t always give you the soft path, but even in the mess, we never lost sight of each other. She made us make a promise to never go to bed angry, and to always kiss each other good night no matter what. I thought it was kinda weird at first but now I appreciate it. We haven’t always got it right; but we always came back to the table. We keep choosing each other that’s the difference. Getting used to the Nigerian culture has been a challenge for me, because Jamaicans take things a lot more easily, but at the end of the day I’m going to do what it takes to make my Queen happy. The day I proposed, I knew I wanted it to feel intentional. I wanted her to feel chosen deeply, deliberately, with no hesitation. Seeing her reaction… I’ll never forget that moment. I could feel her heart in her eyes. It rained during the proposal but that just added to the magic of it, it felt so like us, not perfect but beautiful still. If I could relive one day? Tough. There’s been a few, the proposal being one, but one that stands out is when we went to Jamaica and we went to mystic falls, and we had the best time. It’s always vibes with my queen. Our future? The vibes gonna be the same, more energy, bringing kids into the world, and letting them grow to be productive members of society. Getting our land together and grow our own fruit and veg in the country. Off grid lifestyle for us, surrounded by friends and family. I see us dancing in our sixties, laughing in our seventies, holding hands in our eighties. That’s the kind of love we’re building. It’s going to be good.

Tobi's Story

I met Andre at a birthday party well, “met” might be a stretch. I was sent to borrow a lighter from him for my friend to light the birthday candles. That was the first exchange. Just me asking for a lighter, him handing it over. No spark, no dramatic music playing in the background. At least not yet. I didn’t think much of it. But now looking back I see that was the universe dropping its first hint. The second time, though, something shifted. We were setting up for his brothers party (my friends brother in law) this time, our roles overlapped a little more. I was putting up decorations with him, when he said something cheeky. I remember thinking ‘Wait is he flirting with me?’ And then there was the mirror. That same evening, I walked past a mirror to check out my outfit and caught a glimpse of him watching me. It was such a quiet moment no words, just a reflection but something about the way he looked at me caught me off guard and made me feel shy. It wasn’t the kind of look that said “I want you.” It was the kind that said, I see you. I remember thinking ‘oh wow there’s something here with this guy’. That moment replayed in my mind days after. The rest of that evening we just kept gravitating to each other, and by the end of the night we were sitting cosy on the sofa deep in conversation. And yes, I gave him my number. I won’t lie, I was hesitant. I’d never dated a Jamaican man before, and I had all these assumptions ideas of what that might mean, what it might bring. But Andre wasn’t what I expected. He didn’t come with bravado or game. He was soft in the places I didn’t expect a man to be emotionally intelligent, self-aware, attentive. And his sense of humour? It disarmed me every time. I remember our first few conversations and what struck me was how honest he was about everything. I had never met a man who was so real and honest, and it was refreshing. Usually with guys they find out what you want and adapt themselves to 'pretend' they are that person, and then as time goes on you find out who they really are, but with Dre it was different he was like this is me take me or leave me. I knew that this could be something very special. He just felt different. He made the first move clear and intentional. Our first date was at a pool hall because I told him I don’t like restaurants dates, I prefer activities. So, he arranged for us to go play pool, I was terrible at it. But maybe that was the point. There was no pressure. We laughed, we flirted, and when we got back to his car we just sat and talked for hours. By the end of the night, he kissed me through the car window. And I don't really do mushy but I swear I floated all the way home. I didn’t fall in love with him in one moment it was a series of moments, layered over time. He made me a mixtape, who even does that anymore? He made me feel like I was worth the effort. Then there was the way he cared for me when I had a sickle cell crisis. He showed up. No questions, no complaints. He was just there buying me food, checking in, holding space. That’s when I knew: this isn’t someone who just wants to be around for the good times. This man knows how to love in the hard seasons, too. It was always important to me to be with a man that was caring and would take care of me when I got my crisis, and Andre showed up and beyond. But if I had to choose the main thing that made me fall hard for Dre, it's that he accepted me whole heartedly for who I was unapologetically. I had never been with someone who took me as I was good and bad and just accepted me for me, and that’s how I knew he was my person. One of the things I love most about Andre is his patience. I have never met a man that has as much patience as Andre. I know my pros and I know my cons, and I know my cons can be a lot, but he never makes me feel bad, and always waits for me to be calm, whilst being firm about what he wants. He gives me the grace to make mistakes, he makes space for me emotionally, physically, spiritually. I’ve taught him how to open up more, to speak about how he feels even when it’s hard. And in return, he’s taught me how to soften, how to let someone love me without needing to be in control all the time. Oh, and how to make curry goat and oxtail — Jamaican-style, no shortcuts. He’s very serious about that. I think one of the challenges for us that we have had to overcome is the difference in our cultures and helping Andre to understand the expectations and requirements of the Yoruba culture (which I know can be a lot). It was hard for him to understand because his culture is so different, and so we both had to take the time understand and learn each others cultures, and the expectations from family members. If I could relive any day, it might be his 40th birthday. We were away together, just the two of us and it was the first time we had ever gone away together. One evening we were in the kitchen, just chilling listening to music and then a song came on and we ended up slow dancing in the kitchen. It was a Jah Cure song-(it will definitely be our first dance at the wedding), and we danced for the whole song, it felt like a movie moment, like we were in our very own love story. We weren’t performing for anyone. It was soft. It was sacred. That moment reminded me that love doesn’t have to be loud to be felt deeply. When I think of our future, I think off grid life, so much laughter. I’m so excited about it. Lots of adventure. It’s just about making up our own rules. He always thinks outside the box and thinks creatively. I bring the structure to his creativity. Bouncing off each other. Lots of adventure, excited for starting our own family, excited for the kind of parents we are going to be. Doing things our own way and making our own rules. Bring on May 2026, I can't wait for the rest of our lives together to start ❤️

Our Story

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We’ve shared more memories than I can count, from endless sleepovers in our teenage years to unforgettable (and sometimes chaotic) holidays as young adults. We’ve cried together through some of life’s toughest moments and danced through some of the best. I’m so grateful to God that I get to witness the joining of these two beautiful souls.

Sarah 

It's my job to make sure big bro gets hitched to his Queen.

Nickel

Funniest moment: this one is so hard but I just feel like everytime I’m with u I’m always belly laughing I can’t pin it down to one thing.

Anne

I'm the right hand man, Dre knows he can count on me. Whatever needs to be done for this union to be successful, I've got them

Keith 

Best memory of you - you meeting dre cos I've never seen you so happy (except when you've been with sadam obvs) SERVANT!

Sapphire

Every groomsman needs a solid right- hand man- and who better than his little brother. I'll bring the vibes, and the jokes

Amari

I met Tobi in year 4, I’m her last standing friend from primary school. I remember Tobi used to steal the keys for us so we could use the dance studio and practice for our GCSE’s, we lived in that dance studio!

Antoinette

One thing I can say about Dre is that he’s always been solid. A real one through and through. Whether it’s advice, a laugh, or just showing up when it matters, he’s that guy you can count on. I’m proud to stand beside him on his big day — he deserves all the love coming his way.

I met tobi through her cousin, Titi
Too many memories wow! But Nigeria goes down in history! 🤣 I don’t have to say much 😉🙈 Our road trip to Leeds was also a vibe too!


Ronke

I’ve known Tobi for years — she’s like a sister to me — so being part of her wedding is an honour. Seeing her this happy means everything. I’ve gotten to know Dre, and I’ve really come to admire the kind of man he is. I’m proud to stand by them both. I’ll do whatever I can to make sure they both have their dream day.

Adam

 I can't pinpoint a single moment because honestly, every time we're together is a vibe. But I always think back to the period around my wedding — that was when we really grew close. Whether we are laughing at the most random things,  or just sitting and talking nonsense — you brought this lightness and joy that made everything better. There's never a dull moment with you.

Titi

Dre is my guy, and we've been through alot together. I'm looking forward to being apart of this day, and see Tobi make him an honest man.

Richee

A fun memory I have with Tobz is when we attempted to surprise her with a birthday trip to Amsterdam. A few weeks prior, we were on the phone when she accidentally let it slip and mentioned the surprise location mid convo. We laughed so much on the call about it and agreed not to tell the group that she knew. When we got to the airport, she still humoured us all and acted surprised when we did the big reveal. I’m pretty sure we even went to the extent of rehearsing her reaction beforehand. You’ve truly just got to love her!

Clairey

Dre is my boy, and I'm so happy to be one of the groomsmen. It's going to be a beautiful day of love and celebration. Big up the happy couple.

Tahj

Andre is my little bro, and its my job to make sure the day goes by without a hitch. I'm the one that's going to make sure everything is done, and everyone is where they are need to be. Any last minute problems, I'll be the one sorting it out. Nothing will stop my bro marrying his queen Tobi and welcoming her 'officially' into the family. 

Christopher aka Junior

The One's Who Said Yes First

The Wedding Party will be staying at the El Olivar Palace in Marrakech. El Olivar Palace is approximately&nbsp;8.3 miles (13.4 km) from Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK). By car or taxi: typically about&nbsp;20–23 minutes, depending on traffic. There are still rooms available, so if you would also like to book this hotel, please visit their website or you can book via Trip Advisor, Love Holidays, Thomas Cook or Booking.com. You can book with the hotel directly: https://www.elolivarpalace.com and use the booking code: SA2026 to receive a discount. Please note, we will only be arranging transportation from El Olivar Palace Hotel. If you would like to book at another hotel, please feel free to do so, but please be advised you will either need to make your way to El Olivar Palace for transportation, alternately, you can arrange your own transportation to the Villa on the wedding day via a local taxi. If you would like to explore other nearby hotel options, you can have a browse using the link below.<a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/HotelsNear-g293734-d19804869-El_Olivar_Palace_Marrakech-Marrakech_Marrakech_Safi.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/HotelsNear-g293734-d19804869-El_Olivar_Palace_Marrakech-Marrakech_Marrakech_Safi.html</a>

El Olivar Palace Marrakech

Travel

Things to Do

Registry

 All You Need To Know 

❤️ A NOTE FROM THE COUPLE ❤️ We are so excited to celebrate this special chapter of our lives with the people we love most. While we’d truly love to invite everyone to both celebrations, there are some limitations around the white wedding due to venue capacity and travel logistics. We hope you understand, and whether you're joining us in London, Morocco, or both – your presence means the world.

💐 Traditional Nigerian Wedding- London 💐

1. When and where is the traditional wedding taking place?Saturday 9th May 2026, The Grove Banqueting Hall, 1 Faringdon Ave, Harold Hill, Romford, RM3 8TD. The venue is easily accessible by London public transport.2. What’s the dress code?The colour theme for the traditional wedding is baby blue.All guests can purchase aso ebi from us and create their own unique style. Details on this will be shared at a later date. Alternately, if you would not like to purchase the aso ebi, we would encourage you to dress in elegant traditional or formal attire in line with the colour theme. Please avoid wearing white. 3. What kind of food will be served?Get ready for a feast! We’ll be serving a mix of Nigerian and Jamaican cuisine, celebrating both sides of our heritage.4. Can I attend both weddings?Some guests have been invited to both weddings, while others are invited to just the traditional ceremony. This is only due to restrictions with the white wedding venue – not a reflection of our love for you! Please refer to your invitation to confirm which event(s) you’re invited to.5. Can I bring a plus one?Plus ones are only permitted if specifically stated on your invitation.6. Are children welcome?Children are only welcome at the traditional wedding if it has been specifically specified on the invitation. Please supervise them at all times.

💖 White Wedding- Morocco 💖

1. Where is the white wedding being held?The white wedding will take place in beautiful Marrakech, Morocco. Specific location details will be sent directly to guests attending.2. Is there Aso Ebi for the white wedding?No. There is no Aso Ebi for the white wedding.3. What is the dress code?The dress code is pastel colours only. Please dress in elegant, wedding-appropriate attire.No white please – that’s reserved for the bride and no yellow.There will also be a colour theme for the pool party- All Shades of Blue, the day after the wedding, so pack something sexy, elegant and fabulous for that too!4. Are children allowed at the white wedding?Due to venue restrictions and the nature of the event, children will not be permitted at the white wedding.5. Can I bring a plus one?Only guests who have a plus one clearly stated on their invitation should bring a guest. Please respect this – we’d love to host everyone, but space is limited.6. How do I get to the wedding venue?On the wedding day, a private coach will pick up guests from El Olivar Hotel Marrakech.If you are staying at a different hotel:You are welcome to make your way to El Olivar Hotel in time to catch the coach, orYou can take a local taxi directly to the venue. Taxis in Morocco are safe and affordable.7. What is the Pool Party?Join us the day after the wedding for a relaxed pool party at the hotel – dress code is All Shades of Blue. It’s a chance to unwind, take photos, and celebrate together!8. Do I need a visa to enter Morocco?UK Citizens: No visa required for stays under 90 days.Nigerian Passport Holders: You will need to apply for a visa before travelling.Jamaican Passport Holders: You will also need a visa to enter Morocco.All other nationalities: Please check your local Moroccan embassy or immigration site for up-to-date entry requirements.9. Any travel tips?We recommend flying into Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) and booking accommodation early.If you’d like to stay at El Olivar Hotel Marrakech, consider booking directly or through a reputable site. We’ll share updates about any optional group events or excursions nearer the time via WhatsApp.

🎁💌 Wedding Gifts 🎁💌 

Your presence at our wedding – whether in London, Morocco, or both – is truly the greatest gift we could ask for. We feel so grateful to be surrounded by such love and support as we begin this next chapter together. We’ve been asked by some family and friends what we’d like as a wedding gift. Honestly, we feel so blessed already – but if you would like to honour us with a gift, a contribution towards our future would be deeply appreciated. This could help us build our life together, create beautiful memories, and invest in the dreams we’re excited to grow into. If you wish to give a monetary gift, you can do so via bank transfer:Bank: MonzoName: Oluwatobi AkinsojiSort Code: 04 - 00 - 04 Account Number: 66769639 Thank you from the bottom of our hearts – for celebrating with us, for your generosity, and for being part of our love story. 💖

Andre & Tobi

Andre & Tobi

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