Bloom In Love: Lawanda & As-Samad at 42West
From the moment guests stepped inside 42West, it was clear this was no ordinary wedding. Full of faith and romance, Lawanda and As-Samad’s “Bloom in Love” themed celebration unfolded like a living fairytale.
“How we met wasn’t just a coincidence, it was a quiet miracle, wrapped in everyday moments that only God could have orchestrated,” Lawanda recalled. For years, she prayed for a man who would love her deeply, honor her children and walk beside her in faith. Then came one hesitant girls’ night out, when As-Samad approached her and offered to buy her a drink. From that moment, everything fell into place.
At 42West, gospel melodies filled the air as guests were ushered to their seats. The altar, positioned in the center of the room, symbolized how the couple’s union would be held by the support of their community. Guests dressed in elegant black highlighted the couple’s presence: Lawanda in a sparkling crystal-adorned mermaid gown by Winnie Couture, and As-Samad in a crisp, all-white double-breasted tuxedo.
If the ceremony was heartfelt, the reception was spellbinding. Typically industrial, the venue was reimagined into a vibrant dreamscape, complete with cascading red drapery and suspended florals creating a blooming canopy overhead. Their first dance was cinematic, made all the more magical as a ballerina pirouetted around them.
The bride reflected, “God didn’t just bring us together, He prepared us for each other. And every day since, we’ve been living the answer to those prayers.” Bathed in the golden glow of candles, Lawanda and As-Samad’s wedding certainly showcased this storybook union.
VENDOR LIST
PHOTOGRAPHER: Fotos by Fola
VENUE: 42West
PLANNER: The Sharp Standard
FLORAL: Perfect Creation
BRIDE’S GOWN: Winnie Couture
GROOM’S FORMALWEAR: Richmenlooks
HAIR: Pricked By a Rose
MAKEUP: Envious Glamour
STATIONERY: Papered Wonders
CATERING: Bold Catering & Design
CAKE: K & J’s Elegant Pastries
DANCE FLOOR: Laced Vinyl Shoppe
PHOTO BOOTH & UPLIGHTING: Platinum Entertainment
FLOWERINA: Jewel Ballerina
ENTERTAINMENT: DJ 6Five
CONTENT CREATION: Fotos By Fola
