This Knoxville Ghanaian wedding was one of the first cultural weddings that we photographed as a Knoxville wedding photographer. Throughout our years of photographing weddings, we have enjoyed the opportunity to document many different cultural weddings and observe each one's unique and particular wedding traditions.
Without a doubt, the knowledge that we have gained by photographing cultural and multi-cultural weddings has added to the wedding skillset that we bring to each and every wedding that we photograph.
For this particular Ghanaian wedding, we started the day off with couples portraits at the Knoxville Botanical Garden. The couple's bright and colorful wedding attire stood out among the lush greenery that can be found at the Knoxville Botanical Gardens, which is also one of the best Knoxville wedding venues.
After their couple session, we headed to a small and intimate wedding reception in north Knoxville. This Ghanaian wedding reception consisted of formal portraits, dinner, speeches, cake cutting, and ending with some dancing.
Below you can find a brief overview of Ghanaian wedding traditions.
Before a Ghanaian wedding even happens, it is traditionally customary for the groom to perform a kokooko or "knocking" on the bride's family door. The purpose behind this is a formal way for the groom to state his intentions to marry their daughter also known as "asking for one's hand". Many cultures practice this including Western, Eastern Middle Eastern, African, and indigenous cultures.
Dowrys or the "bride price" may also occur, payment forms include money, livestock, goods and more as a sign of respect and commitment.
Ghanaian weddings feature traditional ceremonies with wedding day attire being unique to each Ghanaian ethnic group. Kente is common among Akan brides while Ewe wear very distinct attire. Exchanging of gifts is commonplace at Ghanaian weddings.
Ghanaian wedding receptions feature dances, food, and additional activities including drumming.
Are you interested in choosing us to be your Knoxville Ghanaian wedding photographer? Just contact us today to check our availability.