Marriage rituals in different cultures manifest themselves in many unique ways but the Ethiopian mels stands apart. This traditional ceremony, which takes place AFTER the white wedding, includes rites of passage such as pouring coffee for your spouse and washing the hands of your elders or your significant other. The mels is a thank you to all of the guests of the wedding for their support and love in celebrating the union of the bride and groom. The occasion is filled with historic symbolism and rich cultural garments that go back years and years in Ethiopian culture. For those who are of Ethiopian descent, the images from Aida and Betre’s mels at the Silver Spring Civic Building will feel familiar. And for those who aren’t of Ethiopian descent, feast your eyes on the royal traditions of an ancient and storied culture. We want to congratulate Aida and Betre on their wedding and we wish them nothing but peace, blessings and eternal happiness. Please check out their white wedding, which we also photographed, if you haven’t seen it already.
Congratulations to Aida and Betre on your wedding day! It was an honor to serve as your wedding photographer and we wish you years and years of happiness and joy. If you are a guest who just wants to say hello to us you can do so on our Instagram page @judahavenue, or if you’re engaged and looking for a wedding or engagement photographer in the Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia area, you can reach us at (240) 643-4708 or make an appointment to visit our studio at 718 Cloverly Street, Silver Spring, MD 20905. Our email is info@judahavenue.com
Wedding Planner: Favored by Yodit Events
Officiant: Abba Michael
Ceremony Venue: St. Katherine’s Greek Orthodox Church
Reception Venue: Falls Church Marriott Fairview Park
Photographer: Judah Avenue Photography
Videographer: Bowen Films
Florist: Imperial Decor
Caterer: Dama Restaurant
Hairstylist: Lost Comb Styles
Makeup Artist: Shieda Beauty
Groom’s & groomsmen Tailor: Lapel
Bridal Boutique/ Dressmaker: Bridal Room
Wedding Cake: FluffyThoughts
Transportation: Dulles Limousine, LLC
Lighting: The Lighting Source
Band & A/V: Mahari Degefaw (Band Singer)
Stationery: Minted
Blush box (chocolate): Chocolate Boxes