Zimbabwean love story….Dave & Jen

As we arrived in Zimbabwe, it was nerves and excitement as this was not just another wedding it was the joyous reunion and celebration of two special friends. The first thing that struck us about Harare was how dilapidated and run down it is, yet amidst this were the most amazing people. We had arrived 4 days before the wedding to help out where we could as my wife was the maid of honour. Every day leading up to the wedding was truly an experience in itself and one we will remember for many years to come. It was one of those weddings, where people made an effort to fly in from all over the world to celebrate with the couple. Long lists, loaned cars, endless phone calls and many helping hands and hearts helped put this wedding together. As a photographer I was in my element, there was so much to take photo’s off, I ran out of card space. It was truly the first time I can say I helped put up the marquee tent and take the photo’s and it was awesome. As Jen walked down the isle at the “Hideaway” venue there was tears of joy…this day had finally arrived! As a photographer I had a perfect backdrop for couple photo’s from tobacco storehouses to lake sunsets. I enjoyed capturing the tobacco storehouses of one of the few surviving farms in that area. As the evening progressed and it was time for Dave to speak, words were hard to find as Dave was moved that such a beautiful wedding could take place under such circumstances. What a celebration! The party games began as Dave challenged Jen’s brother’s to five challenges, which really added to the spirit of the wedding. AS the party started, it was as if no one stopped dancing and enjoying themselves, which is truly rare nowadays at weddings. What a fun experience so much laughter and dancing that carried on into the early hours of the morning. If there is one thing we truly learnt out of this experience is that community is so important, we were awestruck at how people so willingly lend their car, house and whatever you may need even if they do not know one another that well. There is something special about the people in Zimbabwe and the way they serve one another and are so blessed with that which they have. It was truly a humbling experience. Jen and Dave may you be blessed with the grace of God that has been given to us all through Christ. May you grow together in faith and always keep that spirit of adventure as you travel through this journey together with Christ as your guide. May you remember the tears, laughter, joy and celebration as you share these images with your community of friends and family. Big hug…..Garick and Lisa