uMhlambiso - a colourful day of love

Since I'm in bed and high on painkillers (I had my wisdom teeth out on Friday) I figured it's a good chance to catch up on some blogging. There have been exciting developments in the "wedding" part of my life which I have really been wanting to write about.

On the 9 November we had a special pre-wedding celebration called uMhlambiso. As far as I understand (please correct me if I'm wrong) this is a traditional Swati Ceremony and it is basically about presenting gifts and the 2 families getting to know each other. Let me describe the day and then it might make more sense to you:

It was supposed to start at 12am at the Maseko house (Sihle's family), but I, being influenced by African time and also being the 'bride', made my family wait and so the Volker's only arrived at like 12:15. We were welcomed by a colourful and singing crowd. Much of Sihle's family was there as well as many of our friends from church and elsewhere. Most people were wasdressed in their incredible traditional outfits. I was told to "lead the way" so I went in first to be greeted but as soon as my eyes caught hold of Sihle I ran to him. It was a very special moment. 

Joyful singing and dancing

Being welcomed

My handsome fiance

Love

With more singing and dancing the whole crowd was led to the back of the house where a tent had been set up in the garden. We were all formally greeted and the day was blessed with prayer. Next came introductions of significant members of the Maseko and Volker Families done by the dad’s (Meluccy and Jochen).

And then the giving of gifts started. Buhle Maseko (my skweeza aka future sister-in-law) did a stunning job as master of ceremonies and one by one members of my family were called up and showered with beautiful presents: jewelry, carpets, blankets, brooms and traditional clothes for the men and women. I think everyone felt extremely honored and blessed to be  welcomed in such a way. I, the umakoti (on the web its translated as 'wife' - this is what i was called all day long) was called up last to be presented with a beautiful dress, shoes, carpet, blanket and jewelry. WOW! Talk about being spoilt. I was then quickly ushered into the house by some ladies who helped me change into my new traditional outfit. And what a surprise to find that when I walked out the room Sihle was wearing a shirt to match my dress!! :D We were presented to the guests as a couple who cheered and sang. The singing and dancing basically didn't stop all day long...

Beautifully decorated tables

Sihle's dad and the MC

The dancing continues...

My cousins getting gifts

My (almost) 90 year old granny receiving a blanket as a gift

Lots of fun and laughter

Dad doing the mandela jive

Mom being showered with gifts

Learning the 'step'

Feeling like a princess

All dressed up

Joy

As a little extra my mom had organised some swiss aprons and swiss hats as gifts for Sihle’s family. So it was truly an exchange of cultures. 

Sihle receiving his swiss 'käppli"

A swiss apron

Happiness

3 of my bridesmaids

Love all around

My skweeza and my mom

The day continued to be celebrated with amazing traditional food, being introduced to various people, more dancing and good fellowship. It was one of the most memorable days of my life – so full of love, happiness and joy. I can proudly say, I love being a Swiss-African :)

Love,
Ms. M