“I asked for her number and she obliged,” How The Akinyemis met, kickstarted their marital journey as guests at friend’s wedding in Lagos

Wedding receptions are usually the commonest places to find eligible bachelors and spinsters serious about taking the next big step. It’s either they have a direct invitation from the couple or a friend of the couple invited them. In some cases, they might even be part of the inner circle of friends organising the wedding for the couple. Someone sees a beautiful lady or an handsome man and makes deliberate efforts to connect knowing their parts may never cross again after that day. 

So it’s safe to say weddings are breeding grounds for another wedding. Such was the case of my spotlighted couples this week, Mr and Mrs Akinyemi. When their friend was extending a wedding invitation to them, he never knew he would also be receiving a return invitation from them soonest.

1. Can you take us back to how your love story started?

 

Mr Akinyemi: We met at a friend’s wedding in Lagos. We were seated at the same table and got talking during the reception. I enjoyed her company, so I asked for her number before the event ended. We kept in touch, went on a few dates and eventually started a relationship.

 

Mrs Akinyemi: He was very friendly, and I liked how easily we connected. After the wedding, he called me, and we started talking regularly. I enjoyed our conversations, and with time, I realised I wanted us to be more than friends.

 

2. What was the moment you knew, “This is the one”?

 

Mr Akinyemi: I knew she was the one when I realised how comfortable I was around her. We could talk about serious matters, laugh over little things and make plans together. I saw her as someone I wanted beside me for the rest of my life.

 

Mrs Akinyemi: It was his consistency. He made time for me, listened to my opinions and always treated me with respect. I felt loved without having to ask for it, and that made me confident about our future.

 

3. How many years have you been together?

 

Mr Akinyemi: We have been together for 13 years and married for 11. We have shared many experiences, and I am grateful for the friendship and understanding we have built over the years.

 

Mrs Akinyemi: Thirteen years together and 11 years married.

 

4. What has helped you keep your marriage strong over the years, especially after the arrival of children?

 

Mr Akinyemi: We make a conscious effort to spend time together. Even with work and the children’s activities, we try to have our own moments. I also believe that helping each other at home makes a big difference.

 

Mrs Akinyemi: Friendship, patience and teamwork have helped us. We discuss things, share responsibilities and try to understand each other’s needs.

 

5. How do you make each other feel special, even in small ways? What fun habits have stayed with you throughout your marriage?

 

Mr Akinyemi: I enjoy surprising her with little gifts or taking her out when we have the opportunity.  We do give each other funny nicknames as well.

 

Mrs Akinyemi: I make sure he has his favourite meals whenever I can, and I always encourage him. He likes to make me laugh, especially when I am trying to be serious. We also enjoy playing around like we did when we were dating.

 

6. How do you handle disagreements or tough moments now, compared to your early years?

 

Mr Akinyemi: We have learnt to listen more and talk things through. I no longer see every disagreement as something that must be won. What matters is finding a solution and keeping peace in our home.

 

Mrs Akinyemi: We try to address issues without insulting each other. We have also learnt to apologise when we are wrong. Marriage has taught me that understanding your partner is just as important as expressing yourself.

 

7. What is one thing your partner still does that melts your heart?

 

Mr Akinyemi: She welcomes me warmly whenever I return home. No matter how busy her day has been, that little gesture makes me feel appreciated.

 

Mrs Akinyemi: He holds my hand whenever we are walking together. It reminds me that he is still affectionate after all these years.

 

8. What was one of the biggest challenges you faced together, and how did you overcome it?

 

Mr Akinyemi: Adjusting to life as parents was one of our biggest challenges. There were new responsibilities, less personal time and many things to learn. We supported each other and gradually found a routine that worked for our family.

 

Mrs Akinyemi: Becoming parents changed our daily lives. We had to adjust our schedules and learn to balance our children’s needs with our own. We got through it by communicating, sharing responsibilities and being patient with each other.

 

9. What advice would you give to younger couples hoping for a lasting marriage?

 

Mr Akinyemi: Marry someone you can be friends with. Attraction is important, but friendship, respect and understanding will help you through different seasons. Also, never stop making your partner feel loved.

 

Mrs Akinyemi: Be intentional about your marriage. Do not wait for special occasions before showing love. Appreciate the little things, communicate openly and learn to forgive. Most importantly, enjoy each other’s company.

 

10. If you could sum up your marriage in one word or sentence, what would it be?

 

Mr Akinyemi: Blessed friendship. I have a wife who is also my friend, and I do not take that for granted.

 

Mrs Akinyemi: My favourite kind of forever. After 11 years, he is still the person I want to share my good news, funny stories and everyday experiences with. I am happy we get to do life together.