After two years together, business executive Ugochukwu Frank Okonkwo told his girlfriend, influencer Kenechukwu Obiejesi, that they were doing a couple’s photoshoot for a friend’s magazine and even arranged matching outfits. The “shoot” was on a private boat with a violinist. All of her favorite romantic songs began to play, and after Kene spied a surprise billboard, featuring an image of her and Ugo, she turned around to find him on one knee.
The moment the engaged couple found Villa Baulieu in Provence, they were completely enchanted by its vast vineyards and manicured gardens. Curated by Tara was brought on to bring their spring vision—rooted in timeless elegance—to life. Roman Ivanov and Studio 80 Cinematography lensed every special moment.
Kene knew she wanted her wedding wardrobe to reflect the different parts of the day and herself, and she turned to stylist The Wardrobe Manager for help. In London, the bride found her ceremony look at Grace Loves Lace. “The moment I stepped out, my mum and sisters all said, ‘Yes, yes, yes.’ Within minutes, we knew we had found the dress,” Kene shares. She paired it with a veil from Elizabeth and Lace and Jimmy Choos.
On the morning-of, Kene got ready with makeup artist Arike Artistry and hairstylist Onyinyechukwu Onyeibe. Bridesmaids complemented Kene in Meshki Champagne-colored dresses, while groomsmen looked cohesive in navy double-breasted suits from Suitsupply with Panama hats.
On June 7, 2025, Ugo waited for Kene at the altar in a custom Dior suit with bespoke Tricker’s shoes—“the same shoemakers worn by His Royal Majesty the King, which added a subtle touch of heritage and craftsmanship,” the groom explains. “For accessories, I went with Montblanc cufflinks and a Franck Muller wristwatch, both of which felt like unique, elevated statements.”
In the garden, guests were given parasols to shade from the Provençal sun, before Kene walked down the aisle. “I felt incredibly beautiful on the day, but I honestly didn’t know what to expect stepping into the ceremony; everything had just been ideas until that moment,” she reflects. “Walking to ‘Young and Beautiful’ was the best decision; it felt so emotional and cinematic. I was overwhelmed in the best way possible. After all the planning, the day had finally arrived, and it was even more magical than I imagined.”
The couple exchanged vows and were announced as officially married, inviting their guests to celebrate with cocktails and canapés by Maison Nans—and even quintessential French mimes. “One of the most memorable elements was the live painter, who painted a scene from the reception directly onto a model’s ball gown while guests watched, creating a keepsake that will be cherished forever,” the bride remembers.
The reception, filled with floral arrangements by Bee Flowers, called for something more romantic. Kene changed into a bespoke piece for dinner and table karaoke, hosted by the master of ceremonies, Ife Ade Tokan.
Then, she and Ugo shared a first dance to “At Last,” which ended with a spectacular fireworks display and cutting into a heart-shaped millefeuille by Les Délices de Gladys. “At one point, he twirled me up in the air and we both ended up falling to the ground, but we weren’t even embarrassed,” Kene admits. “We were just so overwhelmed with joy and love, it felt like time had stopped and we were the only two people in the world.”
Then, she changed again into a fun look for the after-party by African designer House of Marvee. Once The Fortune Collectives had completed their set, DJ Baj kept the energy under the stars high until 4 a.m., as guests enjoyed gelato and crêpes.
After an unforgettable wedding day, the newlyweds departed for their staycation in Denmark, starting in a beautiful summer house just outside of Copenhagen. Then, after a short stopover in London, they ventured onward to Medellín, Colombia, and Rio de Janeiro.
