In the previous episode of “Match Made by Tomike,” love was in the air as Boluwatife and Eniola were successfully matched, both on the hunt for romantic partners. However, in the second episode of Tomike Adeoye’s matchmaking series, the focus shifts to something just as important: friendship.

Omobonike is looking for a trusted friend, someone she can root for, grow with, and share a “5 & 6” bond with. Enter Samantha, who is ready to give their budding friendship a shot. Tomike made the match, and their first date was full of meaningful conversations about love, relationships, family, faith, and more.

Watch the full episode below:

The post Friendship Goals: How “Match Made by Tomike” Found the Perfect Bestie Pair in Episode 2 appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The event was part of the 2024 Scientific Week celebrations of the Lagos State Chapter.

Redefining Health and Wellness
The retreat featured a panel discussion on preventive healthcare and nutraceuticals with Tolulope Ajayi, Abimbola Adebakin, and Pharm. Nmesoma Ohakwe. This thought-provoking session challenged conventional approaches to health and wellness.

Over 130 pharmacists engaged in interactive activities, including games, experience booths, and a nutrition masterclass.

A Commitment to Collaboration and Empowerment
This inaugural event marks the beginning of Nutrify’s long-term commitment to collaborating with pharmacists and promoting preventive healthcare, and wellness. Nutrify Nigeria is dedicated to driving positive change and empowering healthcare professionals through future events and initiatives.

This partnership aims to shape the future of health, educating and advocating for preventive measures and nutraceutical solutions.

Sponsored Content

The post Nutrify Nigeria Hosts First Wellness Retreat for Pharmacists | Here’s How it Went appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Canadian model and activist Winnie Harlow joined forces with Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Tems for an unforgettable night of girl power. The duo linked up during Tems’ “Born in the Wild“ tour in the US, captivating audiences with their incredible energy and undeniable chemistry.

Tems showcased her signature style in a series of halterneck pant sets, while Winnie Harlow exuded playful charm in a bubble skirt, striped shirt, and knitted vest. Together, they celebrated black girl magic in a moment that got fans raving across borders. Swipe through the carousel below for a taste of it:

 

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Did she see Winnie vibing to that Tems sound?

Bellas: @winnieharlow and @temsbaby

Visit www.bellanaijastyle.com to stay up to date with the latest in African fashion and lifestyle

The post Tems & Winne Harlow Unite in a Magical Black Girl Moment on Her ‘Born in the Wild’ Tour appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Credit: Oyindamola/Instagram

The journey to forever has officially begun for the popular entertainer Idowu Adeyemi, mostly known as Yhemo Lee, and his fiancée, Tayo. Today marks their traditional wedding, and we’re sure it’s going to be nothing short of spectacular.

Having already done their civil ceremony, the couple is now set to conclude their wedding festivities with a grand traditional wedding ceremony.

Before we dive into the beautiful moments from their traditional wedding, let’s take a moment to appreciate their breathtaking pre-wedding photos. Both dressed in black, Yhemo Lee looked dapper in a tailored suit by T.I Nathan, while Tayo stunned in a glamorous dinner gown by Lasosa.

Check out more photos below:

Credits:

Couple @thayour_b | @yhemo_lee
Bride’s Stylist @moodstyling_
Groom’s Stylist @frontiersbrand
Planner @jahiraeventsco
Dress: @_lasosa
Groom’s outfit: @tinathan.official
Makeup Artist: @sandramartins_studio
Hairstylist: @deolasanni_wigsluxury
Photography: @kunmi.owopetu

The post #TYLoveRocks24 Begins! Yhemo Lee & Tayo’s Engagement Photos are Pure Perfection appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The premiere episode of “Match Made By Tomike,” hosted by Tomike Adeoye, is now live. This matchmaking show is all about connecting individuals seeking love, pairing mentees with mentors, or matching job seekers with potential employers.

In this episode, Boluwatife is on the lookout for a smart, God-fearing woman who is also fun to be around. Meanwhile, Eniola is searching for a man between the ages of 27 and 35 who is kind, values peace, and has a stable, legal source of income.

Watch to see how this match was made:

The post Searching for Love: Tomike Adeoye’s “Match Made By Tomike” Premieres with Boluwatife & Eniola appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Credit: DoubleKay/Instagram

In the world of Big Brother Naija, most housemates enter the show as singles. Some find love within its walls, and if fate smiles upon them, these relationships can blossom beyond the show, sometimes even leading to marriage. But for KayXtra (Kassia Sule) and KellyRae (Kellyrae Sule), who make up the pair known as DoubleKay, their love story is already written—they’re not just a couple; they’re a married couple, taking on the BBNaija No Loose Guard edition together.

Unlike others, they didn’t step into the house as singles; they entered as a married couple. In a recent conversation with Toby Forge of Streeze, Kassia caught Toby’s interest, but he was unaware of her marital status. DoubleKay have skillfully kept their marriage private from the other housemates.

Both hailing from Delta State, Kassia is an entrepreneur, while KellyRae is a professional singer. Their love story spans over nine years, beginning with a playful game of hard-to-get that eventually led to their fairy tale romance. KellyRae proposed in November last year, and they sealed their love in February this year.

See their loved-up photos below:

 

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The post DoubleKay’s Love Story is Pure Couple Vibes – Just Look at These Photos | Life Before #BBNaija appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Media personality Tomike Adeoye has announced an exciting new show titled “Match Made by Tomike.”

Fondly known as Olori Ebi by her community, Tomike explains that the show extends beyond the realm of romantic love. It was created to deepen the connections within her community. Inspired by the organic matches she observed happening in the comment section of her Instagram posts, Tomike is elevating these connections by linking job seekers with potential employers, pairing mentees with mentors, and fostering true friendships.

Announcing the new show, Tomike said,

For the longest time I wanted my own show but the perfectionist in me kept holding me back whenever ideas came up. God inspired the concept for Match Made by Tomike in March and I’m so glad that despite all the hurdles, I pulled through and you finally get to see it on the 24th!!!!

Indeed, He’s always on time even if our timing isn’t His!
It’s been over 10 years of being a TV girl, your #FaveTvGirl and finally, I have my own show, my precious gift whooshhhh! I’m excited!!!!!!!!!!! Tell everyone you know that #MMbyTomike is cominggggggggg!!!!

Watch her share more details about the show:

The post Tomike Adeoye Introduces “Match Made by Tomike” – A Show That Goes Beyond Love appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Pairing antique white knitwear with a matching lacey headpiece, Bey rocked chic blonde curls and statement earrings for her announcement post on social media.

 

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SirDavis is named after Beyoncé’s moonshine-making great-grandfather, Davis Hogue and marks her first solo venture into the liquor market. This special creation is a heartfelt tribute, paying homage to Sir Davis’ legacy and celebrating the rich heritage of American spirits.

Bey’s love for quality whiskey is said to have birthed this venture to allow people experience something “new and unique”.

Self-described as the future whiskey, say hello to SirDavis:

 

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Beyoncé wrote her great-grandfather a note posted at the launch, check it out:

 

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A perfume, a history-making album, a trailblazing hairline and now a premium whiskey, all in the year 2024, Cow Girl Beyoncé is blazing through her serial entrepreneur era. What’s your take?

CREDITS

@Beyonce

@SirDavis

Visit www.bellanaijastyle.com to stay up to date with the latest in African fashion and lifestyle

The post Beyonce Presents SirDavis: Moët Hennessy’s 1st Entirely Stateside Developed American Spirit appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

New to the dating scene and unsure about what questions to ask your new date? Akah and Claire Nnani have you covered.

In their latest discussion, Akah and Claire offer tips for navigating the talking stage of dating. They emphasise the importance of asking open-ended questions that spark meaningful conversations. Being engaged and present during physical dates is crucial; if you need to step away, it’s polite to inform your date rather than leave abruptly.

Claire encourages being authentic to yourself, while Akah advises knowing and maintaining your values while remaining open to understanding your date’s values. They also dive into a practical list of questions to ask during the early stages of getting to know someone.

Watch the full discussion below:

The post Dating Tips 101: Akah & Claire Nnani Share Key Questions for the Talking Stage appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Known for their unbreakable bond and shared fashion sense, this dynamic duo takes the art of twinning to another level in Big Brother’s house. Whether rocking coordinating hairdos or perfectly matched outfits, Wanni X Handi are setting new standards for twin fashion. See some photos from their stylish moments on the show and before BBNaija below:

 

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Credits:

@wanni_twinny

@handi_twinny

@wannixhandi

The fun doesn’t stop here, visit www.bellanaijastyle.com for more on African fashion and lifestyle now!

The post Double Trouble: Wanni X Handi Light Up the BBNaija ‘No Loose Guard’ House with Twin Style appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Nothing beats a good Baecation: you and your lover exploring another country and making memorable footprints of your love. Partners, Tele Lawal and Elado Osuobeni decided to reward themselves with a trip to Italy as Elado got to work planning an interesting holiday to surprise Tele.

My partner and I work hard to support each other in our jobs and on our projects, so every now and then we like to reward ourselves. We chose Italy as our destination, and he went about planning the holiday to surprise me.

— Tele Lawal

Italy remains one of the world’s most visited travel destinations, which explains why many people have some knowledge of the country.

From the Roman Empire and its characters (Julius Caesar, Nero, etc.) to the Renaissance artists (Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, etc.), and the luxury fashion brands (Gucci, Fendi, Prada, etc.) there’s much to love about this fascinating destination.

Join us as we delve into Tele & Elado’s enchanting Italian escapade, where history met fashion and love met luxury:

Rome

Flying into Rome from London on a cool evening, the couple stayed at a modern apartment in the Prati district – a central district across the Tiber River and near the Vatican.

It’s a quiet and smart neighbourhood with lots of independent boutiques and traditional trattorias (informal restaurants) – central enough to be within walking distance of most of Rome’s sites, but residential enough to avoid the traditional tourist areas.

Tele Lawal in graphic full-sleeved maxi with interesting cut-out detail in Rome

Their Roman adventure included breakfast at a Ristorante overlooking Bernini’s Fountain of Four Rivers in Piazza Navona and visits to all the main tourist sites including the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, the Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain.

Rome isn’t the most walkable city, but there are reasonable public transport links. Elado is into history, so it was fun watching him light up when we saw certain sites (like the spot Julius Caesar was assassinated on the Ides of March).

After a day of Roman history, it was obvious to Tele & Elado that the next day should be one of Christian history. So, after an early rise, they headed from their apartment to Vatican City.

Vatican City

To Tele & Elado, the Vatican is the most iconic city in Christian history after Jerusalem, so visiting was a no-brainer for the couple. They said to BellaNaija Style:

Not many people know that Vatican City is its own state, and not only that but that it’s entirely contained within Rome. There is no recognisable border separating the Vatican from Rome – the only indication is a thick white line on the ground.

We walked up to St. Peter’s Basilica – for hundreds of years the largest church building in the world – weaving between drinks and souvenir stands. When we reached one of many entrances, we were greeted by tight security. After having our bags and bodies scanned, we entered the main square.

As it turned out, thousands of other people had got there before us, so the queue was very long. Our morning prayers must have been answered because I managed to speak to a security guard who helped us to the front of the queue.

To our amazement, the Pope himself came out of one of the doors and greeted some of us waiting near the front! It was a surreal moment and one that we will remember for a long time.

Once the Pope left, the front doors of St. Peter’s Basilica opened and we were allowed in. We were asked whether we would like to stay to have Latin Mass. I could worship with Elado and he could practise his Latin – a wonderful opportunity!

After the various hymns and prayers, we left the Basilica and wondered around Rome for some retail therapy before dinner at Soho House. That evening, we went back to our apartment suitably blessed and ready for the next stop on our Italian tour.

We had one last café breakfast in Rome before packing our bags and heading to the train station. As I mentioned, the whole trip was a surprise for me, so Elado refused to tell me our next destination until I spotted ‘Firenze’ on our train tickets. Florence all the way!

Tele Lawal rocking a chic knit dress in the couple’s Rome apartment, Soho House.

Florence

The 1h 30m train journey from Rome to Florence was beautiful. Italy’s high-speed trains are comfortable and often leave and arrive on time. Upon arrival in Florence, the couple were greeted by a torrential rain tagged “showers of blessing” by Tele who loved their temporary home in Florence best.

The apartment was my favourite of all of the ones we rented in Italy. All of them were modern and spacious, but this one had a certain charm that I can’t quite describe.

Too tired to do anything, Tele and Elado decided to skip sightseeing for a quiet dinner. Spoiled for choice from the long list of traditional Florentine restaurant recommendations from their lodge’s host and various friends, they had some steak and headed back to the apartment to rest.

The next day, after a café breakfast, the couple headed to the Uffizi Gallery to see some of the most iconic pieces of art assembled in Italy. They spent the morning walking through the gallery and soaking in the works of Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Botticelli.

The day was packed so, Tele recommended that

If you ever want to visit, make sure to prepare yourself – there is far too much to see in one day!

While waiting to see the Medici Venus sculpture, the stylish couple were approached by two American photographers who asked them to model for a “Love in Florence“ shoot they were planning.

Tele donned an iconic little black dress with a flattering sweetheart neckline and tulle details for the photo shoot. She paired the dress with a light coat, off-white shoes and a petals-detailed handbag in similar colours that coordinated nicely with Elado’s lovely blazer, pants, and shirt. Check out their photos below:

Love in Florence

It was such a fun time and the four of us had dinner and gelato afterwards!

The rest of our stay in Florence was marked by trips to the famous Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence Cathedral), Pitti Palace (the grand palace where the old rulers of Florence – the Medici family – lived and ruled), Boboli Gardens, and Giotto’s Campanile (a large bell tower by the cathedral).

Florence is a very walkable city – every major tourist site is within 20 minutes of the centre – but make sure to watch out for cars as the roads are very narrow.

Travel Tip from Tele

After dinner and late-night gelato, we went back to our apartment to rest for the next day. But nothing could have prepared me for the next surprise!

Tuscan Countryside

In the morning, I was told that we had a surprise activity. Elado was on his phone organising it for most of the morning and he refused to tell me where we were going.

We went to the town hall and waited until a lady pulled up in a black van. She didn’t know it was meant to be a surprise because she instantly asked whether we were there for the horse riding and wine tasting tour. Amazing!

They drove for half an hour out of Florence through the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside to a large wine estate, called Torre a Cona.

Tele Lawal & Elado Osuobeni coordinating in neutrals for a chic minimalist casual couple lewk in Tuscan Countryside

The hosting family was kind enough to give Tele and Elado a private tour on horseback.

After giving us our helmets, we followed them for two hours on our horses. Mine was hungry and unruly, Elado’s was strong and calm – I don’t want to say they matched our personalities!

Upon return to the main house, they dismounted and headed inside where a table of bread, cheese and wine was already prepared.

We tasted four different wines, all produced on the estate and they explained the history and mechanics of the wine production. It was lovely to see how much effort and care went into each bottle.

They jumped into the van at sunset and returned to Florence to rest before heading to their final stop.

After a good night’s sleep, we packed our bags and ordered a taxi to the train station. Once again, Elado refused to tell me our destination until I saw “Venezia” light up on the train’s information board. We were on our way to the Floating City!

Venice

Upon arrival in Venice, Tele & Elado noticed something that reminded them of home (Nigeria): mosquito netting on all windows. Venetian rivers and humid weather are perfect for mosquitos.

There were signs warning us of dengue fever, so we made sure to protect ourselves on the journey. Venice was our shortest stay in Italy, but a wonderful one.

It’s a touch of blue for the day. Partners, Tele Lawal & Elado Osuobeni look amazing at lunch in Venice

We saw the various tourist sites (Rialto Bridge, The Bridge of Sighs, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Doge’s Palace), and feasted on traditional Venetian dishes (lots of seafood pastas). We even managed to see a Nigerian art exhibition – Naija no dey carry last!

However, for the couple, the highlight of Venice was a trip through the various canals on a traditional gondola. According to Tele:

It took us a lot of time to decide on which gondola to choose because I wanted the perfect setting. I finally found one that seemed to call out to me in one of the small side canals.

Our guide told us he was a fourth-generation gondolier – a family vocation started by his great-grandfather. He said the cushions were handmade by his grandmother and had been of sentimental value to him – no wonder I could feel the love when I first saw the gondola!

As we were gliding through the various canals, he told us about Venice’s history and the meaning behind every great building.

Thinking about the history of Italy in general (and Venice in particular) made me realise that Italy isn’t a conventional country – it’s an amalgamation of various city-states and kingdoms with their own histories who came together just over a hundred years ago to form something greater than their individual parts.

It gave us hope that Nigeria could be something greater than its individual parts too.

After a wonderful time in Venice (topped off with amazing smoothies) we headed to our apartment to rest and prepare for our flight back to London the next day.

More Italian Tourist Tips from Tele & Elado

When to visit

For Nigerians who don’t like the cold, summer from April to September will be the best time. However, this is peak tourist season, so be warned that everywhere will be busy. It will also be a lot more expensive. Out-of-season times (October to March) will be cooler but less busy and cheaper.

Where to stay

This will depend on your taste. For hotel lovers, there are many to choose from across the three cities we visited. Rome, Florence and Venice are expensive cities as they are global tourist destinations, so don’t expect high quality at cheap prices  – you get what you pay for!

We used Airbnb to find high-quality apartments in each city. Rome and Florence were much easier than Venice, though. The Floating City has fewer accommodation options (especially if you want modern interior design).

How to move around

Florence and Venice were very walkable cities, so if you don’t mind getting some exercise, you’ll be fine in those. Otherwise, Florence has taxis that can usher you around the various sites, and Venice has river taxis that can do the same.

Rome is larger and less walkable (unless you’re fit), so try the various public transport options – metro, buses, trams and urban rail. If not, good old taxis will take you to the historical sites.

How much should you budget?

It would depend on whether you’re going to one city, two, three or more. For Airbnb accommodation, you can expect anything from $200 to $500 per night for a small apartment. A budget hotel comes with setbacks anywhere from $200 to $400 per night, while $900+ per night for a luxury hotel.

If you want to eat on a budget, try the trattorias and osterias in each city (more informal than restaurants). These will generally be $30+ for a meal for two. Luxury restaurants will cost $200+ for a meal for two.

What to eat

You can get classic Italian dishes like pizzas and spaghetti Bolognese in every city. However, it’s often good to try traditional dishes in each city.

• Rome is known for artichokes, pecorino (a type of cheese), zucchini pasta, and thin, crisp pizzas.
• Florence is known for its thick steaks (Bistecca alla Fiorentina), Ribollita soup (white beans and vegetable soup), and tripe sauce (shaki in tomato sauce).
• Venice is by the sea and is known for its various seafood pasta dishes and seafood pizzas – including a cuttlefish risotto (rice dish) dyed with black ink from the cuttlefish.

Why visit?

There is something for everyone in Italy:

• If you’re interested in history and culture, the museums, palaces and ruins will satisfy you.
• If you’re interested in food, Italians have hundreds of tasty traditional and regional dishes that will have you spoilt for choice.
• If you’re interested in shopping, you’ll leave Italy with enough clothes to last you a lifetime (or at least a few weeks)!

All in all, Italy is a global tourist destination for a reason. There are many cities with different cultures and histories that will keep you coming back time and again. We’re already planning our next trip!

Would you visit Italy soon?

The fun doesn’t stop here, visit www.bellanaijastyle.com for more on African fashion and lifestyle now!

The post Elado Treats Tele to an Unforgettable Itailian Adventure on This BNS Exclusive, Travel with Them appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Credit: Love Island/Instagram

Mimii Ngulube and Josh Oyinsan have made history as the first black couple to win Love Island. On Monday, July 29th, the couple were crowned winners of the eleventh season of the popular British reality TV dating show. Mimii and Josh beat Welsh couple Nicole Samuel and Ciaran Davies, who finished as runners-up. Fellow islanders Matilda Draper and Sean Stone came third on the show, while Jessica Spencer and Ayo Odukoya placed fourth.

Host Maya Jama announced that the couple had received the highest percentage of the public vote, winning the £50,000 cash prize.  The couple captured the hearts of the nation with their genuine connection and undeniable chemistry. Mimii, a 24-year-old mental health nurse and actress, and Josh, a 29-year-old Nigerian-British footballer and model, have become household names overnight.

Upon being announced as winners, Mimii broke down in tears, expressing her gratitude: “Thank you, everyone, we love you.”

Mimii praised Josh for being “attentive, kind, gentle, and loving,” adding, “Thank you for showing me the qualities that I thought were unrealistic in this day and age.”

In a chat with Indiyah Polack, Josh shared his plans after the show, expressing his excitement about spending more time with Mimii away from the cameras and meeting her family and friends.

When Mimii and Josh make their declarations of love:

 

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Watch them respond to their win:

 

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Watch the highlights of the show below:

The post Mimii Ngulube & Josh Oyinsan Become First Black Couple to Win Love Island appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Credit: Ify Okoye/Instagram

Jude Engees Okoye and his wife, beauty queen Ify Okoye, celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary today. They got engaged in 2014 on Jude’s birthday, April 24th, then married three months later in July. The couple have three beautiful children: Emma, Eleanor, and Ethan. For those unfamiliar, Jude is the older brother of the popular music duo P-Square (Peter and Paul Okoye).

Taking to Instagram, a happy Ify shared, “10 years ago, we made the best decision of our lives. Our love has only grown stronger as we’ve journeyed through highs and lows, and now, we’re celebrating a decade of shared dreams, endless laughter, and unwavering support. Here’s to the next chapter of our love story, forever and always. ”

See more photos from their anniversary shoot:

 

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The post It’s a Decade of Love! Jude & Ify Okoye Celebrate 10th Wedding Anniversary appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

This episode dives deep into the world of singles. Akah and Claire Nnani tackle the intriguing topic: “The Real Reason You’re Still Single.”

They explore the vast and varied reasons why people remain single. These can range from past relationship trauma, fear of commitment, hookup culture, social media influence or simply not feeling ready for love. They also delve into external factors like starting relationships too young, unreal expectations or prioritising other life goals.

While they acknowledge that being single isn’t inherently negative, Akah and Claire focus on those who are actively seeking relationships and want to navigate the dating scene.

Watch below:

The post Why Are You Still Single? Akah & Claire Nnani Unpack the Reasons appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Photo Credit: @bedgepictures

Ladies and gentlemen… The hour is upon us!

Yes, it’s the #ChiVido2024. We’ve been super elated since the announcement that our award-winning Afrobeats superstar, Davido, and the love of his life, Chioma Avril Rowland was set for the aisle.

Now, it’s here and our excitement has gone right off the charts. The singer and his sweetheart tie the knot traditionally today and we’ve got some snippets of their first, and second looks from the all-so special day.

Davido

 

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Davido is #CHIVIDO24 ready.

:@B_RedHKN pic.twitter.com/Bmre5L87RG

— BellaNaija (@bellanaija) June 25, 2024

 

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Chioma

 

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The post It’s the #ChiVido2024! Here’s Your First Look at Davido & Chioma’s Trad appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

What is there not to love about Davido and Chioma‘s love story? They’ve gone through the ups and downs of love together, from breakups to makeups, to happy and sad momets. But in the end, the pair have managed to only get better, appearing more in love, than when they started way back in 2017, 2018. To see how their story began and how it’s unfolded over the years, take a look below!

2018

Davido never shied away from declaring his love for Chioma. In 2018, ahead of her birthday, Davido and Chioma were at a club and with a mic in his hand, Davido publicly declared his love for her saying “I’m in love o”.

 

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2018

Davido and Chioma in Barbados.

2018

“Give my baby Assurance”

 

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2018

Davido featured Chioma in “Assurance” and “Wonder Woman”

2018 

Chioma had the best 23rd birthday – from getting a Porsche as a birthday gift to having a song written about her. The couple attended two events that weekend to celebrate Chioma’s birthday; a pre-birthday party and a birthday dinner. At the dinner, Davido and Chioma were so loved up and cute.

2019

Davido is such a lover boy, and with Chioma, he goes all out. On Valentine’s Day (2019), Davido showed up at Chioma’s place with saxophonists to serenade her. He also brought cakes, flowers, and champagne with him. While Davido did not sing, his saxophonists warmed everywhere with their fire tunes and plastered smiles.

.@iam_Davido surprises Chioma for Valentine’s Day pic.twitter.com/qRLAPB05rQ

— BellaNaija (@bellanaija) February 14, 2019

2019

When they welcomed their baby boy, Ifeanyi.

2019

Chioma introduced Davido to her family and he put a ring on it. Chioma Rowland said YES! Trust Davido to go big. He shared the photo of the huge diamond designed by Dorgu on Chioma’s finger, with the caption: “SHE SAID YES!!!! BIG ROCK ? #ASSURANCE2020”. Chioma also shared the photo on her Instagram page with the caption, “??? I love you @davidoofficial (You didn’t even let me wax yet ??)”.

 

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2020

Date Night!

2020

Davido featured Chioma in the music video for “1 Milli”

2020

In sickness and in health…

Glory be to God .. Chioma has now tested negative twice for Covid19 … Thank you all for prayers …. We love you ..

— Davido (@davido) April 19, 2020

2023

When Davido announced in an interview with content creator and actress, Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori (KieKie) that he and Chioma got married. He said, “Just being away, you know I have had a lot to think about definitely. Time to rest, reflect on a lot of family time and time to make music again. You know, I remade the album. Before I went on a break I actually had an album ready. I had a tour ready. You know we did the album. I travelled. It was crazy. I’m married. A lot of different things but yeah, we are ready now to get back on the road. The album is out, it’s amazing.”

 

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2023

“It’s a forever thing I ASSURE YOU!”

 

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2023

Baba and Mama Ibeji

 

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2024

Officially Mr & Mrs Adeleke!

 

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The post #ChiVido2024: Davido & Chioma Through The Years appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The wedding bells are ringing and we can hear them loud and clear. The countdown to David Adeleke (popularly known as Davido) tying the knot with Chioma Avril Rowland (aka Chef Chi) has begun!

This love story started way back.

In anticipation of their upcoming wedding, the sweethearts shared lovely photos from their pre-wedding shoot on Instagram. The warmth each frame exudes is next to none and we can’t hold our excitement for these two who are #ChiVido2024.

Check out the photos below:

Photo Credit: @davido

The post It’s #ChiVido2024 Time! Check Out Davido & Chioma’s Pre-Wedding Photos ❤️ appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Are you in a relationship with a guy who isn’t financially well-off, or considering dating someone who seems perfect except for their bank account? Laju Iren tackles this common dilemma in her latest video.

Drawing from her own experience of meeting her husband, Laju offers her insights and advice on building a strong financial foundation with your partner. She’ll guide you through shifting your mindset about money and navigating the financial aspects of a relationship.

Watch below:

The post Feeling Conflicted Between Love & Finances? Laju Iren Has Some Advice For You appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Have you ever said “I love you” to someone and gotten a “thank you” in response? Quite an awkward situation, you must agree. Those three little words can be a relationship game-changer. But when exactly should you say them?

In this video, Akah and Claire Nnani dive into the power and timing of the “L” word. They also share their own experiences with saying it.

Watch here:

The post Who Should Say “I Love You” First? Watch Akah & Claire Nnani Share Their Thoughts appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Nigerian actor, model, and digital content creator Denola Grey and fashion, beauty and lifestyle content creator Dodos Lydia Uvieghara were “giving” friendship goals on the ‘Gram while sharing their step-by-step beauty routine. They doled out secret info about their favourite products for smooth, soft, and flawless skin on their trip to England with Range Rover. 

Hit the button below to watch:

 

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The fun doesn’t stop here, visit www.bellanaijastyle.com for more on African fashion and lifestyle now!

The post Denola Grey & Dodos Uvieghara Reveal Their Best-Kept Beauty Secrets | WATCH appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

So you’re looking for the best romantic movies to watch with bae? Look no further. Look no further than Akah and Claire Nnani’s curated list of top romantic movies. They’ve scoured streaming services and their own memories to bring you the perfect picks for a night of cuddles and popcorn.

Bonus? These movies might even spark some interesting conversations! So, grab your bae, get comfy, and get ready to hit play.

Want to see their top 5 picks? Scroll down to watch the video!

The post Movie Night with Bae! Akah & Claire Nnani Recommend 5 Must-Watch Romance Movies appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The friend zone: a dreaded place where feelings linger unrequited. We’ve all heard the phrases: “You’re like a brother/sister to me,” or “I just see you as a friend.” But what if those feelings run deeper? What if you secretly crave a romantic connection with someone you already know and care about?

Laju Iren is here to help you navigate this tricky situation. In her video, she tackles the common challenge of transitioning from friend zone to relationship zone. If you’re harbouring secret feelings for a friend, this video is your roadmap to exploring a potential romance.

Laju advises to gauge your friend’s interest first – teasing out if there’s a chance for something more, and shares tips for subtly shifting the dynamic and the art of navigating the “friend zone” conversation, where you now communicate your feelings openly and honestly.

Don’t settle for unspoken desires. Watch the video below and discover the secrets to taking your friendship to the next level:

The post “Is It More Than Friendship?” Laju Iren Shares Tips on Escaping the Friend Zone appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

There’s a love bug in the air, and we are happy everyone is catching it, including Dami Elebe, the talented scriptwriter who just announced her engagement with beautiful photos.

Dami is known for weaving captivating stories as seen in series like “Far From Home,” “Skinny Girl in Transit,” “The Men’s Club” and “Rumor Has It.” She’s also the head writer of the second season of the Showmax’s “Flawsome.”

Sharing her joy with the world, Dami captioned her engagement photos: “That’s how two hard guys went and fell in love. Now we can’t live without each other. Now we have no choice but to marry. Now we’re doing wedding. God you do this one.”

We couldn’t be happier for Dami and her fiancé. There’s nothing like celebrating love, and we love seeing couples find their happily ever after.

See more engagement photos below:

 

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The post Love Wins! Dami Elebe Announces Engagement with Lovely Photos appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Akah and Claire Nnani are back with more relationship wisdom. Last week, they opened the vault on viewer questions, tackling everything from faith and body image to the tricky world of love. This time, they answer more questions, sharing opinions and advice from the dynamics of their own relationship.

In this video, they discuss how they leverage each other’s strengths and weaknesses, share their thoughts on finances and marriage, and explore how they navigate personal growth while staying connected.

This video is your one-stop shop for relationship advice, straight from Akah and Claire.

Watch here:

The post Akah & Claire Nnani Get Real About Finances, Growth & More in New Video appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Akah and Claire Nnani are putting the spotlight on their viewers in the latest episode of their YouTube channel. The couple invited viewers to submit questions, and to their surprise, they received a ton of thoughtful questions.

The questions ranged from navigating love and finances to dealing with body image insecurities. The viewers were also curious about how Akah’s acting career impacts their relationship, their favorite biblical figures, and the importance of praying together. The couple even shared their personal prayer routines and how they resolve conflicts as a team.

But it wasn’t all deep questions. One viewer sought advice on managing excessive hair growth, and Claire generously offered some helpful tips.

Watch the episode below:

The post Watch Akah & Claire Nnani Answer Viewers’ Questions on Relationships, Faith & More appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

People often experience changes when they get married. Some add more weight, grow beards and even become more beautiful, all thanks to the radiance that comes with marital bliss. It is often said that marriage throws some truly unexpected curveballs your way – and sometimes, those curveballs come in the form of hilarious misconceptions. But who knew “growing taller” could join the list?

On the popular social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), user Ibrahim Kazeem, posed a question: “What’s your first reality check after getting married? A woman expressed her shock at not gaining height, questioning if this was her “wifely height” forever, even for PTA meetings. “You mean this is my wifely height? Forever? The height I’ll carry to PTA meeting?” she asked.

This response, along with many others – hilarious and at the same heartwarming – has shown that the journey of married life is sure to be filled with laughter, unexpected moments, and a whole lot of love (even if it doesn’t involve height increases).

Check out some of the reactions below:

Forgetting that I just got married and that she’s at home waiting for me.

— Danny_Yankee (@Danny_Yanki) May 19, 2024

People started calling me ma up and down, I’m still trying to get used to it. https://t.co/B0zwCQ9t9U

— Nwanyi Ichida (@Betamezu) May 20, 2024

My ear almost block with Liverpool
Right now i know all the players and it’s fun

— kess (@amazingwoman47) May 20, 2024

We’ve practically turned to gist and gossip partners;not my wife pointing/showing me with her mouth/eyes while I turn my head to look at the direction and she goes like “you can’t even do amebo well well”

— CHIJIOKE NNAMDI (@CHIJIOKENNAMDI3) May 20, 2024

Waking up startled after seeing man sleeping peacefully beside me, and I will be like WHO IS THIS ON MY BED?” Sometimes I say it out before I will remember that I have a husband.

— Haleemah Gegele-Bello (@HaleemahGegele) May 20, 2024

When I/me changed to us/we during prayers

— MRS Aisha baby (@Q_yeesha) May 19, 2024

“When u are done at work, branch market and get these stuffs”. My brother naso i dey always enter utako market with my fine suit go dey price pepper ooo

— BOB_SCATTER (@Jimada_Gana) May 20, 2024

The next Saturday after our wedding we were going to attend a friend’s wedding and madam insisted that we must wear and co all my effort to make her change her mind failed

— BLAIZE (@_bigblaize) May 20, 2024

Actually needing to get out of bed to cook …

Dem dey ask me to take decision. I mean life changing decision o. I just dey laugh. I be like who get sense

— Pepper Snacks (@the_damola) May 20, 2024

The post These Reactions to Marriage Realities Will Have You LOLing & Awwing appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

This episode delves into the complex issue of cheating in relationships. Akah and Claire Nnani explore the reasons why people stray, along with the often negative mindset some individuals carry.

They discuss the fear of being cheated on and how it can lead to entering relationships with a built-in assumption of betrayal.

The conversation goes beyond theory, offering real-life examples of infidelity. Akah and Claire Nnani share their insights on these situations, providing practical advice for navigating the emotional complexities of cheating.

Watch here:

The post Akah and Claire Nnani Tackle Tough Questions on Cheating in Relationships | Watch appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Being single can feel challenging, especially with pressure from family, friends, and even neighbours. It can lead to feelings of loneliness if you let it. But Laju Iren offers a refreshing perspective. She argues that singlehood isn’t a waiting game for marriage. Instead, it’s a prime time for self-discovery – a chance to connect with yourself, explore your spirituality, and identify your life’s purpose. It’s the perfect window to invest in yourself, whether professionally, academically, financially, or through personal growth.

Laju doesn’t stop there. She also dives into the pitfalls to avoid during singlehood and offers advice on navigating this chapter before marriage enters the picture.

Watch below:

The post Laju Iren Shares Tips to Navigating Singlehood & Pitfalls To Avoid | Watch appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Credit: ThisDay Style/Instagram

Twenty-five years ago, Razak and Shade Okoya embarked on a journey that would redefine their lives – a union that has blossomed into a powerful partnership in love and business. Through changing times, theirs is a love story etched in unwavering commitment, respect, and a shared vision.

For Razak, the key to their longevity lies in mutual understanding and a commitment to making things work. “A marriage is a union that is meant to last a lifetime. One should understand that before they go into it. You must do your best to make it work.”

They are not only a couple in love but a couple in business. Razak, the billionaire industrialist, owner and founder of the Eleganza group of companies, with a market spanning Western Africa, finds a partner in Shade, the company’s managing director.

Shade credits her ability to manage the business effectively to her husband. “I have learned so many valuable lessons from my husband. The most valuable lesson I have learned from him is how to successfully run the business on a daily basis,” she says. 

In this interview with THISDAY Style, the couple answers questions on love, their marriage journey, family, and the unique dynamic of running a business together.

Read excerpts from the interview:

On the staying power of their marriage:

Razak: A marriage is a union that is meant to last a lifetime. One should understand that before they go into it. You must do your best to make it work.

Shade: I give all the glory to Allah the Almighty for the grace to be married to my husband, and I’ve committed my marriage from the very beginning to His will. With God as the foundation, it has been good. The importance of compromise and, above all, patience cannot be understated; every single day, patience must be put into practice. My husband has a broad range of experience, and in respect to this, I have learned not to be in a hurry to respond during any disagreements we have; rather, I listen carefully to be sure I properly understand his point. This way, I find myself learning from him while recognising my own mistakes. A strong determination to succeed in my marriage has always been a priority for me, and patience and humility have seen me through to date. I see my husband not just as my lover but as a friend and role model. I believe his love for me and his protection of me have also really helped our marriage.

Can you tell us what about him still endears you to him?

I have always loved the fact that he is a very intentional, tenacious, mature, and generous man. Up until now, everyone who knows my husband has said these qualities are true about him, and they are still very much there. This is one of the major things I have loved and still love about him. He has also always been very caring and hardworking, always finding things to do to keep himself occupied.

For 25 years, you have watched your wife immerse herself to fit into your lifestyle and grow into the woman she is today. Tell us what you are most proud of about her having gone through all she did

Shade has made me incredibly proud. She is very intelligent and is always eager to learn; she constantly sets new goals for herself and keeps doing all she can to meet those goals. In this respect, she is very much like me. She reminds me of myself in my younger years when I couldn’t stop moving. However, when you work together, plan together, and strive together, the work keeps you moving and keeps your love going.

Their advice for couples planning to get married

My advice will be to fully understand that marriage is a commitment that you make to the other, for better or worse. People should think about it deeply and be ready to adjust to the home that they find themselves in. They must also be prepared to go the extra mile to be good and make compromises for the sake of their whole family structure. In life, there are trials and tribulations that one will go through with his or her partner, and one should be prepared for these challenging moments because they will come. Also remember, during those challenging times, the reasons you love your spouse and be actively committed to preserving the marriage.

Shade: Put God first in everything you do. Learn to pray together, because a couple that prays together stays together. They must be good friends and be able to sustain their marriage by enjoying being in each other’s company and loving each other sincerely. Considering that I married a much older man, I have had to remember to be respectful and loyal at all times without obviously losing my identity. I have to make sure he is assured that I am fully committed to him the way he is committed to me.

Read the full interview here.

The post Razak & Shade Okoya Share the Secrets to Their 25-Year Love Story with THISDAY Style Magazine appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Credit: Wofai Fada/Instagram

#TW024 rings in wedding bells for chef, actress and comedian Wofai Ewa, popularly known as Wofai Fada and her fiance. Wofai shared the joyful news and engagement photos on her Instagram this morning.

Beyond her work in media, Wofai is also a successful entrepreneur in the food and drink industry. She’s the owner of the popular restaurant “Just Afang” and the cookbook titled “Yogiegee Culture.”

Congratulations to Wofai!

 

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See more photos from her engagement

 

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The post Wofai Fada Is Engaged! appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Tensions reach a boiling point between Justin and Whitney in episode 7 of “Heartstrings and Hiccups.” Whitney remains icy after their recent confrontation, and Sophia‘s subtle flirtations with Justin further complicate the already volatile situation

As the evening unfolds into a game night, alliances are tested and emotions run high. But the night turns unexpectedly when a seemingly innocent question from the game triggers Whitney’s wrath. This episode is filled with unresolved conflicts simmering beneath the surface. Catch up on all the previous episodes here.

Watch episode 7 below:

The post Game Night Gone Wrong in Episode 7 of “Heartstrings & Hiccups” appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Before diving into the Q&A session, the couple engages in an interesting TikTok couple’s game that reveals some surprising facts about them.

Enjoy!

The post Love Languages, Fights & More… Ebuka & Cynthia Obi-Uchendu Answer All Questions in New Vlog appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Photo Credit: Kennedy Amaku

Gospel artist Theophilus Sunday and his bride Ashlee White, exchanged their vows today in a church wedding ceremony. The happy couple had their traditional wedding ceremony on Thursday, April 11.

See their beautiful looks as they walk down the aisle and celebrate their love at the reception:

The Bride

 

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The Groom

 

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The couple walking down the aisle

 

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The couple dancing

 

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Reception looks

 

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The post Theophilus Sunday & Ashlee White Are Forever One! See Highlights from their White Wedding appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Photo: Dexima Photography

Gospel artist Theophilus Sunday and his beautiful bride, Ashlee White, culminate their love story today with a traditional wedding ceremony.

After announcing their engagement in a prewedding shoot on March 19th, the couple made things official with a legal ceremony on March 21st. Now, they embark on the next chapter of their wedding journey, tying the knot the traditional way.

See the couple’s first looks below:

 

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The Bride and her Asoebi Ladies

 

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The Couple

 

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The Groom

 

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The bride with her mum and sister

 

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The post #SailingToSunday… Here’s Your First Look at Theophilus Sunday & Ashlee at their Traditional Wedding appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Feeling lost after a break-up? Akah and Claire Nnani have got something for you. In this episode, the couple gets personal, sharing their own experiences with heartbreak and the valuable lessons they learned. They also share the craziest break-up stories they have heard and how it affected the people involved.

Akah delves into the common signs of heartbreak, and Claire describes it as an accumulation of rejections, disappointments, and unmet expectations. Plus, they share the almost-breakup moments while dating and how they fixed it.

Watch here:

The post Akah & Claire Nnani Share the Secrets on How to Deal With Heartbreaks in this Episode of their Podcast appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

“Love is a beautiful thing,” they say, and a recent wave of engagements and weddings in Nigerian gospel music seems to confirm it. Since the heartwarming engagement of Sunmisola Agbebi last March, news of gospel singers finding their “good thing” has filled the headlines.

Check out the gospel singers who found their happily ever after in the last year.

Sumisola Agbebi and Yinka Okeleye

“The love of my life said yes!” In an intimate ceremony with their closest friends in March, amidst red and white balloons, and a violinist playing a romantic melody, Yinka got down on one knee and asked Sunmisola to marry him. Of course, you know the answer.

 

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Months later, the couple had an introduction ceremony to formally introduce their families and a wedding ceremony in June to seal the union, making them Mr and Mrs.

 

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Veekee James

Kicking off 2024 in style, popular fashion designer Veekee James, the voice behind “Olugbeja,” tied the knot with Femi Atere in a spectacular wedding. The #LoveUnbeaten24 couple’s celebrations, from their introduction to the white wedding, were a delightful and fashionable experience.

 

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Months earlier, Femi proposed to Veekee in a beautiful setting. “I said YES to my sweetest love Femi   on the 10th of June, 2023! I thought he was taking me out on a dinner date but he already planned to ask me to be his wife!  I said YES without a doubt!”

See the proposal video below:

Moses Bliss

In January, Moses Bliss surprised everyone by announcing his engagement to Marie Wiseborn on social media. The proposal took place in London in a beautiful orchestra in a setting surrounded by friends. Moses even serenaded Marie with a special performance before popping the question and getting a resounding “yes”!

Barely a month later, their love story culminated in a beautiful February wedding ceremony in Ghana. The celebrations included a civil and traditional ceremony, officially making them Mr. and Mrs. Bliss.

 

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That’s not all, Moses Bliss also released an entire EP titled “Love Testament” filled with love songs dedicated to his wife, Marie, and the love they share.

Listen to the EP here

Theophilus Sunday

The year has barely started, and then boom, Theophilus Sunday announced his engagement to Ashlee White on his Instagram page

 

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And by the weekend, they wasted no time in announcing that they were legally married

 

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Neon Adejo 

“One quick date in LONDON, now the rest is history This woman is so special Best decision after salvation…” These are the sweet words Neon said about his proposal to his love, Lade Kehinde.

 

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The proposal video was accompanied by an intimate love song named after her “Lade”

King James

Called Out Music

We’re seeing a recent surge in weddings in the Christian community this year. Could this be related to the prophecy from 2023 by Nathaniel Bassey regarding “Kingdom marriages” in 2024?

Congratulations to all the couples, and we look forward to hearing more good news.

We not only love all the engagement and wedding announcements, but we also love the accompanying love songs by the gospel singers themselves. We’ve curated a list for you. Check it out here.

The post The Gospel Singers Who Got Engaged & Married in the Last One Year 💍 appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

One of our favourite things about the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is the opportunity it gives to create sweet love stories. Abisoye and Collins are beneficiaries of this… and Yes, their love story began in the NYSC camp.

Now, it’s a forever story for the lovebirds as they tie the knot in a beautiful white wedding ceremony. Abisoye looked radiant and Collins came through dapper. Before their white wedding, the Yoruba beauty and Delta-Igbo prince charming had a wholesome blend of love and culture with their traditional wedding. Their special bond was evident all through and we can’t get enough of  the joyous atmosphere and sweet display of love in each of their photos

Enjoy their wedding photos below:

How we met
By the groom, Collins:

Abisoye and I met at NYSC Camp through mutual friends. Before we were introduced, I had seen her earlier in the day at Mami market purchasing a power bank and she looked overwhelmed. I tried to get her attention but she walked right past me; she didn’t even notice me or look in my direction. Well, as fate would have it, we were formally introduced through friends that night. Most of her friends were in my platoon, so she would come over to hang and I always saved her a seat… we got closer over time.

We got to know each other better and became really great friends. During our last week on camp, I asked her if she had planned on relocating or travelling for her master’s degree because I knew I was relocating soon. I saw a future with her and I didn’t want to miss out on it. We started dating right after camp and I made sure my last few months before relocating were memorable. Our relationship became a long-distance relationship for a year before she moved for her master’s. The rest, as they say, is history.

Talk about a stylish squad

Abisoye and Collins also had a vibrant traditional wedding. Here’s how it went;

Credits

White Wedding

Bride: @heybisoye
Groom: @collinswolfff
Bridal Stylist: @theperlaco
Makeup: @olawande_mua
Hairstylist: @kottysignature
Wedding Dress: @oobiuku
Afterparty Dress: @made.pieces
Shoes: @sophiawebster
Beads: @fibeads
Earrings: @tavinstores
Photography: @c3pictures_gallery | @weddingsbytobi
Videography: @funpeosobu
Planner: @etaleventsng

Traditional Wedding

For more weddings, love stories, pre-weddings, and wedding planning tips & inspo,
visit www.bellanaijawedbellanaijaweddings.com

The post Love In NYSC Camp! Abisoye and Collins’ Fairytale Is One Of Beautiful Adventures appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Photo Credit: @bangraphy

Wedding bells have been ringing all year, and Nollywood star Sharon Ooja just joined the club. She recently announced on Instagram that she’s officially married.

Sharon said yes to her partner a few months ago, and they’ve now had their civil ceremony. She shared the news on Instagram with the caption,

A few months ago I said yes to my odogwu silencer as I call him as he came and silenced the noise, my Igbo king civil ceremony done and dusted ink dried yes I’m fully a mrs as I type this … he brought the calm…I’ll say yes a thousand times to your kindness and good heart… yes a thousand times to the discipline and structure you bring… yes a thousand times to your absolute love and protection you are my best friend bro bro our inside joke !! … dear husband This is fully the hand of God !!I prayed for this and God gave me fully Thank you Jesus for this gift of love the testimony is complete You did it Jesus take Your glory … counting down to our church blessing and traditional wedding proudly a mrs

Amazing video by @davin.phelpsfilms
#crazyaboutUS24
#loveunitesUS24

 

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The post “A Few Months Ago I Said Yes to My Odogwu”… Sharon Ooja is Officially a Mrs! appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

These gospel singers aren’t afraid to show their romantic sides. They’ve penned beautiful love songs that are perfect for anyone looking for lyrics that capture the joy and wonder of being in love. So whether you’re searching for the ideal song for your wedding playlist, a proposal you’ll never forget, or simply a way to express your feelings to your special someone, these love songs have you covered.

Moses Bliss – “Carry Am Go,” “Love Love,” and “Perfect for Me”

Everyone knew about this talk-of-town wedding. From the proposal to the wedding day, it was one wedding everyone looked forward to and enjoyed. Moses Bliss who is an exceptional singer proposed to his wife, Marie, with a beautiful rendition of the song “For Life.” And it moved Marie to tears. Then he released other love songs in celebration of their union such as “Carry Am Go,” “Love Love,” and “Perfect for Me.”

Anendlessocean – “LMLY”

Anendlessocean recently released the single “LMLY,” which stands for “Let Me Love You.” The song is a heartfelt love that shows his romantic side, portraying him as a Jesus-loving lover boy. This is the first track off his soon-to-be-released album “Hexagon.”

Neon Adejo – “Lade”

Fresh off his recent proposal, Neon Adejo gifted the world with “Lade,” a sweet and intimate love song eponymously named after his fiancee, Lade.

Folabi Nuel – “Bobibi – Forever and a Day”

This entire album is a love letter from Folabi Nuel to his wife, Gboremi. Released in 2023, “Forever and a Day” features a collection of romantic tracks like “911” (a playful song about being completely smitten), “For You” (a heartfelt declaration of love), and the captivating “Monalisa” featuring guest artists like Timi Dakolo, Johnny Drille and Remii.

Victor Thompson – “Fall in Love”

Victor Thompson did not mince words with the 2022 single “Fall In Love.” This sweet and heartfelt message leaves no doubt about his feelings for his wife, Henrietta.

Sinmidele and Remii – “My Baby”

Teaming up for a soulful duet, gospel powerhouse Sinmidele and The Voice alum, Remii, created “My Baby,” a song that beautifully captures the tenderness and joy of being in love.

Yadah – “When a Believer Loves”

In 2023, Yadah went all out with a 2-track EP dedicated to her husband, Okafor Chinonso Daniel. “I really wanted to do songs that talked about love through the lens of scripture. Love as patience, love as kindness, love in its purity. I’m glad I did. The EP “When a Believer Loves” has just 2 songs dedicated to @__okaforchinonso,” she wrote in an Instagram post.

Gaise Baba – “Títíláí”

Bringing an Afro-fusion twist to the love song genre, Gaise Baba dropped “Títíláí” song in 2017 in celebration of love. He says:

“Títíláí” is a song about love within the context of marriage, told from a near-playful angle of a good guy reiterating his endless commitment to his bride. The aim is to draw attention through this, to the institution of marriage; glorify, celebrate and promote the biblical concept of love, grace and ‘forever-ness’.

Angeloh – “Love Child”

In 2023, Angeloh released not just an album, but a celebration of love! “Love Child” is a 7-track that talks about love in its truest form – new love, weddings, romantic getaways – and all the sweetness that comes with it. It has a deluxe version featuring collaborations with other gospel greats like Greatman Takit, Gaise Baba, Ko’rale, and soul singer, Waje. Since 2019, Angeloh has been making love songs inspired by the twists and turns of his love life: from being single to finding the one, getting married, and navigating fatherhood as a young man.

Bonus… Sola Allyson – Ife Eji Owuro

We couldn’t resist including a timeless classic! Sola Allyson‘s “Ife Eji Owuro” (meaning “Morning Love”) is a beautiful and enduring love song that continues to resonate with listeners today. The song “Eji Òwúrò” first appeared in 2003 as part of the soundtrack for a Bimbo Oshin movie of the same name. It was later revamped in 2009 with production by Cobhams Asuquo and mixing by Olaitan Dada of Natialo Productions.

The post Editor’s Pick: The Perfect Playlist for The Christian Lovebirds appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

It’s the season of weddings for gospel artists! This month, gospel minister Theophilus Sunday announced his engagement to his partner, Ashlee. Now, the duo aren’t just engaged – they have officially tied the knot and joined the ranks of the married.

Scroll down to see beautiful photos from their civil wedding held in Abuja:

Credits:
Couple @itsashleewhite | @theophilussunday
Planner @qmaravieplanners

The post Happily Ever After Begins for Theophilus Sunday & Ashlee | See their Civil Wedding Photos appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

“Jennifer Lopez said her love don’t cost a thing, but is that realistic?” Well, we don’t know, but Akah and Claire Nnani have a thing or two to say about the role of money in love.

In this episode of their podcast, they explore the complex relationship between love and money, sharing their perspectives on how money shapes modern relationships and fulfils individual purposes in marriage. If you are curious about whether people marry for wealth or can be gold diggers in marriage, you shouldn’t miss this episode. 

Watch

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Getting out of your comfort zone, finding happiness, and being big on self-development are some tips Abimbola Craig of “Skinny Girl In Transit” shares on how to navigate singlehood. In addition to insights on personal growth, she provides practical advice on managing your finances and maintaining good health.

Watch!

The post Get in Here! Abimbola Craig is Sharing Pre-Marriage Tips Singles Need To Keep in Mind  appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Conversations around japa have garnered diverse narratives. One, people advise you to have your person before you relocate as it can get very lonely over there. In the same vein, people are having conversations about the impact of japa, new environment and culture on marriages. 

We understand that navigating a new country as a couple can be tough, which is why we’re inviting couples to share their experiences, comparing life in Nigeria versus the country they now reside in. In this 2-part series, we explore issues of love, marriage and japa. First, we talk to Praise and Oluwaseyi Ogunnowo who got married in 2020 and relocated to the Netherlands in 2022 on how they have navigated their marriage in a new land.

Praise and Oluwaseyi

Hello Praise and Oluwaseyi. It’s good to have you both here

Hi BellaNaija, thank you.

Did you get married in Nigeria before relocating, and for how long? 

Oluwaseyi: Yeah, we had our court wedding in October 2020, and we relocated in July 2022 with our son.

Nice! What country?  

Praise: We relocated to the Netherlands in July 2022. We’ve been here for 21 months precisely. 

How did you run your home before leaving?

Praise: It was a breeze. Our son arrived in October 2021, and with both of us working in the tech industry, we primarily worked from home. Seyi had to commute to the office twice a week, but I enjoyed the flexibility of fully remote work with an international company. With the support of our extended family and a nanny who came in daily, we were able to cherish every moment with our baby. As ambitious young parents, we didn’t have to sacrifice our professional careers for family. It truly felt like we were living our dream life.

Oluwaseyi: Before we relocated, we combined our finances. There weren’t any specific expenses each person had to bear and this worked for us. We both worked and so we had a nanny who looked after our baby and after the day’s work, we looked after him.

How has the process of relocating abroad impacted your relationship? Were there any significant challenges, surprises or culture shock you faced during this transition as a couple?

Praise: There were a lot of challenges. Initially, we were thrilled about the prospect of starting our family in the Netherlands (and that excitement remains), but the reality quickly dawned on us. The expenses piled up rapidly, and within three months of relocating, we had depleted all our savings from Nigeria due to lots and lots of monthly bills and excess taxes on everything. We were sad. 

The distance from our families and the responsibility of caring for an eight-month-old child created a lot of strain in our relationship. We had to adapt to this new reality and develop coping mechanisms. Unlike our lifestyle in Nigeria, where we could frequently go out, we found ourselves questioning if we really craved Spaghetti Bolognese or would just save the money for water bills. This placed significant stress on us initially but with time, we acclimated and things improved. We gradually built a social circle, made more friends, met a lot of amazing people, became part of a church community, and eventually, the Netherlands started to feel like home.

Oluwaseyi: Nannies are expensive here so we take care of our son by ourselves. One profound culture shock is the fact that there are wait times for daycare admissions, so we had to wait for some availability before our son got into daycare. That wasn’t the case in Nigeria. Another interesting thing we learned or got accustomed to was making appointments. The Dutch are extremely time-conscious and love making appointments. We’ve had a few scenarios where we had to make appointments well in advance before we got anything done. 

For the first few months, relocating did have some impact on our marriage. For one, arguments became frequent, because the support systems we had in Nigeria – nanny, extended family members – were no longer available. We became responsible for every aspect of our domestic lives and our careers, which can lead to some heated conversations.

Tell us about this impact relocation had on your marriage and one remarkable change you had to make 

Praise: There was a particular moment a few months after our relocation when we found ourselves reevaluating our marriage and the state of our lives. We asked the big, tough questions. We were both on edge, engaging in frequent arguments and disagreements over trivial matters, overwhelmed by the challenges of starting all over again in a foreign land. The constant cycle of job interviews followed by numerous rejections, having to pay heavily for daycare so we could work, learning a new language, and having to spend two times our annual rent in Nigeria on rent monthly here weighed heavily on us. As though that was not enough, despite our decent earnings, we struggled to build any substantial savings. 

However, we swiftly recognised the need to confront these difficulties head-on and, reminding ourselves how God had specifically chosen this place for us, was such a reassuring anchor during those tough times, which was a lot in the beginning.

Oluwaseyi: One remarkable change was that we placed more structure into our finances by assigning expenses to each other. For instance, rent and utilities are taken by one person while black tax and others are taken by the other.

Hmmn, unlike when you were in Nigeria

Exactly!

Now that you’re in the Netherlands, what principles/values guide your marriage and the relationship you have with each other?  

Praise: God helped us, that’s the short answer. Whenever it felt like we were drowning and asking ourselves why we were here, we just had to go back to God’s promises for us and our family and that was how we navigated those seasons in our marriage. We became better for it and stronger. Now, we are beginning to eat the good of the land.

Oluwaseyi: For me, these are the principles: We are Christians, we believe in God and his son, Jesus Christ, and he has helped us through this process. Sticking with the person you made a vow to no matter how hard it gets and always see things from a “we” perspective, not “I”. The woman I married is practically responsible for what I am today. No matter how hard it gets, I will always stick with her. Say sorry, even when you are not at fault.

Do you have any advice for couples planning to relocate?

Praise: Put God first in all you do, it’s a tough world out here. Only move when God says it’s time to go, if not you could be frustrated by all the changes happening too quickly. 

Also, know why you’re doing this in the first place, not just because your friends are relocating or because it seems cool to be an abroad babe. Be grounded in your rationale for moving, because when those tough times come, which they will, fiercely and severely, what would keep you levelled is the “why” behind your relocation.

Oluwaseyi: Be prayerful. Prayer will always give you clarity of thought wherever you need to go. I prayed for months for the opportunity to relocate with my family before it even showed up. Be patient, and do not be desperate, all things are in the hands of God. If he believes it is in your interest to leave where you are, he will create a way. Things will get hard, but make sure your marriage does not fall apart, that can have a lot of consequences. Lastly, do not get married with the hope of relocating shortly after, especially if you do not have the means to yet. That is a wrong premise for any marriage.

Thank you, Praise and Oluwaseyi

Praise and Oluwaseyi: Thank you for having us.

The post Praise & Oluwaseyi Talk to Us About Navigating Life As a Couple in the Netherlands appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

It’s been 5 years of marriage for Akah and Claire Nnanin. In this episode, the couple reflects on their journey and asks each other pertinent questions about their love and the changes they’ve experienced.

Find out how 5 years of marriage have shaped Akah and Claire.

Watch

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Emotions play a major role in any relationship, from feeling a twinge of sadness when let down to experiencing joy from pleasant surprises. Emotional connectedness is an important element in every relationship, and it’s quite imperative to understand how to nurture and sustain emotional connections within relationships. But before we explore this topic further, let’s familiarise ourselves with the five love languages – acts of service, gifts, words of affirmation, quality time, and physical touch – that can enhance these connections so that you can determine what makes you feel loved and how you express love. These love languages are effective tools for having deep emotional connections.

With this in mind, here are ways you can develop emotional connection in your relationship:

Through communication

Effective communication goes beyond mere exchanges of words. It’s not just about sharing daily happenings with your partner but about forging a deep, intentional relationship through communication. This involves authentic self-expression, attentiveness, active listening, and importantly, translating words into actions— evidence of true listening.

Communication bridges the gap in a relationship. It provides a medium for unspoken thoughts and emotions to be conveyed – be it through words or actions. Through communication, people feel truly seen, heard and understood.

Manner of resolving conflict

It is commonly believed that how you resolve conflicts in a relationship matters. This rings true, especially in how you communicate or express your feelings to one another during disagreements. Note the emphasis on the “how” rather than the “who.” Relationship conflict resolution is more about the method than assigning blame. Even if you apportion blame rightfully, the key lies in how you both choose to mend the rift. Resolving issues respectfully and amicably would create a deep sense of emotional connection, affirming to each other that your feelings matter.

Intimacy

I opted for the term “intimacy” instead of sexual intercourse, as it’s a choice of word to use when you want to elaborate more on several aspects of emotional connection. Intimacy can be cultivated through communication, maturity, and intentionality. Maturity comes into play when both partners incorporate the practice of intimacy in ways that are mutually beneficial or unique to them intentionality involves actively choosing to engage in these practices. This is where physical touch comes into play With a deep emotional connection, engaging in various forms of intimacy serves to deepen the emotional bond and nurture the relationship.

Respect

Respect lays an unshakeable foundation for any relationship. It is a true test of one’s likeness or love for their partner. Relationships are bound to test the waters once in a while, but having respect for one another holds the fort. Once respect is compromised either through words, action, or inaction, it jeopardises the relationship. Respect is manifested in how partners regard each other and choose to support one another, remaining steadfast despite tempting circumstances. It serves as a reminder of the values initially admired in your partner, preventing them from being undermined.

One way to develop an emotional connection in a relationship is by engaging in shared activities. Whether it’s planned activities like a date or spontaneous activities like an evening stroll. For individuals whose love language is quality time, this becomes an avenue to deepen their emotional connection. It involves dedicating intentional time to enjoy each other’s company.

Emotional connection is the bedrock of any relationship. Without it, the relationship is headed for destruction. It is needed to nurture deep feelings of likeness, love, understanding, peace, and togetherness in any setting of a relationship. This is cultivated through communication where you both feel heard, conflict resolution through effective communication, and intimacy, through shared activities.

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Feature Image by Polina Tankilevitch for Pexels

The post Comet Nwosu: The Best Ways to Develop Emotional Connectedness appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the #ForeverBliss church wedding and finale. It’s been a wonderful journey of love for Moses Bliss and Marie since they announced their engagement.

For their white wedding, Marie looked elegant in her silk and lace white dress, while Moses Bliss is a dapper groom in his custom ivory suit, complementing his bride in every way. What stood out about this couple is how calm and sweet their love for each other is. Every moment of their wedding is a beautiful reminder of the power of love.

The bride’s look:

 

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The bride walking down the aisle:

 

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The couple announced as husband and wife:

 

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The couple walking down the aisle:

 

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The post The #ForeverBliss Finale! See Beautiful Highlights from Marie & Moses Bliss’ White Wedding appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Beauty Queen and Reality TV star, Queen Mercy Atang is off the singles market!

She took to her Instagram to share pictures announcing her engagement. She wrote, “I said yes to my forever love.”

She shared another post with the full details of the engagement captioning it “God acted according to his timing. I’ve consistently prayed for guidance in building a loving family and fulfilling roles as a wife, mother, and follower of his teachings. His response came in due time. To my dear husband-to-be @iam_kingdaivid I thank you deeply for choosing me, for loving me, and for embracing my family as your own. Your presence has brought immense joy into my life. May God bless you abundantly. I promise to continually pray for blessings upon your life. I love you dearly.

Truly what God cannot do, doesn’t exist. Thank you pastor Jerry Eze. We Dey pray, E Dey show. God is here. Dear Sisters @dr_brightie @singhniniofficial @thejackiebent, we have a wedding to plan.”

See the proposal photos below:

 

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A post shared by Queen Mercy Atang (@queenmercyatang)

The post “I Said Yes to My Forever Love…” Queen Mercy Atang is Engaged! appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Is your best friend meant to be your partner? Can you have a best friend outside of your marriage? What if your best friend is of the opposite sex while you’re married, how can you navigate that?

In this episode, Akah and Claire Nnani explore the complexities and dynamics of best friends in the context of marriages. 

Watch

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In a world filled with diverse views on love, from the big weddings to people feeling lonely, and societal pressures leading to an unhealthy fear of missing out (FOMO), the question is: Could this be love?

In their latest YouTube video, Akah and Claire explore this topic and discuss everything about love. 

Watch it here:

The post Akah and Claire Nnani Talk About Love in a New Episode of their Podcast | Watch appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

I had not one, but two unsettling experiences over this past Christmas from ‘online toasters’ that left a sour taste in my mouth. One particular gentleman had been following me since my mission trips, got my number, and introduced himself. Months later, when I was back in Nigeria, he planned to meet up with me. My usual idea for a meet-up involves meeting in a restaurant or a public space, where we can talk and get to know each other better. But this man had different intentions. He had admitted that he was attracted to me, which I appreciated, but come and see somebody I would be meeting for the first time saying an open space wouldn’t provide the kind of ‘ambience’ he wanted with me. Intrigued, I asked him what he meant, and he revealed that he wanted to at least kiss me and even alluded to the possibility of more intimate encounters if I would allow him. I was flabbergasted. What an assumption he made! Guy, I don’t even know you. What makes you think it’s okay to allude to having sex with me the very first time we meet? I found it quite arrogant and presumptuous that he thought he had automatic access to my body. He also mentioned something about me not taking him through the stages of dating, but why would I? At 31 years old, I am not available for casual encounters. Any man who isn’t marriage-minded and intentional about a relationship leading to marriage isn’t on the same wavelength as me. I made it clear that I was not interested in his version of “attraction,” and if meeting up meant something else to him, then we shouldn’t see each other.

Then came another man who shared Christian posts on his page and photos of himself praying. Our first two interactions were sensible, but during the third one, he started alluding to my body, expressing his attraction and talking about sex. I promptly made it clear that there are certain boundaries I won’t cross. While I acknowledge the importance of having conversations about sex and intimacy with a future spouse, this was not the time. To my surprise, his next question was, “When did you know you had big boobs?” Goodness! Is this the type of conversation people engage in when they’re genuinely considering someone for a lifelong commitment? And all of this on the third conversation? I couldn’t help but think that perhaps his bad character and misbehaviour were surfacing in response to my recent prayer, seeking clarity from God about whether this person was worth considering. His rudeness and the way he spoke to me as if it was an entitlement for me to engage in sex talks were completely uncalled for. I have standards, and that kind of discussion won’t be happening here, sir.

I know they say men are moved by what they see, and that’s okay. By all means, be attracted to the woman you are shooting your shot with, but please rein in your lust. If you are truly serious about a woman, discussions about her body and sex should not be the first thing on the agenda. Instead, you would want to know her – her mindset, thoughts, thinking patterns, character, spirituality, and so on. These are the aspects that make her who she is. Compliment her appearance, and tell her she’s beautiful, but there need to be clear boundaries when approaching a woman, especially when you know she isn’t open to casual encounters.

Both incidents I shared above were unbelievable to me, but they indeed happened.

When proposing to a woman, please use the above words to advise yourself and come correct, different from the rest. Do not let lust control you.

I know that we’re all different people and what works for me won’t work for you. Some people are in search of a casual relationship, and it’s okay if that’s what works for you. If you’re seeking something casual, explore the internet or your community where you may find a partner aligned with your desires. My words are written based on the assumption that the men I am addressing are Christian and want something serious like marriage and family with the women they’re pursuing. If this is you, then you need to let go of lust and build a meaningful relationship with the woman you want to be with.

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