Chapter 52: The Reception Begins
After the family pictures, the newlyweds and their guests moved inside the grand ballroom, where the reception would take place. But before they could join the celebration, Jey and Natalia slipped away to change into their second outfits for the evening.
Natalia stepped into the bridal suite with Naomi, Almia, and Galina helping her out of her wedding gown. In its place, she wore a stunning traditional Samoan puletasi, custom-designed in elegant white and gold patterns, perfectly blending her bridal look with Samoan heritage. Her hair was now in a loose braid adorned with fresh flowers, completing the look.
"You look incredible," Naomi gushed as she adjusted a delicate gold bracelet on Natalia's wrist.
Natalia smiled, taking a deep breath. "I can't believe we're finally here."
Meanwhile, Jey changed into a formal ie faitaga, the traditional Samoan wrap skirt, in black and gold, paired with a crisp white shirt and a beautifully woven ulafala necklace. When he stepped out, Jimmy and Solo smirked.
"Ay, my boy lookin' like a true chief," Jimmy teased, fixing his own outfit.
Jey chuckled. "Man, I feel like one tonight."
With their new outfits, Jey and Natalia made their grand entrance into the reception, hand in hand. The ballroom erupted in cheers as their families and friends clapped and whistled, welcoming them.
The Traditional Samoan Elements
The reception was not just a celebration of their love but also a tribute to their culture. It began with the siva tau, a traditional Samoan war dance performed by Jey, Jimmy, Solo, and other members of the family. The rhythmic clapping, stomping, and chanting filled the room with electrifying energy as they moved in perfect synchronization, showcasing strength and pride.
Natalia watched in awe, her heart swelling with emotion. She knew how important this moment was for Jey-to honor his roots and share them with everyone present.
Next came the taualuga, a traditional Samoan dance performed by Natalia as the bride. She moved gracefully, her steps guided by the rhythm of the drums as guests stood around, clapping and cheering. Elders and family members came forward to place money at her feet or onto her hands as a sign of respect and blessings for their new journey as husband and wife.
Jey couldn't take his eyes off her, completely mesmerized. "That's my wife," he murmured proudly, earning laughs from Jimmy and Solo.
Dinner and Speeches
Once the dances concluded, it was time for the feast. The menu was a perfect fusion of Samoan and Puerto Rican flavors, honoring both Jey and Natalia's backgrounds. Tables were filled with oka (raw fish salad), palusami (taro leaves in coconut cream), roasted pig, arroz con gandules, pernil, and pasteles.
During dinner, Roman stood to give his speech, raising a glass toward the newlyweds.
"Jey, I've watched you grow into the man you are today, and I can say without a doubt, you've found someone who truly brings out the best in you," Roman said, looking between Jey and Natalia. "Nati, welcome to the family-not just as Malachi's mother, but as one of us. We love you, and we can't wait to see where this journey takes you both."
Jimmy was next, grinning as he stood. "Man, I knew from the moment I saw Nati back in the picture that Jey was done for. You're his heart, Nati, and Malachi is his soul. I'm just glad he finally wised up and put a ring on it."
Laughter filled the room as Jey shook his head, chuckling.
"To Jey and Natalia!" Jimmy toasted, and everyone raised their glasses, cheering.
The Rest of the Night
The reception continued with music, dancing, and heartfelt moments. Jey and Natalia shared their first dance as husband and wife, swaying to a soft melody, lost in their own world.
Malachi, not wanting to be left out, tugged at Jey's hand and insisted on dancing too, making everyone laugh as he twirled between his parents.
As the night carried on, family and friends celebrated with endless joy, sealing the beginning of Jey and Natalia's new chapter with love, tradition, and the unwavering bond of family.
Bạn đang đọc truyện trên: Truyen247.Pro