Kwansema & Kweku | A Classic Stunning Spring Wedding at Roca Ridge Events, Nebraska

The Bride, Mavis Ama Kwansema Gyesi—a doctoral scholar in Educational Policy with a soft spot for old money aesthetics, timeless fashion, graceful femininity, and the beauty of everyday elegance—tied the knot with her husband Emmanuel Kweku Mensah, a PhD scholar and accomplished Electrical and Mechanical Engineer based in the U.S., on May 24, 2025. Their wedding unfolded in an atmosphere of effortless grace at the picturesque Roca Ridge Event Center in Nebraska. The festivities began with an intimate rehearsal dinner attended by their pastor, Rev. Thomas Cecilli, and the wedding party. This gathering set the tone for a weekend remembered for its timeless charm, intentional details, and deeply personal touches—a celebration of Christ’s love, faith, and family. Ama Kwansema and her husband, both originally from Ghana, met in the most serendipitous way. Though their paths had crossed through a mutual friend, it wasn’t until March 9, 2014, that they first met and their connection truly began. Long conversations, countless FaceTime calls, and quiet prayers later, the couple found themselves walking into a new chapter—hand in hand, heart to heart.

The couple opted for a classic barn wedding that exuded romantic minimalism and timeless style. “We knew we didn’t want anything overly trendy,” Ama Kwansema says. “We wanted something that would look beautiful even 50 years from now—something our children and grandchildren could look at and say, ‘Wow, that was a moment.” From the start, the couple knew they wanted to share the spotlight equally—and that included their wedding day attire. They both chose to wear white, a symbolic decision that reflected their unity and equal presence in the celebration. The groom complemented his bride’s look in a crisp white tuxedo jacket paired with classic black pants, a velvet bow tie, and polished cap-toe shoes—all from The Jos A Banks. His groomsmen, including his longtime best friend from their school days, also wore sharp tuxedos from the same label, creating a timeless and cohesive look for the entire party.

In a touching moment that brought many to tears, the Bride was walked down the aisle by her older brother—whom she had not seen in years, but who made the heartfelt journey to be by her side on her most important day. The bride wore the Shakespeare Ivory Gown by Justin Alexander Signature, a couture collection renowned for its luxurious fabrics, dramatic silhouettes, and meticulous craftsmanship—designed for the modern bride who seeks both elegance and unforgettable flair. The gown offered Ama the perfect blend of sophistication and romance for her big day. She paired it with a custom Marianat cathedral-length ivory veil that floated behind her as she walked down the aisle. The Bride walked down the aisle in an ivory white gown with subtle classic detailing, reflecting both purity and poise. The Groom, equally elegant, wore a white dinner tuxedo that echoed old-world sophistication. “We couldn’t have nailed it better,” Ama says. “It was our dream wedding—full of intention, love, and deep roots.”

The wedding party—12 in total—was a stunning extension of the theme. The six bridesmaids wore soft lemonade and coral pink gowns in flowing silhouettes, while the six groomsmen were dapper in black tailored jackets and polished details. The visual harmony between the bride, groom, and bridal party and the venue’s rustic-modern backdrop created an aesthetic that felt curated yet effortless. Though the venue was local, the vision was global. “We pulled inspiration from European countryside weddings and blended that with the richness of our Ghanaian heritage,” Ama explains. Every detail, from the gold-accented tablescapes to the cultural rhythms on the dance floor, felt like a love letter to where they’ve come from—and where they’re going. As a rising academic with a passion for equity and educational policy, Ama’s wedding was not only a celebration of love, but also of legacy. “Marriage is sacred, and so is purpose,” she shares. “This wedding was a reflection of both. I wanted every guest to feel the warmth of who we are and the intentionality behind every choice.” The celebration was filled with joy, dancing, and a community of loved ones who traveled far and wide.

During cocktail hour, just after the ceremony, the couple took a moment to invite their families and closest friends up for photos—a way to honor those who’ve been part of our journey. Friends from Canada, former classmates from graduate school, childhood friends, and the families we've built connections with since moving here all gathered to share in our joy and be part of our memories. Once photos were done, guests found their seats as the celebration transitioned into an unforgettable reception. Though we didn’t serve alcohol, the energy was electric. The dance floor stayed full all night as guests danced with the kind of freedom and joy that made it feel like the world had paused just for us. We used only rectangular tables, creating a clean, cohesive flow in the space, and the atmosphere radiated warmth and a sense of connection.

"Our reception was nothing short of epic. Pure joy filled the air—from the music to the laughter, every detail came together in harmony," Kweku says. "The night felt magical in its simplicity, proving that love, good food, and great company are more than enough to create a celebration to remember," Ama added. The menu featured a full spread of Ghanaian cuisine prepared by our on-site chef and her incredible team, Mama Agie. From flavorful waakye and fried rice to Ghana jollof, pastries, and assorted drinks, guests were treated to a true culinary experience. Our wedding cake was a dream—elegant, intricate, and everything we had hoped for. Later in the evening, the Bride made my final outfit change of the night and joined Kweku and our guests back on the dance floor—where we danced late into the night, surrounded by nothing but love, rhythm, and the kind of happiness that lingers long after the music ends.

Following the celebration, the newlyweds escaped to Apostle Islands for a dreamy honeymoon in a luxurious private cabin nestled in nature. “It was peaceful, romantic, and the perfect way to start this new chapter together,” the couple shared. Reflecting on the day, Ama shared: “The little things mattered most—my brother walking me down the aisle, saying our forever I do, and seeing all our loved ones celebrate with us. It was a day full of grace, love, and beauty.”

The couple exchanged vows in a stylish and intimate ceremony, celebrating their love surrounded by family and friends. Their wedding took place at Roca Ridge Events in Nebraska, a venue that perfectly matched the couple’s timeless and classic aesthetic. "My favorite moment from the wedding was hearing Kweku recite his vows to me. His words were so heartfelt, so full of love and intention, that I couldn’t hold back my tears. In that moment, everything else faded away—it was just the two of us, promising forever," Ama shares. Ask for Kweku’s favorite memory? He said it was the moment Ama walked down the aisle. “It felt like time stood still. Everything around me disappeared, and it was as if Heaven opened just for that moment—for us.”

Scroll through for exclusive photos and every carefully thought-out detail from the couple’s breathtaking day at The Roca Ride Events.

Cheers to The Mensahs!