Christian & Raheem: Botanical Garden Wedding in Las Vegas

Photography by: Ivan Avila

Christian and Raheem attended a party in New York City as strangers on March 21st, 2015. It was Raheem’s birthday, and he was out to celebrate. Christian stood by the bar watching the dance floor when Raheem approached him and asked that he join him on the dance floor. A single proposition given on a whim soon turned into something much more serious. Raheem commented, “It was that moment on the dance floor when our romantic journey began. After a couple of dates, we made our relationship official.”

The first date was set soon after the party. They met at a restaurant for brunch and continued to a bar for some drinks in the afternoon. “When we met at the restaurant, we both felt something stronger than us. We kept it to ourselves that day, but we knew that it was love.” For some, love comes quickly and all at once. “After a couple of dates and phone conversations, we felt our love for each other getting stronger by the day.” Knowing where the relationship was heading, it was only a matter of time before one of them would pop the question!

“The night before New Year’s Eve, 2018, Raheem planned a fantastic weekend full of fun and cultural activities.” Among them, Raheem arranged a special dinner at the couple’s favorite restaurant complete with champagne and cake. While Christian Wass getting ready to ring in the new year, Raheem ready to make it a year to remember. “Will you marry me?” Full of emotion, Christian replied, “Of course.” The couple remarked: “It was private, it was personal, it was perfect.” From that moment, Christian and Raheem began the long process of planning their dream wedding.

The wedding date was set for September 15th, 2019, and they found the perfect venue at Cactus Botanical Garden in Las Vegas. Raheem expressed how incredibly happy he was to see and experience something that wasn’t even legal a few years prior. “It was unbelievable,” and they were overjoyed with the support of their loved ones. “Our sand ceremony was definitely the best part. We had some of our close family and friends take part in this beautiful ritual to highlight the importance of unity, family, and love.” Surrounded by all of their loved ones, they couldn’t be happier with how the wedding celebration turned out. “We were both very emotional!”

After the celebration, the newlyweds flew to Greece for a honeymoon they will never forget. When asked what advice they have for future grooms, Christian and Raheem recommend to keep the wedding day simple and try not to stress too much. “Enjoy it! It goes by so fast!” We might add: always ask the boy to dance.

To follow along with the adventures of these two husbands, check them out on Instagram at @christian.raheem.

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Ceremony Venue — Cactus Botanical Garden
Reception Venue — Chica Restaurant
Photographer — Ivan Avila
Officiant — Dawn Angela Mickens
Floral Design — Gaia Flower