A Haitian Wedding

We attended our first wedding in Haiti one week ago.  It was scheduled for 5PM but things didn't get started until 6PM.  Two "brides" danced down the aisle to English music and then 5 bridesmaids and groomsmen danced in, too.  The ringbearer, a little boy of about 3 or 4, followed after them.  The flowergirl threw candy as she walked down the aisle.  After that, the bride walked in with the bestman and the groom with the maid of honor.  They sat in chairs at the front of the church.  The service was conducted in French not in Creole as is often the case for formal occasions.  Two choirs sang special music, an older gentleman read a poem and offered wisdom, the congregation sang hymns.  We were aware of thunder, lightning and some rain outside during the service and as the couple were preparing to share their vows, the power went out!  It was pitch black in the church.  People quickly pulled out their cell phones which double here as "flashlights".  The power came on and the service went on as well.  Then the power went off again.  We all laughed and finally after 2 1/2 hours, the bride and groom had finished their vows.  Of course, the greatest delight for the crowd was the newlyweds' kiss.  The bridal party recessed and headed to a nearby beach for the reception.  While it was fun to attend this special occasion, it was LONG and HOT.  We were all glad to head home having experienced a memorable time watching our friend Fabienne get married.