Trust the process and stay honest with each other. Cecelia Margaret Eve Ah Chang shared this with The Sunday Times while talking about her and her husband’s wedding story.
While she comes from a mixed Chinese, Samoan and iTaukei background, husband Tevita Gaunavinaka hails from Tovu,Totoya in Lau.
“We met through work… I clearly remember I was assigned to be his mentor to help with his attachment for electronics engineering,” Cecelia said.
The couple started off as good companions. They attended dinners, movies, concerts and adventures together.
“Initially, we went for a long overdue dinner that I had promised but had forgotten, without realizing the particular restaurant we were supposed to go to had closed. So instead, we decided to watch a movie.
“Honestly we were from two different worlds, I’m an extrovert and he is an introvert. His ability to keep up with my random ways and understanding my personality made me realise he was the one.”
The couple dated for five years until their engagement in November 2021 when Tevita’s family visited her home and performed the traditional ilakovi (engagement) ceremony.
“I knew that he was the one because having him around made me feel safe, entertained and safe. He kept up with my random ways and hyperactive personality. “We are random, adventurous and we both love animals. Most of all we ‘roast’ each because we are tauvu’s.”
Most of the Cecelia and Tevita’s wedding plans and event arrangements were done by Cecelia’s in-laws. They chose the venues, cakes, wedding planners, food , sound systems and other elements.
“I made sure that my side of the family was in sync with the plans set by my husbands side and I’m glad they all turned out perfect.
“Our wedding was held at the Williamson House, Suva this year. We had done our tevutevu, where each of our families came bearing gifts especially mats, tapa, pillows, comforters and the itautatunaki ceremony was done after the reception
The wedding planners were Tegalei and Trewin who did such an amazing job with the decoration.
The theme was purple and white and the cake was made by the lovely Leilani Kalinisei. Cecelia’s wedding gown was tailored by Susana Samuels of Lavalani Designs, and their reception kalavata (matching outfit) was designed by Niurua Designs.
“We were fortunate to have two extremely talented photographers on our special day, Patrick Cabebula from Marau Images and Maciu Nadore from Third Eye Images.”
Marrying the love of her life was an emotional experience for Cecelia. She was surprised to see herself remain calm.
With Tevita’s understanding, patience and protective nature, her wedding made in heaven was complete and perfect, just how she had wanted it to be.