On Aug. 31, Haitian vendors will convene in New York for the first edition of the I DO Haiti: Bridal & Wedding Expo, where Haiti’s growing wedding industry will be front and center.
“Contrary to public perception, Haiti is rich in history and beauty. Its legacy of resilience and triumph over oppression can never be diminished by negative press,” said Guerline T. Emmanuel, owner of Belle Vue Tours. “As the daughter of Haitian immigrants, I have made it my mission to introduce or reintroduce ’the pearl of the Antilles’ through its people and vibrant culture. I DO Haiti is the catalyst that will inspire others to think of Haiti not just as a third-world country, but as a romantic destination for weddings and honeymoons.
”The Expo is the brainchild of Emmanuel and Nadege Fleurimond, owner of Nadege Fleurimond Catering and author of the award-winning cookbook, Haiti Uncovered. For the duo, the expo is about promoting tourism and businesses in Haiti.
The one-stop-shop will feature over 25 vendors including event planners, caterers, photographers, florists, and musicians. Event sponsor Historic Haiti will also be on-site as an exhibitor to showcase the beauty of the northern region, which is home to the world-renowned Palais Sans Souci, an ideal backdrop for any fairy-tale wedding.
“Throughout my culinary career, I have had the opportunity to travel and expand my palate with international cuisines. As a chef, I have catered events and shared traditional Haitian dishes with a modern twist. From soup joumou to black rice, food is how we celebrate our cultural identity and history,” Fleurimond said. “Our bold and aromatic flavors are second to none. A destination wedding is the perfect passport to truly experience Haiti in all its glory. I DO Haiti is my gift to couples who have always wanted to exchange their vows abroad but did not know how – until now.”
The night before the expo, Emmanuel and Fleurimond will host a reception and panel discussion with Chike Nwobu, president and co-founder of Munaluchi, a multicultural global technology company serving the wedding and event industry; Kareen Etienne, assistant director of promotion for OGDNH / Historic Haiti; and Mike Mathieu, the digital content creator of Mathieu Media.
The expo will be held on Saturday, August 31st from 11 AM to 5 PM at 333 Adams Street in Brooklyn, NY. For more information and tickets, visit idohaiti.com.