The chiefly island of Bau was at its best on September 26, 1986, before the solemn silence of more than 5000 people as Ratu Epenisa Seru Cakobau and Adi Frances Loloma were pronounced husband and wife.
The Fiji Times had the privilege of covering the event, publishing an article with pictorials on September 27, 1986.
According to the report, the occasion was the biggest to be held on the island since the Queen’s visit there to open the Great Council of Chiefs meeting in 1982.
Among the more than 1000 invited guests were the governor-general Ratu Sir Penaia Ganilau, the prime minister Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, members of Parliament and members of the diplomatic corps.
Also present were some who came from as far, away as New Zealand, Australia and Britain.
Ratu Epenisa, 26, eldest son of the former governor-general and Adi Lady Lelea and Adi Frances, 25, were wed in a religious ceremony conducted by the president of the Methodist Church in Fiji, the Rev Paula Niukula and the Rev Ratu Isireli Caucau inside the historic Ratu Cakobau Church.
The atmosphere was full of dignity and colour as Ratu Epenisa and Adi Frances exchanged vows in firm and clear tones.
The whole setting in its elegance was fitting to bind in marriage two young people of high birth.
The report stated Ratu Epenisa was the great-great-grandson of the leading signatory to the Deed of Cession in 1874, Ratu Epenisa Seru Cakobau, whose name he inherited.
Adi Frances hailed from the clan of Toronibau of Batiki which had close traditional ties with the bridegroom’s family and people.
According to the report, the wedding was the proposal of Ratu Sir George himself in a bid to renew and reaffirm his links with the people of Batiki.
During the wedding, Ratu Epenisa was accompanied by the eldest son of the prime minister, Ratu Finau Mara, Ratu Jone Madraiwiwi and a son of the then governor-general, Ratu Jone Ganilau as best men.
Adi Frances in elegant, white hand-woven lace had Adi Tupou Dreunimisimisi, Adi Arieta Koila and Adi Litia Loloma as her bridesmaid.
Guests later tucked into a traditional feast on the village green where a 50-by-30 metre vakatunuloa was constructed.
The leading chef for the wedding feast, Ratu Jale Seniloli, said 24 dishes with a mix of Fijian and English foods were prepared for the occasion.
