Photos by Linny Folau, Claire Thornber and Adrienne L. Kaeppler.

The wedding of the Hon. Fanetupouvava'u Tuita to Siaosi Kiu Tau-ki-Vailahi Kaho was celebrated at the Free Church of Tonga this morning, in a happy occasion, with the Tongan Royal Family in attendance.

While the bride, a granddaughter of the late King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV, was radiant in an elegant white gown, the bridesmaids wore black gowns, along with most of the congregation who wore traditional black mourning attire in respect for the Royal Family, following the death of Tupou IV in September last year.

The bridal gown was styled by Italian wedding gown designer, Le Spose Di Gio, who said that the bride had chosen a sophisticated creation. The gown had flowing layers of gossamer silk organza and silk chiffon, fitted sleeves with flutters at the hand, and an illusion bodice with ruching to the dropped waistline. Tiny buttons down the back and silk peonies from France accentuated the intricate Grecian wrapped skirt. The bride's etheral Italian antique lace veil extended well beyond the train and was soft and billowy. The ensemble came through atelier Joan Gilbert of San Francisco.

King George Tupou V, uncle of the bride, attended the church service at the church, adjacent to the Mala'e Kula in central Nuku'alofa, and later, along with his Jack Russell terrier on a lead, attended the wedding reception that followed at the International Dateline Hotel.

Relatives and friends of the Royal Family have travelled to Tonga from overseas to take part in the several days of celebrations.

Hon. Titilupe Fanetupouvava'u is the second eldest daughter of HRH Princess Salote Mafile'o Pilolevu Tuita and Noble Tuita.

Siaosi Kiu Tau-ki-Vailahi Kaho, the eldest son of Noble Tu'ivakano and Siosi Robyn Kaho, is a Second Lieutenant in the Tonga Defence Services.

The Maid of Honour was the bride's youngest sister, Hon. Moheofo Tuita, with eight bridesmaids, Kalolaine Tatau Tuita, Ivana Vaea, Areta Cowley, Birgirt Faupula, Naith Jackomos, Ane Tapa'atoutai, Ati Nacagilevu, and Tapukita Tamale.

The Bestman was Saul James, with eight groomsmen, Sione Ika Mafana Tuita, Paula Kaho, David Kaho, Anthony Kaho, Lueti Finau, Salesi Tamepeau, and Tai Lautala Mafele'o.