This is the local Las Vegas for lovers in a hurry or longtime couples, married according to tradition but not yet in front of the mayor: a khaki caravan awaits them in front of the courthouse in Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe.
In this southern African country plunged for years into a deep economic crisis, Daphne Siwardi, face framed by short dreadlocks, leads this flourishing operation intended to “make women prettier on D-Day”. “Young or older, they all come here,” rejoices this elegant 37-year-old, in a forest green frock coat on a burgundy dress.
For more than a decade, she’s run this wedding dress rental shop out of her rusty, white-roofed van, providing brides in need with white lace gowns, bouquets, decorations, and quick makeup and hair services.
Up to six clients drop by each morning to get ready to accompany their future husband to court, she said, scanning a row of white dresses hanging from a rod. Most of them come before the big day to pick out a dress, have it washed and fitted. The dresses are all from China.
The most requested is long, adorned with rhinestones. It does not reveal much and avoids the unkind looks of the in-laws, explains the shopkeeper. Gloria Mutero, 45, joined her husband in a traditional ceremony eleven years ago. She now wants to regularize her civil situation, for patrimonial reasons. But without leaving a fortune behind.
A desk for the make-up and hairdressing area
No need to ruin herself for an outfit that she will wear “three or four hours”, specifies the pragmatic mother. “I like that one,” she continues. “It does the job and is priced right.” “If I bargain hard, maybe they’ll make it to me for 50 dollars” (46 euros), tries with a playful smile this plump woman, looking towards the boss and her assistants.
Daphne Siwardi’s trailer is one of three, parked in the dirt parking lot on the side of the courthouse, near some trees, which offer the same express services to brides. Inside, next to the flowers and outfits, a small bed and a wooden desk serve as a make-up and hairdressing area.
Widowed and former teacher, Daphne Siwardi, broad smile, has been practicing this profession for fifteen years. ” A real favorite “. Her clients were quick to make her their confidante, especially “those in a hurry.” “Sometimes they call me a month later. To tell me, ‘I already want a divorce,'” she confides in a great burst of laughter.
