I have had a time doing these interviews. Today, I am visiting the home of Feranmi and Alex Montgomery, the first couple in the U.N Universe and also the first multicultural couple. Feranmi, a Nigerian and Vice President of an Baralis Investment Bank in Atlanta, met Alex, a Black American and owner of Montgomery Construction, while attending college. Rumors say they briefly dated before cultural differences caused them to break up. However, fate brought them back together years later at a mutual friend’s wedding and the rest is history.

Stepping into the Montgomery’s luxurious condo in Lekki, Lagos, I immediately felt the festive energy of the holiday season. Xavier Montgomery, a college junior studying computer science, greeted me with a warm smile and kindly offered to give me a tour while we waited for his parents who were stuck in infamous Lagos traffic. As my camera man set up in the study, Xavier showed me around the spacious living area that was adorned with traditional Nigerian fabrics and colorful holiday decorations. As we walked, I couldn’t help but admire his charisma and charm, a reflection of his mixed cultural background – a blend of Nigerian and Black American influences. I was especially excited to speak with Alex and Fera about their Christmas celebrations, which promised to provide an intriguing glimpse into how two worlds can coexist harmoniously.

Erin: Let’s jump right into it, how do you make time for family during the Christmas season with your busy schedules?
Feranmi: Our traditions have adapted as our kids have grown up. We used to read bedtime stories and have big Christmas breakfasts, but now we do holiday movie marathons and leisurely brunches. Even though they are busier now, we still make an effort to create moments that resonate with their evolving tastes and interests. It’s all about keeping the essence of family alive during these chaotic teenage and young adult years.
Alex: (He chuckles and nods) I’m not as involved in everything at work as I used to be. (He laughs) But my wife still feels like I am.
Feranmi: (She playfully nudges him) Sometimes, yes.
Alex pulls her closer and kisses her cheek.
Alex: Fix your face, woman. (He winks at her before turning back to me) My wife is a little upset because I had us make a detour in DC to see a client before we arrived here. Anyways, to answer your question, our Christmas traditions have evolved as our children have become young adults. Between work and their schedules, it can be challenging, but we find joy in the small things. There’s an unspoken agreement that everyone has a role in decorating the tree – a tradition since they were toddlers. Now it’s evolved into a combination of youthful enthusiasm and the comfort of being together as a family.
Erin: I was going to ask about you being here, in Lagos. I was prepared to meet you in Atlanta, do you spend Christmas here?
Alex: Not every Christmas, but this is the first Christmas in our own home here in Lagos. As you know my wife is Nigerian and her family lives here. It has always been important to us that our kids be grounded in both parts of their heritage.
Feranmi: Over the years, my mother and Ms. Amanda (my mother in love) have worked out a schedule where they get to see their grandkids for a week or two at a time. I don’t interfere with that arrangement. Since we are often here for family functions and some holidays, we decided to invest in a home here.
Erin: I love it. I also love these decorations, they are different. Tell us more about them or a feature in your home that captures the spirit of Christmas for your family.
Feranmi: The vibrant Ankara fabric wreaths you see around the house are a nod to my roots. There is this new designer here in Lagos. Well, they are not new, just new to me called Zeidu Fashions. This year, they opened a Christmas shop. The wreaths are all handmade, just like those unique ornaments you see on the tree. I brought those from the States with me. They were hand carved by my husband’s construction team. It’s something they do every Christmas and exchange amongst themselves. It’s a beautiful fusion of culture and craftsmanship. The colors and patterns tell a story, and it’s a reminder that Christmas isn’t just a season; it’s a celebration of diversity, community, and the beauty that emerges when different threads weave together.
Alex: What she said.
We all shared a laugh.
Alex: I’m for real. My baby captured my thoughts perfectly.

Erin: What Christmas family tradition holds the most sentimental value for both of you and why?
Alex: For me, Christmas Eve candle lighting holds immense sentimental value. It’s a tradition that transcends generations in my family. We gather, dim the lights, and light candles one by one. Each candle represents a wish or a gratitude. It’s a moment of reflection, a time to express our deepest sentiments. This tradition, passed down from my grandparents, creates a profound sense of connection and continuity that makes it truly special.
Feranmi: Our “Memory Jar” tradition is something I hold close to my heart. Each year, we write down our favorite moments, wishes, or things we’re grateful for on colorful slips of paper. On New Year’s Day, we gather as a family to read these notes, reliving the joy and growth of the past year. It’s a beautiful way to appreciate the journey we’ve taken together and to look forward to the possibilities of the coming year. It’s a tradition that encapsulates the essence of family and gratitude for us.
Erin: You can’t say Lagos or anything about Detty December. (I laughed and they did too.) So, are there any destinations or activities you both look forward to as a family during your Christmas getaways? What place has held the most memorable experiences and why?
Alex: One of the most memorable Christmas vacations we had was in Cape Coast, Ghana. Our friends Kofi & Kayla hosted us a few years back. The city’s rich culture and festive atmosphere immersed our family in a unique experience. Visiting the Cape Coast Castle, adorned with Christmas lights, was both thought-provoking and enlightening. The combination of history, tradition, and the warmth of the people left a lasting impression on us. It was more than just a holiday; it was a journey into the heart of a vibrant community that made our Christmas truly special.
Erin: Kofi & Kayla are the couple at whose wedding you were reunited, right?
Feranmi: Yes, but let my husband tell it, that’s where he rescued me.
Alex: Shoot, I did. You were all out of options until I came along and saved the day.
Feranmi: Are you sure you wanna go there, Babe?
Alex: Nah. I’m just messing with you.
Feranmi: Mmmhmm. Okay.
I watched them playfully banter before Alex pulled his wife in for a kiss. Before they could break apart, their daughter walked in quietly, probably looking for something. She caught sight of her parents and rolled her eyes.
Taylor: Y’all do remember you have company? (She turned to me) Sorry about them. This is what my brothers and I have to endure.
Before her parents could reprimand her, she darted away. Feranmi chuckled.

Ferami: Excuse her. Now that she’s almost a high school graduate, she thinks she runs the show.
Alex: Baby, she’s been running us since she was born.
Feranmi: And that’s your fault. Sorry about that Erin
Erin: Don’t worry about it. Your home is your haven, and I love seeing couples in their element.
Feranmi: (She let out a sigh.) Alright, back to your question. My kids and I have a soft spot for the charming town of Banjul in The Gambia. The relaxed atmosphere, vibrant cultural festivals, and picturesque beaches created an ideal setting for our Christmas vacations. One year, we stumbled upon a local Christmas carnival that combined African and Western traditions. It was a truly magical experience for our children, and the genuine warmth of the people made us feel like we were celebrating with our extended family. Banjul holds a special place in our hearts for the unique blend of festive joy and cultural diversity it offered our family.
Erin: Now, Afro Luv Bugs has some questions for you. Are you ready?
Alex: Do your thing.
Erin: First, has the Tracie thing been fully resolved?
Alex: (he scowled) Say you lying? That’s what those people in the U.N Universe wanna know?
Erin: (I shrugged; it wasn’t a submitted question, but I figured I would ask.)
Alex: (He thumbed his nose with his jaws clenched.) It’s done. Next question.
Feranmi: I know we gave unrestricted access, but I want to make it clear, this is the ONLY time we will address Tracie. Being falsely accused of a crime is hard enough, clearing your name even harder but having it continuously brought up by the media is annoying.
Erin: Understandable. One of the reasons you and your husband ended your relationship in college was because of your parents view of Black Americans. How has that changed?
Feranmi: Just to clarify, my parents formed their beliefs based on their own experiences. Losing my aunt and facing discrimination when they attended school in the 1960s shaped their views. It was tough for me, but I loved my husband enough to stand up against them and create our own experiences.
Alex: When I found out everything that happened was because of this, I was angry. But I love my wife, so I tried to understand where her parents were coming from and had no problem reassuring them that I would take care of their daughter. And I think Mama Y would agree that I’m doing a good job.
Erin: Who?
Feranmi: (She playfully shook her head) My mom’s name is Yewande, so he calls her Mama Y.
Alex: Don’t be jealous.

Erin: (I laughed) So you pretended to be Nigerian because her your wife’s parents wanted her to marry one. Even going as far as learning how to act Nigerian from Mrs. Montgomery for a few weeks. You represented yourself as Yoruba specifically. Have you ever done an ancestry test to see if you actually have any Nigerian heritage? And if so, which tribe do you belong to?
Alex: You know what? I actually did. And as much as I would love to claim Yoruba heritage, my ancestry has been traced back to the Igbo tribe.
Feranmi: My Odogwu, my Odogwu, my Odogwu. I love it even more.
Alex grinned and kissed her lips.
Erin: Odogwu?
Alex: It’s a term of endearment in Igbo culture, although it literally means ‘man of importance’. She only calls me that when she’s trying to finesse me.
Erin: Ah, I understand now. Both of you lead very busy lives. Mr. Montgomery, your company is based in Atlanta, but you now have operations all over the US. And Mrs. Montgomery, working in finance, can be demanding enough on its own, let alone managing the activities of your children. How do you keep the spark alive in your relationship amidst all of this?
Feranmi: Like most people in this busy world, we prioritize what’s important. Xavier is a college junior, Taylor is about to graduate high school and Brayden is a high school sophomore, so it’s easier to have ‘us’ time. But even when they were younger, we knew that taking care of our relationship was crucial for our family’s wellbeing. We make time for each other, whether it’s a night in watching movies without the kids or a peaceful walk in the park. Communication is key for keeping our connection strong, and we always make sure to express our love and appreciation amidst the chaos.

Alex: My wife is right. Even with the hustle I make sure to keep dating my wife. How else will my sons learn how to treat a woman, or my daughter know what she deserves from a man? It’s important for them to see a healthy relationship at home. Our backyard dinners and weekend getaways are just some of the ways we make time for each other.
Erin: Okay, one last question for both of you: If your family had a Christmas theme song, what would it be and why?
Alex: “Jingle Bell Rock” is the perfect Christmas theme song. It has the right balance of energy and classic charm, setting the tone for festive fun. We just had it on while decorating the tree.
Feranmi: “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” It embodies the cozy moments and appreciation for simple joys that we strive for during the holiday season.
Erin: Well, thank you both for such an enjoyable conversation. It was wonderful getting to know you both better.
Feranmi: We had a wonderful time. Thank you for inviting us to be a part of this holiday special. The work that Limelight is doing is crucial, as it showcases the diverse and vibrant culture, arts, and talent on the continent. It’s especially important given the reputation Africa has often wrongly been given. But even more importantly, highlighting Black love, godly relationships, and strong families.
As I stepped out into the bustling streets of Lagos after spending the evening with the Montgomerys, their heartwarming stories of blending continents and cultures during the holiday season stayed with me. Their love, unity, and enchanting Christmas traditions left an indelible mark, making this interview truly unforgettable.