Weddings in Nigeria aren’t nearly love — they’re a full-blown manufacturing. Assume: a number of occasions, a crowd sufficiently big to fill a stadium, and vibes that might energy a whole metropolis. However earlier than you begin selecting your colour of the day or deciding in case your cake ought to spin (as a result of sure, it’s 2025 and muffins now rotate), there’s one unstated subject that may trigger critical stress — who handles the payments?
As a result of when love meets billing… someone’s account stability should reply. Now, who ought to deal with the payments for a Nigerian wedding ceremony?
First Cease: The Introduction — Who Pays What?
Earlier than the massive “I do,” there’s the introduction. That is the place each households meet formally to say, “We’ve seen your daughter, we like her, and we’re critical.”
Now, in most Nigerian cultures, the introduction is often hosted by the bride’s household — it’s her residence turf. Which means they deal with the setting, the meals, and the final hospitality. The groom’s household, alternatively, comes bearing presents — often within the type of drinks, fruits, yams, wine, and envelopes (you understand what’s inside).
Whereas the occasion is smaller than a standard wedding ceremony, it’s nonetheless fancy sufficient to have a decorator, MC, photographer, and that one uncle who insists on giving a speech no person requested for.
So sure, the bride’s household handles the internet hosting, however the groom’s aspect usually brings financial presents and contributions to point out seriousness. Mainly, it’s teamwork — Nigerian version.
Then Comes the Conventional Marriage ceremony — Tradition Meets Money
That is the place custom really reveals up in Ankara and gold lace.
Historically, the groom and his household deal with a lot of the payments for the normal wedding ceremony. That features the bride worth (dowry), a listing of marriage gadgets (relying on her tribe, which may vary from yams to kitchen utensils to costly wrappers), and the occasion bills if it’s hosted within the bride’s compound.
Nevertheless, issues are evolving. Some brides now share prices or assist with logistics. Particularly when the occasion is large-scale and glam — assume Veekee James-inspired outfits, luxurious canopies, and 360 cameras. Let’s be actual: if the bride desires fireworks and a dwell band, she may chip in to make it occur.
In Yoruba tradition, it’s referred to as “idana”; in Igbo tradition, “igba nkwu” — each colourful, each costly, and each able to humbling a checking account.
The White Marriage ceremony — The place Fashionable Love Meets Fashionable Payments
Now, that is the place the actual spending begins. Venue, decor, catering, wedding ceremony costume, swimsuit, make-up, images, videography, DJ, MC, lodge bookings, presents for bridesmaids and groomsmen… the listing can stretch longer than a gele tail.
Historically, the groom would pay for many of this — in spite of everything, he’s the one “taking the bride.” However in immediately’s world, many {couples} have flipped the script. Some break up payments equally, others tackle what they will afford individually.
For instance:
- Groom covers the venue and catering.
- Bride handles her costume, make-up, and possibly the decor.
- Each contribute to images and leisure.
And let’s not neglect — typically dad and mom insist on contributing too (particularly in the event that they’re those inviting 200 additional visitors). Nigerian dad and mom take “we’re simply inviting a couple of pals” very personally.
When Love Meets Finances Actuality
Gone are the times when one individual shoulders the whole value. Many trendy Nigerian {couples} now desire to plan and price range collectively. Some even begin joint financial savings accounts months earlier than the marriage, or create a marriage spreadsheet (sure, love now comes with Excel formulation).
Others go for smaller, intentional ceremonies — intimate gatherings with shut family and friends as an alternative of huge crowds that don’t even keep in mind the couple’s names.
As a result of actually, a lifetime collectively is best than beginning your marriage with debt simply to impress the web.
The Sensible Strategy to Deal with It All
- Have the cash discuss early. Don’t wait till distributors begin calling.
- Be clear. If one individual can afford extra, nice — however each ought to really feel concerned.
- Keep away from pointless strain. Nobody remembers the cake taste, however they’ll keep in mind the love (and the jollof, in fact).
- Work with a price range planner. Apps, spreadsheets, or perhaps a pocket book can prevent from monetary chaos.
- Keep in mind: after the marriage, actual life begins. Lease, feeding, and tasks don’t disappear as soon as the bouquet is thrown.
Closing Take: It’s Not About Who Pays, It’s About Partnership
Whether or not it’s the introduction, conventional, or white wedding ceremony, cash will at all times be a dialog. However one of the best method is one constructed on teamwork, respect, and understanding.
As a result of it’s not about who pays for the massive day, it’s about how each of you construct the times after it. Love is gorgeous, however transparency is peace.
So plan collectively, spend correctly, and keep in mind, you’re not simply paying for a marriage; you’re investing in a lifetime.
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