In Nigeria, weddings are often seen as grand events where families spend huge amounts of money to celebrate. While there’s nothing wrong with having a beautiful wedding, many couples end up starting their marriage in debt because they try to impress people.
The truth is, you can have a lovely, memorable wedding without breaking the bank. Here are five simple ways to have a minimalist, debt-free wedding in Nigeria.
1. Plan on a budget. Don’t borrow. Cut out unnecessary spending
The first step is to decide how much you can afford to spend, and stick to it. Don’t borrow money just because you want to meet certain expectations. Ask yourself what is truly important and focus on that. Many things we spend money on at weddings—like expensive décor, costly outfits, or high-priced entertainers—are not necessary to make your day special. By cutting out waste, you can have a beautiful wedding without financial stress.
2. Have a maximum number of guests strictly by invitation. No Aso-ebi
One big reason weddings in Nigeria get expensive is the crowd. Feeding and entertaining hundreds of people will eat deep into your budget. Decide on the maximum number of guests you can cater for and stick to it. Send out only as many invitations as your budget allows, and make it clear that the event is strictly by invitation. You can also skip Aso-ebi, as it often comes with extra stress and costs for both you and your guests.
3. Instead of renting a hall, use a garden or somewhere else
Hall rentals can be very expensive, especially in big cities. Instead of paying for a hall, consider cheaper alternatives like a friend’s garden, a church compound, or even a family home with enough space. You can decorate it simply but nicely, and your guests will still have a great time. Outdoor settings often give weddings a warm and natural feel without costing a fortune.
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4. You can cut out reception too
It might sound surprising, but you don’t have to hold a reception at all. Some couples choose to have a short thanksgiving after the church or court wedding, serve light refreshments, and then go home. You can also have a small family lunch instead of a big party. This can save you a huge amount of money, time, and energy while keeping the focus on the marriage itself.
5. Use the services of your friends
You may have friends who are photographers, decorators, makeup artists, or bakers. Instead of hiring expensive professionals, ask them to help you as a wedding gift. Most will be happy to contribute their skills to make your day special. You can also get friends to help with ushering, music, or video coverage. This not only saves you money but also makes the day feel more personal and full of love.
In the end, a wedding is about the union of two people, not the size of the party or the money spent. By keeping it simple and debt-free, you can start your marriage without financial stress and focus on building a happy life together.
