Planning A Budget Wedding In Nigeria: Tips And Tricks

Planning a wedding in Nigeria on a budget can be a challenge, but it's not impossible. The key is to be realistic about what you can afford and to set a budget that you can stick to. It's important to focus on your needs before your wants and to cut back on any unnecessary expenses. With a bit of careful planning, you can have a beautiful, intimate wedding that won't break the bank.

Setting a budget

Your budget should focus on needs before wants. Don't add things that you can do without, like a smoke machine or expensive glassware. Instead, channel that money into simple yet classy wedding decorations.

The first step in setting a budget is to decide on the amount you intend to spend. Next, set a number for how many people to invite. Research how much each guest will cost you (per plate and a drink) and multiply that by the number of people you want to invite. If the amount is too high, reduce the number of guests until you get a number that your money can afford.

Add the venue cost by pricing some venues and choosing one that meets your taste and budget. With your guest count in mind, you can also determine the class of venue and catering you can afford. For example, with 200 guests, you may only be able to afford a modest garden venue and a caterer with fewer menu options.

When it is time to start shopping and hiring vendors, stick to your budget. To keep your budget small, skip unnecessary extras. For example, make a simple wedding cake with one or two tiers instead of a very tall cake. You may also want to forget about wedding souvenirs and hire a professional DJ instead of a band – it’s more affordable. It is also advisable to go for a photographer rather than a videographer.

Reducing the number of guests

When deciding on your guest list, be realistic about how many people you can afford to cater for. Research the cost per guest for food and drink, and multiply this by the number of people you want to invite. If the total is more than you can afford, reduce the number of guests until it is manageable.

It is also worth considering the type of venue and catering you can afford for the number of guests you are inviting. For example, with a smaller number of guests, you may be able to afford a high-class hotel venue and a more expensive caterer with a wider range of menu options. However, if you are inviting a larger number of guests, you may need to opt for a more modest garden venue and a cheaper caterer with fewer menu choices.

To further reduce costs, you could also consider skipping unnecessary extras, such as wedding souvenirs, and focusing on providing your guests with a good venue, great food, and pleasant music instead.

Choosing a venue

When it comes to choosing a venue, it's important to be realistic about what you can afford. While a high-class hotel venue might be appealing, it may be out of your budget. Instead, consider a modest garden venue or a hall that can accommodate your guest count.

To keep costs down, opt for a venue that meets your taste and budget. Research and price different venues, and choose one that aligns with your financial plan. Remember, the cost of the venue should be added to your budget after you've determined the number of guests and the food budget. This will help you understand how much you can realistically afford to spend on the venue.

If you're looking for additional ways to save money, consider choosing a venue that doesn't require additional decorations. Alternatively, you can opt for a venue that offers package deals, including catering or other services, as this may help you negotiate a better rate.

It's also important to start planning your wedding 3-6 months in advance. This will give you enough time to find the perfect venue and ensure that everything is completed before your wedding date. By giving yourself this buffer, you can avoid last-minute stress and rushed decisions that may end up costing you more.

Food and drink

When it comes to food and drink, the most important thing is to set a budget. Research how much each guest will cost you (per plate and a drink) and multiply that by the number of people you want to invite. If the amount is too high, reduce the number of guests until you get a number that your money can afford. With your guest count in mind, you will be able to determine the class of venue and food you can afford. For example, with 200 guests, you will know whether you can afford the high-class hotel venue or the modest garden venue; or whether you can afford the N10k/plate caterer with more menu options or the N5k or even N3k per plate caterer with fewer menu options.

It is also important to be realistic. Don't pressure yourself to have an extravagant wedding if it's beyond your means. Draw up a good budget with your partner and tell your families about your budget. Focus on needs before moving to wants. Don't add things that you can completely do without, like a smoke machine or ₦15,000 glass. Instead, channel that money into simple yet classy wedding decorations.

To keep your budget small, skip unnecessary extras. For example, make a simple wedding cake with one or two tiers instead of a very tall cake. You may want to forget about wedding souvenirs and hire a professional DJ – it’s more affordable. It is advisable to go for a photographer rather than a videographer.

It is also a good idea to wear your wedding gown for both the church ceremony and reception, rather than changing into a reception dress.

Wedding attire

When it comes to wedding attire, it's important to remember that you don't need to spend a fortune to look good. Here are some tips to help you plan your wedding attire while sticking to your budget:

• Be realistic about what you can afford. Wedding gowns can be expensive, but there are budget-friendly options available. Consider buying a pre-owned dress or shopping at a thrift store. You can also look for online retailers that offer affordable wedding dresses.
• If you're set on a particular dress that's out of your price range, consider renting it instead of buying it. This can be a more affordable option, especially for designer gowns.
• For the groom, consider renting a tuxedo or suit instead of buying one. This can be a more cost-effective option, and you'll have a wider range of styles to choose from.
• When it comes to bridesmaids and groomsmen attire, choose classic styles that can be worn again. This will help you save money and ensure that your wedding party looks cohesive.
• Shop around for the best deals on wedding attire. Compare prices from different retailers and look for sales or discounts. You can also consider buying off-the-rack dresses or suits instead of made-to-measure options.
• If you have a talented friend or family member who can sew, consider asking them to make your wedding attire. This can be a more affordable option, and you'll have a unique, custom-made outfit.
• Don't forget to factor in the cost of alterations when budgeting for your wedding attire. Alterations can add up, so be sure to include this in your overall budget.
• Keep your wedding party small. The fewer bridesmaids and groomsmen you have, the less you'll need to spend on attire.
• Start planning and shopping for your wedding attire early. This will give you more time to compare prices and find the best deals. It's also a good idea to set a date and start planning 3-6 months in advance to avoid last-minute stress and rushed decisions.

Frequently asked questions