Your step-by-step guide from “Yes” to “I Do”
There’s something magical about a Nigerian wedding. The colours, the music, the fashion, the endless laughter. It’s more than just a ceremony, it’s a full-blown cultural celebration. But behind the glitz is a whirlwind of planning, budgeting, decision-making, and family involvement that can leave even the most organized bride overwhelmed.
That’s where a wedding planning checklist becomes your best friend. Whether you’re having an intimate garden wedding in Lekki, a lavish ballroom affair in Abuja, or a vibrant traditional ceremony in Enugu, this guide will walk you through every stage from the moment you say “Yes” to the second you dance out as a Mrs.
12+ Months Before the Wedding – Laying the Foundation
1. Set Your Wedding Vision
Before you book anything, sit with your partner and talk through what you both imagine for your wedding.
- Will you have both traditional and white weddings?
- Is your style minimal, rustic, or vintage ?
- Do you want a large gathering or a small, intimate ceremony?
Tip: Pinterest boards and Instagram saves are great for organizing ideas.
2. Draft a Realistic Budget
Nigerian weddings are famous for overspending. Avoid stress by deciding how much you’re willing to spend together and stick to it.
- Allocate funds across categories: venue, catering , attire, décor , photography/videography , entertainment , miscellaneous.
- Consider contributions from family, but be clear about expectations.
3. Choose Your Date and Book Your Venue Early
Prime venues in Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Abuja can be fully booked 12–24 months ahead. If you want a specific hall or hotel, reserve it now.
- For traditional weddings, secure the family compound or village hall.
- For white weddings, consider ballrooms, event centers, gardens, or destination resorts.
9–12 Months Before the Wedding – Securing the Essentials
4. Hire Key Vendors
Book your wedding planner (if using), photographer, videographer, and MC now. These are your core team and will shape your wedding day experience.
- Popular Nigerian MCs and photographers often have full calendars far in advance.
- Check for style compatibility, review portfolios, meet in person, and discuss vision.
5. Select Your Bridal Party
For now, start drafting your bridal party list and thinking about personalities, responsibilities, and budget (for dresses, gifts, etc.).
6. Begin Shopping for Your Wedding Attire
Nigerian brides often need multiple outfits:
- Traditional attire
- White wedding dress
- Reception dress
- After-party outfit (for those dancing till dawn)
Tip: Custom designs can take 3–9 months, so start early.
6–9 Months Before the Wedding
7. Choose Aso Ebi and Souvenirs
Selecting the right Aso Ebi is both an art and a political process in Nigeria.
- Pick a fabric that photographs well, flatters all skin tones, and matches your colour palette.
- Decide whether guests will pay for their fabric or if you’ll gift it.
- Plan souvenirs that are practical and memorable
8. Book Your Caterers and Bakers
Food is one of the biggest talking points at Nigerian weddings.
- Arrange tasting sessions before signing contracts.
- Include a variety of Nigerian dishes (e.g., jollof rice, pounded yam, egusi, nkwobi) plus lighter options for non-traditional guests.
- Don’t forget small chops
3–6 Months Before the Wedding – Finalizing the Experience
9. Send Save-the-Dates and Invitations
- Save-the-dates: 6 months prior (digital or printed).
- Invitations: 3 months prior, with clear RSVP instructions.
10. Schedule Pre-Wedding Photoshoot
A good pre-wedding shoot doubles as content for invitations, social media, and décor on your wedding day. Coordinate outfits and locations for a cohesive look.
1–3 Months Before the Wedding – Countdown Mode
11. Confirm All Vendors
Call and re-confirm every vendor’s timing, payment, and deliverables.
12. Arrange Bridal Beauty Trials
Test hair, makeup, and nails with your chosen stylist to avoid surprises on the big day.
13. Create a Day-Of Timeline
Include vendor arrivals, bridal prep time, ceremony start, reception flow, and key moments like the first dance and cake cutting.
Final Week – The Calm Before the Celebration
- Pick up outfits and ensure they fit perfectly.
- Pack your bridal emergency kit: safety pins, face powder, lipstick, flat shoes, and tissues.
- Assign a trusted friend or planner to handle last-minute emergencies.
Wedding Day – Your Moment
- Eat a light breakfast.
- Hand over your phone — let someone else handle calls.
- Smile, breathe, and remember that this is your love story being celebrated.