Have you decided on the dress and suit you want for your wedding? If so, congrats. You’ll need to make the purchase ASAP. But wait, what about your guests?

Of course, you’re not the one who’ll choose their attire. That said, you can set a dress code for them to follow during your wedding. Many couples ensure their guests follow a specific set of dress rules to achieve a uniform look.

But you may ask: “Is a wedding dress code really necessary?” Well, below is a list of the pros and cons of setting a dress code for your wedding. So, let’s get started with the disadvantages:

Cons of Setting a Dress Code for Your Wedding

1. Limits Guests’ Preferences

When it comes to clothing, everyone has their preferences. Setting a strict code restricts guests from dressing the way they want. You may unknowingly force them to wear a style and color they aren’t comfortable with.

It seems like a small issue, doesn’t it? But consider the mood at your wedding. Will an uncomfortable guest be willing to celebrate with you? Well, you know the answer.

2. Cost Considerations

Above, we looked at a situation where your guests won’t be comfortable with your choice. But what if they can’t afford it in the first place? Yes, there are styles of dresses that are too expensive and force unexpected costs on guests.

For those who can’t afford those dresses, it’s like a message telling them not to bother showing up. Others may choose to wear something different instead only to stick out as the odd one, attracting unwanted attention.

3. Increased Planning Stress

Wedding planning is already as stressful as it can get. Setting a dress code is like adding another pile of work to that complex process. You may wonder how. After all, you only need to specify the dress code and you’re done.

Well, specifying the dress code isn’t even the first step. You’ll have to consider the theme of your wedding, check out several options online, and narrow your choice down. In addition to all these, you’ll need to be ready to address any concerns your guests may have.

Handling wedding guests is not an easy feat. Choosing a dress code will only lengthen that process. If you’re already stressed out enough, it may be best to leave out this process. So, yes, setting a dress code isn’t really necessary for a wedding.

But couples who decide to set one enjoy the following benefits at their wedding:

Pros of Setting a Wedding Dress Code

1. Uniform Look

If you’ve always wanted a uniform look on your wedding day, then setting a dress code is the right choice. A carefully selected dress code allows your guests to match the mood and theme of your wedding. It allows you to set that mood and look you have in mind.

It’s also a way of preventing guests from wearing any dress style that’s against your preference. Rather than specifying a type of dress to avoid (which may sound offensive), specify a type of dress to follow. It’s the logical choice.

2. Boosts Guests’ Confidence

Have you ever felt uncertain about dressing for a wedding? Perhaps you were worried whether your clothes would be appropriate. If so, you can relate to how many guests feel when dressing up for a wedding with no specified dress code.

By setting a dress code, guests will know what to expect. It also allows them not to pay negative attention to their clothing.

3. Unique Experience

For guests who’ve never attended a wedding with a dress code, your wedding allows them to gain a unique experience. The same applies to guests who are used to such weddings. After all, not all weddings set the same dress codes.

Wrapping Up: Should You Set a Wedding Dress Code?

As discussed in this post, there are advantages and disadvantages to setting a wedding dress code. So, how do you decide? It’s pretty simple. If you’ve always wanted your guests to have a uniform look, a dress code is the ideal choice. It also helps prevent any inappropriate dressing at your event.

But if you’re not particularly interested in setting dress rules for your guests and want to avoid any stress that comes with it, then don’t bother with it. This is also the ideal choice if you like variety and want your guests to dress however they want.

Ultimately, the decision rests on you. Consider your preferences and choose the option that best aligns with them.

When it comes to preparing for your wedding ceremony and reception, one factor has more impact than your venue, cakes, and wedding menu. Yes, it’s high time we talk about your wedding guests – the factor that influences most of the other wedding planning decisions you’ll need to make.

The major mistake some couples make is not trying to manage their guests. But you might ask what does that mean?

Simply, we’re referring to the steps and actions you need to take concerning your wedding guests to ensure both you and them have a wonderful occasion.

Curious? Well, this post discusses five must-know tips that’ll help you effectively manage your wedding guests. What are they?

TIP ONE: Pay Close Attention to Your Venue’s Seating Arrangements

In a previous post, we highlighted the size of your guest list as a major factor when booking your wedding venue. And that’s right. After all, you don’t want some of your guests to be hanging around with no place to sit and enjoy the program.

The key takeaway is to book a venue that can hold more guests than you’re expecting to be on the safe side.

But you don’t just want to pay attention to only the venue’s size. The very seating arrangement matters. To help your guests fully enjoy the day, you may choose to arrange seats by tables and have family members, relatives, or close friends sit with each other. This will allow them to freely interact with people they’re familiar with.

But that’s just one way of doing things. You may choose not to have a formal seating arrangement and allow your guests to sit wherever they like. Whatever choice you go for, ensure the following:

• There are enough seats available for everyone
• There’s sufficient space between seats and tables to avoid congestion

TIP TWO: Send Out Invitations Early and Confirm a Response

“I’m getting married and I want as many people as possible to attend my wedding.” If that’s what you want, there’s nothing wrong. However, trying to plan out your wedding without estimating the number of people to expect will get you into problems.

Thus, you need to make a list and send out invitations and an RSVP notice well in advance to give them time to plan their schedule and reply. Doing this will allow you to get an estimated number of people to expect and will go far in helping you prepare for them.

TIP THREE: Consider Using Pass Cards

Another decision you need to make when planning your wedding is whether you want your guests to come “strictly by invite.” If yes, then you should consider handing out pass cards to those you want present.

Having a strictly by-invite wedding will go a long way in helping you manage guests. You’ll be able to get, not just an estimate but an exact number of guests to expect. You’ll then be able to better prepare a spacious venue and ensure items on your wedding menu satisfy everyone. And the key to enforcing this is the pass cards you’ll be handing over to your guests.

TIP FOUR: Cater to Your Guests’ Special Needs

You know your guests best. So, ask yourself: “are there other ways I can ensure they have a great time during my wedding?”

If you’re having a destination wedding, you need to consider accommodation and transportation options for your guests.

You can help to research places that are affordable and convenient. Also, look for special rates and discounts that’ll help your guests save costs.

Another thing to consider is whether your reception and ceremony will be taking place in the same venue. If not, you need to consider the best transport routes and options for your wedding guests to move around and get to the reception venue in time to enjoy your day with you.

TIP FIVE: Keep in Touch

Nothing beats this tip. You need to communicate effectively with your wedding guests from the moment you send out an invite to them to the moment they return to their homes. Afterward, a thank you message will be invaluable to them.

By having a good flow of communication with your guests, you create an avenue for them to express any concerns they have.

Wrapping Up: Manage Your Wedding Guests With Care!

A wedding won’t be complete without having anybody around to celebrate with you. Even if it’s only a few family members and friends around, you have to take steps to ensure they have a good time. So, send out your invites early, choose your venue carefully, and cater to any needs your guests may have, such as accommodation and transportation.

What’s more, keep in touch with your wedding guests throughout the period they’ll be traveling with you. Doing all these will help you successfully manage your wedding guests with care.

The Wedding Menu! Surely, it’s something you shouldn’t overlook when making your wedding prep. All the more so if you’re planning a reception party after the ceremony. You’ll want to keep your guests entertained and refreshed as they join you in celebrating your day.

But have you asked yourself yet: What should your wedding menu contain? Not too sure? No worries. In this post, we’ve put together 30 best food Ideas to include in your wedding menu. Not just that, we’re also going to drop some tips from experts on what to consider when choosing what to include in your wedding menu.

So, stick around to the end and enjoy the menu this post offers:

What Does a Wedding Menu Typically Contain?

Before delving into the food ideas you should consider for your menu, let’s review what a wedding reception menu usually contains:

1. Appetizers
2. Main Dish
3. Desserts and/or Wedding Cake

Whether you’ve chosen to serve a printed menu or not, in most cases, couples divide the dishes they’ve prepared into the above parts.

But that’s all for the formality. If you want to add more dishes to your menu or remove from it, the ball is in your court. You can give your guests a personalized experience if you decide to.

Now that we’ve gotten that noted, let’s head over to the main topic or dish for today. Below, we’ve prepared various food ideas that would fit right well into any wedding menu.

30 Food Ideas to Include in Your Wedding Menu

APPETIZERS

1. Suya

Speaking of appetizers, Suyas are a great place to start the list. These slices of meat alongside onions, tomatoes, and other spices have a way of kickstarting the appetite, getting your guests ready for the main dish.

2. Sushi Rolls and Sashimi Slices

The Japanese combination of Sushi (made from rice and seafood) and Sashimi (made from seafood or raw meat) also serves well as an appetizer for your wedding. Just make sure to get a main dish that can beat the expectation it’ll set.

3. Mini Tacos

Yes, in case you were wondering, tacos are great options for a wedding menu. You can choose to serve it as your wedding appetizer for a personalized experience. It can also go alongside other items for your appetizer menu.

4. Spring Rolls

These rolled appetizers containing vegetables, seafood, and/or meat (depending on your preference) allow your guest to keep their taste buds wet in preparation for what is next.

5. Shrimp Cocktail

The name says it all. It consists of cooked shrimp served in a glass of cocktail sauce. Your guests can keep it hand while chatting and enjoying the reception atmosphere you’ve provided.

6. Beef Sliders

Do you love burgers? Have you dreamt of eating them at your wedding? Well, you know where this is going. You can serve burgers, or rather beef sliders (smaller and more portable as your wedding appetizer.

7. Deviled Eggs

Eggs are also great options for your wedding appetizer. By that, we mean Deviled eggs, which have been sliced in half and filled with other ingredients.

8. Chicken Skewers

Having marinated chicken on skewers served at your wedding can make for a good appetizer. If you love this finger food, then don’t hold back from treating your guests.

9. Crab Cakes

This is another perfect option for seafood lovers. The crab meat alongside other ingredients like eggs and bread crumbs are prepared together to give your guests a unique taste experience.

10. Pizzetta

Surely, pizza can’t be served as a wedding appetizer even though it’s a well-loved food around the world. Well, then you should try Pizzetta. It’s practically pizza in smaller pieces. Yes, you can have your guests holding pizza in their fingers while enjoying the reception entertainment.

MAIN DISHES

11. Jollof Rice

This West-Africa popular dish has become the top choice in many weddings as the main dish served. And it doesn’t come as a surprise. Its rich tomato flavor, spices, and aroma leave guests satisfied at weddings, even wanting more.

12. Lasagna

Lasagna is a well-known and popular Italian dish. And not surprisingly, it’s also quite popular as a wedding meal. So, there’s no need to hesitate to make it the main entry of the day if you just can’t get enough of the dish. And the best part? you can opt for or include vegetable lasagna to give your guests variety.

13. Spaghetti

Italy is well-known for its pasta meals. And following Lasagna is the even more popular Spaghetti dish. Some might say this is not a good choice for a wedding meal. But if you and your partner love it, there’s no reason not to go with it. Your wedding is all about sharing your happiest day with your guests. So, don’t hold back from sharing your favorite meal too.

14. Steak

Steak? Sure, steak is fine, but as the main dish? Yes, Believe it or not, steak appears at many weddings around the world as the main course. Serving it alongside various delicious accompaniments like salad, other vegetables, or potatoes is a way of satisfying your guests.

15. Fried Rice

There are just so many ways you can serve rice as your wedding main course. Fried rice is another mouthwatering delicacy you can offer your guests. But it doesn’t stop there. It can also be served together with Jollof rice to create the combination your guests didn’t know they wanted.

16. Chicken Curry

Chicken curry is another top choice you should consider for your reception’s main course. The best part is that it can be accompanied by a variety of other foods, including rice, bread, and salad.

BUFFETS

Instead of having one dish served to your guests, you can also consider setting up a buffet, allowing the combination of several meals per your guests’ tastes. The following are some buffet ideas to include in your wedding menu.

17. Seafood Buffet

Seafoods are loved by many people. And if you do, consider having a seafood buffet. Treat your guests to an all-you-can-eat seafood banquet.

18. BBQ Buffet

Earlier, we mentioned steak as a main dish favorite at many weddings. But if you’d rather have steak alongside other meats, then consider a BBQ buffet. It’s basically the meat version of your seafood buffet.

19. Vegan Buffet

Cater to your vegan guests with a vegan buffet. This is also the ideal option if you’re a vegetarian yourself. You can treat your guests to quinoa salads, diary-free cakes, and vegan baked mac ‘n cheese.

DESSERTS

20. Fruit Skewers

Fruit skewers are perfect candidates for your wedding dessert. They are a healthy option of delicious fruits to keep your guests refreshed. What’s more, they help add to the overall aesthetic of your wedding.

21. Brownies

Brownies are not only delicious but an easy option to get and serve as part of your wedding dessert.

22. Mini Cheesecakes

Serving bite-sized cheesecakes is a good option for your wedding dessert. That’s because they are not only delicious but also easy to eat.

23. Macarons

Macarons are another easy option for your guests to eat as a dessert at your wedding. These small macarons are tasty and can also be packed with gifts for guests to take home.

24. Ice Cream Bar

Everyone loves Ice Cream (At least, most people). So, don’t hold back from going with this option for your wedding dessert.

25. Cookies

Our list wouldn’t be complete without cookies, would it? Cookies are well-known snacks. And yes, they serve perfectly well as wedding desserts.

26. Cupcakes

Cakes are the most popular dessert options at weddings around the world. Giving small cupcakes to your guests will keep them in the mood to party with you longer.

27. Parfaits

Parfaits may not live up to the popularity of cakes as a wedding dessert. But when it comes to taste, you can be sure your guest will appreciate it if you opt for a parfait.

28. Doughnuts

Nobody is ignorant of doughnuts. And the fact that they can be served as a wedding dessert allows you to satisfy any longing left in your guests’ taste buds.

29. Fruit Tarts

Fruit tarts are another option that allows you to satisfy your guests after the main course. With a fruit tart in hand, your guests can continue chatting as the day gradually wraps up.

30. The Wedding Cake

As mentioned earlier, cake is the top wedding dessert option out there. Serving a wedding cake to your guests is one of the best treats you’ll be giving them throughout the day.

What Should You Consider When Choosing Your Wedding Menu?

Now, that you’re brimming with ideas for your wedding menu, what should you keep in mind when you’re narrowing the list?

1. Your Guests

No doubt, without your guests, you wouldn’t even start preparing your wedding menu. That’s why you need to consider their preferences. Go with options that will most likely appeal to them. But when doing so, don’t try too hard. Why? Because everybody has different tastes. So, you should never expect to satisfy everyone who attends your wedding. To help you do this, adhere strictly to your –

2. Budget

Your budget should be the major thing that guides your wedding menu. If you can’t afford a food option, go for a cheaper one. But also, as a reminder, be realistic about current prices. So, when creating your budget, keep current prices in mind as well as the number of guests you’re expecting. If possible, cater for more than you expect to avoid unwanted scenarios at your wedding reception.

3. Your Taste

We’ve talked about your guests and your cash in hand. But what really matters most (after your budget, of course) is your personal taste and preferences. What kind of food options do you and your partner like? Is it something you can afford? If so, don’t hesitate to go for it.

Whether you want a buffet at your wedding or you want to have multiple main dishes for your guests to choose from, it all depends on you and your partner. It’s your choice to make!

Wrapping Up Our List of Ideas for Your Wedding Menu

Creating a wedding menu may not be as easy as it sounds. That’s especially true if you don’t have any idea of what you want beforehand. But no worries. All you need is a little time to think and research what items will fit best in your wedding menu.

In this post, we’ve highlighted 30 food ideas to incorporate in your wedding menu whether as appetizers, main dishes, buffets, or desserts. So, take your time and create a wedding menu that both you and your guests will love.

What does your ideal wedding cake look like? If you’ve decided to bake one for your wedding party, you most likely have several references for the design. But we won’t delve into that in this post. Instead, we’ll focus on the most interesting aspect of the cake – its taste.

When it comes to your wedding cake flavor, it’s all about your preference. To help you decide, we’ve put together some mouth-watering wedding cake flavors you should consider for your big day.

Top Wedding Cake Flavors Ideas

1. Lemon Flavor

If you love lemon cakes, then there’s no harm in getting one for your wedding. Lemon-flavored cakes are considered one of the most popular wedding cake flavors.

And that’s no wonder, considering its light and fluffy texture. There is more to that, though, when it comes to lemon cakes. Since it’s easy to eat, it’s favored as a light dessert.

Sounds good to your ears and tongue? Then give it a test run. If you love it, go ahead and order one for your wedding. But speaking of popular wedding cake flavors, there’s one that beats lemon cakes by far. Yes, Vanilla.

2. Vanilla Flavor

Around the world, vanilla wedding cakes are popular. Yes, so much so that they are considered the first option for many couples. Wondering why this is so? Well, for cake experts, vanilla is a great choice because it goes well with just about any frosting flavor you may dream of.

For non-cake experts, vanilla cake is simply delicious! You don’t need to worry about frostings if you have no knowledge of them in the first place. Choose a reliable baker, make vanilla your choice, and you’re good to go.

3. Red-Velvet Flavor

Red velvet cake is another perfect candidate for your choice of wedding cake flavor. But you might ask: What exactly is a red velvet cake?

Well, its name says it all. However, the major ingredient that makes up this red cake flavor is cocoa powder. That, plus the use of brown sugar is considered to be the cause of its red color.

That aside, let’s talk about the taste – the main reason red velvet wedding cakes are common. It’s not surprising, though, as it tastes falls somewhere between a chocolate and vanilla cake

4. Chocolate Flavor

We’ve already considered vanilla wedding cakes. So, let’s talk about chocolate cakes. This cake flavor is just as (if not more) popular than vanilla wedding cakes. Surely, you don’t need in-depth details on how chocolate works. If you love chocolate on a regular day, why not tell your baker to go all out and make you a wedding chocolate cake? After all, it’s your big day.

Conclusion

The wedding cake is no doubt a vital part of the wedding day. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t enjoy it. Instead, because of that reason, you should ensure the cake matches your taste. That’s why we’ve highlighted the 4 most popular wedding cake flavors to try, especially if you’re not a cake expert.

And if you’re getting married in Lagos, our list of the best wedding cake shops in Lagos will help you select the right people for your cake. So, get researching, baking, and enjoying the taste your cake flavor has to offer.

Just got engaged? Congrats. By now, you must have started minor preparations in anticipation of your big day. But as a bride, it’s safe to say the part of your wedding prep you’re mostly looking forward to is the “wedding dress.”

After all, you can’t wait to catch your groom’s expression upon seeing your entry on the big day. In preparation for that moment, it’s great to look up some of the best wedding dress styles you can try.

In this post, we’ve highlighted 7 wedding dress styles that are trending in 2024, beginning with the midi and maxi wedding dress styles.

1.    Midi Wedding Dresses

A midi dress refers to any dress that falls below the knee and above the ankle. These dresses are stylish and have a modern feel to them. What’s more, it comes in a variety of materials. But you might wonder why one would use a midi dress for their wedding.

Well, while the most common length for wedding dresses falls below the ankle, midi dresses are suited for casual weddings. It’s 2024, and this dress style is now incredibly popular and accepted in place of the standard maxi dresses at traditional weddings. Ultimately, it comes down to your choice.

2.    Maxi Wedding Dresses

These dresses go all the way down to the floor, and they can easily mix and match with other styles. What are some of those other styles, you ask?

3.    Wedding Dresses With Colored Flowers

That’s pretty clear. And yes, nowadays, you can get wedding dresses integrated with a colored bouquet. If you’ve always wanted something other than the plain-white dress, this helps to add a unique look and feel. Interested? Here’s a list of floral wedding dresses to review.

4.    Wedding Dresses With Pearls

Similar to the third style on the list, these styles have pearls as part of their design. The pearls may be sewn into the fabric to create an attractive pattern that adds to the beauty of the gown. So, once again, your wedding dress doesn’t have to be plain.

5.    Colorful Wedding Dresses

But what if you’re not satisfied with the color white for your dress? If so, the above two styles help add variety. And if they don’t suit your taste, you can just decide to get a different color for your wedding dress.

Yes, the terms “wedding dress” and “white” are not related in any way. So it’s okay to mix and match two different colors for your wedding dress. You may choose to go with a mix of your favorite color and that of your Groom’s. The key is to be creative and choose a reliable wedding dress designer.

6.    Ball Gowns

Going for the Disney princess look? If so, a wedding ball gown (usually consisting of a voluminous skirt and fitted bodice) is your best bet.

7.    Cape Dresses

What if you want something more flexible and unique? Then you may decide to choose a cape wedding dress. As the name indicates, these dresses feature a removable cape. You can decide to put it on during the ceremony and remove it at the reception. Once again, it’s your choice.

Wrapping Up: What is the Best Wedding Dress Style in 2024?

Every bride has their ideal look. That’s why the answer to that question depends on your preference. Remember, you only have one chance to achieve that ideal look and leave your groom speechless. So, get started ASAP in picking your best wedding style in 2024.

Guest post by Christopher Haymon of Adulting Digest

Receiving monetary gifts from friends and family on your wedding day is a wonderful gesture of love and support. However, it’s essential to spend this money wisely to ensure that it contributes to building a strong foundation for your relationship and future together. In this article, we’ll explore responsible ways to allocate your wedding gift money, turning these generous contributions into lasting investments in your life as a couple.

A Down Payment on Your First Home: Building Your Life Together

One of the most significant ways to invest your wedding gift money is by putting it toward a down payment on a home. Keep in mind that a larger down payment reduces your mortgage payments. Buying a house is an important milestone for many couples, as it represents the beginning of your life together and the establishment of a stable living environment. By using your wedding gift money to help fund this purchase, you’ll be investing in a valuable asset that can provide security and comfort for years to come.

Investing in a Retirement Plan: Building Wealth Over Time

Another responsible way to spend your wedding gift money is by investing it in a retirement plan. By contributing to a 401(k), IRA, or another retirement savings account, you’re building wealth for your future and ensuring that you’ll have the necessary funds to enjoy a comfortable retirement together. The earlier you start investing in your retirement, the more time your money has to grow, making this an ideal way to put your wedding gift money to work.

Setting Up an Emergency Fund: Prepare for Anything

Life is full of unexpected challenges, and having an emergency fund can provide a much-needed financial safety net. Allocating a portion of your wedding gift money to establish or bolster an emergency fund is a wise decision, as it ensures that you and your spouse are prepared for any unforeseen expenses that may arise. Aim to save enough to cover at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses, giving you peace of mind and the ability to weather any financial storms that may come your way.

Paying Off Debts: Eliminating Financial Stress

Carrying debt can be a significant source of stress for many couples, so using your wedding gift money to pay off existing debts can be a responsible decision. By eliminating or reducing your liabilities, you’ll free up more of your income for savings and investments, while also reducing the financial strain on your relationship. Consider tackling high-interest debts first, such as credit card balances or student loans, to maximize the impact of your payments.

Investing in Unforgettable Experiences: Living an Exciting Life Together

While it’s essential to plan for your financial future, it’s also important to invest in experiences that will bring you joy and create lasting memories. Allocating a portion of your wedding gift money to fund activities or trips that you’ve always dreamed of can help strengthen your bond and ensure that you’re living an exciting life together. Whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime vacation or a special date night, investing in these experiences can provide priceless memories and enhance your relationship.

Financing Your Honeymoon: Strengthening Your Relationship

Finally, consider using your wedding gift money to help finance your honeymoon. This special trip is an opportunity for you and your spouse to celebrate your new life together and spend quality time connecting as a couple. By allocating some of your wedding funds toward this experience, you’re investing in the strength of your relationship and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Your wedding gift money is a generous contribution from your loved ones, and it’s essential to spend it wisely to support your relationship and future together. By carefully allocating these funds toward responsible investments, such as a down payment on a home, retirement planning, or an emergency fund, you’re laying the groundwork for a strong financial foundation. Additionally, investing in unforgettable experiences and your honeymoon can help to strengthen your bond and ensure that you’re building a life full of love, adventure, and financial security.

Make your cherished memories last a lifetime with wedding photography from Ash Robin Photography.

Your wedding draws ever closer, and you’ve already gotten started on the prep. You’ve made a list of vendors you’d like to hire for the wedding day. All that’s left is to do research and make your choice. But in doing so, you’ve already hit a roadblock – Which vendors should you choose?

Several wedding vendors in Lagos are capable of giving you the results you need for your occasion. And surprisingly, choosing between them is not easy. Even the endless results on search engines like Google only makes matter worse. In such situations, what do you do?

Not to worry, you’re on the right blog post. Here, I’ve prepared 5 basic yet effective tips for hiring the best wedding vendors in Lagos. In other words, these are factors you should look out for when choosing between several wedding vendors in Lagos. So, to kick off, let’s talk about reviews.

1.      Check Their Reviews

When deciding between two or more wedding vendors in Lagos, one way to narrow down the result is to consider their reputation. In other words, check their reviews. What do their past clients have to say about them? Depending on what is said, you can ascertain whether or not that vendor will suit you. But can you really trust online reviews?

While some brand reviews you find on the net might be a bit inaccurate, you can still ascertain the vendor’s level through those reviews. For example, does the vendor have more positive ratings than negative ones? If yes, then he might be worth your trial. And you can be sure there’ll be a lot more negative reviews if he’s not as skillful as appeared.

2.      Past Works

Checking the vendors’ portfolios is another way to gauge their skills. It allows you to see for yourself if they’re worth your try. After which, you can decide based on what you see, rather than what others say, as in the case of reviews.

3.      The Price and Your Budget

Another thing to note when hiring wedding vendors in Lagos is the vendor’s price. How much do their services cost? The answer to that question will inform you whether or not that vendor is for you. How? By comparing it with your budget.

As seen in our tips for Nigerian wedding planning, your budget always comes first. It’s the most crucial part of your wedding prep. It affects every other decision you make, including what vendors you go for. If the price of hiring a vendor is way out of your budget and unnegotiable, you know that it’s time to check the next person on the list.

4.      Communication

You’ve decided on a vendor. You’ve checked out his reviews, portfolio, and pricing packages. What’s next? You need to develop a good flow of communication. After all, you’ll spend your entire wedding day with most of your vendors (such as your wedding photographer). To make yourself comfortable around them, you need to get to know each other.

To do that, if possible, make plans to meet each other in person before the big day arrives (even before hiring). This will also give you insight into the vendor’s personality and work style and ensure he’s able to bring your visions to life. Check out this article to gain insight into what questions to ask your wedding vendors in Lagos before booking.

5.      Prepare Alternatives

Though it’s last on this list, the first thing you have to do when booking wedding vendors in Lagos is to prepare alternatives. What do I mean by that? Simply put, make a list of different wedding vendors that you’d like to reach out to. Make a list of photographers, a list of makeup artists, a list of event planners, and so on.

After doing so, you can proceed to check the reviews and portfolios of the vendors on each list. If that particular vendor doesn’t suit you, check the next person on the list. Do that until you find a vendor who can bring your visions to life.

By having different options to choose from, you won’t feel the need to rush and settle for the first vendor you find. You’ll be able to conduct more adequate research to arrive at the best option.

BONUS TIP: Book Your Wedding Vendors ASAP!

Here’s our bonus tip – hire your vendors as early as you can. Waiting till the last minute is risky as the vendors you may have hoped to hire might already be booked. And when you book on time, you give your wedding vendors in Lagos more time on their hands to prepare for your big day and deliver their best.

Choose the Right Wedding Vendors in Lagos!

In simple terms, the secret to hiring the best wedding vendors in Lagos is to book early and make adequate research. When it comes to the latter, the five tips discussed in this post will help you if applied right.

For more tips on how to properly prepare for your big day, check out our blog.

Nigerian weddings are joyful events. But which is more fun: A Traditional or a White wedding? As a couple getting married soon, you have lots of decisions to make. But the decision to either have a traditional or white wedding is an important one that will determine several other aspects of your event.

So, if you were asked which you preferred, what would be your answer? Not sure yet? Well, don’t worry. In this post, I’ve prepared a full comparison between Yoruba traditional and Lagos white weddings to help you make the ultimate decision.

It compares both wedding types in terms of three common wedding traits. So, stick around and discover which would fit your dream event more.

Dressing

YORUBA TRADITIONAL WEDDINGS: THE ASO OKE

The attire in Yoruba Traditional weddings plays a significant role in defining the event. It adds to the wedding’s aesthetic as a cultural ceremony.

In Yoruba weddings, the bride and groom’s attire are often made from the fabric known as Aso Oke. The bride dawns an iro (wrapper)and buba (top) along with a gele (head tie).

The groom’s material usually comes from the same fabric as the bride’s. He wears an agbada or dashiki along with a Fila (cap). As seen above, these cultural attires add to the theme and color of the wedding. It also helps give the groom and bride a unique look, unlike White weddings where a majority of those in attendance wear a suit and dress.

LAGOS WHITE WEDDINGS: THE TUXEDO & WHITE DRESS

Speaking of Lagos white weddings, we’re all familiar with the bride’s white dress. After all, that’s why it’s called a white wedding. Unlike the Yoruba Traditional wedding, the white wedding attire adds to the modern look and feel of the ceremony.

While the bride wears a white dress, the groom wears a black tuxedo or suit of any color. The groomsmen and bridesmaids’ attire follows the same pattern. If you’ve always looked forward to wearing a dress on your big day, no doubt having a Lagos white wedding is the best choice.

The Ceremony

The ceremony is a top factor differentiating between Yoruba traditional and Lagos white weddings. As the name implies, Yoruba Traditional weddings take a more cultural and ceremonial approach than white weddings. It begins with the groom’s family arriving and sitting opposite the bride’s family.

Both families have a mini-introduction before the couple arrives. Once the bride enters, the groom pays her bride price and finalizes the ceremony. (For more details on the ceremony, check out our guide to Yoruba traditional weddings in Nigeria) Yoruba traditional marriages are usually accompanied by cultural music and prayers as an important part of the ceremony.

On the other hand, Lagos white weddings are more formal and modern. It involves the bride walking down the aisle to meet the groom. After which, the couple exchanges their vows and rings. Once that’s done, the reception and merriment can begin. Note that the bride price is usually paid before the wedding day arrives.

When it comes to the ceremony, many Nigerian couples would rather have a traditional wedding since it’s more lively. That said, most brides won’t want to miss the look of their groom when walking down the aisle.

The Reception Party

Yes, after the ceremony, comes the reception party. This is true for both Yoruba Traditional and Lagos white weddings. However, there are key differences to note between how these two reception types are held.

One difference is where the celebrations are held. For most white weddings, the reception occurs in a different location from the ceremony. On the other hand, traditional weddings have both ceremony and reception in one location.

What about the entertainment? As expected, Yoruba traditional weddings take a more cultural approach with live music, drumming, and dancing. As for Lagos white weddings, a DJ is hired to feed the audience with western-style music.

In terms of entertainment, most couples would opt for a white wedding. However, it’s crucial to note that the entertainment can be customized depending on the couple’s preference.

Did you notice? I didn’t add an essential aspect common in all weddings – both White or Traditional – the food! Why did I omit that? Well, that’s because both types of Weddings don’t have a particular category of food attributed to them.

For instance, it’s perfectly normal to attend a white wedding and be served the local swallow and traditional soup, such as pounded yam and egusi. On the other hand, at traditional weddings, it’s not out of place to be served with the Nigerian jollof rice we all love.

Like the music, this is a similarity both Yoruba traditional and Lagos white weddings share. It depends on the couple’s choice. So, with all that said, which should you have – traditional or white?

Choosing Between Yoruba Traditional and White Weddings

Just like your wedding venue, the decision on what type of wedding you should have rests on you – the couple. After all, it’s your big day. You should select the option that best suits what you’ve always dreamed of. As seen in this post, traditional weddings have a more cultural theme. On the other hand, Lagos white weddings give off a more modern vibe.

So, consider the points discussed in this post and identify which wedding suits you more. Once you’ve made your choice, feel free to contact us. Here at Ash Robin, we’ll help you document your big day, either in a traditional or modern look. It’s all your choice!

Are you trying to decide between Indoor and Outdoor Lagos wedding venues? If you were asked a few years back which one you’d like to have for your wedding, what would you say? Chances are you never gave it a thought. But now that you’re getting married, you’re likely thinking about the type of venue to get.

As trivial as it may seem, deciding whether to have an indoor or outdoor wedding is necessary. Depending on your choice, it affects several aspects of your wedding prep, including the wedding theme, décor, arrangements, and more. And since the venue is where your event takes place, it also affects the end result of your photos.

So, with all that at the corner of your mind, what should you choose? Not to worry, this post will help you make that ultimate decision. Here, I’ve spotlighted the 3 pros and cons of choosing between indoor and outdoor Lagos wedding venues. So, read on!

Pros of Indoor Lagos Wedding Venues

1.     Weatherproof

No doubt, this is the top advantage indoor Lagos wedding venues have over outdoor venues. Its enclosed space provides protection from unpredictable weather conditions. Thus, it allows you and your guests to fully enjoy the event.

Yes! If you opt for an indoor venue, you won’t have to worry about sudden rainfall. Not only that, you and your guests will not experience discomfort from extreme heat or strong wind. Come rain or shine, you’ll be able to tie the knot with your partner.

2.     It’s Flexible

Here’s one thing you can’t do with outdoor venues – customize your wedding location to your heart’s content. By this, I mean indoor wedding venues in Lagos allow for a wider range of décor than outdoors. You can recreate the ambiance you want by adding various elements, such as backdrops and lighting.

And here’s the best part – you can customize your lighting. It doesn’t have to look like the plain white and yellow bulbs common in the home. And if possible, in your venue, you can choose to add Uplights to create a dramatic look. It’s all up to you.

3.     It’s Comfortable

Truth be told, indoor venues give you that comfort that outdoor centers just can’t. In addition to protection from extreme sunshine or rainfall, it provides a more comfortable seating arrangement. Don’t forget that you won’t need to risk battling insects while indoors. And to top it all off, an indoor venue with AC provisions will allow you to relax and party at the same time.

Yes, if all these are what you’re looking for when deciding between indoor and outdoor Lagos wedding venues, the former is for you. But hold up first, what are its downsides?

Cons of Indoor Venues

1.     Limited natural lighting

Okay, I’ve said this many times, but good lighting is essential for beautiful wedding photos. And the best kind of lighting you can get is natural light. When it comes to this, many indoor wedding venues fall short as they don’t provide adequate sunlight.

Note that this downside can be bypassed with sufficient artificial lighting and a skilled wedding photographer. That said, it’s best to aim for those Lagos wedding venues that allow the perfect blend of natural and artificial light for the best pictures.

2.     Limited Space

Remember how I said indoor venues are super comfortable? Well, that can suddenly change if your event is overcrowded. It can lead to a stuffy and congested atmosphere, making it worse than the heat from an outdoor venue. How is this a downside?

Simply put, indoor venues are limited in size. Well, it all depends on your guest count, right? But if that number is large, an indoor venue may not be the best bet. Remember, you need a venue that’s a little higher than your guest list to provide the best experience for your guest. And to safely do that for a large guest list, an indoor venue is not the ideal choice.

3.     Costly Decor

When you first arrived at the indoor venue you desire, how did it look? Bland, right? That’s natural. It will require a lot of décors to make it presentable for your big day. The flowers, balloons, backdrops, and lighting used in the prep all cost money. Hence, the more décor that’s needed, the more you spend.

That’s not the case with outdoor Lagos wedding venues. Since its outdoors, it provides beautiful natural scenery that requires less décor. And that’s one way of cutting costs.

Pros of Outdoor Lagos Wedding Venues

1.     Natural lighting

Natural lighting at various times of the day is one of the top advantages of choosing an outdoor wedding venue in Lagos. It creates a warm and ethereal atmosphere that allows your photographer to create shots you can’t replicate indoors.

2.     Unlimited Space

As discussed above, indoor venues are not the best option for a numerous guest list. With an outdoor venue, you won’t need to worry about space. No matter how large your guest count is, as long as it’s lower than a thousand ?, I think you’re covered.

All you need to do is provide sufficient chairs and shades for your guest. Outdoor venues also offer enough space for picture-taking. When it comes to size, it beats indoor venues hands-down.

3.     Beautiful Scenery

Indoor venues allow you to decorate to your heart’s content. But outdoor weddings are foolproof you don’t need all the décor in the world to have a beautiful event. The natural backdrop and lighting that outdoor venues in Lagos offer will lift up your event and give you one-of-a-kind images.

Cons of Outdoor Venues

1.     Unpredictable weather

What if it rains on your wedding day? What if the heat is too much to bear? What if there’s a heavy wind that disturbs your guests and décor? Sad to say, outdoor venues don’t offer solutions to these questions as it is always vulnerable to weather conditions.

2.     Additional Logistics

Outdoor Lagos wedding venues require more tasks to complete. You’ll need to rent tents and chairs and make restroom provisions for your guests. You’ll also have to move your sound and power equipment to the venue. These tasks will cost you more time and even money. A lot of these things come ready with an indoor venue.

3.     Noise and Distractions

Depending on the Outdoor venue you choose, you may have to deal with a noisy environment. For instance, if the venue you’re about to book is nearby a busy road, you know what to expect. The constant movement of vehicles and those passing by will create a lot of noise and distract you and your guests from having a wonderful day.

The Verdict: Choosing Between Indoor and Outdoor Lagos Wedding Venues!

So, after considering all our pros and cons in this post, which is the best option between indoor and outdoor Lagos wedding venues? Well, it totally depends on you! As disappointing as that verdict may sound, there’s no universally accepted best choice. It all comes down to each individual or, in this case, each couple.

When making your choice, remember to check out the features to look out for in a Lagos wedding venue. Compare what type of venue will give you the most comfort, and consider the options you have. Our list of the best indoor and outdoor Lagos wedding venues will help you do so. Once you’ve done that, it’s time to book and get the venue ready for your big day.

Hey there! So, you’re getting married soon and want your photos to be memorable and perfect, right? Well, every couple does. But here’s what you should know – just having a wedding photographer shows up on the big day isn’t enough. Why?

That’s because there are other things (beyond the control of your photographer) that can affect how your photos turn out. And amongst these things, your venue is a top factor. That’s why you need to consider your photos when deciding on a wedding venue in Lagos.

How? In this post, I’ll discuss 5 things your wedding venue in Lagos should have – not only for perfect photos – but also for a comfortable and joyful event. So, read on and ensure the place you’re about to book has all these:

1.     Proper Lighting

The first thing you’d want to look out for when deciding on a Lagos wedding venue is lighting. And that’s no wonder. After all, lighting is another factor that can affect how your wedding photos turn out. Good lighting helps your photographer deliver vivid and clear images. It also enhances the décor and look of your event, leading to beautiful scenery for wedding photos.

Aside from that, lighting can lift the mood of your wedding and create a lively atmosphere. So, when picking a wedding venue in Lagos, ensure you check the lighting conditions. For indoor venues, check if there’s a provision for sunlight. If not, does it have enough artificial light for your event?

And for outdoor venues, consider whether the sun will be too harsh for your guests and affect your photographer’s shots. Choosing a well-lit venue is the first step to a comfortable and beautiful wedding event.

2.     Reliable Power Supply

Before booking a Lagos wedding venue, you’ll have to check its power source. That’s a given. After all, without power, you can’t comfortably run your event. You won’t be able to power your sound equipment or even light up the venue. Also, your vendors (including your photographer) won’t be able to comfortably carry out their tasks.

So, you’ll want to confirm the venue you’re about to book has a reliable power supply. But not just that. You’ll need to create a backup plan. Why? Well, we’re all familiar with the inconsistent power supply in Nigeria. It goes off without warning. So, what if that happens in the middle of your ceremony? What would you do?

In this case, having a backup plan (perhaps a generator) will save you from embarrassment and inconvenience. You may even decide to power the whole day with a generator to avoid pausing your event when changing power sources.

3.     Adequate Space

Another thing to consider when choosing a wedding venue in Lagos is your guest count. It tells you how big or small your venue should be. For instance, if you’re expecting a hundred guests, you don’t want to book a place that can contain only eighty, right? Doing so will lead to congestion and a disorganized event.

On the other hand, choosing a venue that can hold more than your guest count will create more room and a comfy atmosphere on your big day. So, in summary, your wedding venue should have adequate space for your ceremony. And in speaking of space, remember to choose a place that offers enough room for your group photos.

4.     Proper Ventilation

Your wedding is a joyful day. As such, you need to make sure you and your guests are comfortable. And providing proper ventilation is another way of doing so. Hence, the venue you decide on should have air provisions, especially if it’s indoors.

Check to see if it has a working air conditioning system. If not, does it have enough windows to allow natural air? No doubt, ventilation is an essential factor to include when choosing a wedding venue in Lagos.

5.     Stylish Décor

Your wedding venue is not complete till it’s decorated. The décor brings out the beauty of the venue space. It also enhances the look of your photos. How should this influence your choice of a wedding venue in Lagos? Well, when booking a Lagos wedding venue, you’ll need to check if they offer decorations included in the package.

If yes, ask what options they have. You can also ask for photos of previous events held in the venue. By doing all these, you’ll be able to determine what kind of décor will work best in the venue and for your wedding.

Choosing the Right Wedding Venue in Lagos

As I mentioned earlier, just having a wedding photographer show up at your event isn’t enough to get the photos you want. The environment and venue you decide to use also contribute to the quality of the images. And that’s why you need to put in the extra effort to find a location that can enhance your wedding photos.

In Lagos, there are lots of venues (both indoors and outdoors) that offer the perfect conditions for your wedding event. From proper lighting and ventilation to adequate spacing and stylish decors, you can get everything you need for a comfortable and memorable day. All you need to do is go through the list of wedding venues in Lagos and decide which is right for you. Once you’ve gotten an ideal wedding location, you are one step closer to getting the images you’ve always wanted.