Irrespective of the tribe, there are common trends in Nigerian weddings. Some started before the wave of COVID-19, and some during the COVID-19 which is still lingering.

We will examine these trends in a proposal, introduction, traditional wedding, and wedding (civil & religious).

Trends in Proposal

In recent Nigerian proposals, there is a quest to be romantic. Because the “Nigerian men are not romantic”, I think the men simply want to prove ladies wrong.

You wouldn’t believe the creativity when it comes to proposals. Even if the lady is suspecting that he may soon propose, she will be totally amazed at the extent of the planning.

Well, let’s give kudos to the creative event planners that will transform your imagination into a wonderful reality. That been said, here are the trends in Nigerian proposals.

• Proposal Rings: Silver and diamond rings are the trend. Most ladies are particular about their diamond size and cut. It is fun when other ladies admire the diamond stone/ring on your finger.

• Proposal Theme: There are different themes for you to settle for. However, it is advisable to know what will wow your lady. It’s fun when you get to see her lovely shocked expression.

Decorating a hotel room, or your room or your compound, outdoor proposal. The outdoor proposal is very common. If you are the type that goes out a lot, you can attest to this. It can be the beach, pool, restaurant, and so on.

Trends in Introduction Ceremony

You can hardly differentiate between an introduction ceremony and a traditional wedding ceremony if you don’t study it clearly. The trend used to be a sitting room ceremony where both families (father, mother, and siblings of the intending couple) will be present and the goal is to fix the wedding date.

Now, the event can pass for the actual traditional ceremony. The decorations, to the venues, to the couple’s outfit, will scream traditional wedding but you will get the clue from the cake, the backdrop, or throw pillow. You will see inscriptions like “Jane introduces Dave” or “first of all introduction”.

Traditional Wedding Trends

• Gele: You will marvel at the different gele styles in trend. The previous trend in gele was stoning the entire gele before tying it but now, the fabric itself is beautiful that the beauty will pop out with or without stoning.

• Accessories: a combination of coral beads and golden or silver jewelry, feather bridal fan, a mini battery-powered fan, clutch purses, and glittering shoes.

• Attire: The Yorubas asooke keeps trending on different fabric levels. The Igbos now wear stylish bridal gowns, which is a shift from what used to trend (blouse and wrapper). The Edos are not relenting on their coral beads.

Trends in Wedding

The Nigerian wedding process is lengthy but Nigerians don’t seem to mind. We like celebrating. Let me summarize the process:

• Introduction: Where the families get to know themselves.
• Traditional Wedding Ceremony: Where the groom pays the bride price.
• Civil Wedding: Legal joining of the couple.
• Religious Wedding (Church & Islam): Joining the couples receives spiritual joining and blessings.

Most people will do all on this list while some will pick from the list depending on the reason best known to them.

The trends in Civil Wedding: Brides now rock white stylish jumpsuits, satin gowns, or lacey gowns combined with fascinators or stylish hats.

The Trends in Religious Wedding: The Christians refer to theirs as a Church wedding. Brides dress stylishly in their choice of wedding gowns. Some care about the length of the train while some just stick with simplicity.

The Muslim brides (Nikkah Wedding) now wear modest wedding gowns combined with white head wraps.

COVID-19 Wedding Trends

With the wave of COVID-19, comes trends such as wearing of nose masks, face shields, and gloves. There is the need to observe the COVID-19 protective measures which have now be turned into wedding fashion.

Virtual Wedding: This was really common during the 2020 pandemic lockdown. The popular platform used for it is zoom. So, it is referred to as zoom wedding.

The trends in Nigerian weddings can change at any time. It is my duty to always bring them to your notice. What do you think is trending in Nigerian wedding today? Share your observation with us in the comment section.

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