It feels like everybody in Nigeria is getting married these days. From the trending celebrity weddings to the everyday couple, love is clearly in the air!
But let’s be honest, wedding fever is sweet, but if you’re not careful, the expenses can drag you into serious debt. So, how can you and your boo plan that dream wedding without starting your marriage broke and stressed?
Let’s break it down:
Yes, love is sweet, but money makes the wedding go round. Before you start venue hunting or calling Uncle Kunle for MC duties, sit down together and talk honestly about:
You don’t have to impress the entire neighbourhood. Remember that it’s your wedding, not a community project.
Don’t just say “we don’t want to spend too much.” Put numbers on paper! Write down everything – venue, food, decor, outfits, music, photography, honeymoon, etc.
And yes, include the “miscellaneous” for those surprise expenses that always pop up (like when your mother says she’s bringing 100 extra people).
This right here is a game-changer. Open a separate savings account just for wedding plans, one where neither of you can just “borrow small” from it. You can even automate weekly or monthly savings. If you want to take it up a notch, use a high-interest savings account like Keystone Bank’s HISA (High Interest Savings Account) to grow your wedding funds while saving!
It’s easy to want the chandelier decor, 5 outfit changes, and Tiwa Savage to perform, but will you still have peace of mind after? Do what’s affordable and meaningful. Some of the most beautiful weddings were planned with sense, not just money. Focus more on the marriage than the wedding.
Don’t just pick vendors because they’re popular. Ask around, compare 3 or more prices, and always read reviews. If possible, get friends to recommend reliable and budget-friendly options.
And please, have signed agreements to avoid “we didn’t agree on that” drama.
Yes, some family and friends may support you financially or offer services. That’s amazing but don’t base your whole plan on that. Let it be bonus money, not the foundation of your budget.
After the music fades and the last jollof rice is eaten, real life begins. You need rent, food, maybe kids in the future. So, as you’re planning that big day, also be planning for the bigger journey ahead.
The smart thing to do is to save part of your wedding budget for post-wedding life. It’s better to have a smaller wedding and a fatter bank account than the other way around.
Marriage is a beautiful journey, and your wedding is just the first step. Plan it with love, wisdom, and teamwork. Avoid unnecessary pressure and remember, you can always visit the nearest Keystone Bank Branch to open a savings account for your big day!