10 QUESTIONS EVERY COUPLE SHOULD ASK THEIR CAKE DESIGNER BEFORE BOOKING

You’ve picked a date, booked the venue, found the dress and now comes the fun part: choosing the cake. Finding the right cake design has become a whole lot easier. Finding the right vendor to create your dream confection can be a bit trickier. To help you navigate the waters, we’ve drummed up a list of 10 questions you should ask every cake designer before officially booking them.
1. ARE THEY LICENSED?
Before you fall in love with your cake designer, you need to ensure that they are properly equipped with the right documents. Most wedding venues require a fully-licensed cake designer to bring in a wedding cake, so before you make the decision to hire someone, be sure to ask for some identification so you don’t run into this speed bump down the road.
2. WHAT KIND OF CAKES DO THEY SPECIALIZE IN?
Like art, some bakers will only specialize in certain mediums. In cake terms, this could mean butter cream versus fondant. Before you book an appointment, do some research on your potential cake makers. Check out his or her website and social media accounts — this should give you an idea of personal style and area of expertise. If they’re not web-savvy, ask to see photos in person. Make sure you are hiring a cake designer whose specialty matches your wedding style.
3. WHAT’S THE STARTING PRICE?
Not all wedding cakes are priced the same. Some creations may be more labour-intensive. So, before you book, ensure that you ask your cake designer what the starting cost is per slice.
4. WILL THEY REPLICATE A CAKE?
You’ve seen a photo and now you want that exact cake. Ask your baker if they will create an exact replica. Most times, they’ll take your picture as inspiration and modify it according to your prices, needs and their stylistic ability. Unless it’s a cake from their portfolio or something more classic, you’ll find many cake designers would be reluctant to create an exact replica.
5. DO THEY OFFER TASTINGS?
The inside of the cake should match the beauty of the outside. Don’t be afraid to ask for samples or a cake tasting before booking. If your cake designer doesn’t offer cake tastings before bookings, then ask if they’ll be at bridal shows–which are where you can traditionally sample the goods.
6. ARE THERE ANY ADDITIONAL FEES?
Cake toppers, delivery, cake stands and other embellishments are not typically added into the original quote. Ask in advance about any additional fees so that there are no surprises when the invoice comes in.
7. WHAT HAPPENS IF THE CAKE IS DAMAGED IN TRANSIT?
Accidents happen, especially when you’re transporting gigantic tiers of delicate cake. Don’t be afraid to ask what your cake designer’s policies are when it comes to damage. Do they have a refund policy? Or, do they have a back-up plan in case something goes awry?
8. WHAT KIND OF FLAVOURS AND FILLINGS DO THEY WORK WITH?
Brides these days are becoming more elaborate with their filling choices, which is great! But, before you commit to a flavour, you’ll want to know if your cake designer can actually make that flavour. If they haven’t but are willing to work with new flavours, you’ll definitely want to make sure you have a tasting beforehand.
9. WHO WILL MAKE THE WEDDING CAKE?
This might sound like a silly question, however when it comes to bigger bakeries, you’ll often find that they have a whole team in place. If you’re looking for a specific designer to create your cake make sure you are meeting with the right person.
10. ARE THEY WILLING TO WORK WITH YOUR FLORIST TO ADD FRESH FLOWERS TO THE CAKE?
If you’re looking to scale back on the budget, fresh flowers in lieu of sugar flowers are the way to go. But, before you make that decision, ask if your cake designer will work with your florist or fresh flowers. Some cake designers are opposed to adding fresh flowers to their cake designs, while others are not. Asking in advance will give your cake designer ample time to create a cake with other elements in mind.

CHINESE WEDDING RECEPTION STYLE IDEAS

Let your personality shine through your wedding decor.
Whether you're a modern duo or the traditional type, incorporating Chinese elements into your reception décor says a lot about who you are as a couple. Get inspired by these 4 design plans.
Reception 1 | Modern, Simple, and Sleek
Color scheme:
Red, black, and white
Location:
A loft space with tall ceilings and tall glass windows.
Bridal Party Look:
Black or red cocktail-length dresses for the ladies, tuxes for the guys.
Flowers:
Tightly packed, monochromatic bouquets of roses; single white calla lily boutonnieres.
Tables’ cape:
Red lantern centerpieces surrounded by black and white stones and glowing votive candles. Black linens, black napkins, and white square plates.
Favors:
Lucky bamboo stalks in square black or red earthenware pots.
Reception 2 | Evening of Romance
Color scheme:
Red and pink with a plum blossom and butterfly modify. (Together, the plum blossom and butterfly symbolize long life.)
Location:
A candle light reception room at an elegant winery.
Bridal Party Look:
Pink, tea-length, A-line dresses for the bridesmaids and bejeweled butterfly pins for their hair. Nice suits with red vests for the guys.
Flowers:
Light pink, full and textured bouquets; light red rose boutonnieres.
Tables’ cape:
Low, lush red and pink floral arrangements with roses, orchids, and lilies, mixed with tall silver candelabras. Ivory linens with sheer pink overlays; elegant china, and pink napkins.
Favors:
Small bottles of red or white wine with a plum blossom label featuring the butterfly motif, the couple's names, and the wedding date.
Reception 3 | Filled with Tradition
Color scheme:
Red and gold
Location:
A large banquet room.
Bridal Party Look:
Black or gold cheongsams traditional tuxes.
Flowers:
Deep rich red bouquets of roses, lilies, and orchids; red orchid boutonnieres.
Tables’ cape:
Tables draped with beautiful brocade linens and topped with arrangements of tall spray roses, orchids, and willowy branches. Menus atop each place setting printed in English and Chinese. Red linens, red napkins, and gold-rimmed glassware.
Favors:
Chopsticks for each guest packaged in gold boxes with the "double happiness" character, tied off with a sheer gold ribbon.
Reception 4 | Over-the-top Glam
Color scheme:
Burgundy and gold
Location:
A swanky restaurant atop a city skyscraper.
Bridal Party Look:
Floor-length gowns in burgundy or gold stylish tuxes.
Flowers:
An architectural medley of burgundy roses, orchids, and feathers; burgundy rose boutonnieres.
Tables’ cape:
Tall centerpieces of deep red roses affixed to willow branches shooting up from sleek glass vases. Gold shimmer linens, gold napkins, and burgundy chargers.
Wow factors:
Hundreds of burgundy paper lanterns in contrasting shapes suspended from the ceiling; amber-colored up lighting on the walls.
Favors:
Small burgundy boxes filled with handmade chocolate and tied off with a shimmering gold ribbon.

HAUSA TRADITIONAL WEDDING

KAYAN LEFE.!!!
FIRST STEP.
INTRODUTION
Once the girl accepts the marriage offer, the man sends his parents or guardians to formally seek the permission of the girl's parents in marriage. The Hausa's do not have so many formalities, steps in seeking the girl's hand in marriages varies among different groups.
WEDDING FATIHA!
Conveying of the bride to her new home. Hausa's are mostly from the northern part of Nigeria and most of them are Muslims, Their marriage is done based on Islam, which is less expensive and less time consuming.
When a man sees the girls he wants to marry, he must first seek permission from her parents. The family of the future bride will then conduct investigation on the man to confirm his religious believes, moral ethics and other issues related to his background H e is allowed the girl if meets their expectations. (Physical contacts, romance and courtship before marriage are highly discouraged.)
Seeking for a girls hand in marriage varies, there other ethnic groups having different modes of introduction. Nevertheless the most common methods are, grooms parents visiting the girls family with certain gifts, items i.e cola nuts. Candies, in some cases bags of salt, during the visit which is an occasion on its own, The grooms make their intensions known thereby introducing the boy, his back ground and the dowry is made through bargain staring from the minimum of what Hausa, call "RUBU DINAR"(ONE KILOGRAM OF GOLD PIECE)to the highest amount the man can afford.
KAMU!!!!!!
Due to the ethnicity in Hausa land, the cultural wedding events varies but the most commonly used by them are KAMU: This is one the of the historical events, in the Hausa wedding which dates back to the origin of the Hausa people. This signifies the cleansing of bride with henna, mixed with some herbs, scents and flowers of plants are applied to her body covering most part of her body for some minutes, which is later washed away with some mixture of flowers a water. Which smoothes the skin and makes the bride look fresh and attractive, another mixture is used to make the bride unique because of its designs.
This refers to the clothing of grooms parents to then bride, it is well arranged in boxes, and bags ranging from 12boxes of clothes, bags, shoes, cosmetics and jewelries, The holy Quran and praying carpets The brides presents also give the grooms family some gifts items and cash as a sign of appreciation. This is the most significant in Hausa marriage is done at the bride, or at the mosque, family and friend of the both sides gather at the location to witness the wedding vows this is done by the representatives of the bride and groom précised over by an Islamic leader witnessed by invited guests, prayers are offered to the newly wedded couple and celebrations continues.
After the wedding fatiha the wedding ceremonies, the bride is accompanied to her house by the grooms family, her friend and family. then much later the groom with his friend she will also be with her friends.
Then the brides maids, and the grooms main will debate (which is a friendly debate) they debate on the amount paid before the bride speaks to her groom, This is a way of making them socialize and later have a greater relationship which is marriage the events are mostly done by the Muslims of the Hausa land.

IGBO TRADITIONAL WEDDING (IGBA NKWU),

The visit and informal introduction
The visit
When a man sees a good woman he intends to marry, he pays the brides family a visit. In most first visits they inform the bride’s family of their intended visit. The groom’s father accompanies the son or intended husband alongside one or two kinsmen. They are usually welcomed by the father and the mother of the bride then the father of the bride esquires the reason for their visit.
The first formal introduction
The first contact between both families is the knocking on the door referred to as ikwu aka and in my opinion the most important stage of the three stage processes. He groom is accompanied by two elders and his father, the father explains the purpose of their visit by first introducing himself to the bride’s father. The father may state his chieftain title if he has one, occupation, family linage and the village he comes from then he introduces his kinsmen and his son. He explains the intentions of the son which is a proposal for marriage to the daughter. At this stage the bride’s father invites the daughter who has the right to accept or reject a proposal. If she rejects the proposal there would be no marriage but if she accepts the man then the next stage would commence.
Traditional wedding
The Igbo people of Eastern Nigeria are an enterprising ethnic group, and are noted for their culture and traditions, high business acumen and industrious savvy. In Nigeria they dominate the commercial hub running upwards of thirty five percent (35%) of small business enterprise in the country. Courtship depends on the individuals concerned sometime the groom is familiar with the intended bride or his family might call his attention to a blossoming flower they feel would make a good wife. Sometimes they are total strangers but must times they are friends. When the man decides to take an Igbo woman as his wife several stages of consent must be strictly adhered to, the process although lengthy is never devoid of drama excitement, rich cultural establishments, fun and laughter. Unlike western cultures were a man and a woman can walk into a registry and within five minutes become husband and wife, the taking of a bride in most African cultures can be a complex affair. In Igbo land though each region has its own practices, the mechanics is still the same. Taking a wife in Igboland is a family affair every member of the two families and the villagers are involved in the process.
The Second formal introduction
The second introduction is more extensive because the groom would be accompanied by some relations, father and some elders from his household; they formally introduce themselves restating their intentions. The brides family if favorable would accept their introduction, the grooms people would then present a few gifts which does not include cash but traditionally acceptable items. Items like expensive wrapper such as lace, hollandaise material, George material, wine, kola nuts, goat, chicken and other small items.
Food and drinks are given to the guest as a show of hospitality, after a closed door meeting between elders of both families. A list is given to the family of the groom and a bride price settlement which should be fully adhere to on the day of the traditional Igbo marriage ceremony.
The traditional marriage is regarded as the most important marriage rites any Igbo couple should perform. The ceremony is placed higher than contemporary weddings like church or registry weddings. In most cases the couple after going through the traditional marriage might decide to follow through with a church wedding or a government registry wedding. Large number of easterners are catholic so having a catholic wedding after the traditional marriage is very important.
Traditional wedding
The traditional wedding called the Igba Nkwu is hosted in the compound or venue hired by the bride’s family, the marriage is an entire communal affair involving friend’s acquaintances, business partners, relations and village members. The entire marriage festivities have been divided into various sections were specific items that are listed would be presented at the appropriate time. The list of gifts consists of items for the maidens of the house, village elders, extended family and parents of the bride. Igbo traditional marriage can be pricey because items listed are sacrosanct and incontestable any deviation from the list could jeopardize the union so adequate reparation on the part of the groom’s family is important.
Traditional dress code
The theme of the traditional marriage (Igba Nkwu) in regards to dress code is important since it should complement the traditional ceremony, the bride and groom usually chooses the same fabric which is usually combined with heavy embroidery, beads and bangles.
The family of the bride and groom may choose different outfits but they are easy identified by the different color schemes adapted by each group, the guest are expected to be decked in finery that rivals that rivals the important occasion.
Brides outfit.
The brides outfit complements the grooms because they are sown from the same material; they complement each other and signify the union of two people who become one. The fabric favored for such occasions could be a Ghana wax fabric, Ankara, Abada, hollandaise which is sown into a top blouse and a large wrapper referred to as Akwete. The body is adorned with beautiful sandals, ear rings, necklace, wrist lets, waist beads (jigida), bangles, feet and wrist chains, gold, coral beads and body covered in white
clay. She may wear brass leg rings and the toes are not left out and are painted in traditional hue depending on the color scheme, and her hair could be braided or woven with a beaded crown beautifying the head or she might opt to covered her head in a head tie.
The brides outfit can be worn in two ways she could decide wearing a Nigerian wax fabric tank top, matching skirt, bold wrist bangle, large necklaces and beads around the waist beads-jigida, leg beads and hair wearing an elegant bead crown. The second outfit could be a blouse and wrappers ensemble complete with similar adornments around the neck, waist, ankles and wrists.
The grooms outfit.
The grooms outfit could be brocade material, top quality lace, a fabric called jacquard or silk, it should complement the fabric chosen by his bride, and the groom usually has on large shirts which could be sown having elaborate embroidery and animal symbolism. The trousers could follow the same theme or not, if he’s a titled chief he wears a head hat that identifies him as a chief, he can wear beads around his neck if he so chooses.
Igbo rural communities are sometimes used as wedding venues
Venue and marriage items
The venue is always for the bride’s family to decide, it could be in the bride’s family compound, a selected hall, town’s hall or an open space covered with a large canopy tents. The venue usually has a theme color, simple decorations and several tables and chairs arranged opposite each other with the high table making up the u shape loaded with wine and choice drinks. This is not a hard and fast rule and regular ceremonial setting would suffice, once there is a high table to officiate the proceeding. As the ceremony proceeds and the list are adhered to, each item is presented to the gathering so they know the groom’s people have fulfilled the traditional requirements.
The traditional marriage items
The festivities in the earlier stages of the Igba Nkwu begins on a low tempo with native songs and chants by the women, the guests are entertained while the elders of both families get on with the marriage formalities.
If the lady to be married had attained high academic qualifications, the cash gifts payout might be higher than someone who never attended college, this is not punitive but a measure of the training the bride’s family put into their children. Sometimes the father of the bride waivers the right to collect any cash gifts for himself since his daughter is not for sale.
Gifts and the occasion
Young maiden’s gift
The presentation of items allocated to the daughters or young maidens in the bride’s family could include some items such as gold plated jewelry, gold earrings, various head ties, and wrappers of hollandaise, wax fabric, bangles, rings and leather handbags.
The extensive list include beverage drinks such cartoons of mineral water, malt drinks, beverages, food items, toiletries such as bathing soaps, body creams, shampoos, detergents and the Ogwe ego which is a cash gift. Gifts for the head of the extended family The list of gifts to be presented to the representative of the heads of the extended family include the traditional kolanuts, potash and heads of tobacco, kegs of palm wine, one or two goats, packets of cigarette, assorted drinks and several cartoons of beer and cash gifts of an agree lump sum in cash placed in an envelope.
The list is incomplete without the traditional favorite a few bottles of seaman’s schnapps a kind of gin, the cash gift is referred to as Ego Umu Nna and is of great importance, it also symbolizes the fact that the bride was raised by the entire family.
During the entire ceremony several cash gifts presentations are made which include money for the in-laws (Ego ogocherem) which could be as much as fifty thousand naira (i.e $300).
A smaller cash gifts payouts like something to do with the fertility of the bride (Ego maternity) around one thousand seven hundred naira (i.e $10).
Ego nfotu ite cash gift around one thousand seven hundred naira (i.e $10).
A symbolic pot presentation indicating that she would be a good wife and take proper care of the groom and Ego onye cash presentation that recognizes and includes the villagers in the marriage.
Ibo Traditional gift items
Yam tubers
Jewelry
Goat
Bag of rice
Shoes and bags
Chicken
Kola nut
Expensive materials
Sheep
Head ties
Cow for party
Gift items presented by the groom
1 One or two goats
2 Cartoons of beer, malt drinks
3 Wrappers, head ties, Nigerian wax fabric
4 Jewelry, earrings, chains bangles
5 Shoes, leather bags
6 Beverages
7 Kegs of palm wine
8 Toiletries like soap sponge, detergents, shampoos, body cream
9 Kola nut
10 Heads of tobacco
11 Cartoons of cigarette
12 Various cash gifts
13 Farm produce like tubers of yam, plantain, bag of rice
The bride’s appearance
Once all presentation have been done as custom demands the bride makes an entrance led by her maidens, she approaches her father who gives her a symbolic wooden cup filled with palm wine, the purpose is for the bride to seek out her suitor among the teeming crowd.
The groom might choose to seat at the back with friends or within the crowd, she seeks him out and offers him the wine which he drinks expressing his love, affection and agreement with the bonding, they then present themselves to their individual parents and the gathering.
The festivity now becomes a full f ledge party with lovely native drums and music which could be through age group songs, a live band playing ethnic music, native drums and scintillating dances performed by young unmarried ladies.
Lots of food and drinks are consumed even extending it to members of the community and villagers.
Conclusion
Igbo traditional wedding although a little pricey is a rich representation of a peoples culture traditions, music, ethnic fashion, native meals, communal love and unity.
Family is important in many African countries especially pertaining to marriage, the bonding of two individual means the bonding of the entire families and extended families. Cultures in Nigeria although slightly different have great respect and acceptance for traditional marriage rites. In some areas if the woman gets married without going through the tradition ceremony then the people regard her as unmarried and God forbid she dies, the fake husband might have to jump through some rites before the spouse gets buried.
Traditional marriage is serious business in most African cultures.
Finally, we are conclude the aspect of Ibo traditional wedding, to all my ibo pals who knows more about the traditions when it comes to wedding, kindly feel free to comment on this for those that are planning to get married one day to an IBO
Watch out for the Hausa traditional wedding

CHEAP WEDDING TIPS - IDEAS TO HELP YOU PLAN AN INEXPENSIVE WEDDING

In this article you will find some cheap wedding tips to help you plan that low budget wedding. I've talked a lot about small budget wedding.
This article is to share some cheap wedding tips that can help you keep to a low wedding budget you've set.
1) Use wedding magazines and celebrity weddings for inspiration only:
Brides are always looking for inspirations for wedding themes , colors and designs. That is why I wouldn't go straight to say stay away from wedding magazines as other articles would recommend. I think you need the inspiration so if you have a wedding magazine lying around, use it for inspiration but don't buy a wedding magazine; that would be adding an unnecessary wedding cost to your budget. Instead go online, visit wedding sites like this one; you have better chance of finding more theme, color and design inspirations than in a wedding magazine that would cost you N1000 and above to buy. Celebrity weddings are always very fancy and tempting to want to follow their steps. But remind yourself as many times as necessary that your budget and their own is not the same. If you like a celebrity's wedding gown design, go to a local tailor to make the style for you. Same with their cake and anything else you want to copy. But make sure you don't go above your budget when copying magazines and/or celebrity's wedding designs.
2) Book wedding reception venue and wedding reception venue decoration items down in time such as canopies and chairs. It's likely to be cheaper.
3) Employ the help of family members, close friends and neighbors:
Do you have a friend who is good at hair dressing? Does make-up like pro? Bakes cake? Does decorations? He or she will be glad to help out on your wedding day. Instead of hiring a DJ, perhaps you have a brother or cousin or friend who has ear for good music and can be in charge of your wedding songs? You can easily borrow the equipments to play the music. For your wedding bouquet perhaps you can get from a family member or friend who got married recently?
4) Leave out wedding favors or get someone to sponsor it:
Wedding favors are wedding gifts to the guests from the bride and groom. Either you leave that out of your wedding or get a company that is into it to sponsor it and use the opportunity to promote themselves. Instead of writing from the bride and groom on the gifts they'll simply write "courtesy ... name of company".
5) Leave out Aso-ebi:
The stress of aso-ebi is not something you want to take on when you're planning a cheap wedding. The money that comes from selling aso-ebi I feel is just not worth the stress that goes into it. When my elder sister got married she didn't do the crazy aso-ebi wahala. Someone even approached her to be in charge of it but she refused. She said all her wedding guests should wear what they have. It was only us the siblings (the girls) that decided to wear our traditional attire . So either leave it out or make it an immediate family only affair.
6) Do not marry during festive period:
Things are always very expensive then and we're trying to reduce cost as much as possible not increase it.
7) Make a guest list you're sure you can handle with your budget:
The truth about wedding guest list is that no matter what you do, you can't please everyone not even if you invite 600 guests. You'll still have people that will tell you you didn't invite them to your wedding. So why bother trying to please everyone and end up inviting people you can't take care of. So I say invite a few guests, only the number you're sure your budget can fend for. I've never seen anybody who got married and didn't have to apologize to people every now and then for not inviting them to their wedding. But still I haven't seen anyone who took it personally. Some people may get angry but usually they get over it in no time.
8) Do not pay for a wedding venue:
It's hard to keep budget low if you have to pay for a wedding venue since that alone can eat deep into your wedding budget. So if the outside of your house is big or a neighbor's outside is big enough have an outdoor wedding in front of your house or your neighbor's house. If that's not possible, if your parlor is big have an indoor wedding in your parlor. If it's not possible to do the wedding reception in your house or a neighbor's house then use a government owned school compound. That's likely to be cheaper.
9) Do not print invitation cards:
Use bulk SMS to invite guests to the wedding. Bulk SMS are usually cheap, you pay less than N2 per SMS. You can send your invited guests invitations 4 weeks to the wedding. Then send a reminder one week to the wedding. You can even request that those that would be available should send a reply indicating that so you're sure the number of guests to prepare for.
10) Leave out little groom and little bride if that will mean spending more:
Usually though, some parents are so excited about the idea of using one of their kids as little bride/groom that they are willing to pay for their attire. So if that's the case then no problem.
11) Do not shop in bridal shops:
The name boutique usually means spending more. So instead of doing your wedding shopping in bridal shops like those in Allen Avenue, Opebi and V.I or any expensive areas in the world, if your local tailor makes wedding dress pick a design and have him or her make your dress. It's usually cheaper to sew than to pay for an already made dress. Or better yet buy a used wedding dress for use or rent one. And for the other wedding accessories you'll need such as material to sew your native attire, shoes etc go to Idumota instead. It's definitely going to be cheaper there. (for those in Nigeria), or any part of the world that you know they sell cheap things and that is closer to you remember buying from a far distance requires extra charges.
Use these cheap wedding tips plus your creativity and you can have a moderate wedding for a reasonable budget. You don't have to spend so much to have a beautiful memorable wedding. Forget sentiments when planning a cheap wedding. Like feeling awkward to ask for help, feeling uncomfortable using already used wedding accessories, trying to please everyone etc. You can't please everyone so don't even try to.
12) One of the things that eat deep into your budget is the wedding food:
If you can reduce your guest list to a reasonable number you would have already saved a lot. Fortunately Nigerian guests are easy to please at weddings; all they ask is that whatever you're serving at your wedding make it go round to everyone.
And you'll see that there will be no complaint from anyone. If you wish to reduce wedding cost, then you must be honest with yourself. Plan your wedding to meet your own budget and taste. Don't compare yourself with any other bride. You're unique and so should your wedding be. A happy married life which is what you're praying for when getting married has nothing to do with how much your wedding cost. In fact sometimes because of the lack of self control and couples trying to please everyone they start their new life in huge debt. And a debt can quickly rob couples of their happiness and a wedding that's supposed to be remembered fondly becomes a memory that brings sadness. So I hope you do put these cheap wedding tips to use and avoid the unnecessary after wedding headaches.

YORUBA TRADITIONAL WEDDING AND ENGAGEMENT

So, your knight in shining armor has proposed and you, the pristine princess, has said yes. That part of the euphoria is over and it’s time to start the most important part of your journey together – PLANNING. Depending on what part of the country you come from (would have said the world but if you are not Nigerian, at this point, ignore this part of the planning and go with your fiancé’s flow), the planning process will differ. Part 1 will be advising our beautiful Yoruba damsels on the “what”, the “How” and the “why” of the Yoruba traditional engagement ceremony. Follow this checklist and you are sure to be on track and ready for your big day.
Venue…
finding the right venue always proves to be a daunting task that only the strong and calculating can successfully accomplish. I would always advise to go for a venue with adequate shelter, preferably a hall, or a marquee. There’s nothing more horrible than a bride melting away in the heat or being washed clean under the rain. This goes for your guests too.
Decoration...
This should normally be decided after you have picked a color theme for your wedding. If you have an event planner or just the decorator, then you need to sit with them and convey your vision, what you see in your mind’s eye to them. They, being experts would be able to conform and transform (if need be) your ideas to make your venue look lovely. There is also need to get two “engagement chairs for you and your groom.
Aso-Ebi…
This communal dress code features in most Yoruba traditional engagements and should be decided amongst families. The bride could pick a separate fabric or color for her friends if she wishes.
Alaga Ijoko…
This in plain English means the Master of Ceremony. She (or, in very rare occasions, he) is called the Alaga Ijoko (Seating MC) because she represents the
bride’s family which the groom’s family have to come and meet, and starts the first part of the ceremony. She introduces the brides and groom’s parents, co-ordinates the letter reading, introduces the groom to the bride’s family and makes the groom and his friends beg for their daughters hand by prostrating in front of the bride’s family. She ends with ushering in the bride. The Second MC,
usually called the Alaga Iduro (Standing MC, as she represents the groom’s family who is coming to beg for the wife) takes over the second part and this time introduces the bride to the groom’s family and takes her to them for acceptance. She co-ordinates the payment of the bride price (which is usually returned to the groom’s family because according to the bride’s family, they are not selling a wife, they are giving a daughter). She also accepts the items brought by the groom’s family to the bride’s family. They are usually dressed in the same Aso Ebi as the side of the family they are representing.
Engagement List…
This is a list of items that the bride’s family requires the groom’s family to bring to the ceremony. Failure to bring every item on the list attracts a fine or a penalty. Below are some basic items. This is not an exhaustive list.
Typical Yoruba Traditional List for the Groom
Engagement Bible
Owo Isigba (fee to open the gifts on this list (usually packaged))- ₦ 500
Engagement Ring Dowry - ₦ 5,000
One Big Suitcase
Owo Omo Ile Okunrin (Money for all male children) - ₦ 500
2 Different Pairs of Shoes and Bags
Owo Omo Ile Obinrin (money for all female children) - ₦ 500
2 Head Gears (of high quality)
Iyawo Ile - (money for all wives in the family) ₦ 500
Gold Wrist Watch
Owo Iya Gbo (money for bride’s mother’s consent) - ₦ 1,000
1 Traditional Cloth (Aso- Oke)
Owo Ijoko Agba (money for all the elders in he family) - ₦1,000
4 Other Assorted Clothes
Owo Ijoko Iyawo (Money to bring in bride) - ₦ 1,000
42 pcs Obi (Kola nut)
Owo Isiju Iyawo (money to unveil the bride) - ₦ 1, 000
42 pcs Orogbo (Bitter kola)
Owo Ikanlekun (Entrance fee) - ₦ 500
42 pcs Atare (Alligator pepper)
Owo Baba Gbo (money for bride’s father’s consent) - ₦ 500
1 Decanter of Pure Honey
Owo Phone (money for phone calls) - ₦ 500
1 Big Dish of Aadun (peppered Corn meal)
Owo Plane (money for travel to groom’s family house)- ₦500
1 Big Dish of Sugar
Reading of Letter - ₦ 500
42 pcs Big Eja Osan (Dry fish)
Owo Alaga Ijoko (money for MC) - ₦ 500
1 Big Dish of Salt
4 Cartons of Five Alive
42 Tubers of Big Yam
4 Crates of Can Drinks
1 Roll of Sugar
6 Bottles of Wine
1 Big Bag of Salt
2 Crates of Can Malt
Umbrella
1 Empty Decanter
WHAT does the bride bring to the engagement you ask?
Well, it’s her lucky day so she just comes looking pretty!
Engagement Cake…
This should usually be decided on by the couple.
Response to Letter of Proposal…
The groom’s family has tocome with a formal written proposal to the bride’s family officially indicating their son’s interest in their daughter. This is usually read by one of the groom’s siblings. Likewise, the bride’s family must have a formal written response to the proposal and should normally be read by any of the bride’s siblings.
Photography and Videography…
Capturing the moments is very important and sometimes easily overlooked. Ensure that you arrange for a full photo and video coverage of the event as you the bride will be kept waiting in a separate place for the first half of the ceremony so you do not want to miss seeing your groom and his family all lie flat on their
faces just begging for your hand.
Your Outfit….
This usually ranges from the complete Aso-oke to Lace, Damask e.t.c. Don’t forget to get a veil because the bride’s face should be covered when she is
brought in. Whatever your choice, ensure that you get them ready way before the dates.
Now, for all the married Yoruba ladies who have ‘been there’ and ‘done that’ from Ilesa, Ijebu, Gbogan, Ile- oluji,Ile-Ife, Ekiti. Iyanfoworogi e.t.c, please share your experience with us and let us know how ceremonies differ within the Yoruba state and contribute to what has been left out.

How to Arrange a Wedding Event? Simple Tips

“The real act of marriage takes place in
the heart , not in the ballroom or church
or synagogue . It ’ s a choice you make – not just on your wedding day , but over and
over again – and that choice is reflected in
the way you treat your husband or wife ” .
A beautiful quote by Barbara de Angelis tells
us a great deal about the feeling we have
when one goes in the bond of marriage . One
of the most important event of anyone of
our lives, we plan this event years before,
even before we have met our soul mate . We
try taking mental notes of wedding events
we attend and compile ideas for our own
event . Planning about our dress theme ,
wedding theme , flower arrangement ,
decoration of walk way towards the stage ,
wedding cake or so on .
wedding event
Here are few tips to plan and arrange a
wedding event perfectly :
A wedding event needs some decision weeks
before arranging :
– Number of guests
– Event either indoor or outdoor
– Dress code if any
– Wedding theme
– Color scheme
– Choice and color of flowers
Wedding Theme Decision
The first decision to take is a wedding
theme . The wedding theme usually helps us decide about the dress code if any . For
example if the wedding theme is a Roman
theme , the event would be best if arranged
outdoor ( day or night ). The dress code will
have to be white with a crown made of
leaves . Color scheme will have to be white
with touch of green here and there . Red
flowers in small quantity within the color
scheme of white and green will show the
importance of that place . This can be used
on the sides of the path way . We can also
use small white roman pillars and decorate
them with flowers on the side of walk way
leading to the stage .

Wedding Decoration With Balloons

        A balloon arch is ideal way to add flair to a party or wedding. The simplest way to do this piece is to buy a prefabricated wedding arch made of white metal. If in case the wedding arch is not available, you can build an arch with a strong, flexible metal wire. Just be sure it is strong enough to stand on its own. After placing the bow correctly, accurately reflect the full balloons onto the arch using wire or elastic string. Wrap tie
around the base of the balloon and then to the hoop. It is best to start from the top and work your way down both sides, so it creates a beautiful look. This can be done with a multi hued balloons or balloon shade. Balloons should be filled with sunshine itself. The more balloons you can attach the top piece will evolve.
     The final loop balloons may be used in different positions. Some brides prefer to place the balloon arch out of the way the ceremony. This allows visitors to walk through the arch except the bride and attendants. Other brides prefer to use
balloons as a ceremonial arch height. They want to place it in the ceremony so he could stand under it while saying their vows. Finally, many brides also know that it is more suitable to decorate the reception area and should be decorated for the event that after the ceremony.
        Tips for decorations Balloon Arch
  Make sure the room is free until the time - designers will certainly take time to install. Some rooms also have other events, and before your own, it is complicated or
impossible for designers to complete their work to do. The higher the ceiling has a better appearance will be. Rooms with high ceilings allow for a more remarkable arches and balloon design. Large rooms have high ceilings, use a balloon to five groups available tables instead of three. Increases the height of the balloons, because it makes the event more festive.
      Almost every room repels balloon decorators in the league with lights on walls or ceilings. This can prevent another balloon drop is set up.
     Additional costs may be - from kiosks, poles bases used to make these plans is the charge accumulated on the establishment and then to remove. Balloon Decorators
must be returned to gather their material, so the payout is almost always pay for the analysis.
      Balloon decorations for weddings are wonderful ways to add fun and creativity. Brides can also be decorated with family and friends. These ideas can be cheap, but the final product certainly looks beautiful!

Indian wedding Decoration Ideas

Indian Wedding Decoration Ideas
       Indian wedding decoration ideas can
make your wedding day feel special. Who
does not like India? Many people like India.
The food, the songs, the distinctive style and
even now many people began to like the
idea of ​​marriage with Indian style. It may
sound strange, but this idea can be used as
a unique way to celebrate your wedding day. There have been many people use certain wedding style, but very rarely do people use Indian themed wedding. Surely this will make your wedding day feels special and amazing. Your wedding day will be remembered by many people because it has a different feel than the wedding in general. Surely this is an advantage for you because of your wedding day will be remembered by anyone. And this triggers you to live a happy life with the couple. There are so many indian wedding decoration ideas that you can use on the wedding day. Surely this will make your wedding day feel special. To make indian wedding decoration ideas , you could do these following things.
Flower Decoration
One thing about India is identical decoration colorful flowers. In India, providing a wide range of flowers on the wedding day is a sacred tradition. Altar of the bride and groom will be decorated by colorful flowers.        This would set the stage became more colorful and it looks beautiful.
Wedding Dress
     Wedding dress used must be adapted to the Indian wedding decoration ideas . Usually brides use flashy red or orange dress and comes with a Sari, a typical Indian fabrics are often worn by women in India. While the groom look more simple with plain clothes and using a necklace made ​​of flowers.
Candle
    Indian wedding style usually use a lot of
candles in every corner of the decor. This would be a great the indian wedding decoration ideas .

A few simple decorations can add lots of pizzazz to your next party!

       When you're trying to put together a party , fundraiser or other event, money can be a big issue. You want to create the right ambience within a reasonable budget. Not to worry. One of the nice things about decorating is that creativity often trumps resources. With some forethought and flare, you can do amazing things and still have enough money left over to -- well, you probably won't have much money left over. Everything will look great, though, and isn't
that the point?

THREE (3) V steps

Can you explain this decoration is been made?

An A shape design

There are some things to look into when concluding on some decorations or designs...for example this particular A shape design.
  Firstly. Looking at the top of this particular design, you will see that there is nothing g like wood or a place to pin
Secondly, at the down part, also there is nothing to pin on which .make the work more tedious...
Now, in this kind of situation what can you do has a decorator?