The Nigerian Traditional Ceremony is often referenced as the Engagement Ceremony. In Yoruba culture, this is a celebration whereby the families of the bride and groom unite to commemorate their children’s engagement. During the ceremony, the groom, along with his family and friends as support, seek the bride’s hand in marriage. The bride’s family is given many gifts to symbolize the groom’s love and respect for their daughter. In the end, the two families become one. As with any other wedding, the occasion is graced with lots of fun, singing, dancing, laughing, blessing the couple and praying.
Cocktail attire is permitted for the Traditional Wedding. Guests with Nigerian traditional attire should feel free to wear native clothing, including outfits made with fabrics such as Lace or Ankara (African Wax Print).
The bride and groom will be in Aso Oke which is a thick fabric that is typically detailed in design and beading. For the bride, the pieces she wears are called iro and buba which is a top with sleeves that broaden at the wrist and an ankle-length wrap skirt. She will also have a head tie on her head called the gele. The groom wears a buba and sokoto which is a matching pant and top set and he is covered in an agbada which is similar to an oversize robe with open sleeves. He also wears a fila which is a hat specific to the Yoruba attire. The immediate family and bridal party will be wearing Aso Ebi. This means that these individuals will wear the same material for the event.
During special celebratory occasions such as the traditional wedding, guests share in the celebration by spraying. Spraying is simply the act of placing money on the couple as a sign of support and happiness for their union, as well as the uniting of their family and friends. Guests should not feel compelled to participate but should be aware of this celebratory element that is rooted in fun and excitement.
Additional details related to the Nigerian Traditional Ceremony will be provided via the Ceremony program on Friday, July 2. We look forward to you joining and participating.