How to Plan a Bridal Shower Affordable in Nigeria.
A bridal shower is a pre-wedding celebration in honor of the bride that traditionally is an opportunity for guests to give her gifts to help set up her new home. It’s also a practical opportunity for guests to “shower” the bride-to-be with gifts to help her establish a home with her future spouse.
However, when it comes to throwing a bridal shower cheaply we know it can be difficult not to overspend. From tasty menu selections to trendy decor items, expenses can add up quickly. So, if you’re hoping to host this special occasion, whether you’re the maid of honor, a bridesmaid or close, family friend, here’s how to throw a cost-effective bash.
1. Reduce the no of guest invited.
One of the easiest ways to cut costs is to avoid inviting everybody. We know Nigerians are party people who equate the number of guests at an event to the success but remember, the bigger the guest list, the more you’ll have to spend. Remember, this isn’t the wedding and you aren’t required to invite everyone on the wedding guest list to the bridal shower. The average number of guests for a bridal shower usually ranges from 30 to 50 people. Therefore, we suggest scheduling a time to meet with the bride-to-be and see who’s on her list of must-invites. Also, keep in mind this rule of thumb — whoever you invite to the bridal shower is guaranteed an invitation to the wedding.
2. Plan a moderate menu for your guests.
When working on your menu, we suggest avoiding a full sit-down meal if you want to throw a bridal shower on a budget. Entrees and side dishes can end up being quite pricey and then you’ll have to think about place settings and flatware. Instead, opt for light appetisers or finger foods in order to cut costs. This also lets guests mingle with everyone, rather than sitting down for a formal meal.
3. Keep the entertainment simple.
Bridal shower games are a fun and less expensive way to get everyone at the party to bond. These games are also easily played with the help of a few household items, such as toilet paper for the classic TP Couture Game or a few pads of paper for Bridal Pictionary. As for music, just create a bridal shower-inspired playlist on your phone or other device and connect it to your home bluetooth speakers. Playing music will keep things from getting too quiet and help keep the atmosphere upbeat which is something Nigerians love.
4. Find affordable locations online
Whether you celebrate at someone’s home, a restaurant, or a getaway destination doesn’t matter, as long as it’s somewhere that attendees can feasibly get to and offers the right vibe for your festivities. A way to make this a reality without spending much money is by researching for spaces on online platforms like Spacebook. You can browse space options and find something that is suitable for your budget on the platform.
5. Do it yourself catering
Instead of hiring a full wait staff, save money and keep things intimate by letting guests serve themselves (they can even make the food, if that’s what you all agree upon!). The one exception? A person to man the drink station. Paying a mixologist or friend to serve a signature drink and work a light bar will keep guests where the action’s happening—and not in line for a cocktail.