Real Wedding Feature: John and Joy, Part II

We continue with our wedding feature from yesterday of John and Joy.

6. How does being a West African bride differ from being an American bride?
It differs significantly. First of all, respect is a HUGE thing in the West African culture. My parents always told me they'd pay for my traditional engagement ceremony so I had no expectations of them paying for the white wedding. They did however get a nice chunk of the wedding guest list as is customary. My parents for the most part were quite laid back about the planning process so that really helped. Being a West African bride means knowing that you'll have LOADS of Uncles and Aunties you don't know but who are genuinely there to celebrate and wish you well. Also, from watching a lot of the American shows, I have seen where brides and their mothers argue. While it is OK to disagree, as a West African bride, I could disagree but within reason. There were no shouting matches.

7. Did you do anything out of the ordinary or non-traditional?
Instead of doing a bouquet/garter toss, we decided to go without a garter and give my bouquet to a couple in attendance who had been married the longest and we had them give us some advise on the secrets to a lasting marriage.  

8. Did you have a budget? Do you care to share what it was? Did you go over your budget or stay under budget?
Yes we did have a budget. We more than doubled the budget when all was said and done but that is primarily because we did not account for other expenses relating to our Nigerian ceremony, clothes, travel expenses and our wedding bands in the original budget.

9. What was the biggest thing you did to save money?
I did the wedding programs, the flower girls baskets, the sashes, the table numbers, the menu cards, the favor boxes, the rhinestones on the buckles, the pew pomanders, the unity candles, and the signature photo frame. Saved a ton of money that way.  

10. What was your biggest splurge?
Our biggest splurge was our photographer. He did a FABULOUS job! 

11. What advice would you give to someone planning their wedding?
Plan ahead, don't sweat the small stuff and remember its your day! Be happy...happiness is infectious! If you're happy and dancing on the dance floor, other people will see that and want to join in. 

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