A-Z of Planning your Best Friend’s Bridal Shower

Who better to plan a bridal shower than your best friend or sister. As a best friend, you probably know almost everything and anything that your friend would want to experience and most importantly know all the people she would love to attend.

Also, it is safe to assume that as a best friend you know where the bride-to-be will want to celebrate this day and the activities that she would enjoy. Don’t forget it’s all about her.

So what do you do if you're not blessed with superb planning skills?Fret not and follow our simple steps below

1. First, pick a date that you are sure is comfortable for the bride. It must not clash with any of her personal activities as regards the wedding.
2. Determine if you want it as a surprise or not. If yes, get all the information you would need from her months before.
3. Invite at least one other close friend to plan with you. You need other ideas and you will be amazed by how much information they have about your best friend that you didn't know.
4. Determine what theme you would go with (remember, it’s about her and so should be one you know she would totally rock).
5. Get a venue that makes sense, can it accommodate all her girls without breaking the bank? Can it be decorated to suit the theme? Is it a place she will love? You get the drift.
6. Speak to all vendors (food and drink at the minimum and maybe an activity coordinator?) needed and narrow down based on preferences and budget.
7. Agree and communicate date and time to vendors at least four months to the event and check in with them twice a month.
8. Draft a list of friends and family that would be attending.
9. If they have to contribute financially, communicate to each of them personally (most effectively via email) explaining what the plan is and how you need their contributions to make this happen.
10. Don’t involve the bride on the finance journey; work with what you have.
11. Make sure the invites go out to all at least two months before the event day to give invitees the time to prepare and also clear their schedule for that day. (Invitees are those you know the bride wants to attend and not those you think should attend. A safer method will be to get the list from the bride almost after she is engaged if you don’t want any spoilers just in case you want it as a surprise party).
12. Never get too carried away during the event tending to friends and family that you forget about the bride-to-be, all activities must revolve around her; we can't stress this enough.
13. Finally, remember to send 'thank you' emails or text messages to all attendees; it couldn’t have happened without them.

Bridal showers set the pace for how organised or enjoyable the actual wedding will be to the friends and family, and also communicate to the bride that everything will work out just fine her wedding! So please, do your best to tell the right/best story with a great event.

All the best!

7 'No No's that will Ruin Your Wedding

Just before you think that this is an article that spells doom, remember that knowing things like the steps below will help you guard against them. We want your wedding to be a dream come true, so here are seven things you need to avoid;

1. Going Way over Your Budget; Wedding planning is a real test of discipline. When you and your partner have decided on your budget, do your best to stick to this budget. You don’t want either of you being unhappy on your wedding day because of all the debt you have incurred. Realistically you’re going to add some extra naira to whatever you had initially planned but it should be considerably small.
2. Leaving Everything to Your Wedding Planner; Great you have a wedding planner, but he/she is not a mind reader and if you don’t tell him/her what you want they’ll never know. Be as detailed as possible and be involved in the decision so you’re not disappointed on your wedding day.
3. Not Testing Out Your Wedding Vendors; So she has over 20,000 followers on Instagram, so you believe she has to be good at what she does, not necessarily. Never take a vendor just by his/her words make sure you have a test of what she does. The same goes for your DJ, MC, Caterer, Make-up Artist, Photographer.... basically, all of your vendors. You could even attend a wedding your MC will be anchoring to see if he fits into your style.
4. Being Rigid and Selfish; the wedding is just one day, but your in-laws, partner and family will be with you forever. Don’t be selfish in your decisions and offend them, listen to what your partner wants also, listen to things that your parents-in-law would like and compromise where possible. As much as possible make sure they buy into your idea.
5. Not Getting Your Playlist Together; Your DJ is young and happening so he plays all the recent songs, while on the other hand you’re an old soul that loves the 80’s blues. Never assume that your DJ will get it right. Give him a list of songs he should play and when exactly to play them.
6. Planning too late; it is often believed that once there’s money you don’t need to plan ages before the wedding, wrong wrong wrong.Give yourself at least six months to plan your wedding intensively. This way you source for the best deals, venue and vendors you want. Make sure all the things you order are arriving at least six weeks to the wedding. Those Christian Louboutin shoes you ordered may not fit so well and you might need to get another pair.
7. Planning Everything Yourself; No matter how organised you are, it’s important you get extra hands to help out, you don’t want to be worn out and look miserable on your wedding day and then forget seemingly small but important things like the bible needed in the church. Let your friends and family help handle different segments.

15 Pictures Every Nigerian Bride Can Relate To

It would seem everybody and their dog has an opinion about your wedding.

 1. Now if you can just get up the nerve to post this on your social media, maybe they would get the message... but wouldn’t that affect aso-ebi sales and wedding gifts? This life is not fair.

Photo Credit: www.someecards.com/kim1389829

 2. Don’t they realise they are on bridesmaid duty 24/7? Which is how much time you spend talking about wedding stuff but it’s your wedding. And you know they are online; one of them just “Lol’d” someone’s tweet! Rude.

Photo Credit: www.pinterest.com/peacockpremierevents

 3. You just told your mother you want a small and intimate wedding and this was her reaction. “Is it my wedding or yours Mummy?” No answer.

Photo Credit: Nairaland.com

 4. Well, at least they’re paying for all the family and 60 years worth of friends they insisted on inviting.

Photo Credit: bloomsbythebox.com

 5. You were over the moon when your fiancé and Mum hit it off, but now they are joint saboteurs of your dream wedding. He just okay’d invites for 70 cousins you don’t even know, and she thinks his idea for an Arsenal pocket square is cute. What is this????

Photo Credit: Quickmeme.com

 6. You are still bargaining with your caterer, makeup artist and the limo company and this dude got himself a hoverboard?! Fine. You are trading in his honeymoon ticket. He can hover all the way to Seychelles while the masseuse works out all the stress he has caused.

Photo Credit: Boards.weddingbee.com

 7. The Arsenal banner you did NOT sign off on has been delivered. Where is that groom? No, you just want to talk to him, why is everyone being dramatic? *Loads shotgun*

Photo Credit: Memecenter.com

 8. She just tried to change your colours from understated peach and mint; to gold, red and green. Can she just move to Cameroon if she likes their flag so much?

Photo Credit: Imgflip.com

 9. It would appear your pocket and your tastes do not match. What you can afford is giving you a headache. Maybe you can secretly record Boo’s constant singing and send to Don Jazzy in faith.

Photo Credit: Bollywoodshaadis

 10. You have recited this mantra 52 times, but your dreams haven’t received the memo. Oriental Hotel showed up again last night.

Photo Credit: www.someecards.com/cassandra2924779

 11. You accept that you won’t get your dream wedding, but you’re beginning to see “less privileged” in a whole new light. Help, somebody.

Photo Credit: gettyimages.com

 12. Yes! Now you can afford to add meat to your first stew as a married couple.

Photo Credit: Instagram / @jidsfrique007

13. She is basically passing off her dream wedding as yours and now she wants to choose your dress too? Here, have a tissue Mum. Pictacular.co

 14. You are only reacting to all the incompetence and nonchalance that everyone else is exhibiting. It is the most important day of your life and this stylist just arrived with an eggshell veil, when you specifically said seashell.

Photo Credit: Kfzuzulo.com

 15. Even after all you had to go through, you look angelic this morning; and you will be counting those teardrops. Let it out boy, the maid of honour’s got tissues. 

Sound Bytes: 2016 Nigerian Wedding Music Song Guide

We are almost half way through the year and every song by Nigerian artists have been a hit back to back. Music plays a big part in creating the right atmosphere at your wedding reception. Here are a few of our suggestions for your big day this year

Entrance Song

At Nigerian weddings, the couples arrival involves, dancing in with your bridal train, day ones and family friends lining the aisle. Our number one pick for this moment is “Osinachi” the hit by Humble Smith featuring Davido. The English translation xxx. Tiwa Savage’s “Standing Ovation” is also a great choice to put everyone in the mood for a good time

Humble Smith Ft. Davido – Osinachi

Tiwa Savage ft Olamide- Standing Ovation

Bouquet Toss

Beyonce’s “Single Ladies” has reigned long enough (Disclaimer: Beehive this is NOT a call to arms!! Lol)
Adekule Gold’s “Ready” is undisputedly the anthem for all singletons “single and searching” this year.

Adekule Gold - Ready

Father Daughter Dance

This dance is a perfect time for a throwback, “Baby Girl” By Nel Oliver, is an evergreen classic, bound to leave a few people misty eyed.

Mother Son Dance

The Ultimate Mama’s boy anthem for 2016 has to be Flavour and Chindma’s “Mama”. Sang entirely in Igbo, it’s a lovely song that describes the depth of a mother’s love

Flavour and Chidinma - Mama

First Dance

Every couple already has their “Our” song, but Timi Dakolo’s “Iyawo Mi”, has all the right words to define an everlasting love. If you are looking for something more upbeat “All I Want is You” by Banky W and Chidinma is an excellent choice.

Timi Dakolo - Iyawo mi

Banky & Chidinma- All I want is you

Cake Cutting

Historically the cake cutting ceremony symbolises the promise to forever provide for each other. Yemi Alade’s tongue in cheek “Ferrari” and Flavour and Chidinma’s “Ololufe” are our top picks in this category.

Yemi Alade - Ferrari

Flavour Ft Chidinma – Ololufe

After Party

The number one song of 2016 so far to let your squad know that it's time to turn up is Wiz Kids Baba Nla, send the grannies home and let the night begin!

Wiz-kid- Baba Nla

Don’t forget to go through our directory for the best wedding DJ’s in your city

10 Things Every Nigerian Bride Must Do Before Taking the Plunge

1. Take some time for yourself
   
   
   Take some time for yourself
   No planning, no freak-outs, no fire-breathing. Just breathe. Take a trip alone if possible; you may not get this chance again.
2. Reconnect with your girlfriends
   Spend some real time with them. No, bridesmaids’ dresses fittings do not count. You are taking a huge life step so they might be feeling insignificant. Go out like old times so they know they’ll always be your squad.
3. Spend some time with your parents
   You probably won’t be seeing them as often soon. You may not even be able to call them as often. Cherish the time left to be their little girl and get some sound marriage advice.
4. Date your fiancé
   A sweet little rendezvous will remind you why you’re going through this in the first place. Talk about him, and keep it wedding-free, unless of course he wants to go there.
5. Get your skin care game on
   There are no last minute miracles to get the skin of your dreams. Get a regimen that works for you and commit. If you haven’t found one that tackles your skin issues, see a dermatologist. If you’re going to get a spa facial, give your skin some days to heal afterward. You don’t want raw, blotchy skin on your wedding day.
6. Tackle your finances 
   ...If you haven’t already done so, discuss with Boo how money will be handled, and how much will be merged. Money is a huge issue for unprepared newly-weds. Get it sorted beforehand.
7. Do Hair and Makeup trials
   Try out different styles, even different artistes. Have pictures taken in natural light and with flash before you decide. Once you do, book immediately to avoid clashing schedules and tears of betrayal.
8. Get fit and healthy
   Trust us; you want to look your best for the picture your generations will hang in the family room. Take longer walks, add more cardio to your gym time, cut out the junk food, and drink lots of water. You might even love it and keep it up after your “I do’s”.
9. Buy 'comfy' flats
   You have to be ready for when your heels start to scream murder. Do not be Cinderella at midnight; have a cute pair of flats on standby and the dance floor will be yours.
10. Sleep
    Get some shut eye for the love of you. Sleepless nights will have you looking strained, unable to focus on enjoying D-day, and frankly, will interfere with the wedding night if you catch our drift. Know when to turn off the lights and your phone, and sleep

Dapper Gents: Style Inspiration for Nigerian Grooms

Who says it's not tedious for grooms to find their 'garbs' for the big day? Do we start with finding the right colour combinations? From shirts, to suits, to belts, to ties or bow-ties, or should we focus instead on how your colour choices have to compliment the future Mrs'?. If you're a groom in a style pickle, get dapper inspiration from any of the styles below Let’s put them in three categories:

1. The Safe and Classic Black (or Navy)

 Photo Credit: Instagram / @maiatafo

 Photo Credit: Instagram / @hugoboss

 Photo Credit: Instagram / @tomford 

The Smooth White & Checkered

 Photo Credit: Instagram / @fabolousbanji

 Photo Credit: Instagram / @prada

 Photo Credit: Instagram / @maiatafo

 Photo Credit: Instagram / @hugoboss 

The Cool & Bold Mix

 Photo Credit: Instagram / @maiatafo

 Photo Credit: Instagram / @emmanueloyeleke

 Photo Credit: Instagram / @maiatafo

 Photo Credit: Instagram / @maiatafo

 Photo Credit: Instagram / @boyeraure

5 Questions To Ask Your Makeup Artist

It’s once in a lifetime and your makeup is a major affair because it’s your wedding day! You want to look as beautiful as possible on this big day. Do you want to look back at those pictures and show your kids how beautiful their momma was on her big day? Then you have to get your make-up right. As much as you are trying to cut costs, do not compromise on getting good makeup. You should only pick your make-up artist based on references from other people and his/her work. Here are five (5) questions that will help narrow down your make-up artist choices.

1. Do you specialise in wedding make-up? You can also ask how many brides she has worked on and how long she has been doing this.
   Tip: Bridal Makeup is a lot different from photography, runway or everyday makeup. The make-up artist should be accustomed to making up a bride and also have an understanding of how the wedding day schedule goes.
2. How do I make a booking? Do you require a deposit? What about terms of the contract?
   Tip; understand what the artist requires to secure your date on her book. Sometimes the deposit will be nominal, but most will require 25 – 50% of the total package of services. And be sure to get it all in writing, with receipts for each payment (no stories!)
3. Do you offer trial makeup? It’s always a good idea to have a glimpse of how you will look on your big day (and to know if you have to run from this makeup artist!). It also allows the make-up artist understand what works for your face. Ensure you ask if this will come with an extra charge.
   Tip: don’t waste the free trial (If it is free) get your makeup artist to do the free trial on your introduction day or for your pre- wedding shoot.
4. What products and brands do you use? Ask for the main makeup she will be using on you; many makeup artists mix various products, but there’s always the main one.
   Tip; Make sure they’re brand names you recognise as being good and are not allergic to. If you have sensitive skin and your makeup artist recommends something new, have a patch test done on a small part of your face and see how it works.
5. How long will she/he need to do your makeup? Timing should also include tying of 'gele'.
   Tip; if your makeup artist can’t give you a time frame or if she takes over an hour per person then that’s a long time to be sitting in a chair! You might want to reconsider.
6. Do you have a connection with your makeup artist? This question is actually for you the bride! You have to be comfortable around your make-up artist, ensure she’s not bossy, rude or proud.
   Tip; you don’t have to use a make-up artist if you don’t like him/her. A lot of things might get you upset that day; you don’t need a make-up artist that is rude or has an attitude.

6 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Caterer

As Air is to life and dancing is to an Indian Movie (I’m yet to see an Indian movie without dancing) so is food to a Nigerian wedding. You sure would want your food to be so good that your guest can’t stop talking about it for a very long time. For this reason you need to pay close attention to what and how your wedding guest are to be served. It’s always better to ask for referrals from Family and Friends. Your other vendors such as the person handling cocktail or baking your cake may also have suggestions for a good caterer. Once you’ve narrowed down to a few caterers arrange to have an interview and ask this 6 question No 3 is a deal breaker.

1. How Long Have You Being Doing This and How Many Weddings Have You Catered For? There is nothing wrong with using a new caterer, but we cannot deny the expertise that comes with experience.
2. What Services are you including? You should never assume when it comes to planning your wedding. Ask the most seemingly stupid questions. Are you going to set the tables? Do I have to pay for the waiters separately?
3. What Is the Server to Guest Ratio? This is important because this will determine how quickly food is served and also how quickly the table is cleared. Averagely 1 waiter should attend to 12-20 guests.
4. When is the next event you’ll be catering for, can I attend? Seeing is believing! Your caterer can tell you all you want to believe, but it’s only in a real life scenario that you’ll be sure of his/her skills. This is particularly important if you didn’t get any referrals before picking the caterer. Take note of how organized s/he is and how courteous the waiters are. Even if you can’t attend any of the weddings, ask to speak to a client s/he has worked for.
5. Have you ever been in a situation where the crowd present was more than the food budgeted for? Of course you don’t expect her to begin to prepare another meal half way through the wedding, but you’ll love to know how she handled it. Typically Caterers always prepare for a little more than you ordered. This is what you should expect her to say.
6. Can I have a Tasting Session Before the Wedding? Most caterers organize a tasting before the wedding. Ask if this will be the same food portion size guest will be served at the wedding. if you love the look of your meal at the tasting, ask if everything will be presented in the same way on your wedding day. Also ask to the see the utensils and plate to be used on the wedding day.

Are there any questions you think we should add to the list?

Photos: Makeda Hair Launch

The launch of the showroom for Makeda luxury human hair, took place on the 24th of April, at Celia Medspa & Salon: 5B Abeke Animawun street, off Bisola Durosinmi Etti Drive, Lekki Phase 1. So for your bridal hair and hair for every occasion, Makeda showroom should be your next stop. Enjoy these beautiful photos from the launch.