Yoruba people, of western Nigeria are a easy going, friendly people, full of folklore, color, and bright fashion and designs. The people are cosmopolitan, and contemporary, combining old traditions with more modern themes. Having the advantage of being exposed to western ideas, Yoruba people integrate modern customs into their traditional marriage ceremonies.

The Yoruba traditional marriage ceremony, though a serious affair, is full of playfulness, rich contemporary Nigerian music, graceful colors, and sumptuous meals. Weddings are occasions to show best outfits, handbags, jewelry, and even dancing styles.

The traditional wedding is an occasion to alleviate the drudgery of normal life and are greatly anticipated by friends and well wishers.



The Introduction of the Bride and Groom

Long before any engagement ceremony takes place, the groom visits the family of the bride in the company of his father and some family members. The occasion is an informal introduction without fanfare but has a cordial atmosphere so they can get to know one another.

The informal introduction does not require much preparation, except for offering some tubers of yam and a few bottles of wine. The family of the bride is purview to the visit and hosts the visitors with a simple meal of rice and mineral water. Apart from the introductions, the group might discuss when the event would take place. This is not a hard and fast rule, and such discussions might take place later.



Invitations and Venue

After the date is set, the bride and groom choose an invitation card that appeals to both families.

The venue could be an event center, a large hall, an open canopy, or an open field. The decoration is contracted to an events planner, whose job is to interpret the colors chosen by using decorations to complement the joyful union. The guest list could number over 250 guests, so proper consideration of seating arrangements, cutlery, and decorations is of great importance.

Decorations usually consist of floral arrangements, colored balloons, tapestries of both color schemes, white tablecloths, and chairs covered in lace and ceremonial colors. The planner decorates the high table for dignitaries and places two prominent chairs in front of the crowd for the bride and groom. Other features could include flower vases and cutlery.

The catering is also serious business. Again, this can be done by both families. The contracted caterers should be professional in their conduct and able to make assorted meals including jollof rice and moin moin, which is beans that has been washed, grounded, and steamed.

The chicken could be fried or roasted. There can be fried meat, fresh fish, and catfish as well as small chops like sausages and meat pies. Small cakes, chin chin, and other small delicacies are also traditional. Traditional foods like pounded yam, amala (yam extract), fufu, and wheat meals may also be served, along with a variety of vegetable dishes.

Sometimes family members from both sides also cook additional meals to entertain their immediate guests, such as neighbors and family friends.
See full article here- https://lekkidatingandsex.com/f/yoruba-traditional-marriage-all-you-need-to-know