₦airaland Forum

The marital journey of my friend Emaka into Okrika land was amazing and educative for me; I saw cultural belief and tradition marriage entirely different from what I use to know.


Emaka met Jane, after graduation they lost contact but as fate may have it, they were united again and never let go since then. For this union to be legal this couple has to do needful – the traditional marriage rites of Okrika must be observer because Jane is a native of Okrika. For those that don’t know Okrika is in River state, southern Nigeria. Okrika clan consisted of nine towns, Okrika, Ogoloma, Ibaka, Ogbogbo, Ogu, Abuloma, Isaka, Bolo, and Ele. Their occupation is mainly fishing and farming.

Traditional marriage of Okrika people

The Okrika people have basically two types of marriage; Ya or Iyaa and Igwa. Some believe have it that Ya is the real deal because it is a permanent union and predates Igwa – which is an adaptation due to the increase of settler population among the Okrika people.


The Ya – Here the couple must come from the same tribe/clan. When a man is ready for marriage he informs his people and they immediately go ahead for the marriage rites of the said bride. Marriage ceremony involves certain customary functions that precede the consummation of the marriage. The man is mandated to produce three pieces of cloth (Kano cloth, India cloth and raffia palm cloth (okuru). An elder ties the raffia cloth round the couple, invoking blessings on them. The traditional marriage is finalized by the provision of all items required of him (groom).


The second type is called igwa, means mixed; here the woman and the man may marry even though they are from different families or tribe.


Marriage once bound can never be withdrawn. However, If divorce is unavoidable because of infidelity, the woman still belongs to the previous man (Ya marriage) even if she marries another man. In fact, according to Okrika tradition, the woman and her possession including children still belongs to the previous man who performed the Ya marriage rites. A woman who married under the Ya system can still be married under Igwa. If the woman has not been previously married to any man under the Ya system, children from the Igwa marriage belong either to the lawful husband of the wife's mother or to her brothers.

Marriage List - for the father

1. 2 pieces of Holland’s Wax 2. 1 native shirt 3. 1 hat 4. 1 big towel 5. 1 pair of shoes and socks 6. 1 walking stick 7. 1 wristwatch 8. 1 dozen pairs of underwear 9. 1 she goat with N10, 000.00 for cutting goat’s head

2.

http://amarachia..com.ng/2015/09/marriage-customs-of-okrika-people-in.html

Yes – you gave birth to us, you taught us the difference between good and evil, gave us the best education you could afford and you hope and pray for us to get married some day. You have always wanted the best for us, Why then is it hard for some parents to let us make decisions about who we marry?

In fact, many parents do not see the importance in explaining to their children how they can find real love or one who loves them. Most parent shy away from teaching their children about friendship and sex. Even my prayer warrior mom sees it as an abominable thing to say.

As parent you are to give encouragement and advice and support financially by paying some expenses of the wedding. Below are responsibilities of parents toward making their child's wedding a success.

1. Parents are to give their children sex education before they are mature for wedding.
2. You have a duty to counsel your ward on friendship and courtship. Making you the first marriage counselors for them.
3. Parents should teach their children that love is the most important thing in marriage and also let them know how to determine who actually loves them.
4. You should not choose for your children. Give them directives on how to make good choices. Rich parents should note that it is not in every case that your child will marry person as rich as you are.
5. The choice of a spouse your child may make, may not please you but you under obligation not to force your will on him or her.
6. Help them plan their marriage ceremonies. Help them prune their budget if it is exorbitant bearing in mind that no one satisfies the world.
7. Give as much assistance as possible to them if you have and your prospective son in-law does not have.
8. Do not stress him or her by being too demanding.
9. Do not insist on marriage rights that are not important. These should be provided based on the money at hand.
10. Your kids need a lot to settle down as husband and wife. It is not out of place if you help provide for them if you have enough.
11. Do not bring unnecessary responsibility on your son in-law due to pressures from your kindred. You should not treat your son in-law differently because he is not from your community.

http://amarachia..nl/2015/09/things-parent-should-do-when-their-kids.html

The Bride price[url][/url]
The bride-price comes in many folds, the groom must pay a dowry first to the bride's mother and then another dowry to the father; this involves a significant amount of bargaining. Also every member of the bride's mother's family must be given money, with the groom's family determining the amount. The bride's age group and her more distant relatives also get some money; the amount paid varies according to bride’s level of education and productivity. Then the groom's family gives the bride a rooster and some money. If she accepts these gifts and gives them to her mother, she indicates her acceptance of the groom, but if she refuses, she signifies her refusal. If she accepts him, she is showered with gifts and money, and the two families eat and drink together. Before the bride is finally handed over to her husband, however, her age group will pose as a mock barrier to those who want to take her and extort money from the anxious groom's family. The bride's mother buys her cooking utensils and food because she is not expected to go to the market for the first five market days after her marriage. At the end of the eating and drinking, the wife is finally handed over to her husband's family. (Omokhodion 1998).

Virginity is highly valued in most cultures in Nigeria, it a thing of pride and joy to girls family. Eventually, if a bride is found not to be a virgin, she is taken to the husband's family' ancestral shrine for cleansing. After this the Ije is put on her to invoke fertility on her. This marks the beginning of married life among the Idoma tribe.

send in your comments and observation
http://amarachia..com/2015/08/traditional-wedding-made-in-idoma-land.html

In most cultures in Nigeria, traditional marriages are usually an arrangement between two families, some times this arrangement may not be the wishes of the two individuals involve. Education and civilisation is changing that norm gradually. Furthermore, in many Nigerian cultures, it is the man that pays the dowry or bride-price, invariably making him head of the family.

Idoma wedding traditions
The Idoma people live in central Nigeria, Benue State. They are mainly farmers; it has subgroups like Adors, Otupas, Ogbanibos, Apas, Ofokanus and Owukpas. Marriage tradition in Idoma land is considered a lifelong state, although divorce is possible on the grounds of adultery or other concrete reasons.
When an Idoma man is at least twenty-five years old and has the financial and physical capacity to maintain a wife and children, he looks for and finds a woman of his choice, who must be least eighteen years old. He reports his findings to his family, which then chooses a go-between, a person who is familiar with the girl's family. The go-between investigates the family of the prospective bride to ascertain that the family has no history of mental disease, epilepsy, stealing traits etc. If the result of this investigation is positive, the prospective groom's family visits the woman's family with gifts of kola nut and hot drinks. After the first visit, another visit is scheduled for the woman to meet her future husband, after which a final visit is scheduled for the future groom and his family to pay the bride-price and offer other gifts. If the woman refuses to marry the man after these gifts have been provided, the groom's family keeps them

http://amarachia..com/2015/08/traditional-wedding-made-in-idoma-land.html

Funny and crazy things happen every day; I was invited by a friend to a wedding ceremony yesterday, the reception took place at Masalachi bus-stop close to pen cinema Agege, Lagos State Nigeria. All was going on well until a drunk guest created a huge scene that made everyone laughed, he attracted onlookers who can’t help but laugh at his displays. See video after cut


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x0juOPobzS4

NIGERIAN movie star and sexy diva, Tonto Dikeh recently had her bride price payment and reception ceremony, which took place in her home town in Rumuokwuta Port Harcourt southern Nigeria. She is now officially married to her best friend and lover Oladunni Churchill AKA Mr “X”. She was ecstatic and she looked elegant in her beautiful traditional wedding attire. We can’t wait to witness her traditional and white wedding ceremonies. Click to See pictures.

http://amarachia..com/2015/08/nollywood-star-tonto-dikeh-in.html

Omo this na die... For wedding gist and events visit
www.amarachia..com

How wearing of white wedding gowns started[b][/b]

The origin of white wedding dress can be trace back to Queen Victoria of England; she was the first to wear a white dress for her wedding when she got married her cousin Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg in 1840. White was not chosen for a wedding dress but blue and other colours, she broke these traditions by wearing a white dress on her wearing day. She was also the first royal bride to have bridesmaids carry her train. Surprisingly, she didn’t wear it to symbolize purity or virginity. She just wore it because, she liked white.
Decade after the wedding, Godey’s Lady’s Book, with the sentimental statement “ It is an emblem of the purity and innocence of girlhood, and the unsullied heart she now yields to the chosen one,” declared that white was the most fitting color for a bride. This was what inspired the connotations of virginity and purity attached to white wedding dress as we all know today.

Hope you find this educative as much as I do
http://amarachia..com/2015/08/the-connotation-and-evolution-of.html

White wedding dress is obviously the most popular bridal outfit today. If I may ask why is it so? From feed back I got on my questionnaires I posted online, 90% says that white wedding dress stands for purity, therefore the bride is believed to be pure and piety. If that is the case most brides today shouldn’t wear white for their wedding – many of them are morally tainted to wear white for their wedding. Contrary to what most people believe, white wedding dress does not depict virginity or purity but wealth.

Today weddings symbolize love and commitment between the bride and the groom till death do part, these wasn’t the case back then, at the Middle Ages weddings were more like a business deal in which two families joined forces for a beneficial arrangement or alliance. Many weddings were more a matter of politics than love, particularly among the nobility and the higher social classes. Therefore, brides are expected to dress in a manner that speaks well of her family, they represent the family during the ceremony. Brides from wealthy families often wore rich colors like white. White dresses were exclusively for the rich and wealthy because of maintenance.
In the middle Ages, brides rarely shop for dress specifically for their wedding day. The bride would typically wear her finest dress to the ceremony, even if it was a dark color. In fact, many brides wore black during this time. Only a few colors were avoided, such as green, which was then considered unlucky. Blue was a popular choice as it represented purity, faithfulness and a connection to the Virgin Mary, plus the dark color easily hid stains and imperfections and could be worn again.

http://amarachia..com/2015/08/the-connotation-and-evolution-of.html

The principal step you take when planning your wedding is choosing what type of wedding you want to have, this singular act may determine your later decisions. I have carefully made some researches and have listed below some wedding ceremony that may suit your wedding budget.


[b][/b]Civil wedding
A civil ceremony wedding takes place in a courthouse, city hall or judges' chambers and is officiated by a judge or a justice of peace. The secular ceremony is brief, with simple vows and just a handful of guests. A simple or elaborate reception can follow thereafter.

[b][/b]Religious wedding
A religious marriage takes place in a house of worship where the bride or groom is a member of the congregation. The reception usually occurs immediately after the exchanging of vows, either in the church's hall or at a separate location. Couples must still obtain a civil marriage license from their local courthouse for the union to have legality.

[b][/b]Group Wedding
Also known as a mass marriage ceremony, the group wedding involves numerous couples who legally tie the knot at the same time. In Nigeria typically hosted by Catholic church, group weddings are an attractive option for couples on a budget who want to celebrate their love in a very public way. The venue also serves as the reception site where newlyweds receive an individual cake and champagne toast.

[b][/b]Informal Wedding
Couples who choose to have an informal wedding have the freedom to customize every aspect of their marriage ceremony and wedding reception. They usually hold on to several important traditions, create a mas hup of both traditions or come up with something completely new. Although not as elaborate, an informal wedding typically has a more intimate feel.

[b][/b]Double Wedding
Normally consisting of best friends or siblings, a double wedding includes two couples participating in a single marriage ceremony. Each couple participates in their own set of wedding rites, usually with the eldest bride going first.

[b][/b]Military Wedding
Formal and steeped in tradition, a military wedding requires full dress uniform for enlisted personnel. The couple has their choice of marrying in a chapel on base or participating in a civil ceremony. Rituals vary between Armed Forces across the world but most incorporate the stunning salute of the Saber Arch that the newlyweds pass under.

[b][/b]Proxy Wedding
Very rare these days, a proxy wedding takes place when the bride or groom cannot actually attend the ceremony, usually due to serving overseas in the military or in search for greener pasture . Few countries currently allow proxy marriages http://amarachia..com/2015/05/types-of-wedding-to-choose-from.html?m=1

EroticAngelina:
nawa oo. all these things for wedding only?? what abt after the wedding?

Back to ur way na

Every bride whether in Nigeria or elsewhere, wants to look her best on her wedding day, but it’s hard not to panic when the wedding date draw nearer, with stress over planning the traditional wedding, seating arrangement, argued over the guest list and prudently applying your budget. And after all this you’re supposed to look gorgeous?

You may have dark circles, prickly legs, tangled hair and nerves shot to pieces, but there is a way to transform yourself from washed out wedding planner to beautiful bride - in only a matter of weeks!
If you've only got one month to go, don't freak-out, we have something for you and I hope these beauty tips will help you look beautiful on your big day.

Skincare
Eating and drinking well in the weeks leading up to your wedding is important. "Feeding your skin from the inside will give your complexion a boost. Eat a lot fruits and vegetable and have a handful of blueberries on your cereal as they're packed with anti-oxidants."

You should start preparing your skin as early as possible, so get plenty of sleep and drink lots of water. Any new beauty treatments should be tried one month before rather than a day before the wedding.

Weight Loss
For most Nigerian ladies, losing weight for your wedding dress is perhaps one of the most stressful parts of being a bride. When you have all eyes on you all day, you want to feel confident in your own skin.
Although a healthy diet and regular exercise are the best way to lose weight safely, there are some supplements and weight loss aids that can give you a little boost in the run-up to your big day.
Wedding make up
Before your wedding you should practice your make up at home. "Don't be tempted to try anything new on the day, because you won't feel comfortable and the groom might not recognize you!

Hair removal
For your wedding night and honeymoon, smooth limbs and a clean "Lady Garden" are a must, so you can feel sexy in your wedding lingerie.

Hair removal is usually a personal decision, so whether you prefer waxing, shaving or hair removal creams, stick to what works best for you - you don't want any adverse reactions in the lead up to your big day.

Nails
Your wedding day is the day your hands change forever - with your wedding ring. Not surprisingly you are going to want your hands looking as pristine as possible, especially for all those close-up photographs.

It is important to start to prep the nails at least a month before the big day to ensure they are looking their best.

"Moisturize your hands daily with a good quality hand cream that contains vitamins and minerals to solve any problem associated with dryness and ensure hands are silky smooth."

With weeks to go before the big day remember not to use your nails as tools, because it’s something we are all prone to.
http://amarachia..com/2015/07/dont-be-told-see-bridal-beauty-tips.html?m=1

There is gift exchange between the bride and groom. The man shows that he is a good son in-law by farming for the bride’s parent from time to time. At this point also secret investigation begins, both by the groom’s and bride’s parent – this is done to know if the family of the other side is free from diseases, insanity, stealing traits, alcoholism and what have you. This investigation is also done to ascertain that both families are not related by blood. If unfortunately let say the groom’s family is not satisfied with the out-come of their investigation and marriage could not hold, the farm work the groom did for the bride’s parent will be paid back in cash, other presents and gifts will be returned also. If the bride’s parent fined the groom not worthy of marrying their daughter, they would tactically withdraw from the process.

Canal knowledge between the prospective bride and groom is forbidden before the final marriage right is observed. Gifts and encomium is always showered on a bride who proves her virginity on her wedding night.
A mediator is contracted by the bride’s parent, usually a man through whom all demand could be channeled to. This is after the father must have certified the marriage free from doubts.

The Bride price
Bride price in Igede land is called ekwuotaba. It has no fixed amount; it can be paid installmentely. It is expected that the balance of the bride price is paid shortly before the girl is taken to the man’s house. Good gesture shown by the husband towards his in-law in time of hardship or need is also part of bride price. In fact there is a saying in Igede that says “payment of bride-price can’t be exhausted”.
In Igede tradition, bride price is complete when twelve bundles of brass bars is provided which today is an equivalent of N10,000 and above. The amount paid for the brass bars varies from family to family and according to the social status of the family.

http://amarachia..com/2015/08/traditional-wedding-rights-and-process.html?m=1

What kind of less will dullard teach him...... All of them na d same

Lieeeessssssss!!! I have lived in the north all my life, I have never met a northerner married to an igbo woman or any northerner with igbo blood in his veins, not saying there aren't, but that's just how scarce they are, and I doubt any (if there are) of them would admit it!!! Rubbish!!! Probably the dumbest thing I've read on NL, and I have read a lot of dumb things!!!! But maybe in the north central (middle belt)

Please get ur facts right before talking....

I hav... A frnd of mine in kano state is a product of that such union

Marriage is the coming together of man and woman as husband and wife to be father and mother to any up-spring produced by their union. Marriage rights and tradition among the Igede people in Nigeria is unique, fill with rich cultural practises. Formerly Igede marriages come in different forms; Accompanying marriage, Elopement -running away with a bride and abduction (force marriage) catching a bride of the interest either from road or market before negotiating the marriage rights with her parent. Which ever the case maybe there must be gun firing, telling other intending suitors to keep away from her; the lady is officially somebody’s wife.
Igede people are from Benue state, Nigeria they can be found in two out of the 23 Local Government Areas in the state namely; Odi and Oju local government area.
Recently we have observed that civilisation and Christianity has eroded some of the intriguing aspects of the marriage right. However, it has also help in stopping forced marriage. For this article am only going to limit my discussion with the traditional marriage rights of this wonderful people of Igede.

Age Long Practise of Igede Traditional Wedding
Most times marriage in Igede land is stimulated by a boy or girl’s hard-work and good character. A mother or house wife could solicit for her male or female relation to marriage. She may decide to ask a girls hand in marriage for her relation. She therefore, facilitates the initial contact between the would be bride and groom.
The engagement
A day is set aside when the groom visit the bride accompany by his friends, at this gathering the bride and groom are suppose put on a transparent clothing or semi-unclad. This is done for both parties to see each body so as to enable them have a fair opinion of themselves. Any injury mark on a man’s body could be judge to a hoe or cutlass cut which means the man is hard-working. This believes; invariably means he can take care of the woman and she is assured of abundant food at home.
Courtship can now commence after this meeting – if the bride is satisfied with the groom. At this point also the groom is always careful, making sure he prevent a situation where by the girl would prefer his friend/relative to him.

http://amarachia..com/2015/08/traditional-wedding-rights-and-process.html

SAMBARRY:
The reality in Nigerian weddings. You can deny itall yyou like

U harsh ooo

INTROVERT:
yeah



ābāchā nko

E dey there nw

If you are planning to hold a typical Igbo traditional wedding and you don’t have any of this food on your menu then you have to think again. I have listed a few of them here. The Igbo people are socially and culturally unique, blessed with rich and nutritious food. The purpose of this post is to give you an idea of what is expected of you especially in the area of food. This will also help you on menu budgeting for dream Igbo wedding.

Uha soup and cassava ball (fufu): Uha soup (ofe uha) is a delicacy that is present in most Igbo occasions – traditional wedding ceremony, child dedication, house warming, new yam festival, August meeting etc. This soup is more common with the people of Anambra. Uha soup is prepared specially for occasions. Ingredient…. Uha leaf, water, palm oil, seasoning and salt, water pepper, onion, thickener e.g. achi. Crayfish, smoked fish, big stock fish, bush meat, Assorted meat, kpomo etc.

Bitter leaf soup (ofe onugbu): This is also an important dish on the menu of most Igbo occasion – traditional wedding ceremony etc. This soup is eaten with fufu (cassava ball), pounded yam, garri (eba). ofe onugbu. Bitter leaf can also be employ in cooking other soups, some of which are widely eaten across Nigeria – Egusi and bitterleaf soup. The versatility of this leaf cannot be over stretch. This leaf has been found to be medicinal – its speed up metabolism, therefore good for weight loss, it reduces high sugar level.

Ingredient- Cocoyam is use as a thickener and it is the most important ingredient used in preparing this soup. Cocoyam is also use in cooking other soups. Cocoyam soup (ofe ede) is also a popular delicacy with the igbo people. Other ingredient use in making bitter leaf /ofe onugbu are; bitter leaf, palm oil, assorted meat, seasoning/salt, fresh fish, stock fish, pepper, etc.

Wedding Dessert

Igbo traditional wedding is not complete without dessert, there are two popular dessert served in wedding today; the African salad (Abacha with Ugba) and then Nkwobi.

http://amarachia..com/2015/08/wedding-menu-food-to-serve-guest-in.html

NaijaSingleBoy:
a woman can marry many men

ok if u say so

hugogerrard:
... If one is matured enough to obtain the wisdoms and knowledge of being in a matrimonial home... be it a man or a woman... It's worth a try... Such is life.... It all depends on responsibilities

nice point

mebad:
But why

no spoil the fun

viceldo:
just say we should fast b4 and after our wedding

if the need be

nairamaniac:
wonderful

thanks

Xslaze3xd:
Honestly Most Military Woman make good wives..... In fact they are very Loyal and respectful to their Husbands. Although some are mean outside when it comes to their duty but they don't try it with their Husbands

OK point noted....

I believe the decision you make as to whom you will marry is the second most important decision you will ever make. The first we all know is about our relationship with God. Who you marry will greatly affect your sense of fulfillment and future. That is why you are advised to make the right choice in picking the right woman. 50% of all marriages sometimes end in divorce.

I have mention but a few the type of woman a man can get married to, so guys who among these women will love to get married to.

Strippers can be very beautiful, enticing, sexy, charming, alluring, etc. and therefore very hard for a man to resist. Strippers are like a box of chocolates, you never know what you are going to get. So marrying a stripper is at your own risked. Nigeria men believe they are promiscuous, alcoholic, hard drugs user, with party lifestyle.

Nollywood Actress: Marrying an actress will obviously have its pros and cons. Most Nigerian men want their private life to be private. They believe when they marry a nollywood actress they won't have any privacy. The paparazzi will always be eager to get a sneak peak in their lives, some believe that these women are loose, exposing their body on set.

Lawyer: Nigerian men believe lawyer are over sabi sabi, they always want to show they are well read. Some believe if you want to be a lawyer you must stand your ground on some issues without shifting, as they are very domineering, and love to be in control.

Female weight lifter: these kind of women are believed to frequently mal-handling their spouse. Nigerian men are frighten, because they may be disgraced by their weight lifter wife in public should they had a heated argument outside.

Military woman: Nigerian men believe that when you offend a military lady she will give you the beating of your life or you will spend the night in military guard room.


So guys let the game begin. Make you choice now and give us your reasons.

http://amarachia..com/2015/07/which-nigerian-woman-with-this.html

An Engagement ring is a ring that shows the person wearing it is betrothed to be married. In Nigeria, engagement rings are worn mostly by women, and rings can feature diamonds or other gemstones. When a man woos a woman he wants to marry, he presents an engagement ring to her while he proposes marriage or directly after she accepts his marriage proposal. It represents a formal agreement to future marriage.

The word “betrothed” comes from the Anglo-Saxon word “troweth,” which means truth. In medieval England, a betrothed couple shared a “truth” or “pledge” to marry, and a ring served as the outward sign that a woman was promised to another. Before the engagement ring became a tradition, only royalty and the affluent had engagement rings that were typically gemstones encased in metal. It has always been a sort of "contract" between couple.
Below are some information on history and traditions through the ages and various cultures.

Engagement rings have been credited to Ancient Egypt, but an instance of exchanging rings can also be traced to Ancient Greece and Rome too.

In ancient Greece married couples weren't the only people who gifted each other gold jewels for their fingers — lovers did too (but with the inclination that they'd tie the knot soon enough)

In Ancient Egypt, men wore rings to symbolize their wealth, hence sharing one with their wife to represent the joint ownership of riches, the Egyptians wore their engagement ring on the ring finger and believed that the vein in the "ring finger" was directly connected to the heart.

Ancient Rome took the exchange one step further by having a betrothed couple's parents exchange tokens too. The Romans agreed and gave rings to their fiancé to prove their "ownership" of her to others.

In the Middle Ages, the Christian groom would give gemstones to the fiancé’s parents to show his intent for marrying her. Then he would place a ring on three of his bride's fingers to symbolize their belief in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The issue about period of engagement also arose in the Middle Ages, when, Pope Innocent III instituted a mandatory waiting period between betrothal and marriage.

In the 18th century, diamonds were found in large quantities in Brazil, making the diamond engagement ring more accessible. It the late 1800's an even larger supply of diamonds was found in South Africa, causing the prices for diamonds to drop. De Beers Consolidated Mines Ltd was in charge of mining it. They launched "A Diamond is Forever", marketing campaign to re-invigorate the diamond industry when it was going down. It was successful because it convinced families to retain their diamonds as heirlooms which caused a new demand for diamonds.


Today in Nigeria diamond engagement or wedding rings represents social class. Social elite present diamond rings as a gift to their spouse to show how wealthy they are. This trend could be found more with people in the entertaining industries, billionaire heir and heiress and the royal families.
http://amarachia..com/2015/07/what-is-it-big-deal-about-engagement.html

Wedding are not just about the bride and groom alone; they’re also about exalting friends and family members who have supported and loved the couple throughout their relationship and in their individual lives. Wedding party history plays a big part in the roles of the bridesmaids and groomsmen in modern day weddings. In most cases, the bridal party doesn't realize that this custom was initiated with the groomsmen instead of the bride's attendants or bridesmaids. The history of weddings is actually quite interesting.


Wedding party tradition is common throughout Nigeria and the world, whether the bride and groom choose to have ten maids and men apiece or just one best woman and man is up to them. But when and where did this custom begin?

The tradition of bridesmaids and groomsmen was instituted into wedding ceremony dates back to the ancient Rome. They believe back then that demons and forces are moving around to hunt down the new couple. Therefore, ten maids and ten men are to stand by the bride and groom to protect them from evil spirits. Bridesmaids and groomsmen dressed identically to the bride and groom, respectively, to confuse these malicious forces. This is in line with the notion that if all of the women and all of the men were dressed the same, then the vile demons would not be able to target the bride and groom specifically.

In the modern times especially in Nigeria the numbers of groomsmen and bridesmaids have reduced respectively. The distinctive dressing has also changed, many of the original duties perform by the best man and maid of honor hasn’t changed much; for example early weddings were held at the bride's home and the first "maid of honor" was likely a reliable and trustworthy family servant who attended to the bride's needs in the days preceding the wedding. Her duties likely included helping the bride gets dressed, making the bridal hairstyle and decorating for the wedding feast, collecting and packaging of household items for the bride to take her new home.

Recently the job of groomsmen is to plan bachelor party, usher wedding guest to their seat, escort bridesmaids down the aisle. Like the best man and the groomsmen, the bridesmaids and the maid of honor duty is to stand as witnesses for the ceremony, helping to validate its authenticity. The most prominent duty of the bridesmaids and groomsmen is to give toast to honor the bride and groom. In most Nigerian weddings only the maid of honor and the best man stand up to give the toast.

http://amarachia..com/2015/07/the-history-and-culture-of-having.html

After all the work you’ve put into your wedding day, the last thing you want is an upset stomach, bloating, or a gas problem. Nervousness, excitement, and all the other emotions you’ll experience on your big day are enough to deal with – you don’t want to add to the problems by eating the wrong foods. We have listed a couple of foods to avoid before the wedding, take a look.


Caffeine
Water is the best thing to drink before your wedding. Avoid coffee, tea, sodas, energy drink, and other caffeinated products as much as possible. If you’re a daily coffee or soft drink consumer, at least limit the amount you have that morning. Caffeine reduces the amount of water in the body and can lead to dehydration during the ceremony – often a cause of fainting at the altar.

Salt
Staying a safe distance away from the salt shaker is a good way to reduce the amount of sodium in your diet, but salt is a sneaky ingredient that hides in common foods, like hamburger, canned soups, frozen meals and processed cheese.
Consuming too much salt means you'll retain excess water, making you feel heavier – a problem that no bride wants to deal with. Aim to stay under 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day throughout your engagement, and eat fresh vegetables and other organic foods as much as possible.

Sugar
No matter whether you're into real sugar or artificial sweetener, neither is very good for you, especially in large quantities. Consuming too many sweets can alter blood sugar levels, not to mention add girth to your waistline. It's especially important to avoid sugar-free candy, diet soda and artificial sweeteners; the body has a difficult time digesting the sugar alcohol found in these foods, leaving your body bloated and uncomfortable. Satisfy any cravings for treats in moderation with natural alternatives like raw honey or maple syrup, and unleash your sweet tooth when you cut the cake at the reception!

Starchy foods
Starches are also foods associated with bloating and gas. Stay away from potatoes, pasta, and rice on the day of and the day before the wedding. Corn and breads can have similar effects – try wraps or pita bread for sandwiches if you need a snack before the wedding.

Alcohol
Too much toasting before the wedding can leave you puffy, along with a sour stomach and pounding head, so steer clear of alcohol until the champagne toast at your reception. Most alcoholic beverages are high in calories and have the uncanny ability to increase your appetite, resulting in added pounds before you say, "I do." Avoid drinking alcohol in the two weeks leading up to the big day, but if you must, order a cocktail that's low calorie, like a gin and tonic, and resist partaking in a second round!

Spicy food
Eating red-hot foods like peppers before the wedding is a bad idea; spicy food can make you feel flushed, break you out in a sweat and give you heartburn, indigestion and bad breath. Curry is perhaps the worst offender -- a tasty ingredient found in many Indian-inspired dishes, curry is almost guaranteed to leave your pearly whites with a dingy, yellow tint.


Fast food

While fast food may be a quick, convenient meal for a busy bride on-the-go, it's important to stay away from the super-size menus. Since the majority of fast food is processed, it's low in nutrients and high in sugar, salt and fat, which can slow digestion and add weight to your frame. Cut fast food from your diet in the months before the wedding as much as possible, and eat healthy foods high in monounsaturated fats instead, like avocados, peanut butter and raw nuts.

Diary product

Dairy doesn't affect everyone in the same way, but it can give some people a terrible case of cramps and bad gas. To ensure you feel your best on the big day, steer clear of cheese, yogurt and milk, especially if your stomach is already tied in knots with nerves! Dairy products are likely to only make a sensitive tummy feel worse. However, before you turn your back on the dairy aisle at the grocery store, consider adding Greek yogurt to your diet; it contains active cultures known as probiotics that help digestion and boost your immune system.

Onion
Onions are anti-inflammatory and fight bacteria and infection, and they're high in polyphenols, meaning onions could help prevent cancer and cardiovascular disease. Red onions are even believed to improve the memory because they contain flavonol quercetin, an antioxidant that benefits the brain.
However, even though onions are good for your health and lend salads, sandwiches and other foods a tasty kick, they can also leave you with an offensive odour and very bad breath. Avoid this potent vegetable two to three days before the wedding to ensure you walk down the aisle smelling like a rose -- with fresh breath in anticipation of your first blissful kiss as man and wife.

feel free to add your own recommendation
http://amarachia..com/2015/06/bloating-foods-and-drinks-to-stay-away.html

During wedding planning, one thing you will not forget is to plan for your honeymoon. This will give you a great time to celebrate your wedding and create unforgettable and happy memories together. It is of great importance for a new couple to plan their honeymoon, prepare the budget and save towards it. I have put together ideals that will help you save money and still enjoy that Unforgettable moment of your life.

1. Take advantage of seasons. Every destination has a high and low season—during the high season there are crowds and high prices, while the low season is cheaper (usually because the weather is lousy). Shoulder seasons, however, are right on the cusp of high and low, so the prices are more reasonable because there's less demand and the weather is still pretty good. Shoulder season for the Caribbean is late spring and fall, or for Europe, it’s late spring or early fall.

2. Go where you literally get more. A poor currency exchange can sabotage your budget (for example, the dollar is only worth three-quarters of a euro). You’re better off (at least financially) finding a destination where your money has more value, like Nigeria, Mexico or the Dominican Republic.

3. Fly off-peak. Flights are less expensive in the middle of the week across the board. If you're traveling domestic, fly on a Sunday to avoid business travelers. If you're going abroad, leave on Monday or Tuesday for the best deals.

4. Use public Transportation unless you're renting a car, do like the locals and ride mass transit. Cab rides, convenient, are notorious budget busters. Before you travel, familiarize yourself with your honeymoon spot's main modes of transportation, be it train, bus or ferries. Saving money isn't the only benefit of mass transit—in congested cities; the train is often the quickest way across town.

5. Investigate packages, If a hotel offers a "honeymoon package," take a close look to see if it's really going to save you anything. If the offer is six nights for the price of five, that's worthwhile.

6. Mention you're newlyweds. You can often leverage the fact that you're on your honeymoon for special (and free) extras. While there are no hard rules for the practise (or guarantees it’ll get you anything), its worth telling the receptionist you'll be spending your first days of married life with them. We've heard of couples getting complimentary room upgrades. It's also worth dropping the h-word when you're at airport check-in, and any bartender's bound to offer a round on the house.

7. add up your own
http://amarachia..com/2015/05/unbelievable-ways-to-have-fun-filled.html

Have you ever for once sit back and contemplate about the role a man plays in a marriage and life in general with relation to his female counterpart. I can’t help but ponder how things going to play out if the roles are switched – the woman taking up the role or responsibility of the man and verse versa.
Let’s switch the role and ask ourselves some funny questions. What is going to happen if?
• A woman asked a man out and then takes him out on a date.
• A woman proposes to a man with diamond engagement ring.
• A woman pays the groom-price of a man.
• A woman is the breadwinner of the house.
• A woman is the head of the home and the man is her helper.
• A man takes up the last name of the woman.
• The children also takes up the last name of the woman.
• A man stays at home to take care of the children.
• A woman punches and beat up a man whenever he offends her.
• A woman throws away a man luggage out, and then he comes crying and begging her not to throw him out of the house.
• A man can conceive and bear children
Ah thank God this can only happen in the cartoon world. You are Free to add your own imagination.

Kudos to the female gender for the tremendous role they have played in our family life, I like will to say that our women deserve the best; we must treat them with love and respect. In marriage everyone plays equal role. Therefore, partners need to put all hands on deck to make the home a happy place.

http://amarachia..com/2015/07/lets-play-role-switching-gamemale.html