For some Ghanaian couples, the traditional engagement ceremony is no longer just a step towards a white wedding. Increasingly, some are combining their engagement ceremony with a reception and choosing not to hold a separate white wedding afterwards.
TRADITIONAL CEREMONY
SOURCE: GROUP 2
In Ghana, marriage celebrations have traditionally followed a familiar pattern. Couples often go through customary marriage rites before holding a white wedding and reception, but changing preferences and the increasing cost of wedding ceremonies are influencing how some couples now choose to celebrate their unions.
WEDDING COUPLE
SOURCE: GROUP 2
For some couples, combining the engagement and reception provides an opportunity to celebrate their union in one major event. Instead of organising separate ceremonies, the couple can complete the customary rites and celebrate with their families and guests on the same day.
The cost of organising multiple ceremonies is also influencing the decisions of some couples. Expenses such as venue hire, decorations, catering, clothing, photography and entertainment can make the organisation of separate events financially demanding.
WEDDING EVENT
SOURCE: GROUP 2
For others, the decision to skip a separate white wedding is not only about the cost. Some couples simply prefer a more intimate and straightforward celebration that reflects their personal choices rather than following the traditional expectation of having multiple ceremonies.
For some Ghanaians, the decision to combine an engagement ceremony with a reception reflects changing attitudes towards marriage celebrations. Mabel, who shared her opinion on the trend, says, “I believe couples should be allowed to choose the kind of wedding celebration that suits them, because a separate white wedding is not the only way to celebrate a marriage.” Her view reflects how some couples are beginning to rethink whether a separate white wedding is necessary after the traditional marriage ceremony.
SOURCE: GROUP 2
Despite this emerging trend, the white wedding remains significant to many Ghanaians because of religious, cultural and personal reasons. For some couples and families, walking down the aisle is still an important part of marking the beginning of marriage.
A level 300 production by PRISCILLA OSEI
Love this! Traditional wedding is where the real culture and blessings are
ReplyDeleteAll narrows down to their own preference.
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