How to throw a chill, budget-friendly bridal shower in Nigeria

In Nigeria, weddings are a big deal, as are all the activities leading up to the big day. One of the most beloved pre-wedding traditions is the bridal shower.

It is a joyful, all-girls gathering where the bride-to-be is celebrated with games, gifts, and good vibes. But let’s be honest: throwing a bridal shower can feel overwhelming with the rising costs of everything from décor to food.

But here's the good news—you don't have to break the bank to make your bridal shower memorable. You just need a little creativity, a solid plan, and a focus on what truly matters, and you'll be surprised by how well it goes.

Are you wondering how to plan a chill, budget-friendly bridal shower in Nigeria without sacrificing fun or flair? Here are handy tips that can help.

ALSO READ: 5 Unique bridal shower gift ideas that she'll absolutely love

1. Set a Realistic Budget and Stick to It

As with everything else, planning can determine how successful or unsuccessful your bridal shower becomes. And of course, the core of your planning is finance. Start by agreeing on a budget for your party. This helps manage expectations and avoids awkward conversations down the line. Whether it’s ₦30,000 or ₦200,000, knowing your limit lets you prioritize wisely. One more thing - don't just set a limit. Determine to stick to it, irrespective of the situation.

2. Keep the Guest List Intimate

This isn’t the wedding, so it’s okay to keep it small. Invite the bride’s closest friends, cousins, and maybe a few work besties. A guest list of 10 - 20 people keeps things cozy, interactive, and easier on the wallet. Besides, there are many other benefits to keeping your guest list small. For example, smaller groups often lead to more heartfelt conversations and meaningful moments.

3. Choose an Affordable, Comfortable Venue

Yes, loads of people prefer pricey lounges and hotel banquet halls. But that's not to say it's the standard. You can use many other budget-friendly venues and still have as much fun. For example, creative spaces like:

• Someone’s living room or backyard

• A well-decorated Airbnb is split among guests

• A small garden space at a café or local event center can make the difference.

Just ensure the space has good lighting, enough seating, and maybe a bit of charm for photo ops.

4. Plan Games That Cost Nothing but Spark Laughter

Games make or break the vibe. Thankfully, the best ones are usually free. So, you don't have to go for the ones that will break your pocket. Simple creative games like:

• How Well Do You Know the Bride?

• Never Have I Ever (Bridal Edition)

• Toilet Paper Wedding Dress Contest

• Guess the Age in Old Photos

This can be so much fun and show the bride that her friends know her and cherish her. You can even spice things up by introducing small prizes like chocolates, mugs, or spa kits from local markets.

5. Gift the Bride Thoughtfully, Not Expensively

Skip the pressure of high-end gifts. Instead:

ALSO READ: Planning for a typical Nigerian wedding - Who should bear the cost?

• Ask everyone to contribute to one meaningful gift (e.g., a spa day or custom robe set)

• Create a memory jar with handwritten notes from guests

• Put together a personalized scrapbook or video messages

Remember, it's not always about the cost but how much everyone loves and cares for the bride.

6. Capture the Memories

You don’t need a pro photographer. One friend with a good phone, ring light, and an eye for angles can do wonders. You can also hire a budget-friendly content creator for an hour or two. Afterward, create a shared Google Drive or WhatsApp album to upload all the memories.