a guide for our guests
The Traditional Ceremony
On November 7th, we're marrying in the Yoruba tradition — a ceremony that's been celebrated in southwestern Nigeria for generations. For many of you, especially those flying in from Europe, this will be your first Yoruba wedding. We've put this together so you arrive oriented, not lost — but we've also left a few things out on purpose. Some moments are better experienced than explained.
Come ready to dance, ready to laugh, and ready to throw some money in the air.
The shape of the day
Doors open at 4:00 PM. Grab a drink, find your seat, meet people. The ceremony itself begins at 5:00 PM and runs about two hours, followed by dinner and dancing. Small chops — Nigerian finger food — will be served throughout, so you won't go hungry while you wait for the main meal.
The Alaga: your guide
At the heart of every Yoruba wedding is the Alaga — part ceremonial host, part narrator, part referee. Ours is Mrs. Wendy Ijoko. She'll lead every moment, coordinate both families, sing, question, bless, and keep the energy high. Think of her as the author of the evening. If you're ever unsure what's happening or why, she'll tell you — sometimes by asking you to sing or dance along. No Yoruba required; she switches between English and Yoruba fluidly.
Two families, meeting as one
A Yoruba wedding is fundamentally the union of two families, not just two people. You'll see this everywhere — in the way each family dances in together, the way the groom's family formally asks permission to enter, the exchange of letters between mothers, and the public blessings that close the ceremony.
Music and dance
There is no part of this ceremony that doesn't have music. African drummers accompany the most important moments; our DJ carries everything else. You'll hear mostly Yoruba songs, with English woven through. When families dance in, when the bride arrives, when the groom is crowned — there's always rhythm. Plan to move.
Symbolism to watch for
Aso-oke and the colour
Our ceremonial outfits are hand-woven aso-oke from Lagos, in a deep indigo blue — both of us in the same colour, a shared signal that this part of the day is about two families becoming one. We'll change into different looks for the party later that evening.
Idọbalẹ̀ — prostration
At one point, Jérôme and his groomsmen will lay fully on the ground as a sign of respect to Jummy's family. It is one of the most meaningful gestures in Yoruba culture — a public, physical acknowledgement of humility and request. Watch for it.
The gifts — Eriyawo
Jérôme's family brings a basket of symbolic gifts to Jummy's family. Each item represents something — faith, sustenance, welcome, commitment. The gifts are presented, their meanings explained, and Jummy is invited to choose. We won't tell you what she chooses. You'll see.
The veil and the cap
There are symbolic moments involving Jummy's veil and a change of cap for Jérôme. Each marks a transition from one chapter to the next — daughter to wife, bachelor to husband. They are small moments, beautifully staged.
Spraying money
When the couple dances, guests “spray” banknotes over them — a West African tradition symbolising a shower of prosperity and goodwill. It happens throughout the evening, and yes, you are warmly encouraged to join in. Bring small bills in any currency. A designated helper will collect everything afterwards; nothing goes to waste.
A small glossary
- Alaga (ah-LAH-gah)
- — ceremonial host
- Aso-oke (ah-shaw-OH-kay)
- — woven fabric
- Agbada (ag-BAH-dah)
- — man's flowing garment
- Gele (GEH-leh)
- — elaborate headwrap
- Fila (FEE-lah)
- — man's cap
- Idọbalẹ̀ (ee-daw-BAH-leh)
- — full prostration
- Eriyawo (eh-ree-YAH-woh)
- — engagement gifts
- Owambe (oh-WAHM-beh)
- — the celebration
On participation
You're not required to do anything except enjoy yourself. If you'd like to dance, sing along, cheer the families in, or spray money — please do. The energy you bring is part of what makes a Yoruba wedding what it is.
And the rest? You'll see.
There are negotiations, tests, playful questioning, and a few genuine surprises built into the afternoon. We've held those back on purpose. All we'll say is — come ready to be delighted.