Godson Chinonso: How to Organize a Bridgerton-Inspired Wedding in Nigeria

For those enamored with the world of Bridgerton, envisioning a wedding that mirrors the elegance of characters like Daphne or Kate may seem like a distant dream, particularly in Nigeria. However, it need not be just a fantasy.

I have laid out a series of steps to help you curate a Bridgerton-themed wedding right here in Nigeria. If you adhere to these guidelines and plan meticulously, come next year, you could be celebrating in true Bridgerton style. Ready to dive in?

First, locate an uncle who owns a mansion with a vast compound that can accommodate at least twenty vehicles. Following that, gather pastel-colored flowers by the truckload; it's essential that your venue's fences, entrances, and any luxury logos are enveloped in blooms. Within the venue, white fabric draping is a must, along with vintage lanterns hung amidst the floral arrangements. For an extra touch, consider commissioning a fountain that flows from a statue of a revered ancestor, like your grandfather, perhaps named Olayinka the Great. If such a statue doesn’t currently exist, commissioning one is all part of making your Bridgerton dreams come true.

The hallways should be adorned with an abundance of photographs of you and your fiancé, creating a gallery-like atmosphere that rivals any museum.

Additionally, don’t overlook the painting of the house prior to decorating. Many Nigerian mansions are swathed in bold colors or stark white hues, perhaps in an effort to mask their pasts. Convince your uncle to agree to a repaint—perhaps offering him a private performance by traditional dancers as a sweetener. Once you have his approval, opt for warm pastel shades such as baby pink, lilac, and soft blue. Imagine how proud 19th-century folks would be!

Make sure each table is graced by candles, ideally in vivid red with a hint of French chic. The scent of eucalyptus should linger in the air, while vintage mirrors scattered throughout will allow guests like Lady Chiamaka and Lord Emeka a chance to glimpse themselves at every turn—they are the event's stars, after all.

Inside, be sure to add ten or more chandeliers. Remember, this is not just a bride and groom's first dance; it is a grand traditional ball. As you dance beneath the elegant glow of crystal chandeliers, it's important that your efforts to create a dream wedding are on full display.

This leads us to the attire—this part requires tact. When your mother catches wind of your engagement, she’ll likely have made multiple sets of traditional outfits for herself and her entourage already. To suggest that everyone adorns themselves in empire-waist gowns, gloves, and feathered headpieces is likely to create a bit of chaos. Instead, opt for an Afro-fusion theme. Women may enhance their traditional attire with chic fascinators or gloves while men can don tailored agbada with a stylish hat, or layer their agbada over a matching waistcoat, trousers, and boots.

Your chosen music is also crucial. While local tunes will surely be appreciated, the ambiance should be enriched by a full orchestra or string quartet. Picture an arrangement reminiscent of Asake’s Red Bull Symphonic Performance, ensuring that the quality reflects the effort put into the occasion. Forge a connection with the violinist as her skill will shape the day’s soundtrack.

Explore the Bridgerton soundtrack and handpick your favorites. I highly recommend “Give Me Everything” by Archer Marsh for a poignant moment—it’s the perfect backdrop as you prepare to kiss your groom, reminiscent of the enchanting moments from the show.

Finally, if you're feeling adventurous, reach out to Vogue and request coverage for your wedding, with an email titled "Bridgerton Themed Wedding in Nigeria." With some luck, they may find it too captivating to resist.