2023 average cost of a wedding in Ghana is about GHc 240K, according to a wedding planner

Weddings are mostly once-in-a-lifetime occasion that involves immense attention to detail. Also, planning a wedding involves creating a budget. Simply put, planning a wedding requires money.

A wedding is not just about love and commitment; it also involves careful financial considerations and meticulous planning. In Ghana, the question about how much couples have to spend on experiences for their big day has always been a topic with divided opinions - and rightly so due to the relatively in lifestyle and standard of living.

A wedding planner in Ghana Michael Buckman with the team's Instagram handle @xceedmac shared some insights of how much the average wedding in Ghana costs based on their experiences with vendors.

Doing the analysis for a wedding with 200 guests, @xceedmac wrote on Instagram:

"These are the “average” costs I see as a wedding planner in Ghana for 200 guests. Of course, some weddings can be done for less and some will cost way more. 

What’s the average cost of weddings in your region/country?"

Michael gave a disclaimer that the prices stated were average and that it could either be more or less based on a couple's preferences and probably financial capabilities.

Here are the average cost of Ghanaian wedding vendors for 200 guests:

Wedding Planner - GHc 10,000

Wedding Coordinator - GHc 5,000

Wedding Venue - GHc 15,000

Photographer - GHc 5,000

Videographer - GHc 5,000

Caterer - GHc 50,000

Decorator - GHc 90,000

MC - GHc 4,000

DJ - GHc 4,000

Cultural Troop - GHc 2,000

Fans - GHc 500

Bouquet - GHc 1,000

Mixologist - GHc 8,000

Stationary - GHc 7,000

Makeup & Hair - GHc 8,000

Outfits - GHc 30,000

Clarifying a few things in the comments section of the post, the Ghanaian wedding planner revealed that lighting, special effects and truss rigging are mostly captured in the decor invoice. The wedding cake is also captured under catering.

He further added that even though weddings in Ghana are expensive, it depends on you stating that "set a budget and stay within your means".

Here are tips on planning a wedding in Ghana and how to save big

Setting the Budget

The cornerstone of wedding planning begins with establishing a realistic budget. In Ghana, the cost of a wedding can vary significantly based on preferences, location, guest count, and desired extravagance. Essential elements that factor into the budget include:

Venue

The choice of venue, whether it's a luxury hotel, a picturesque garden, or a traditional setting, or the backyard of a family member or friend significantly influences the overall cost.

Attire and Accessories

From the bride's gown and groom's suit to traditional attires and accessories, allocate a portion of the budget for clothing and adornments.

Food and Beverages

Ghanaian weddings are renowned for their sumptuous feasts. Budget for a diverse menu catering to guests’ tastes.

Decor and Entertainment

Transforming your chosen venue with décor and entertainment, such as music, dance, and cultural performances, requires budgetary considerations.

Photography and Videography

Capturing precious memories demands skilled professionals; allocate a portion of the budget for quality photography and videography services.

Planning Considerations

1. Timeline: Start planning well in advance to secure venues, vendors, and services. Aim for at least 6-12 months before the wedding date.
2. Guest List: Be selective about the guest list to manage costs effectively. In Ghanaian culture, weddings often have large guest counts due to relations in the extended family, so prioritizing is crucial.
3. Cultural Traditions: Embrace Ghana's rich cultural traditions, which might include customary rites and specific protocols for various ethnic groups. Incorporating these elements might impact the budget and planning.
4. Vendor Selection: Choose reputable vendors through research and recommendations. Ensure contracts are clear, detailing services and costs.
5. Weather Consideration: Ghana's climate can vary; consider the weather when selecting an outdoor or indoor venue and plan accordingly.
6. Legal Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the legal procedures for marriage in Ghana, including necessary documents and timelines for registration.

Financial Tips

1. Negotiation Skills: Don't hesitate to negotiate prices with vendors while maintaining respect for their services.
2. Prioritize Expenses: Allocate more budget to aspects that are most important to you and your partner, while considering areas where you can save.
3. Track Spending: Maintain a detailed budget sheet to monitor expenses and avoid overspending.
4. Emergency Fund: Set aside a contingency fund for unexpected expenses or last-minute adjustments.

Planning a wedding in Ghana is work and money. However, remember that every single detail is your choice. So, do you at a rate you can afford.