Planning a Ghanaian wedding is an exciting journey, but it can also put a strain on your budget. When it comes to wedding expenses, food and drinks often account for a significant portion of the overall cost. However, with careful planning and smart decision-making, you can find creative ways to save money without compromising on quality and guest satisfaction. With the economy of Ghana not favouring a lot of spends, Kele+ will explores effective strategies to help you save money on your wedding food and drinks, making your special day both memorable and budget-friendly.
Buffet-style or food stations can be a cost-effective alternative to a plated dinner. With this approach, you can offer a wider variety of dishes including Ghana Jollof, Waakye, kenkey, banku, fufu among others while keeping the costs under control. Consider options like self-serve stations or themed food bars to add a touch of uniqueness to your reception.
Utilizing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients can save you money while ensuring freshness and quality. Talk to your caterer about incorporating local produce and products that are in abundance during your wedding season rather than importing ingredients limited to certain locations. Not only will this reduce costs, but it will also support local businesses and add a personalized touch of culture to your menu depending on the type of Ghanaian dishes you're serving.
One of the most effective ways to reduce your catering expenses is to keep the guest list concise. A smaller guest count means less food and fewer drinks to provide. By focusing on your closest family and friends, you can create an intimate atmosphere while keeping the budget in check.
Hosting your wedding earlier in the day allows you to explore more affordable options like brunch or lunch menus. These meals tend to be less expensive than formal dinners, and you can still offer delicious and satisfying dishes to your guests. Plus, it opens up possibilities for unique and fun food choices like pick your Ghanaian rice dish, Team Banku or Team Fufu, build-your-own omelet stations or brunch-inspired cocktails.
Alcoholic beverages can quickly escalate your wedding costs. To save money, consider offering a limited bar selection, such as a signature cocktail or a few beer and wine options. Alternatively, you could opt for a cash bar or provide a limited open bar during specific hours. Remember to have non-alcoholic options readily available for guests who do not drink alcohol.
Forget being called pɛpɛɛ (stingy), another way to cut down on beverage expenses is to allow guests to bring their own alcoholic beverages. Some Ghanaian venues may charge a corkage fee, but it is often significantly lower than the cost of a fully stocked bar. This approach allows guests to bring their favorite drinks while still keeping the celebration budget-friendly.
Instead of spending a significant portion of your budget on expensive wedding favors, consider DIY options that incorporate edible treats. Create personalized labels or packaging for items like homemade banana cake, cookies, pancakes, kenkey or ɛtɔ. Not only will this save money, but it will also add a heartfelt touch to your special day. Simply love, from you to your guests.
Think outside the box and explore non-traditional catering options that may offer cost savings. Find a trendy and budget-friendly choice for casual and outdoor weddings. Some outdoor food vendors offer a variety of cuisines and can create a fun and interactive dining experience for your Ghanaian wedding guests.
If you're looking for a more casual and budget-friendly option, consider alternatives to a formal sit-down dinner. Cocktail-style receptions with passed hors d'oeuvres and food stations encourage mingling and create a lively atmosphere. This approach can help you save on both food and service costs.
Lastly, don't be afraid to negotiate with caterers and explore package deals. You could get a lot more discount than you imagined based on the package you opt for.
