A Ghanaian or Nigerian wedding invitation often has to do a lot of work. It may cover a traditional ceremony, a church service and a reception, name two families, and explain a dress code. Clear wording prevents confusion.
Who is inviting?
Traditionally, the invitation comes from the families, especially the bride’s parents or both sets of parents. A common opening is: “The families of Mr and Mrs Kwame Mensah of Kumasi and Mr and Mrs Emmanuel Okafor of Enugu cordially invite you to the marriage of their children.”
Couples who are paying for their own wedding may invite guests themselves: “Ama Mensah and Chinedu Okafor request the pleasure of your company at their wedding.”
The traditional ceremony
For the traditional marriage, the invitation may say: “You are invited to the customary marriage of Ama and Chinedu, on Saturday, 14 November 2026, at 10 a.m., at the family house, Asokwa, Kumasi.” Include colours if families are wearing matching cloth.
The church service
For the church wedding, give the church’s full name, address and start time: “Solemnisation of Holy Matrimony, Saturday, 21 November 2026, at 10 a.m., at Christ the King Church, Accra.” If the ceremony is by the Ordinance, some invitations mention it.
The reception
The reception details often come after: “Reception follows at the Grand Hall, Airport Residential Area.” Note if the reception is by invitation only, and whether guests need to present a card.
RSVP
Give names and phone numbers for RSVPs, usually one from each family, and a date. West African guests often do not RSVP, so follow up with phone calls or messages.
Dress code
Mention dress codes clearly: “Colours: gold and wine” or “Dress code: traditional attire”. If you want guests to buy family cloth or aso ebi, share details and prices separately.
Plus-ones and children
If invitations are for named guests only, say so politely: “This invitation admits two.” If children are not invited, many couples write “Adults only, please.”
Gifts
Some couples add a note about gifts, such as a registry or account details. Keep it brief and polite, or share it separately.
Proofread
Check names, dates, venues and phone numbers several times. Ask someone from each family to check spellings of titles and names.
A good invitation answers every question before a guest has to ask: who, what, when, where and what to wear. The rest is up to the couple on the day.
