Ruth Kadiri Advises Young Couples Against Lavish Weddings, Says Simple Ceremony Helped Her Marriage

Nollywood actress and filmmaker Ruth Kadiri has advised young couples against succumbing to societal pressure to organise elaborate wedding ceremonies, warning that the desire to impress others can create unnecessary mental, emotional and financial burdens for newlyweds.

The actress shared her views in a video message posted on her Instagram page, where she argued that many intending couples underestimate the pressure associated with expensive weddings and how it can affect their transition into married life.

According to Kadiri, a wedding ceremony should not become a source of anxiety for couples who are preparing to begin a lifelong commitment.

She explained that although two people may enjoy a stable relationship while dating, the expectations and stress surrounding an elaborate wedding can introduce additional pressure into their union.

“I do think that big weddings put pressure on couples; it puts pressure on the marriage itself. Big weddings put pressure on people, and they don’t seem to have realised that,” she said.

Kadiri stressed that her concerns extended beyond financial expenses to include mental health and the emotional challenges associated with marriage.

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She observed that some people already have fears about marriage, and the additional demands of organising a large ceremony could make the transition more difficult.

The filmmaker, who said she had been married for seven years, maintained that her personal experience informed her position on keeping wedding celebrations simple.

She suggested that avoiding an elaborate wedding may have contributed to the stability she has enjoyed in her marriage.

“I never had that kind of marriage, I didn’t, and I feel like it’s part of why I’m successful,” she said, comparing her experience with cases of couples who separate shortly after getting married.

Kadiri encouraged intending couples to consider modest traditional ceremonies involving close family members, followed by a small civil wedding attended by about 30 guests.

She also recommended inviting a pastor to pray for the couple before they return home to begin their married life.

According to her, a simple ceremony allows couples to concentrate on building their relationship rather than worrying about expenses, public expectations or the need to impress guests.

The actress further expressed concern about what she described as the spiritual vulnerability associated with inviting people into private family celebrations. She claimed that some couples encounter difficulties, including challenges with having children, because of people present at their weddings. These assertions were her personal views and were not accompanied by evidence establishing a causal connection.

Beyond marriage ceremonies, Kadiri called for a change in societal expectations, particularly the pressure parents place on young people to become successful quickly and provide financial support.

She urged parents to reconsider expectations that could place unnecessary burdens on their children.

Her message encouraged couples and families to prioritise emotional wellbeing, financial responsibility and the long-term success of marriage over extravagant celebrations.