Accustomed to Kenyan weddings where food and drinks are traditionally free for guests, the unexpected cost left her stunned.
Nafula, who had been invited to attend her Mzungu best friend’s friend’s wedding, was initially excited about the celebration.
A lover of good food and festive gatherings, she looked forward to enjoying a luxurious meal and lively party atmosphere.
The wedding, held at a high-end hotel, was meticulously organised. From the elegant décor and attentive servers to the smooth flow of the event, everything screamed luxury.
Guests were checked in and served promptly, and for the first time, Nafula decided not to serve chicken at the reception—opting instead for an array of gourmet dishes.
“The menu was fire,” Nafula told TUKO.co.ke.
“There was ribeye steak, filet mignon, wagyu, and everything fancy you could imagine.”
She described the meal as one of the best she had ever had, with impeccable service and a beautifully arranged setting.
However, the celebration took an unexpected turn when the servers cleared the tables and presented the shocking bill—$225 (approximately KSh 29,000), with only 10% of the cost covered by the bride.
“Who pays for food at a wedding?” Nafula wondered aloud, still trying to comprehend the experience.
After some research, she learned that in some high-end American weddings, it is not unusual for guests to contribute to the cost of their meals.
This practice, aimed at supporting the couple financially, is a stark contrast to Kenyan traditions where weddings are typically fully hosted by the bride and groom.
Despite the initial shock, Nafula said she would not forget the experience.
“The food and atmosphere were amazing, but it’s definitely an expensive memory,” she admitted.
Her experience highlights the differences in wedding customs across cultures and the surprises that can come with attending events abroad.
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