@iambenavat Take on the whole Aso Ebi Custom

It would be unfair to assume everyone reading this article knows what
aso-ebi is.

Hence, for formality sake, let me define what it is. Aso-ebi
(translation: cloth of the family) is used to refer to the outfits
made from matching fabric and pattern worn by family members (though
it now applies to anyone who can afford one or would like to wear one)
at a wedding ceremony or social event to denote unity, support, and
represent sides of the family.

Aso-ebi fabrics are typically of Ankara or Lace material for the
outfit with occasional head ties (gele) associated with it. Contrary
to popular belief, the aso-ebi phenomena is not strictly a Nigerian
thing but applies to many tribes and countries in Africa with the
subtle difference in the name; not called aso-ebi across all
countries.

I am not sure how far this phenomenon dates back to or the cultural
importance of it when it was introduced but I'll like to know if
someone knows about this.

Given this definition, it's no surprise that people attach so much
importance to the associated aso-ebi piece of fabric.

Perhaps, it's because of the preferential treatment people who wear
aso-ebi get at a social event amongst other reasons.

I personally have no problem with aso-ebi but I have a problem with
the price hike associated with it, the forcing of aso-ebi into
people's hands, and segregation of aso-ebi wearers from non-wearers
amongst others.

For one, the cost associated with aso-ebi. Some brides and family
members purposely increase the price of the aso-ebi fabric to a
ridiculous amount to cover the wedding cost.

I don't mind the price hike provided it's a small negligible amount
for the quality being sold. However, if you triple the price of a low
quality $15 Ankara fabric in order to make a profit, then benavat have
a problem. :v

This is even before adding on the sewing cost.
Either cut down the wedding cost or wait till you get on the dance
floor to make your money back but don't overcharge people for a fabric
to make a profit or cover wedding costs.

So if I decline buying your aso-ebi atimes, this might be the reason.
( i bouqht some oo..and u qonna love it )

Secondly, forcing aso-ebi into people's hands.

This is typically as a result of people's refusal to purchase due to
the hike in price, lack of interest from people amongst others..

If you are an acquaintance of mine, please don't even bother asking me
to buy aso-ebi as I'll politely decline.
I will only purchase aso-ebi from family or friends I consider close enough.

I've seen and heard about scenarios whereby brides and family members
ambush people by either dropping off the fabric at someone's home,
sending it through a mutual friend and offering to come collect the
money later without prior acceptance from such a friend or
acquaintance.

In my opinion, brides, grooms and their families who choose to go with
this aso-ebi custom need to notify their guests beforehand of the
color and cost of the fabric.

It's up to the guest to make a decision to buy it or not.
Oh and perhapsthe part that irritates me the most, segregation of
aso-ebi wearers from non-wearers.

I personally think it's of poor taste to do this.

I was at a wedding not too long ago and I wasn't in aso-ebi but it was
a clear segregation.

Aso-ebi wearers were allocated the entire left side of the hall, were
told to get up and dance in with the parent of the bride, served food
first, and given numerous favors.

On the other side of the hall, we sat and watched in dismay and
wondered why on earth we were invited to the wedding.

Friends were separated from friends and parents from children all
because they wore aso-ebi.

I don't mind giving aso-ebi wearers favors or even specially calling
them out for a picture and to dance but when you make a clear
segregation amongst guests, then it's foul.

• What's your take on the whole aso-ebi custom ?

• Have you had any bad experiences because you did not wear aso-ebi ?

• Would you be following the aso-ebi custom on your big day ?

Still remain that dope kid @iambenavat . **kisses


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