A GROWING number of couples are choosing to get married in December, with many tying the knot each week.
Among the notable couples are Herman Nekomba and Idda, who wed in Omuthiya, and Lazarus “Shali” Haukongo and Tresia Longengi Shindongo, who celebrated their union at Okaku in the Oshiuugu area, drawing people from near and far under one roof.
If you’re in the North and there hasn’t been a wedding feast in your village this month, there’s likely one happening in a neighbouring village.
As in previous years, and contrary to the widely discussed economic crisis, December has once again been characterized by hundreds—if not thousands—of extravagant wedding feasts across the four northern regions of Oshikoto, Ohangwena, Oshana, and Omusati.
One of the most significant advantages of a December wedding is the opportunity to create a truly magical ambience. However, planning a December wedding requires careful consideration. The holiday season is a busy time, so it’s essential to book venues and vendors well in advance.
The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia’s information coordinator, Reverend Thomas Uushona, highlighted the distinction between weddings and marriage. “A wedding is a one-day feast, while marriage is a lifelong commitment,” he said.
According to Uushona, December is known for the Christmas season, which brings families together and may prompt couples to plan their weddings during this time when businesses close for the holidays and schools are on break.
“December is not specifically a month for weddings; everyone is free to choose any month to get married. December is simply the last month of the year, not a designated wedding month,” he said.
He added that it has become increasingly challenging to attend weddings in December because so many are scheduled during this month.
Uushona encouraged young people to consider getting married in other months, including the month of their birth, as marriage officers are available year-round.
He emphasized that the competition for weddings in December is overwhelming and should be avoided. Newlyweds might reconsider hosting elaborate celebrations with expensive décor, especially when they only spend 30 minutes at the venue despite the high costs involved.
“They should think about their future after the wedding. Expensive things don’t define your marriage,” he concluded.
