As the calendar flips to December, the festive season begins to unfold with its signature buzz, marked by endless events, vibrant parties, and family gatherings. In Nigeria, December is not just a month; it’s a lifestyle, often dubbed “Detty December.” With weddings, end-of-year parties, and celebrations in full swing, businesses in the event industry—especially small chops vendors, caterers, and event planners—experience a boom like no other.
The December Rush
For caterers and small chops vendors, December is a goldmine. The demand for finger foods—samosas, spring rolls, puff-puff, grilled meats, and more—is at its peak, as these items have become staples at virtually every event. Many caterers begin preparing weeks in advance, stocking up on supplies and employing additional hands to meet the high demand.
Mrs. Nkechi Adebayo, a small chops vendor in Lagos, describes December as her busiest month.
“From the first weekend in December to the New Year, I barely have time to rest. People are calling for orders every day—birthday parties, weddings, corporate events, you name it!” she says.
Big Vibes, Bigger Profits
Event planners are not left out of the December frenzy. The trend of lavish, Instagram-worthy events has only grown, with clients willing to go all out to impress their guests. Decorations, lighting, music, and catering are key elements, but the real MVP of any party often remains the food.
According to event planner Tunde Alade, December is the time when clients are most willing to splurge.
“Everyone wants their event to be talked about. The competition to host the most memorable party is fierce, and this benefits us as event planners,” he explains.
Themed parties have become especially popular, with clients opting for unique setups such as retro-themed celebrations, Afrobeat-inspired soirées, or even festive masquerade balls.
Trends in the Small Chops Game
The small chops industry is also seeing its fair share of trends. Beyond the regular offerings, vendors are adding innovative twists to their menus to stay ahead. Think plantain cups stuffed with shredded chicken, puff-puff infused with chocolate, or samosas filled with suya.
Fusion menus are particularly in demand, blending traditional Nigerian flavors with international cuisines. For instance, jollof rice arancini or nkwobi spring rolls have become crowd favorites. This creativity not only attracts more customers but also allows vendors to charge premium prices.
Technology to the Rescue
Technology has also played a significant role in the business boom. From social media marketing to online order platforms, caterers and event planners are leveraging digital tools to reach their audience. Instagram and WhatsApp remain the most effective platforms for showcasing colorful small chops platters and glamorous event setups.
Several vendors have even integrated payment systems, allowing customers to make seamless transactions. Event planners, on the other hand, use tools like Google Forms to manage RSVPs or Pinterest boards to help clients visualize their dream events.
Challenges Amid the Festivities
Despite the boom, the festive season is not without challenges. The high cost of food items due to inflation often eats into profits, forcing vendors to increase their prices—a move that sometimes leads to complaints from customers. Logistics during December can also be a nightmare, with traffic jams making it difficult to deliver orders on time.
“Sometimes, we have to leave the house by 4 a.m. to ensure we get to venues early. The Lagos traffic during December is no joke,” says Emeka Okoro, a caterer based in Ikeja.
The Community Spirit
One heartwarming aspect of December events is the sense of community they foster. Many vendors collaborate to handle large orders, sharing resources and expertise to ensure the success of events. For instance, small chops vendors may team up with cake bakers and cocktail mixers to provide complete catering packages.
The Future of December Events
As December remains a culturally significant time for celebrations in Nigeria, the business opportunities it presents will likely continue to grow. However, industry experts believe that innovation and adaptability will be key to staying competitive.
“The festive season is always evolving. Vendors who can anticipate trends and adapt quickly will continue to thrive,” says Alade.
From the tantalizing aroma of small chops to the glitzy setups curated by event planners, the December festive season in Nigeria is a testament to the country’s vibrant culture and entrepreneurial spirit. As the music plays and the puff-puff disappears from trays, one thing is certain—small chops and big vibes are here to stay.
