Turkish weddings are a lavish affair, which often last for several days. Even if the families have to live frugally for the rest of the year or to make deep inroads into their life savings, no expenses are spared to make the wedding an unforgettable event. Of course, the guests are expected to give back a bit in the form of their wedding presents of gold and money.
Ceremonies at a Turkish Wedding
All eyes, not only in Turkey but everywhere in the world, are of course on the bride. Whilst the groom wears the traditional tux or dark suit, the bride shines in a white gown and veil. However, the color red as a symbol of good luck and happiness is present everywhere. The groom often wears a red tie and the bride has a red sash tied over her white wedding dress.
Rather than in the homes, weddings in Turkey often take place in the best hotel of town. It's not only the reception which is held there, but also the civil ceremony. Bride and groom sit side by side at a separate table, decorated with flowers and with their witnesses by their side. A town hall official is seated opposite them and they sign the appropriate documents.
After that, it's time for celebration and dances. Important is the "Dance of the Fathers", where the fathers of the couple perform a solo dance to the applause of all guests. Professional dance troops are often engaged to entertain too.
Dinner is served and after that, the bride changes into a traditional Turkish red or purple dress and gold-embroidered head dress. She makes the rounds from table to table, accompanied by her maids of honor and carrying a red-lined basket or pouch into which the wedding gifts are dropped.
Female guests surround the bride, whilst still in her white gown and put a red scarf over her head. The hands of the women as well as of the bride are painted with henna, all for good luck. Finally, the wedding cake is brought in, ceremoniously cut and eaten. Pieces of the cake are placed in little boxes, for each guest to take home.
Wedding Gifts in Turkey
When invited to a wedding, choosing a gift is easy. No wedding lists European style are in evidence. No toasters, coasters, glasses, cutlery or linen are requested. Providing the newly weds with the household necessities is the job of the respective parents. The guests bring gold in the form of coins which can be bought at any jeweler, equipped with a pin and red bow to be fastened to the bride's gown.
Equally appropriate are gold bracelets or necklaces, which are slipped into the pouch or basket when the bride makes her rounds or fastened on her wrist. And, of course, money! The bills are inserted into the pouch or thrown onto the floor during the dance of the fathers or the newly weds and it's the job of the youngest members of the family to scurry between the dancers and collect the loot.
If any visitor to Turkey has the chance to be invited to a wedding it's an opportunity to get an insight into tradition and culture which should not be missed. It's also an honor which should never, ever be declined.
 |
 |
 |
 |
