As Istanbul’s skyline dances in the twilight, your wedding infused with Turkish traditions will transform your big day into something nobody has tried before. Adding wedding rituals inspired by Turkish customs will add a fun touch to your celebration (it could be your ‘something borrowed’ too!). As you walk down the aisle in Istanbul, surrounded by the rich echoes of Turkish tradition, you will find yourself amidst a true Turkish celebration. Embrace these age-old Turkish wedding rituals to host a celebration that echoes through years to come by.
Asking for the Bride’s Hand or El İsteme
In the realm of Turkish tradition, the “Kız isteme” ceremony is a deeply respectful ritual where the groom and his family visit the bride’s home, bringing gifts and sweets. It marks a moment of respect and genuine connection as the groom’s family seeks the bride’s father’s blessing. The ritual is punctuated by a formal request from the eldest male in the groom’s family, offering a promise that blends devotion with respect. Once the blessing is given, rings are exchanged, marking the beginning of a new chapter.
Promise Ceremony or Söz Kesmek
The “Söz Kesmek,” or promise ceremony, is a charming ritual where simple rings tied with a red ribbon are exchanged. Presented on a silver tray, these rings are slipped onto each other’s fingers as the ribbon is cut, symbolizing the couple’s commitment to each other. This sweet tradition transforms an engagement into a celebration of unity and shared dreams.
Engagement Gifts or Nişan Bohcası
The “Nişan Bohcası” is a tradition of exchanging practical gifts, a gesture of goodwill and appreciation from one family to another. Historically presented in a decorated scarf, today these gifts, such as perfumes and pajamas, are often arranged in stylish baskets or chests. This custom reflects both affection and support for the couple’s future together.
Henna Night or Kına Gecesi
Henna Night is a cherished Turkish wedding tradition that has been passed down for centuries. Held a day or two before the wedding, it’s a vibrant celebration with family and friends in the bride’s honor. The evening begins with the bride, enveloped in a red veil, amid family and friends. Traditional folk songs fill the air as henna is carefully applied to the bride’s palm and the groom’s pinky finger.
Henna has long been linked to devotion, carrying deep symbolic meaning for couples about to wed. It’s also believed to offer protection to the newlyweds from evil eyes. While Henna Night customs vary, the emotional moment of a crying bride reflects the bittersweet nature of marriage and the sadness of leaving her family.
Registry Office ceremony or Nikah
The “Nikah,” or registry office ceremony, is a blend of simplicity and tradition. The bride arrives in her wedding dress, and after a brief but meaningful ceremony, guests offer their congratulations and gifts. In a playful tradition, the bride and groom attempt to step on each other’s toes after the ceremony. The one who manages to do so first is humorously believed to take the lead in their marriage.
Who Buys the Wedding Dress?
In a twist of tradition, the responsibility of purchasing the bride’s wedding dress falls to the groom’s family, while the bride chooses the groom’s suit. This practice reflects the roles that each family plays in preparing for the big day.
Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, and Something Blue
Every Turkish bride incorporates “Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, and Something Blue” into her attire. The bride selects items that each carry special significance: something old to honor her past, something new to represent her hopeful future, something borrowed to bring her the goodwill of friends or family, and something blue to symbolize faithfulness and commitment. These cherished items are thoughtfully woven into her outfit to create a meaningful reflection of her journey into marriage.
Wedding Car is Blocked
The wedding car, adorned with flowers and ribbons, leads a lively convoy through the streets. The honking horns are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. Occasionally, the route is blocked and a playful toll has to be paid.
Wedding Shoe Tradition
The wedding shoe tradition is a fun custom where the bride writes the names of her single friends on the bottom of her shoes. By the end of the day, the names that are most worn off are said to belong to the next bride.
Conclusion
If you have decided to tie the knot in Istanbul, incorporating Turkish wedding customs into your celebration can add a layer of cultural richness. From the emotional Henna Night to the playful toe-stepping tradition, you could literally be infusing traditions that have been celebrated through centuries. Contact us today to start planning your Istanbul destination wedding and let our team plan the perfect itinerary for your Turkish dreams. We are an experienced wedding planner and decorator with rich experience in helping couples with their Turkish wedding dreams and can help you plan yours as well.
