Wedding Traditions in Turkey
When we think about weddings, we usually think of ceremonies for getting married. But in Turkey, weddings are so special and grand that they can be compared to weddings in different countries. Family is very important in Turkey, and most Turkish families are closely connected. That’s why there are many family-related words used among Turks.
Even though different parts of Turkey may have similar wedding customs, wedding traditions in places like İzmir are different from those in Trabzon or Gaziantep. However, I’ll share some basic wedding customs with you.
Shaving for the Groom
In the past, the groom would shave in front of everyone or at his house with drums and clarinets playing. Picture the groom sitting on a stool while a barber trims his hair and beard. Luckily, nowadays, grooms get their shave at barber shops. If you might be a groom soon, get ready for what you’ll experience at the barber shop.
Fetching the Bride
After the groom is ready, the wedding group goes to the bride’s house. Before that, the wedding car is decorated, the groom has his shave, and sometimes there’s a music band (usually drums and clarinets). In some places, the bride’s father comes out of the house, while in others, the groom and father go in to bring the bride out. In some places, sugar is thrown over the bride’s head, and a jug is broken as the bride leaves her father’s house. For families following Islamic rituals, prayers are said after the bride gets into the car. This is a common tradition.
Henna Night
Henna night is a celebration among women that has been happening for thousands of years in Anatolia. It helps reduce the stress of the wedding and takes place 1-2 days before the wedding at the bride’s home. The bride enters surrounded by women holding candles. After some time, henna is applied to the bride’s hands, symbolizing her saying goodbye to her mother that night. Nowadays, there are professionals who specialize in applying henna. It’s a widespread tradition among Turkish girls.
Red Belt
An important part of traditional Turkish weddings is tying a red belt around the bride. Before the wedding, the bride’s father or brother ties a red belt around her. Good wishes and prayers are offered for the bride. In some parts of Turkey, this red ribbon is linked to virginity. Even as girls grow up, their fathers are always their greatest heroes. So, the most emotional moment in Turkish weddings is when the bride and her father embrace.
The Salty Coffee
When Turkish couples who are dating decide to get married, their families meet. The groom’s family agrees on a date and visits the bride’s house as a family. They talk, and the elders from both families share their thoughts about the wedding. Meanwhile, the bride gives the groom a cup of very salty coffee. Everyone watches the groom. According to a story, the bride gives the salty coffee to test the groom; if he drinks it, it means he will endure all kinds of difficulties as her future spouse. This is how the proposal ritual goes. If you plan to marry a Turkish girl, start getting used to the taste now.
Writing Names on the Bride’s Shoe
As the wedding time approaches, you need to wear your shoes. Before entering the bride’s house or the venue, the bride writes the names of her friends on the sole of her shoe. According to the belief, the name that fades the most will be the first to get married. In recent years, this tradition has become a must in bridal parties where the bride and her friends have a great time. After the wedding, friends eagerly check to see if the names have faded or not. If you’re going to marry a Turk, feel free to ask questions. I’ll provide you with unbiased information.