10 FACTS ABOUT EGYPTIAN WEDDING TRADITIONS

Authorization of the bride's Father

Whether it’s an arranged marriage or based on love, the groom must ask for the bride’s hand, seeking her father’s blessing. And, he must go to the bride’s house accompanied by his father or guardian. The groom must be financially stable, with a furnished home, and have a solid ground to support his family. And, of course, the marriage won’t be complete without the father’s consent as well as the bride. Now, they can tie the knot!

A Solo Proposal

What can be more romantic than a surprise, solo proposal? – Maybe a private dining area, a deserted beach, or a private cruise! Yes, awesome!

Many people prefer solo proposals to ensure privacy, unedited actions, and serene emotions. On the other hand, after the “I do” part, now what?! No friends or family to share this special moment with. No celebrations, photos, or joy! Yes, awkward somehow.

The family Proposal

The family proposal can be a challenge for the groom, trying to impress the bride’s family. And, because you don’t get to choose the family (yours or hers), you need to accept them the way they are. Yes, you’re inheriting each other’s families, and trust me, they are going to be involved. Always!

If you’re wondering what to bring during the family proposal, we will help you with this. Engagement ring, courage, and much patience!

El Shabka" and "El-Mahr"

On talking about the Egyptian wedding traditions, you’ll hear some distinctive terms such as El Shabka and El Mahr. What are they? The “El Shabka” is the jewelry that the groom gives to the bride as a gift. On the other hand, the “El Mahr” is the dowry that the groom gives to the bride’s family to buy the furniture of their future home.

And, because no one can be trusted and not all marriages can be happy ones. Egyptians use the “El-Qaima” as a divorce contract to guarantee the bride’s rights. This document includes all the items and appliances bought by the bride for her new house.

Engagement Party

As the groom gets the father’s blessing, it’s time for the engagement party! The engagement party is often held at home or at a hotel, with decorations, lights, and lots of flowers. Aside from the vibrant celebrations, the engagement period is the time, where both get to know each other more. If they are compatible, they move on to the next step, which is what?! – Yes, the wedding!

Al-Henna" Night

In Egypt, the “Al-Henna” night is as important as the wedding. So, what is it exactly? – It is the Bachelorette party for the bride, along with her female friends and family, usually held a day or two before the wedding day. Sometimes, the bride chooses a theme for the party and the girls mostly wear belly-dancing outfits. Also, the henna tattoo is an essential part of this party, adorning the bride’s hands and legs. As fun as it sounds, things may go out of control, ending in some weird actions.

The Egyptian Wedding Ceremony

The Christian couples celebrate their marriage in a church, where rings are exchanged and read from the bible. The priest puts some holy oil on their forehead as a sort of blessing and protection. Muslims have another ceremony called “katb el ketab,” which can be performed at home or a mosque. This document includes the “el Mahr” and “el Mo’akhar,” which the girl receives in case of a divorce.

The Egyptian wedding starts with a Zafa, full of drummers, belly dancer, and sometimes a “Tanoura show,” taking place in the wedding hall.” After the Zafa, the groom waits for his bride to arrive with her father. Usually, the groom removes the bride’s veil and kisses her forehead, followed by ‘’zaghareet.” You don’t know a zaghrota? – Well, I can’t explain. You must be present to understand! There will be lots of music and instruments, including drums like ‘’Tabla.” After the “Zafa,” the bride and groom heads to the “Kosha, where they welcome their guests and take photographs with them.

The Egyptian Wedding Songs

The party starts with the first dance and then, the guests join them for the rest of the wedding. Fire the DJ! It is completely normal to play Asma Allah el Husna, then Ed Sheeran, Tamer Hosni, and Hassan Shakosh. What an exotic mix!

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