Turkey is a nation https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Valentine of great diversification, and this is reflected in its many traditions for wedding. In major cities lovers have embraced many European bridal practices but in rural areas and smaller towns some special customs also exist.

One of the most significant turkish bridal tradition is that of asking for the bride’s hand in marriage, known as “kiz isteme”. In this service, the man– accompanied by his families and older friends with presents– travels to the bride’s household home on a set date and asks for her hand in marriage. The bride’s father can embrace the plan or request time to think it over, but if he agrees, bracelets are exchanged and the handful did marriage.

After the ring exchange the bride is adorned with strings of sparkly tinsel that are traditionally made from silver and are known as “bride’s tinsel”. Single friends and relatives pull on the tinsel, and according to superstitions, whoever has their name pulled first will get married next!

On the day of the wedding a special dish called keskek is prepared for the happy couple. This is a rich and demanding meal that’s commonly served at Turkish weddings and holidays, and the couple are usually fed by all guests present.

On the bride’s side, a henna turkish mail order bride night is held where women decorate the hands and feet of the future bride with henna. Henna can also be used to draw faces, names and hearts on the couple’s shoulders and arms.