When most people think of a Persian wedding, they imagine a luxurious event. This includes plenty of pomp and a long wedding planning process and back and forth trips to the bridal shop. While this may be true of some weddings, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to planning a Persian ceremony. Every couple has their unique style and traditions to draw from, so it’s important to tailor the celebration to their tastes. If you’re looking for ideas on how to create your perfect Persian wedding in Boston, read on. We’ll explore some of the most popular customs to help you plan your very own Boston Persian Wedding.
So, how does a Persian Wedding go?
When most people think of a Persian wedding, they might imagine extravagant lifestyle with ornate décor and opulent settings. While this may be true for some weddings, there is a great variation in what Persian weddings look like. So whether you’re planning your Persian wedding or just curious about what one looks like, read on! If you’re curious about what to expect at a Persian wedding, keep reading. We’ll give you an overview of the typical customs and traditions involved.
Engagement: The Persian Way
Khastegari: Khastegari is an ancient Persian marriage custom that is still observed in some parts of Iran today. It is a form of arranged marriage, where the families of the bride and groom agree to marry their children to each other. Unlike traditional arranged marriages, khastegari does not involve any negotiations or discussions between the families. Instead, it relies on the bride and groom’s willingness to marry each other. If either party declines, the match is off. Khastegari is considered a more reliable way to find a compatible spouse than relying on chance or meeting someone through social circles. Because both families have already approved of the match, there is less risk of divorce or conflict later on in the marriage.
Bale Boroon: In terms of Persian, this is like the girl saying “Yes!”
Mehriyeh: Mehriyeh is a symbolic gift-giving ceremony that is offered by the groom to the bride. It is usually held in Iran and other Persian-speaking countries. The ceremony can be simple or very elaborate, depending on the families involved. In general, Mehriyeh is a sign of respect and love that the groom has for his bride and is usually symbolized through a gift of gold coins.
Aghd: A Persian Marriage
Sofreh Aghd
If you’re a bride-to-be, you may have seen photos of sofrehs online or in magazines and wondered what they are. A sofreh aghd is a traditional Persian wedding ceremony spread that can include both religious and secular items. It’s typically set up on the floor or table of the bride’s home before the wedding party arrives, and items on the spread often have symbolic meanings like gold coins, nuts, flowers, etc.
Aroosi (Wedding Reception)
Aroosi is a Persian wedding tradition that is often looked forward to by the bride and groom. It is an intimate gathering of close friends and family members that celebrate the couple’s love. The word “aroosi” means “love.” During this time, the bride and groom share wine and sweet treats while enjoying conversation and music. This special moment is a chance for them to celebrate their upcoming nuptials with those who mean the most to them. If you are planning a Persian wedding, be sure to include this tradition!
Other Pre-Wedding Traditions
Aayeneh-ye Bakh and Candelabras
The “mirror of fate” that is on the Sofreh Aghd symbolizes fate joining the couple together in holy matrimony for all of time
Sangak Bread
The intricate design of this bread speaks to the prosperity that it brings for those who eat them. The symbol has been baked in stone-covered fire ovens, which are common across Iran and represent an old tradition mixed with modernity. The symbolism you see here speaks volumes about what kind of ceremony or celebration they’re meant to serve!
Termeh
The famous Iranian handwoven cloth called Termeh is always a part of the Sofreh Aghd. It’s usually converted into prayer mattresses and shows couples faith in Islam – if they are Muslim, that is! It serves its purpose such as decorating mirrors with their intricate designs which you will see often at home across Iran since people believe these patterns bring good luck when matched up correctly
Crystalized Sugar
Crystallized sugar is an important part of a successful relationship. It reflects how much sweetness you have in your life and what type it may be – raw, brown, or white or even sugar cones!
Coloured Eggs
The eggs are a symbol of fertility and new life. They can be found at the bottom section in many homes during Nowruz, but it is also common to find them around weddings even if you do not celebrate Persian New Year!
Rosewater
Rosewater has been a part of Persian culture for centuries. It’s used in food, desserts, and evening ceremonies to scent the air with its sweet fragrance
Honey
As the couple exchanges a vow and dips their fingers into a bowl filled with honey, they share it in an ancient ritual that symbolizes unity.
Almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts
The basket is decorated in a way that represents the idea of abundance.
