1. The Zaffe, the Couple's Triumphant Entrance
The zaffe (or zaffa) is the highlight of the Lebanese wedding: a festive procession that escorts the couple's arrival. Drums (derbake), bagpipes, dancers, and sometimes swords and smoke effects: the zaffe turns the couple's entrance into a true spectacle. Professional troupes offer this service, often followed by a first dance beneath the ululations.
2. The Traditions of the Lebanese Wedding
- The proposal and engagement (khoutbe): the families seal the union and exchange rings
- The religious ceremony: depending on the denomination (Maronite, Orthodox, Melkite, Muslim), at church or according to the chosen rite
- The zaffe: the couple's entrance in procession at the reception
- The tiered cake and the sword: the couple cut the cake together, sometimes with a sword
3. The Lebanese Buffet, an Institution
The table is at the heart of the Lebanese wedding. The mezze buffet overflows with hummus, tabbouleh, moutabal, kibbeh, fatayer, grilled dishes (chicken taouk, kafta), and pastries with honey and pistachios. Abundance and variety are a mark of generosity toward the guests. Many Lebanese caterers offer halal service: find them among our halal caterers.
4. Music and Atmosphere
The Lebanese evening is driven by the dabke, a traditional line dance, and by a repertoire that blends Arabic classics, Lebanese pop, and international hits. A DJ or a band experienced with Middle Eastern weddings will get every generation dancing until the early hours.
5. Budget for a Lebanese Wedding in France
- Reception venue: 4,000€ - 10,000€
- Lebanese caterer: 70€ - 130€ per person
- Zaffe (troupe): 1,000€ - 3,000€
- DJ / band: 1,500€ - 4,500€
- Floral decoration: 2,000€ - 6,000€
- Photographer / videographer: 1,800€ - 4,500€
Estimated total budget: 28,000€ - 60,000€ depending on the number of guests and the level of service.
Find Your Vendors on NUPLY
NUPLY helps you find vendors who master the codes of the Lebanese wedding: caterers, zaffe troupes, DJs, decorators, and photographers. Head to the Lebanese wedding vendors page and start your NUPLY matching. Mabrouk!
See also: The French-Lebanese wedding · Choosing a halal caterer · The best multicultural caterers