1. The stages of the traditional Turkish wedding
- The Söz: the promise, the first official meeting of the two families
- The Nişan (engagement): the exchange of rings joined by a red ribbon that is then cut, celebrated with family
- The Kına Gecesi (henna night): the eve of the wedding, a moving evening reserved for the bride and the women of the family
- The Düğün: the grand wedding reception, with music, dancing and the ritual of tying on ribbons and gold
2. The Kına Gecesi, a highlight
The henna night is one of the most moving moments. The bride, dressed in a red bindallı and wearing a red veil, is surrounded by the women of her family. Henna is placed in the palm of her hand, often with a gold coin, while traditional songs ring out. It is a celebration both joyful and full of emotion, marking the bride's departure from her family.
3. Music and dance
Music is at the heart of the Turkish wedding. The halay, a circle dance to the sound of the davul (drum) and the zurna (oboe), sweeps up every guest. A DJ specializing in Turkish and Middle Eastern music knows how to alternate Turkish classics, arabesque, Turkish pop and the tracks that get several generations dancing. Discover our Middle Eastern wedding DJs.
4. The Takı ritual (the couple's gold)
During the reception, guests pin gold coins or banknotes to the ribbons worn by the couple: this is the takı, which helps the young couple start their life together. This much-anticipated moment is often announced by the evening's host.
5. The budget for a Turkish wedding in France
For a Turkish wedding of 250 guests (receptions are often large):
- Reception venue: 3,000€ - 9,000€
- Halal caterer: 60€ - 110€ per person
- Turkish DJ / band: 1,500€ - 4,000€
- Attire (dress, bindallı): 1,500€ - 5,000€
- Decoration and henna night: 1,500€ - 4,000€
- Photographer / videographer: 1,500€ - 4,000€
Estimated total budget: 25,000€ - 55,000€ depending on the level of service and the number of guests.
Finding your vendors on NUPLY
NUPLY connects you with vendors who know Turkish traditions: halal caterers, DJs and bands, decorators and photographers. Explore the Turkish wedding vendors page and use NUPLY matching to build your team. Mutluluklar!
Read also: The French-Turkish wedding · Choosing a halal caterer · The Muslim wedding