My clients added the Iranian Wedding Ceremony traditions into their wedding program. This was a wonderful idea to help guest understand what was taking place.
“The Iranian wedding
ceremony incorporates traditions that have been celebrated for centuries. The Bride and Groom sit facing the “Sofreh
Aghd,” a spread that contains food and traditional items they are to share in their
new life, each bearing a unique symbolic meaning.
The mirror and
candelabras represent purity, light and fire. The herbs, spices and incense
guard against evil spirits. The sweets and pastries are to be shared with
guests in celebration of the wedding.
The flat bread and coins symbolize prosperity. Eggs, almonds and nuts symbolize
fertility. Honey is to be used for the
first taste in the bride and groom’s new life together. The sugar cones are to be softly ground above
their heads by female friends and family to sweeten their union. Flowers represent beauty, and rose water is
used to perfume and purify the air.
There is also an open book of poetry on the Sofreh.
Our Officiant, Ms.
Shahrzad Ardalan, will ask the bride and groom whether they are ready to enter
into the marriage contract. When the
bride is asked, she is initially silent and does not answer. Those in attendance pretend the bride is
absent, saying such things as, “She is not here. She went out to gather rosebuds.” The question is asked three times and only on
the third time does she say “Yes”. When
the groom is asked, however, he is to respond quickly with a “Yes”, or a “Baleh.” The couple is now declared husband and wife
and share a taste of honey. They are
then presented with gifts from family.”
Photo by Winnie Phung
Beverly Harris Weddings & Events
(310) 487-9698
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