[custom_adv] persian wedding , also known as Persian wedding in the Western countries, traditions go back to the ancient Zoroastrian tradition, despite their local and regional variations (for example persian Azerbaijan region). [custom_adv] Though the concepts and theory of the marriage have been changed drastically by Islamic traditions, the actual ceremonies have remained more or less the same as they were originally in the ancient persian culture. [custom_adv] Although homeland is multi-ethnic country, persian wedding traditions are observed by the majority of ethnic groups in Iran and neighboring countries and regions such as Republic of Azerbaijan, Turkey and Iraqi Kurdistan. [custom_adv] Khastegāri is the first step of the traditional persian marriage process. In the olden times, when it was time for a young man to get married, his family would look for potential brides who came from families of similar standing in the community. [custom_adv] Once the man, or his family, had decided on a potential bride, the Khastegāri process would take place. In modern homeland, this practice is replaced by the courtship of the man and woman and their mutual decision to start the khastegari process. [custom_adv] For this ceremony, one or more representatives of the man’s family would visit the woman's family. The first visit could be for the parties to become acquainted. At each visit, the man's family would present a bouquet of flowers and the woman's, as good hosts, provided tea, fruits and sweets. [custom_adv] Both the woman and the man had their say in whether or not they would like a follow up on the visits. Once both parties had established serious intentions for the relationship, the man's family would bring sweets and a larger bouquet and officially ask the question. [custom_adv] In modern-day Iran, the Khastegari is a one-time formality. It is a sign of respect to the parents of both parties and for them (as wiser/elders) to have their thoughts shared with the potential future bride and groom. [custom_adv] At the Second Khastegāri a marriage proposal is made by the suitor and his family. The woman’s family welcome the party and invite them to sit in the reception room. [custom_adv] At first, members of the bride’s family talk about the virtues of the girl. Traditionally, modesty was among the most highly valued qualities, along with domestic skills like cooking, embroidery, and entertaining at social gatherings (Mehmān Navāzi). Less emphasis is placed on these characteristics nowadays. [custom_adv] In modern times important characteristics are the education level and intelligence of the girl, her ability to make the most of the situation when times get tough, and her future prospects. [custom_adv] After hearing about the potential bride, the man's family will discuss his own merits, usually his education and/or career prospects. The woman's parents will normally ask the suitor if he is able to provide her with accommodation, and if he is able to support their daughter financially. They may also discuss any religious commitments. [custom_adv] The most important part comes when the bride’s father calls for the tea to be served. In the most traditional families, the first time that the man and woman see each other is when she enters to offer tea and pastries to the guests. [custom_adv] At the end of the second Khastegāri, the man and the woman will be given time alone to talk in private. This usually involves a discussion about what they want for the future. [custom_adv] It is important to note that, nowadays in most families, the first two Khastegaris are done in one step. Usually, the man and the woman already know each other and are the ones who have instigated the ceremony. [custom_adv] Baleh Borān is the ceremony which takes place a short period of time after the formal proposal, publicly announcing the couple's intention to form a union. At this stage, both the man and woman are happy with each other and, traditionally, both their families have agreed to the union and any conditions surrounding the marriage.
