Iranian wedding customs - very interesting

Speaking with a friend living in Iran, I learnt some thing new about Iranian traditions. Apparently, my friend got married in Dec 2008, but his wedding ceremony will be conducted either in May or September 2009.

I was so curious that I had to ask him to explain. It so happens that Iranian weddings are spread across 3 ceremonies. The first one is the engagement ceremony. The second ceremony involves official confirmation of the wedding contract. Both these ceremonies are attended by the main family members and tribes of the 2 families.

Finally, you have the wedding ceremony that is attended by all friends and tribes of the 2 families. An elaborate but nevertheless enjoyable experience.