What Happens at a Henna Party? Inside Rajwa Alseif’s Pre-Wedding Celebrations
Bazaar Arabia shares a look inside the pre-nuptial festivities, courtesy of Her Majesty Queen Rania’s Instagram…
What Happens at a Henna Party? Inside Rajwa Alseif’s Pre-Wedding Celebrations
There’s nothing like a royal wedding to brighten your spirits midweek. And while we’re more than seven days out from the nuptials of Jordan’s Crown Prince Al-Hussein bin Abdullah and Ms. Rajwa Alseif, the festivities have already begun.
Photos from Rajwa Alseif’s henna party have emerged with the bride-to-be looking very happy and excited for her wedding day.
The Henna Night: Inside Rajwa Alseif’s Pre-Nuptial Celebrations
Attended by Her Majesty Queen Rania, who was wearing custom Saiid Kobeisy; newly-married Princess Iman and Princess Salma, along with her family Rajwa Alseif’s Henna party was a joyous affair, filled with traditional music and dancing.
Rajwa’s mother, Mrs Azza bint Nayef Abdulaziz Ahmed Al-Sudairi, is pictured below with the Queen, Princess Iman and Princess Salma.
The bride-to-be wore a beautiful white and gold embroidered dress with a matching veil by Saudi designer Honayda; she opted for a natural make-up look with full brows, her hair gentled swept back under the veil.
What is a Henna Party?
A traditional Henna Party, also known as “Henna Night” or “Henna Ceremony,” is a significant pre-wedding celebration that many cultures celebrate – including Jordanians. In the past it was regarded as a sad affair, the bride leaving her home, but today it is a joyous and festive occasion where she gathers with her female relatives and friends come together to celebrate the upcoming wedding by applying henna designs on their hands and feet.
The Henna Party is usually held a few days before the wedding day. The atmosphere is lively and filled with anticipation. The main focus of the evening is the application of intricate henna designs, symbolizing beauty, joy, and good luck.
The bride, dressed in traditional attire, sits at a central spot surrounded by the women. A professional henna artist begins by applying a beautifully elaborate design on the bride’s hands and feet. The designs often incorporate symbolic elements such as flowers, vines, and geometric patterns.
The gathering is more than just a henna application session. Food is served to guests and older women may offer guidance and wisdom to the bride as she embarks on her journey into married life.
Do men attend the Henna party?
Traditionally, the Henna Party is reserved for female relatives. While some modern-day brides may consider inviting male relatives, it appears only women attended Rajwa Alseif’s Henna night – keeping with tradition.
