| Like most weddings in Toronto, a Persian marriage has | | | | 'Candelabras' (candles), placed on either side of the |
| two stages that most often happen in a single day. | | | | mirror. The mirror and candles are considered to be |
| Occasionally there is a period in between them. The | | | | two very important items in the Persian society. They |
| first stage is known as 'Aghd', the legal process where | | | | symbolize light and fire. Just like most weddings in |
| the marriage contracts are signed by the bride, the | | | | Toronto, a bride walks in with her veil on but removes |
| groom and also their guardians. 'Jashn-e Aroosi', is the | | | | it later in that the first thing the groom sees in the |
| second stage. It means the wedding reception where | | | | mirror is the reflection of his bride. Also present on the |
| the actual feasting and celebrations begin which, | | | | 'Sofreh-ye Aghd', is a tray of spices and herbs which |
| traditionally, lasted for three to seven days; unlike | | | | are seven and multi-colored. They are to ward of evil |
| Toronto weddings today. There is a room, specially | | | | spirits, guard against evil and witchcraft. The seven |
| decorated with flowers and 'Sofreh-ye Aghd', a | | | | elements in different colors are: poppy seeds, angelica, |
| beautiful spread elaborately placed on the floor. The | | | | nigella seeds, frankincense, salt, black tea and wild rice, |
| spread faces east, traditionally, where the sun rises. | | | | each with its own purpose. |
| This is so because when the bride and groom sit in | | | | Unlike Toronto weddings, flat bread, which is specially |
| front of the 'Sofreh-ye Aghd', they should be facing | | | | baked and decorated, can also be found symbolizing |
| the 'Light'. | | | | happiness and prosperity for the couple thereafter. |
| Unlike Toronto ceremonies, tradition demands that | | | | Decorated eggs in a basket and also decorated |
| 'Aghd' be held at the residence of the parents of the | | | | almonds, hazelnuts in the shell and walnuts, also in a |
| bride. The arrival of the guests, or witnesses, | | | | basket, are present. A number of other various items |
| commences the tradition. Close family members of the | | | | are placed on the backdrop including a copy of the |
| couple present at the ceremony make the guests | | | | couples' Holy Book and an assortment of sweets. |
| comfortable. After the guests take their seats, the | | | | As the couple sits together, two guests, females, hold |
| groom walks up to the front of the 'Sofreh-ye Aghd', | | | | a cloth which is thin and place it on top of their heads |
| and sits on the right side, which is considered the side | | | | and pour hard sugar crystals in it signifying in their |
| of respect according to Zoroastrian culture. He is later | | | | relationship, sweetness. The bride and groom are then |
| joined by the bride who sits on the left. | | | | asked separately if they have accepted one another |
| The 'Sofreh-ye Aghd', the backdrop used on the floor, | | | | for future companionship where the bride is asked |
| is passed from mother to daughter or to son | | | | three times and remains silent for two before |
| occasionally. It is made of luxurious fabric, such as satin, | | | | answering. Then gifts are given to the couple to bless |
| silk and cashmere. On it, the following items are placed: | | | | their future. |
| A mirror, 'Aayeneh-ye Bakht', signifying fate and two | | | | |