Welcome to Our Wedding in Djerba, Tunisia!

Overview of the Traditional Amazigh Wedding in Djerba
 

The wedding will span several days, with each day dedicated to specific customs and rituals that hold deep significance in the Amazigh culture. From vibrant ceremonies to heartwarming meals, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the island's rich history and culture.

 

Day 1: The Henna Ceremony (Lella)
September 17, 2025 - *Women  Only

Expect:
The Henna ceremony is a highly anticipated part of the wedding, usually held the day before the main event. The bride and close female family members and friends gather in a special space decorated with traditional rugs and candles. Henna is applied to the bride’s hands and feet in intricate designs, symbolizing good luck and protection from evil. The ceremony is filled with chanting, dancing, and singing.

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How to Act:
The Henna ceremony is an intimate, joyful event, so expect lively interactions. Guests will be invited to join in singing or dancing. Respect the customs and traditions of the event. Feel free to ask questions, but avoid interrupting any significant rituals or chants.

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What to Eat:
Traditional Tunisian pastries and sweet treats will be served throughout the event, along with fresh fruit. Mint tea is always available, as it’s a symbol of hospitality.

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How to Dress:
Women typically wear their most elaborate, colorful attire for the Henna ceremony. It’s a great time to wear a dress, caftan, or an elegant tunic. You can expect to be surrounded by traditional, ornate fabrics, so embracing vibrant colors would be appreciated.

Day 2: The Wedding Ceremony
September 18, 2025 - All Guests

Expect:
The main wedding ceremony is a mix of religious and traditional customs. The groom and bride will be surrounded by their closest family members. The bride will be dressed in a beautiful, hand-embroidered gown (often a traditional Tunisian dress called a Sefser), while the groom will wear a traditional jebba or suit. The ceremony will likely take place outdoors at Jenna's Family's Villa (Dar BenDaali). Once the vows are exchanged, the Camel Ride Ceremony follows as the bride mounts a camel, often adorned with colorful fabrics and flowers, to ride through the village. This symbolic tradition marks the bride's transition from her family home to her new life with her husband. It is a joyful procession filled with music, chanting, and celebration.

 

How to Act:
The wedding ceremony will be joyous and loud, with a lot of singing and dancing. Expect to stand and applaud the couple as they exchange vows, as this is part of the celebration. Respect the religious and cultural elements of the ceremony. As with all weddings, be mindful of the sacred moments during the vows. The camel ride is a highly anticipated and symbolic moment in the wedding celebration. Feel free to take photos and videos, but remember to stay out of the way of the bride and her procession.

What to Eat:
Expect a feast with a mix of Tunisian and Amazigh flavors. The meal will likely include dishes like couscous, brik (crispy pastry filled with egg), tajine (a flavorful, spiced stew), and lamb or chicken prepared with saffron and herbs. Sweets like baklava, fresh fruits, and pastries will follow the main meal.

How to Dress:
This is the formal day of the celebration, so wear elegant attire. Women often wear dresses, with many choosing traditional or semi-traditional Tunisian wedding attire, like the Sefser, which is richly embroidered. Men typically wear suits or the traditional jebba. Make sure to dress appropriately for a formal wedding event, and keep in mind the warm climate of Djerba. The camel ride ceremony is an outdoor event and you’ll want to be prepared for both the celebration and the ride through the village. Dress comfortably, but still elegantly, as this is a formal part of the celebration. Comfortable shoes for walking or dancing are a good choice, especially if you plan to join the procession.

This is the longest day of the ceremony. We will be celebrating until 2am in the morning. Please be sure you are well rested. 


 

Day 3:  The Post-Wedding Celebration
September 19, 2025

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Expect:
The post-wedding celebration, is a grand display of joy, with drumming, dancing, and cheering. This is when the couple makes their grand exit as newlyweds, often in a procession with family and friends accompanying them. Expect lively chants, music, and a spirited atmosphere. This day is about celebration and joy. Day 3 is also a day for well-wishers to congratulate the couple, offer gifts, and celebrate their new life together. It's a very relaxed and informal occasion compared to the big ceremony, but it’s filled with love, laughter, and a sense of community.
 

How to Act:
Feel free to join in the dancing and festivities. It’s a day to celebrate, so expect lively interactions, loud music, and a lot of energy. Be respectful of the couple’s moment and traditions, but be open to participating in the celebratory dances.

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What to Eat:
More delicious Tunisian and Mediterranean dishes will be served, such as mechoui (roast lamb), brik, couscous, and a variety of breads. The traditional mint tea will also be offered, alongside fresh fruit and desserts.

 

How to Dress:
After the formalities of the wedding, this day is a bit more relaxed. Still, you’ll want to look elegant. Women can wear colorful, festive dresses, while men can dress in semi-formal attire or a traditional jebba.

General Etiquette and Tips

• Gifts: If you'd like to give a gift to the couple, traditional Tunisian gifts like handcrafted pottery, textiles, or items from local artisans are appreciated. However, gifts are not mandatory.

• Respect: While the celebration is filled with fun and joy, remember that certain rituals may be sacred or have deep cultural significance. Respecting the ceremony and its customs is important.

• Language: While Arabic and French are widely spoken, many locals also speak Berber. If you don’t speak these languages, don’t worry—many people speak English, especially at the wedding.

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A Note About Tunisian Culture

Tunisia, and particularly Djerba, is known for its rich blend of cultures, traditions, and history. The Amazigh culture (indigenous Berber people) is deeply rooted in the region and their customs will play an important role throughout the wedding celebrations. The island of Djerba, famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant markets, and unique blend of tradition and modernity, provides a beautiful backdrop for this unforgettable wedding experience.
 

Thank you for being part of Jenna and Aldo's special day in Djerba. We hope this guide helps you prepare for the wedding festivities and that you enjoy every moment of this vibrant and joyous celebration!



 

Disclaimer: Days of Separation Due to Traditions

As part of traditional wedding customs in Djerba, Tunisia, Jenna and Aldo will be separated during certain ceremonies:

• Day 1: The Henna Ceremony
  Jenna will participate in a women-only Henna Ceremony, where she will be with family and close friends. Aldo and Jenna will not see each other during this time.

• Day 2: The Wedding Ceremony and Camel Ride
  The couple will be in separate locations for preparations. After the ceremony, Jenna will take part in the Camel Ride Ceremony and they will not see each other until later in the day.

• Day 3: Post-Wedding and House Visits
  Family and friends will visit the couple separately and they will spend time with their respective families before reuniting for the final celebrations.

We appreciate your understanding of these cultural traditions and look forward to celebrating with you all once they are reunited!