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Events & parties

Henna night checklist — a Turkish pre-wedding celebration

A henna night is the traditional celebration held before a Turkish wedding, when the bride and her loved ones gather around henna, songs and sweets. This list gathers everything from candles to treats, and with a room code everyone can tick off their own share. No sign-up needed.

In short

A Turkish henna night, the traditional pre-wedding celebration of the bride and her loved ones, needs henna, a henna tray, candles, the embroidered red dress, a red veil, jewelry, a gold coin, cotton and wraps, folk songs and treats. Knead the henna a few hours ahead, because well-rested henna stains darker. Put one person in charge of the music and one trusted person in charge of the jewelry.

17 items go straight into your new room; delete what you don't need, add what's missing. No account needed.

What's on the list

General

  • Henna
  • Henna tray
  • Candles
  • Embroidered red dress
  • Red veil
  • Jewelry
  • Gold coin
  • Cotton and wraps
  • Henna songs
  • Speaker
  • Flowers
  • Turkish delight
  • Plates and cups
  • Guest favors
  • Photographer

Sweets & snacks

  • Sweets and cookies

Drinks

  • Drinks

Tips

  • Knead the henna and let it rest for several hours beforehand; well-rested henna leaves a darker stain.

  • The longer henna stays on, the darker it stains, so the bride should keep the wrap for a few hours, ideally until morning.

  • Add the folk songs to one playlist in order and put one person in charge of music, so the night keeps its flow.

  • Keep the bride's jewellery and gold in one box with one trusted person, since things get mixed up in a crowd.

How it works

  1. 1. Open your room

    Tap the button and the items land in a fresh room. No account, no email, nothing to install.

  2. 2. Share the code

    Send the room code or the link to the group; everyone's on the same list in seconds.

  3. 3. Finish it together

    Who's buying what shows up instantly; bought items get ticked, so nobody buys the same thing twice.

Frequently asked questions

Who applies the henna at a henna night?

Traditionally it is usually the groom's mother or a close female relative known for a happy marriage, though this varies by region and family. The henna is put on the bride's palm, often with a gold coin or another coin placed in it.

What does the bride wear to a henna night?

Traditionally an embroidered red dress known as a bindallı, made of red velvet with gold thread, together with a red veil. Some families prefer a modern red dress or a regional costume.

How does a henna night usually go?

It varies by region, but usually the bride arrives in her dress and, to folk songs, the henna is applied to her palm from a candlelit tray. Then henna is shared with the guests, treats are served and the evening goes on with music and dancing.

Can I change the list?

Of course. The ready-made list is just a starting point: delete, add, move items between categories.

Do I need an account?

No. A room code is all it takes — no email, password or signup.

How long is the list kept?

As long as you use it. A list is only deleted after a month without any activity; even opening the room resets the clock.

Can I install it on my phone?

Yes. With the room open, tap "Save Room" to add it to your home screen and open it with one tap.