# Turkish engagement ceremony checklist — from rings to treats A Turkish engagement (nişan) is the ceremony where the couple put on their rings in front of their families and close friends, and plenty of small details, from rings and flowers to ribbon and treats, come together on one day. This list covers the commonly seen elements, though customs vary by region and family, and with a room code both families tick off their own share. No sign-up needed. **In short:** A Turkish engagement ceremony (nişan) needs engagement rings, a ring tray or box, ribbon and scissors, flowers, outfits for the couple, a chocolate and Turkish delight tray, a cake, treats, drinks, decorations, music and someone to take photos. Customs vary by region and family, so both families should talk through what they want beforehand. Keep the ceremony items together in one bag with a trusted person. ## What's on the list ### General - Venue or hall — home, hall or restaurant - Engagement rings — 1 pair - Ring tray or box - Ribbon and scissors — for the ribbon cutting - Bride-to-be's outfit - Groom-to-be's outfit - Hair and makeup — book early - Flowers — bouquet and arrangements - Plates, cups and napkins - Jewelry box or pouch — if jewelry is gifted - Decorations and lights - Tables and seating plan - Guest list and invitations - Music and speaker - Guest favors - Photos and video — decide who shoots ### Sweets & snacks - Chocolate and Turkish delight tray - Sweet and savory treats ### Bakery - Engagement cake ### Drinks - Tea, coffee and sherbet ## Tips - Customs vary by region and family, so let both families talk through what they want before the preparations, to avoid surprises later. - Put the ceremony items (the rings, the tray, the ribbon and scissors) in one bag and hand it to someone you trust, so nobody hunts for them at the moment. - Share a list of key moments with the photographer: the rings, the ribbon cutting, the cake and the family photos. - Do the outfit, hair and makeup trial a few days before the ceremony and leave nothing for the last day. ## Frequently asked questions ### What happens at a Turkish engagement, step by step? The order varies by region and family, but usually guests are welcomed, the rings are brought out on a tray, the ribbon is cut and the rings are put on. Then treats are served, the cake is cut and photos are taken. ### Which hand does the engagement ring go on? In Turkey the engagement ring is traditionally worn on the ring finger of the right hand and moved to the left hand at the wedding. It is a custom, not a rule, and some families do it differently. ### When should you start preparing for an engagement? It helps to book the venue, hair and makeup and photographer a few weeks ahead, while flowers, cake and catering are usually confirmed in the last week. The timing varies with the season and how busy it is. ### 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. --- [Start a room with this list](https://ortakliste.app/en/list/turkish-engagement-ceremony-checklist) — 20 items go straight into your new room; delete what you don't need, add what's missing. No account needed.