An interesting and amusing by-play prior to the wedding happens when the groom's friends take him to get dressed. As they help him, his bachelor friends prick him on the knee with a needle or pin. The belief is that if they do, they too will get married soon! On the girl's side, her unmarried friends pinch her knee or tread on her toes in the belief that they will find their life partners soon! While the groom gets dressed, his friends sing traditional songs called arada. Sometimes, if the groom can afford it, he engages skilled people to stage a mock fight with swords and shields. The Participants in this mock fight are traditionally attired in breeches, traditional head gear and make a colourful picture. The event is one of enjoyment and revelry.
 Then the bride and groom pass between to rows of men holding crossed swords over the bridal pair. It is believed that this practice has come down from ancient times, A demonstration of valour by the groom proved that the bride would be safe from harm in her new home! Another interesting custom, which is no longer as popular as it used to be, happens when the bride enters her new home. She is given a handful of dough, which she sticks on the door before entering. If it sticks it is believed that the couple will have a long and happy relationship. The wheat dough is a symbol of plenty. Naturally the dough is made of the right consistency to ensure that it does stick!
A modern day departure from the practice of breaking a bottle of perfume on the doorstep of the bride's new home. This is believed to epitomize the fragrance of the relationship.
If marriages are a mirror of culture, this is undoubtedly an interesting insight into Syrian culture.