Traditional Algerian Engagement Gifts
Impress an Algerian bride-to-be with a special, traditional gift and you'll also win the favor of her friends and family. The North African country of Algeria has a rich cultural tapestry of traditions that include faith, food, fashion and family. Algerian weddings combine all four things together into an event that begins with both families approving the engagement. Once approved, family members begin to present the couple with traditional engagement gifts, called "shoura."
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Household Items
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Algerian lanterns make a traditional, yet modern gift. Household items are usually given just to the bride-to-be, so that she can set up and maintain their house. The most common traditional Algerian engagement gifts for the household are pots and pans, a tea or coffee set, glass and silver lanterns, beautiful blankets, silverware, serving dishes, linens and art.
Gold
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Giving an Algerian engagement gift of gold is a symbol of wealth and prosperity. A gift of gold is a sign of wealth and prosperity for the engaged couple. Typically, gifts of gold were presented as gold coins, which was the currency in Algeria when the tradition was started. Incorporate the theme of gold with a mirror or picture frame that are made of gold. For individual gifts, consider a gold vanity set, bracelet or pendant for her, and gold cuff links or money clip for him.
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Wool
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Wool in it's raw form is a popular traditional Algerian engagement gift. Wool is a traditional gift because the family of the bride-to-be would use it to make the couple's future marital bed. Depending on family, they may or may not engage in making the wool mattress but you can get creative and give the gift of wool in a more modern incarnation. A fine wool blanket, a Berber-style rug, or a pair of artisan-made sweaters are some thoughtful examples.
Clothing
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Clothing is a very traditional gift that usually comes from the family or close friends. If you know the couple well and are comfortable buying them clothes that fit their personal style, clothing is an excellent gift for a soon to be wed Algerian couple. Traditionally, a gift of clothing would be well-made traditional Muslim attire for both the bride and groom but these days gifts of clothing can include more modern or mainstream items.
Desserts
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Be creative by bringing a plate of homemade Algerian baklava to the engagement party. It is good social etiquette in Algeria to bring pastries, fruit, or flowers anytime you are invited to someone's house. If you're attending an engagement party, consider bringing a plate of traditional Algerian desserts, such as Baklava or Makroud. These very sweet desserts are a wonderful compliment to coffee or tea and are a hallmark of most Algerian celebrations. If you are using a recipe to make your own, make sure you are referencing an Algerian-style recipe because these desserts are found in several Mediterranean countries, and each one is slightly different.
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