Weddings

In Egypt an Oriental dance performance has long been an essential part of the wedding celebration, where the dancer is the ultimate symbol of joyful celebration. Now this tradition is fast spreading in the UK too!

Wedding options include traditional Arabic bridal processions, solo belly dance performances and beautifully styled shows. Bespoke options also available.

How do I thank you enough...? Beautiful, professional and amazing performers, you went far above and beyond in creating your show for us. We were blown away. You added the most fabulous touch to the best day of our lives - we're still getting comments!
Nicola and David

Bridal Processions

In the Middle East the bride and groom enter in style, with full traditional Arabic “Zeffa (Zaffa) al-Arousa”, or bridal procession. Dancers lead the happy couple, playing finger cymbals and frame drums while calling out in joy and celebration.

In Egypt the lead dancer balances a lit candelabra on her head during the "zeffa" - a real spectacle that harks back to the days when the bridal party would process by candle light through the streets of Cairo as the sun set.

Now you too can recreate this bridal entrance to end all entrances!

Your “zeffa” procession will be led by dancers who will play finger cymbals and frame drums as they lead you in. If liked, some of the dancers can also distribute sweets, sugared almonds or other small wedding favours during the procession. Dancers can be in traditional dress of a long galabeya (robe or dress) with head scarf and hip scarf, or can be in two piece belly dance costumes.

If venue regulations and ceiling heights allow, you can choose to have the lead dancer balance a lit candelabra. Drummers and other live musicians could also be included in your procession.

Usually the procession will lead the bride and groom from the entrance to the venue, or from the entrance to the reception room. The procession will do a lap of honour round the reception room before leading the bride and groom to their seats. Finally the dancers will dance in front of the bride and groom, expressing joy and celebration.

A zeffa is perfect for an Arab wedding, Arabian theme wedding - or any couple who wants to add a unique and extra special element to their day. The procession can be followed by a solo performance or dance show.

Solo Oriental belly dance performance or show

In Egypt an Oriental dance performance has long been an essential part of the wedding celebration, and this is now an increasingly popular choice in the UK. Helena is an experienced, award-winning dance artist and Equity member, so you can rest assured that her performance on your special day will be a memorable and unique highlight for you and your guests to treasure.

Helena will work with you in advance, by phone or email, to take into account layout, guests and your preferences to tailor a unique performance just for you - the perfect highlight to your perfect day. You can decide to include audience participation, pick a favourite belly dance track to include and choose from the available costumes to match your preferences. Costume choices range from two piece costumes that expose the midriff through to glamorous yet more covered options, or traditional Egyptian dress of flowing robes with headscarf and hip scarf.

Just brilliant! I am so pleased that Helena performed at our wedding - definitely worth every penny!
Tamara, Bride

Special offer: Book a fun belly dance hen party workshop alongside a wedding performance to get 10% off and the chance to perform your newly learned routine with Helena at your wedding reception!

Book a belly dance performance for your wedding or engagement party: