Venues offering Bridal Package

A bridal package (also called a bridal hammam) is a comprehensive spa programme arranged as preparation before a wedding. It brings the traditional bridal hammam custom together with contemporary spa services and is often taken as a group, with the bride's family and close friends. The programme is as much a get-together and celebration as a treatment; for this reason its length and format differ markedly from a spa visit for one person.

What is included in a bridal package?

The typical contents of a bridal package are: a hammam ritual (an exfoliating kese scrub and a foam wash), a body scrub, a massage, a facial, a manicure and pedicure and refreshments in the relaxation area. Many venues also add celebration elements such as photography, music, cake and decorations. The bride and the guests accompanying her do not have to have the same services; you need to ask the venue whether different options can be chosen.

How does a bridal hammam day unfold?

A bridal package day usually starts with the group gathering and getting ready in the changing room. Everyone then warms up in the hot section of the hammam, and the kese and foam wash are applied. Massage and treatments follow the hammam part; meanwhile the other members of the group wait in the relaxation area or have their own services. The programme ends with a celebration accompanied by music and refreshments. The total length depends on the number of people and the services chosen; the larger the group, the longer the programme, as services have to be taken in turn, and it helps the day run smoothly if everyone is ready at the same time. Traditional bridal hammam customs vary from region to region; you can also read the bridal hammam guide, which describes them in detail.

Timing: which treatment how long before the wedding?

In a bridal package, timing matters as much as content. Do not have facials or treatments involving exfoliation the day before the wedding: a facial can be followed by temporary redness, flaking and irritation. It is safe to plan these treatments at least 7-10 days before the wedding.

A product or treatment tried for the first time just before the wedding can cause an unexpected reaction. Try the treatments you plan to have once, at least a month beforehand; that way you will have seen how your skin reacts.

Realistic expectations and health warnings

A bridal package may help the skin look clean and hydrated and help you relax during the busy run-up to the wedding; you should not expect a lasting change in your skin from a single programme. The health of each person in the group is assessed separately; the hammam part may not be suitable for guests who are pregnant or have blood pressure problems. Hot areas are also not recommended for those with cardiovascular disease, a feverish illness or open wounds. If there are children in the group, their time in the hot section should be kept short, and you should ask about the venue's age limit. Mention these conditions when making your appointment.

How it differs from a spa package

In terms of content, a bridal package is similar to a spa package; both combine hammam, massage and treatments in one programme. The difference lies in three points: a bridal package is usually taken as a group, it includes celebration elements, and the timing of the treatments is planned around the wedding date. A spa package put together for one person or a couple does not have these elements; the programme is shorter and calmer.

Where it is done, and what affects the price

The venues on the site offering a bridal package provide two different settings: hotel spas in Istanbul and Ankara, and historic hammams with thermal water in Eskişehir and Bursa. One of these hammams serves women only; at the other, use by women and men is divided into separate hours. At hotel spas you need to ask whether the group can be hosted in a private hammam or suite. The main factors that determine the price of a bridal package are the number of people, the services the bride and guests will have, whether the hammam is reserved exclusively for the group, the celebration elements, and the difference between weekdays and weekends and the wedding season.

What to ask before booking

Because it is taken as a group and lasts a long time, a bridal package needs to be planned weeks in advance. When making the appointment, clarify the following:

• How many people are coming, who will have which service, and how long will it take in total?
• Can the hammam or spa area be reserved exclusively for the group?
• Are the celebration elements included in the package; can you bring your own cake or decorations?
• Are a peshtemal, towel, slippers and robe provided for everyone?
• What are the deposit, cancellation and date-change terms?