In Israel, Mizrahi and Sephardic Jewish women sometimes choose to have a henna party about a week before the wedding. The henna party is smaller than the wedding, as only closer friends and family members are invited. The bride and groom wear traditional costumes as do some of the main guests. There is much dancing and music, especially when the henna is brought out. The henna is usually presented in a deep dish with lit candles in it and carried by the grandmother. She applies the henna onto the palms of the bride and groom and they are blessed. Subsequently, guests stain their palms with henna as well. There are variations in customs and dress between the different Jewish communities (Yemenite, Moroccan, Indian, etc.).
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henna
