When I first arrived in Istanbul and was in a tram going along a large street I observed bridal shop after bridal shop. Yes, I saw 20 or 30 all on one street. Amazing. I still do not know why there are so many and wonder how a bride begins to shop for a dress.

During my workshop we visited various places and inevitably saw brides in the streets. Mostly these brides were being photographed in iconic locations. But it still seemed strange to me to see brides with their fiancés on a bridge with tons of fishermen and smelly fish next to them.

In this one area with an interesting outdoor stairway we saw at least 8 brides being photographed. And there was even this couple being photographed showing off their baby bump.

Near the tram station and the dumpsters.

And almost anywhere.