What is the guidance of the Prophet, may Allah’s prayers and peace be upon him, regarding marriage, especially concerning the dowry (mahr), the wedding ceremony, and the wedding feast (walimah)?

The Prophet’s guidance regarding marriage involved making the dowry easy, announcing the marriage, holding a wedding feast (walimah), and living together with kindness.

Firstly: Easy Dowry: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “The best dowry is the easiest.” Umar ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) said: “Do not make the dowries for women excessive,” explaining that the Prophet (peace be upon him) did not marry any of his wives nor did he give any of his daughters in marriage for more than twelve uqiyah (ounces).

Secondly: Announcing the Marriage: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Announce this marriage,” and “The distinction between what is lawful and what is unlawful is the duff (tambourine) and the voice in marriage.” The duff is specific to women.

Thirdly: The Walimah (Wedding Feast): It is a confirmed Sunnah, and it is obligatory to accept an invitation to it unless there is something objectionable therein. A walimah without meat is permissible.

Fourthly: Congratulating: It is recommended to congratulate the husband by saying: “May Allah bless you, and bless upon you, and bring you together in goodness.”

Fifthly: Upon Consummating the Marriage with the Wife: It is recommended to be gentle with her, place one's hand on her head and supplicate for her, and for them to pray two rak'ahs together. The husband should say, when engaging in intimacy: “In the name of Allah. O Allah, keep Satan away from us, and keep Satan away from what You have provided us.”

Sixthly: Living Together with Kindness: Both spouses must live together with kindness and fear of Allah. Allah the Almighty says: “And live with them in kindness.”