Reciting Al-Fatihah at the engagement

Q 7: Is it a Bid`ah (innovation in religion) to recite Surah Al-Fatihah at the time of engagement? Similarly, is it a Bid`ah for a man to present gifts to his fiancée on certain occasions; such as on the Days of `Eid, the middle of Sha`ban, the Day of `Ashura', and so on?

A: Reciting Surah Al-Fatihah at the time of engagement or wedding is a Bid`ah and so is presenting gifts to the bride on certain occasions, especially if they are non-Islamic. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.