FAQs

Question

What can I expect at an Orthodox wedding ceremony?

Answer

An Antiochian Orthodox wedding is a sacred, beautiful, and deeply symbolic Christian service rooted in ancient tradition. The ceremony is rich in meaning and may feel different from Western weddings—but it is very welcoming to guests of all backgrounds. Here’s what to expect: -A reverent church setting: The ceremony takes place in an Orthodox church and is focused on prayer, worship, and the spiritual union of the couple rather than on personal vows. -Crowning ceremony: One of the most distinctive moments is the crowning of the bride and groom. The crowns symbolize honor, joy, and the couple’s new life together as “king and queen” of their household, united in Christ. -Scripture, prayers, and chanting: The service includes readings from the Bible, priest-led prayers, and traditional chanting, some of which will be in English and some in Arabic. -No exchanged vows: The couple does not say personal vows. Instead, the marriage is solemnized through the prayers and blessings of the Church. -The Common Cup: The bride and groom share wine from a common cup, symbolizing their shared life, joys, and challenges. -Procession around the table: Near the end of the ceremony, the couple walks together around a table three times, representing their first steps together in married life, guided by faith. -Length and etiquette: The ceremony will last about 45 minutes. Guests are encouraged to dress modestly and respectfully. You may notice standing at various points, as this is customary in Orthodox services. Most importantly, guests are not expected to participate in anything unfamiliar—simply being present and respectful is more than enough. The ceremony is meant to be prayerful, joyful, and centered on love, faith, and commitment. We’re honored to share this meaningful tradition with you and are so grateful for your presence on our special day 🤍

Question

What should I wear?

Answer

The dress code is formal. Examples of attire include a suit for men, evening gown or pantsuit for women.

Question

Will the wedding be indoor or outdoor?

Answer

The wedding will be indoor. However, there will be an outdoor smoking area as well as a playground for children.