A Greek Orthodox wedding has two main parts: the Betrothal Service and the Crowning Service. These traditions focus on unity, blessing, and sacred symbolism. Unlike many weddings, the couple never says “I do.” Their promises are expressed through prayers, rituals, and the actions shared between them, the priest, and their wedding sponsor. The Betrothal Service blesses the rings and begins with a short prayer and petitions asking God to guide and protect the couple. Two brief prayers affirm that marriage is a bond created and watched over by Him. The priest blesses the rings and places them on the couple’s right hands, symbolizing strength and virtue. The koumbaros (wedding sponsor) then switches the rings between them three times to show their unity. A final prayer concludes this portion. The Crowning Service is where the couple becomes husband and wife. It includes scripture readings, longer prayers, and the lighting of candles that represent the light of Christ in their marriage. The priest then places the wedding crowns (stefana) on their heads, symbolizing the couple as king and queen of their home, called to rule with love and humility. The sponsor exchanges the crowns three times to seal the blessing. The couple then shares the Common Cup, drinking blessed wine three times each to symbolize sharing life’s joys and challenges. During the Procession, the priest leads them around a table three times while hymns are sung. Their first steps as a married couple with God at the center. The ceremony ends with a final blessing, the crowns are removed, and the couple is officially married. In short, a Greek Orthodox wedding is a beautiful blend of ancient ritual and deep spiritual meaning, rich in symbolism and centered on unity, love, and God’s presence.
So much! Here are a few of our favorites! Old Sacramento Waterfront – Historic Gold Rush district with river views and wooden boardwalks. Taking a river cruise is always a plus! California State Railroad Museum – One of the best museums in CA; huge locomotives and immersive exhibits. Midtown / R Street Corridor – Murals, boutiques, cafés, breweries, and great Sacramento energy. California State Capitol & Capitol Park – Beautiful building + gardens; free tours. Crocker Art Museum – Gorgeous art space with a relaxing atmosphere. Tower Bridge at Sunset – The iconic golden bridge glowing over the river. Tower Theatre – For movie buffs, this is the place for an iconic Sacramento movie experience. The Fabulous Forties – Take a stroll through the most beautiful neighborhood. If you're visiting for a few extra days, Lake Tahoe is beautiful this time of year and only a 1.5 - 2 hours drive!
This city is the Farm-to-Fork Capital of the world. Get ready for delicious coffee and incredibly fresh food. Here are our favorite spots! Coffee – Temple Coffee Roasters, Goodside Coffee, Philz Coffee, The Mill, Scorpio Coffee, Chocolate Fish. Breakfast & Lunch – Café Bernardo, Tower Café, Siblings by Pushkins, The Morning Fork, The Porch, Orphan, Suzie Burger. Dinner – Frank Fat's, Grange Bar & Restaurant, Zócalo, Paesanos, WildWood Kitchen & Bar, Hawks Public House, Joe's Crab Shack, The Federalist Pizza. Bars & Breweries – PunchBowl, Drake's: The Barn, Fieldwork, The Silver Lining Piano Bar. You really can't go wrong!