FAQ

Question

What happens during a Greek Orthodox wedding ceremony?

Answer

The Rings The rings are blessed by the priest who takes them in his hand and makes the sign of the cross over the couple’s heads in the name of The Father, The Son, and of The Holy Spirit. The Koumbara then exchanges the rings three times. The rings signify that in married life, the weakness of the one partner will be compensated by the strengths of the other, the imperfections of one by the perfections of the other. Individually, the newly betrothed are incomplete; together they are made perfect. The Candles The bride and groom are handed candles to hold throughout the service, which represent the lamps of the five maidens of the Bible that lit the way for the Bridegroom Christ, when He came in the darkness of night. The candles symbolize the spiritual willingness of the couple to receive Christ. The Joining of the Hands As the final prayer concludes, the priest places the right hand of the groom on the right hand of the bride. At this sacred moment, the couple is joined as husband and wife in the Greek Orthodox Church. The Crowning The crowns (Stefana) signify the glory and honor of God given to the couple during the Sacrament. The bride and groom are crowned as the Queen and King of their kingdom, the home, which they will rule with wisdom, justice and integrity. The crowns are joined together with a ribbon symbolizing that the two are now one. The Koumbara exchanges the crowns three times over their heads. The Common Cup In the second Gospel of St. John, we read that Jesus attended and blessed the marriage at Cana of Galilee. There He changed water into wine. The couple drinks blessed wine from a common cup, remembering the first miracle Jesus performed. The Ceremonial Walk The priest leads the couple around the table three times. These first steps as partners are to emphasize the focus of their “life’s walk” together. A hymn is sung to the Holy Martyrs, reminding the newly married couple of the sacrificial love they are to have for each other in marriage.

Question

Are you registered? Where?

Answer

We are registered here on Zola with products from Crate & Barrel, West Elm, Amazon, CB2 and more. You can find it here on our website via the "Registry" tab.

Question

Is there parking for the ceremony or reception?

Answer

Yes, there is ample parking for both, but please note that we will be providing transportation throughout the day/night if you prefer not to drive.

Question

Is there a dress code?

Answer

Yes, formal attire, it's always fun to dress up! Typically this means midi and floor-length dresses or jumpsuits for women, and dark suits or tuxedos for the men!

Question

I have a food allergy or sensitivity, can I make a special request?

Answer

Absolutely. Please make note of any dietary restrictions on your mailed or online RSVP.