FAQs
Question
What does cocktail dress code mean?
Answer
We'd love to see our family and friends get dressed up for our big day. The dress code is cocktail attire. We recommend a knee-length, tea-length, or midi-length dress, pantsuit, jumpsuit, suit, or button-up with a tie. We please ask that you not wear jeans or colors typically associated with the bride (ivory, cream, or white).
Question
What time should I arrive?
Answer
We ask that you arrive at the church at least 15 minutes before the start of the ceremony to allow time for getting settled and signing the guest book. If you arrive after the bride and the groom you will be asked to wait inside until an appropriate time in the service to be seated.
Question
Can I share pictures of your big day on social media?
Answer
We kindly ask that you do not share any photos on social media of the wedding until Leah and Dave have had the chance to do so first.
Question
What do I need to know about the Orthodox Wedding Service?
Answer
Leah and Dave have decided to have a traditional Orthodox service for their wedding. The Sacrament of Holy Matrimony is unique primarily in that it is almost unchanged since it originated centuries ago. You will notice that Leah and Dave will not exchange vows during the service; instead, their presence before you, the priest and Christ signifies their wish to be joined. You will also notice that most things are done 3 times in the church. The Sacrament of Holy Matrimony in the Orthodox Church is two services done in one; the Service of Betrothal and The Service of Crowning. The couple will hold candles throughout the service. The Betrothal Service; The rings are blessed by the priest over the heads of the bride and groom prior to being placed on their hands. The Service of Crowning; The Joining of Hands, the right hands of the couple are joined with a prayer and are kept joined throughout the service. The Crowning, the union is completed with the crowning where the priest places the crowns on the heads of the bride and groom. The Epistle and The Gospel are then read. The Common Cup, following the readings, the common cup is presented to the bride and groom after being blessed. The Walk, the priest leads the bride and groom in a circle three times around the gospel and the cross - their first steps as a married couple. The Blessing finishes the ceremony.