FAQs
Question
Do we have a gift wishlist?
Answer
Dear guests, if you’d like to give a wedding gift, a contribution would be greatly appreciated and can be sent to the following account: BE17 0018 9160 8821 (Name: Magdalena Georgievska; Address: Jozef Kluyskensstraat 25/33, 9000 Ghent Belgium). Please know that your presence is the most meaningful gift of all, and we’re grateful for whatever you choose. Sincerely, Magdalena and Max
Question
What can we do in Skopje/Macedonia during the stay?
Answer
We included some tips at the "things to do" section.
Question
Can I bring a date?
Answer
We’re keeping our guest list cozy due to the large number of invitees, so we haven’t planned for plus ones, unless you’re married. If you’re coming with your husband or wife, just let us know :)
Question
Can I arrive later than 7?
Answer
The reception starts at 7pm, and it would be great to come between 7-7:30pm since we will welcome you at the entrance and take a picture together as you arrive. Of course you can also come later, but the celebration will already start.
Question
Is there going to be a church ceremony?
Answer
We will be getting married in a church on the same day. However, due to the small size of the church and its distant location, we were unfortunately unable to invite everyone. Please know that we look forward to celebrating with you at the reception!
Question
What are the traditions for the wedding day in Macedonia?
Answer
Some of the traditional wedding rituals in Macedonia include: Collecting the bride from her home (the groom, accompanied by a procession of family and musicians, arrives at the bride’s home to "collect" her. There’s often a playful "bargaining" ritual, where the groom must symbolically negotiate or pay a fee to the bride’s family to take her). Unfortunatelly, we will skip this part of the tradition. Going to Church for the wedding service: The Orthodox church wedding involves several rituals, including the crowning of the bride and groom, sharing a common cup, and circling the altar three times. This is explained in another question if you are interested. Breaking Bread (Леб и мед): After the ceremony, a ritual involving the breaking of bread, often sweetened with honey, is performed. The bread symbolizes unity, and whoever pulls the larger piece of bread is said to have more influence in the marriage. The Wedding Dance (Оро): Macedonian weddings feature traditional folk dances, especially the "oro." The bride and groom lead the dance, often with guests joining in a circle. Music is central to the celebration, with live bands playing traditional instruments. You will easily learn the oro on the wedding day itself. Toasts and Drinking (Наздравување): Toasting is an essential part of the reception, and Rakija (a type of brandy) is commonly served. It’s customary for guests to offer heartfelt toasts to the newlyweds. "Трубачи" often lead the procession, playing dynamic tunes as the bride and groom make their entrance or during the celebration and dancing. The music is usually fast-paced and rhythmic, encouraging guests to join in dancing, particularly in the traditional circle dance known as the oro.
Question
What is the Orthodox Wedding Service?
Answer
In the Orthodox Church, marriage is viewed as a sacrament, or "mystery," that reflects the love between Christ and the Church. The key elements of the ceremony include: The Betrothal (Exchange of Rings), takes place at the entrance of the church, symbolizing the couple's engagement and commitment. The priest blesses the rings, which are exchanged 3 times to signify mutual love and respect, with God’s presence at its centre. The Crowning (The Sacrament of Marriage), when the priest places crowns (made of gold, silver, or flowers) on the heads of the bride and groom, representing the glory and honour that God bestows on them and their new responsibilities as king and queen of their household. The crowning symbolizes their equality in the relationship and also the martyrdom of marriage (sacrifice for each other). The Common Cup (Sharing of Wine), symbolizing their shared life, with all its joys and challenges (recalls the miracle of Christ turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana). The Ceremonial Walk (The Dance of Isaiah): The priest leads the bride and groom in a circle around the altar three times, while hymns are sung, representing the eternal aspect of marriage.
Question
Where can I get money exchange in Skopje?
Answer
There are several money exchange places (менувачница) around Skopje, or you can use an ATM at the airport.