Koumbara
The Koumbara is a very special person in the Greek Orthodox wedding ceremony—she will be actively involved in the ceremony, exchanging the crowns on our heads and holding the ribbon that joins the crowns as we take our first steps around the altar as a married couple. Lindia will be the "Greek Orthodox" sponsor for us.
Koumbaro
Together with the Koumbara, the Koumbaro is a very special role to play, not only during the ceremony, but throughout the couple's lives. The Koumbari (Koumbara + Koumbaro) are chosen to provide spiritual guidance throughout the couple's lives together. To be Koumbari is considered to be considered family.
Matron of Honor
Lindia will be playing double duty as not only the Koumbara, but also the Matron of Honor. Lindia and Nicole have a long history of friendship. From the playground in elementary school to the church youth group activities in high school to the joys and responsibilities of adulthood, Lindia has supported Nicole the way only lifelong friends can, with laughter and love.
Best Man
Nick is married to Pete's sister, Kali, and has become more than a brother-in-law—he's become a good friend to Pete.
Bridesmaid
Stacey and Nicole are first cousins, which in any close greek family, means practically sisters. Being the same age, they were thrown together since birth whether they liked it or not. Through the years they have stuck by each other through good times and bad, playing very special roles in each others' lives, becoming more than just cousins.
Groomsman
Phil and Pete met years ago in the real estate industry, lived in the same neighborhood, and have stayed friends through the years. "Coach Phil," as he's known to the kids, always brings a humorous slant to any situation and keeps Pete laughing.
Bridesmaid
Anna is Nicole's youngest sister. Being the oldest sibling in the family, Nicole watched Anna grow up into a smart, grounded, and loving human being—Anna surprises Nicole all the time with her quiet confidence and a fantastic sense of humor. Nicole is thrilled to have her sister stand up with her at the wedding!
Groomsman
Alex is Nicole's youngest brother and a very special person in Nicole's life. She has watched him grow from a boy playing basketball to a man who is driven and hard-working. Pete recognized Alex's kindness and easy-going nature when he met him, and is honored to have him stand up with him.
Bridesmaid
Nicole and Lynnette were roommates back in the day when Nicole lived in Arlington, Virginia. Bonding over the unique upbringing ethnic families provide, being single in the city, and a love of travel/exploration, they continued their friendship through the years, long after living in Arlington. Nicole and Lynnette have traveled to many places together: Alaska, Costa Rica, and Croatia to name a few.
Groomsman
Isaac and Pete were colleagues early in their career journeys, selling cars. Taking the job in stride and with a sense of humor, they became friends. Reconnecting years later, they picked up right where they left off.
Bridesmaid
After meeting at a wine festival years ago with mutual friends in Northern Virginia, Christy and Nicole became fast friends, finding a common love for wine/food, music, and simply getting out together to find adventures. Always a bright, motivating force, Christy has remained a loyal and cherished friend to Nicole through whatever life throws their way.
Crown Bearer
Aiden is Pete's oldest, at 10. His special role in the wedding will be to carry the tray holding the crowns to the alter.
Flower Girl
Scarlett, Pete's youngest at 5, is definitely Daddy's little girl. She will steal the show as the flower girl!
Ring Bearer
Ethan is Pete's 8-year-old son. He loves to dance and he will be a star on the dance floor!