Ntina and Nikos

Ntina and Nikos - The wedding invitation.

Please re-visit to see pictures from the prenuptial traditions, the wedding ceremony and reception.

Wedding Tradition.

Two days before the wedding, Thursday 29/11/07 is the ‘making up of the krevatie(the marriage bed)
Both sides of the family get together in the brides new home , where all the dowry is displayed for everyone to admire. The marriage bed is made using the best white embroidered linens and again by all the single girls (none of which is an orphan, as that was considered bad luck). Songs are sung that are usually made up of rhymes and tell the history of both families. The songs usually calls on different relatives to come and “throw” good wishes on to the couple, meaning gold coins and or money. Then sugared almonds and rice are thrown onto the bed for fertility.

Visit on Thursday evening to see some pictures.

The Making up of the Krevatie

Family and friends gather at Ntina and Nikos house for the making of the Krevatie.

The bed is made three times until it meets with the approval of Nikos.

Babies are placed on the bed and showered with rose petals sugar almonds and rice.

The Wedding

The Reception.

And they lived happily ever after.

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Marriage Traditions in Ancient Greece

Greek brides wore traditional wedding veils of yellow or red, which represented fire. These brightly colored veils were supposed to protect the bride from evil spirits and demons.

In ancient Greece, diamonds were considered teardrops of the Gods, and it was believed that a diamond reflected the flames of love.

A Greek bride may carry a lump of sugar on her wedding day to ensure she has a sweet life,or she might carry ivy, as a symbol of endless love.

Greek Orthodox Wedding Traditions

These ceremonies are conducted by an Orthodox priest and follow a similar format of blessings, prayers and readings as other Christian weddings.

A traditional Greek Orthodox marriage includes the celebration of the formal engagement.

On the day of the Greek wedding ceremony, the groom asks the bride's father for his daughter's hand in marriage. The groom's best man then accompanies the couple to the church, to be married. The best man, along with the priest, is in charge of the ceremony. He places gold crowns or wreathes made of orange blossoms on the heads of the bride and groom. These crowns or wreathes are linked by a silk ribbon. For the rest of their wedding day the newlyweds are honored as king and queen.

Wedding Celebrations

The traditional Greek wedding reception is usually a huge party and can last through the night. There is feasting, drinking and dancing, which includes the famous Greek circle dance.

Dishes are smashed on the floor for good luck and money is thrown at the musicians.

Candy coated almonds, called koufeta are served to the guests as reception party favors.