Wedding traditions in Greece are a beautiful blend of ancient and modern influences. In fact, Greek weddings are not just a union of two people. It is a vibrant celebration of love, family and heritage. These ceremonies are steeped in history and filled with deeply symbolic rituals that have been passed down through generations. They reflect not only the love of the couple but also their respect for the rich cultural legacy of Greece.
So, join me as we embark on a journey to discover the celebrations and customs that make Greek weddings truly extraordinary.
Picture by: Emma Bauso
The Depth of Wedding Traditions in Greece
To begin with, wedding traditions in Greece are deeply rooted in history and Orthodox Christian customs. They symbolize and invoke happiness, fertility and the unbreakable bond between the couple. Also, these rituals are not mere formalities but are imbued with profound cultural and religious significance, reflecting the values and beliefs central to Greek life.
Historically, these customs have been shaped by both ancient Greek practices and the profound influence of the Orthodox Church. For example, many rituals, such as the crowning during the ceremony, have origins that can be traced back to ancient Greece, while their religious significance has been imbued through centuries of Christian tradition. Let’s see these traditions one by one.
The Pre-Wedding Rituals
Dowry Preparation
Dowry preparation, aka “Proika” in Greek, is among the oldest wedding traditions in Greece. Traditionally, the dowry was a vital aspect of a Greek wedding, symbolizing the family’s economic status and serving as a form of security for the bride. It was a way for the bride’s family to contribute to her new household.
In contemporary Greek society however, the concept of the dowry has a symbolic form. For example, families might gift the couple with significant items to honor the tradition without the implications of the historical dowry system. For many Greeks, understanding and acknowledging these traditions is a way to honor their ancestry while embracing contemporary values.
Marital Bed Making
The bed making (or “To Krevati” as Greeks say), takes place in the couple’s future home. Specifically, friends and family gather to prepare the bed in the marital home and decorate it with white linens which symbolize purity. Then, they throw money, jewelry and rose petals, and even place babies on the bed to bless the couple with prosperity and fertility. As you can see, the preparation of the marital bed which is a beloved tradition as part of the Greek wedding. I strongly recommend considering incorporating this into your own wedding, as it promises to be a delightful and enjoyable experience for you, your friends, and family!
Dressing the Couple
On the morning of the wedding, the best man begins by giving the groom a ceremonial shave, a gesture symbolizing trust and the bond they share. Following this, the groom’s close friends gather around to assist in dressing him, marking a moment of camaraderie and support as he readies himself for the ceremony. Simultaneously, the koumbara, or maid of honor, leads the bridal party in a joyful procession to the bride. They come together to help her dress and prepare for one of the most significant moments of her life. Also, an intriguing custom involves the bride’s shoes. The names of all single women in attendance are written on the bottom of the bride’s shoes. As per tradition, it’s believed that the names that have faded away by the end of the wedding reception are those of the women who will soon walk down the aisle.
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Wedding Ceremony
Crowning with Stefana
One of the most iconic traditions is the “Stefana” ceremony. A pair of delicate wedding crowns connected by a single ribbon, symbolizes the joining of two lives into one. It’s a moment that transcends time, linking the couple to generations before them who have shared the same tradition.
Having a Bestman or a Maid of Honor
The roles of “Koumbaro” (best man) and “Koumbara” (maid of honor) extend beyond the wedding day. They are traditionally to become the godparents of the couple’s future children, signifying a lifelong bond. This choice highlights their importance, not just in the wedding but in the ongoing journey of the couple’s life.
The Dance of Isaiah
The “Dance of Isaiah” is a profound moment where the couple, led by the best man circles the altar three times. This act represents the Holy Trinity. Moreover, it signifies the couple’s first steps as a married couple with the Church (through the presence of the priest and the congregation) as a witness to their union. It also serves as a reminder to the couple of their responsibilities and roles in the marriage. Just as they move around the altar, they should revolve their lives around their faith and each other.
The Common Cup
Following the Dance of Isaiah, the couple shares a cup of wine, which symbolizes the sharing of life’s burdens and joys. As they drink from the same cup, they acknowledge that from that moment forward, they will share everything in life, with mutual respect and love.
Throwing Rice
At the end of the ceremony, a lively tradition takes place where guests throw rice at the newly married couple. This practice is not just a moment of celebration but also carries significant symbolism. The rice is emblematic of fertility, prosperity, and abundance, expressing the guests’ hopes and wishes for the couple’s future together.
Additionally, the gesture bestows blessings upon the couple for a life with prosperity and happiness. It’s a way for the community to actively participate in wishing the couple well in their married life. Lastly, the shower of rice is also a symbol of good fortune and wealth. The idea is that as the grains of rice are plentiful and nourishing, so too should the couple’s life be full and enriching.
The Wedding Reception
The reception is where Greek hospitality shines. It is a lively event with music, dancing, and feasting which often lasts into the early hours of the morning. A notable feature of the reception is the presence of traditional sweets, particularly “koufeta” – sugared almonds. These confections are not merely treats but carry significant symbolism. Toasts and speeches by the family, friends, and often the couple themselves are common. After all, this adds a personal and heartfelt touch to the celebration. These speeches typically reflect on the couple’s journey, offer advice, and express wishes for their future.
Conclusion
Wedding traditions in Greece are not just formalities. They are the embodiment of the community’s hopes and blessings for the couple’s future together. In fact, they are a vibrant tapestry that weaves together the past and present, creating a highly symbolic matrimonial celebration. As a celebrant, I am constantly inspired by the depth of love that these traditions represent. And I genuinely hope that couples who choose to incorporate these traditions into their wedding feel the profound connection to their heritage and the support of their community.
If you are wondering Why You Should Have Your Wedding in Greece, then read our article and let’s plan together your dream ceremony!
