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redsoxdw_

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I am attending a wedding in Greece where the people aren't Greek, and they're also not Orthodox. So, it will be a JP type ceremony on Mykonos...

They are getting married on one of the beaches.

Honestly, it sounds fun - but I am not sure how to dress or what the etiquette is or what to give as a gift! I am putting up a considerable expense to acctually attend this and someone said they weren't expecting gifts, but that just doesn't feel right to me. What do you guys think?
 
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Well, this is a good one. For dress, I would wear something simple, not formal or casual, but a basic plain dress, any color but not black or white. As for not accepting gifts, I think an envelope with a card containing money would be appreciated. Sometimes saying no gifts is another way of saying, we prefer money. If you can get Greek cash or a money order (not even sure they have them in Greece, but think they'd have something similar), I think that would be appreciated. If you see others at the reception handing the newly married couple envelopes, I'm pretty sure they'd have money in them.

Hope you enjoy it all and kalo taxidi!
 
My daughter just has her wedding in Crete. Almost everyone who came was from the US. They recognized that the expense to attend was considerable and didn’t expect gifts - completely discretionary. If you do decide to get something remember they have to pack it. Maybe an olive wood cutting board or something small to commemorate the destination.

Beach wedding dress is generally casual sundresses unless the specify differently.
 
I am attending a wedding in Greece where the people aren't Greek, and they're also not Orthodox. So, it will be a JP type ceremony on Mykonos...

They are getting married on one of the beaches.

Honestly, it sounds fun - but I am not sure how to dress or what the etiquette is or what to give as a gift! I am putting up a considerable expense to acctually attend this and someone said they weren't expecting gifts, but that just doesn't feel right to me. What do you guys think?
I used to live and work in Mykonos... IMO casual linen wear!..Do you know which beach?.. Enjoy your time, let us know how it goes!.... post some pics!... Good day from Thailand and Monsoons.
Here's a wedding video of excellence!
 
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Thank you everyone for chiming in. For all of us going we will do the "fancier side of casual" beachy sort of clothing ... I decided to give some money. That was a great insight - they want the gift, they don't want us to feel pressured.

They have both been married before and have an established household - they've told us that they're just happy we are able to go and celebrate with them.
 
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Reactions: Hash
Thank you everyone for chiming in. For all of us going we will do the "fancier side of casual" beachy sort of clothing ... I decided to give some money. That was a great insight - they want the gift, they don't want us to feel pressured.

They have both been married before and have an established household - they've told us that they're just happy we are able to go and celebrate with them.
Yes chic,cool,beachy, linens, casual....... that's the way!.... normally bare feet too!... Let us know how it turns out... Kalley Mera from Thailand!
 

Greek Wedding Traditions Roundup

I am helping someone plan her Greek wedding. I wanted to make a list of all the traditions we need to keep in time for the big day. Did I miss anything?

The Stolisma

The wedding day begins with the ritual of 'Stolisma,' where the bride and groom are prepared separately by their families. It's a moment filled with emotion, songs, and blessings, setting the tone for the day. I had honestly never heard of this. Do people still do it?

The Krevati

An amusing tradition is the 'Krevati' (bed making), where family and friends gather to decorate the couple's future bed with baby items, symbolizing fertility and a happy family life. Money is also often thrown on the bed for good luck and prosperity.

The Crowning (Stefana)

One of the most iconic rituals during the ceremony is the exchange of crowns or 'Stefana.' I believe they need to buy the crowns they want in advance?

Koufeta

No Greek wedding would be complete without 'Koufeta'—sugar-coated almonds given to guests as wedding favors. These bittersweet treats represent the ups and downs of married life and are shared in odd numbers to symbolize indivisibility and shared life.

When does Orthodox lent start this year?

I noticed our Easter is late - May 5th - but Western Easter is at the end of March. Has Lent already started for them? When does our Lent start?

This year, I plan to do a stricter Lenten fast, so I want to plan some things out in advance.

Lent is a time for introspection, repentance, and spiritual growth. Through the dedicated practice of fasting, prayer, and charity, believers seek not only to grow closer to God but also to better understand themselves in relation to God’s will.

Tips for Learning and Teaching Greek

I know how to speak Greek okay, but I am not great at it. I want to brush up on my skills, and I also want to teach some of my family members. I am good enough at it to the learn the basics. I am looking for advice, but I've also compiled some ideas:

1. Spend an extended period of time in Greece

There’s no better way to learn Greek than to immerse yourself in the language and culture of Greece. If you have the opportunity, consider spending an extended time in Greece, studying or working, taking a sabbatical, or just exploring the country. Living in Greece can help you understand the nuances of the language, such as the different accents, dialects, and slang that are used. You’ll also have the chance to practice your Greek with locals, watch Greek TV or films, and read Greek books or newspapers. I would imagine this is the best way to learn fast!

2. Use a language program

If you can’t travel to Greece or you prefer a more structured approach to learning Greek, consider using a language program. There are many language programs available online or in your local area, ranging from self-paced courses to interactive classes. Some popular language programs for Greek include Rosetta Stone, Duolingo, and Pimsleur. From what I understand these are all great options and I can learn at my own pace.

3. Take classes

Taking classes is another excellent way to learn Greek, especially if you prefer face-to-face interaction and feedback. You can find Greek language classes in community colleges, universities, language schools, or private tutors. Taking classes can help you improve your Greek skills, such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing. You’ll have a teacher who can guide you through the learning process, answer your questions, and give you homework or assignments that challenge you. You’ll also have classmates who share your passion for Greek and can practice with you.

4. Find ways to immerse yourself outside of Greece

Even if you can’t go to Greece or attend classes, you can still immerse yourself in Greek in your daily life. One way is to find Greek-speaking communities or events in your area, such as cultural centers, festivals, or meetups. You can also use online resources to connect with Greek speakers, such as language exchange websites, social media groups, or chat apps. Listening to Greek music, watching Greek videos or podcasts, or reading Greek literature can also help you familiarize yourself with the sounds and patterns of the language.

Honestly, I plan to try all 4 - whatever I can do. I think it will all help.

List of Cretan Dances?

I will be attending a Cretan wedding and am curious about the traditional Cretan dances! I know the dances are slightly different and I want to learn some. I don't know the names of the dances so that I can look them up. I did some research, though. Are any of these dances common at these weddings?
  • Pentozali
  • Sousta
  • Siganos
  • Chaniotis
There's a dance the wedding party typically does in Crete. Which dance is that?

Greek Easter Family Traditions

I am curious what your family traditions are for Greek Easter. I know lent hasn't even started yet, but I've started doing some planning to make sure my family has all of its traditions all set. Sometimes it takes me a while to find ingredients for some of the foods I serve, etc.

Of course we spend Holy Week in church. We do our best to fast during Lent, and once Easter comes, it's all about serving our traditional dishes. This year I might spend part of lent in Greece to visit some religious sites.

What do you guys all do?
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

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