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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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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!
 

How did your family spend summers in Greece?

I’m curious how many of you spent summers in Greece growing up.

My experience was a little different. My parents both worked full time, so we never packed up and spent entire summers in Greece the way some Greek families did. But I had friends and cousins who seemed to disappear every June and come back just before school started, full of stories about village life, island beaches, family gatherings, and adventures with cousins.

I always found those stories fascinating and sometimes wished I had experienced that myself.

For those of you who did spend summers in Greece, what was it like? Did you stay in a village, a city, or on an island? What did your typical days look like? Are there any traditions, memories, or experiences that still stand out to you today? I'd love to hear your stories!

Best Christening Gifts for a Close Friend's Child?

What are some good christening gifts for the child of a close friend?

It’s been quite a while since I’ve been to a Greek christening, and the last one I attended was for a relative, so I’m realizing I’m not completely sure what is considered appropriate these days.

Since this is the child of a close friend, I’d like to give something a little more meaningful than just a standard gift, but I also don’t want to overdo it. Are religious gifts like an icon, cross, or children’s Bible still common? Would money, jewelry, or something personalized be appropriate?

I’d also be interested to know whether there are certain gifts that are traditionally given by family members or the godparents that I should avoid duplicating.

What have you given for christenings recently, especially when the child belonged to a close friend? I’d love some ideas that feel thoughtful and appropriate.

Greek Traditions from Childhood?

I’d love to hear everyone’s memories of Greek traditions from childhood, especially the small everyday things that may not even seem unusual until you look back on them later.

For me, some of the strongest memories are tied to food, church, family gatherings, name days, holiday preparations, and the feeling of constantly having people around. Even certain sounds and smells immediately bring everything back.

I’m also curious how traditions differed depending on region or family background. Did your family keep strong village customs? Were there things your grandparents insisted on doing a certain way? Any traditions connected to Easter, Christmas, weddings, coffee, hospitality, music, or food?

For me, we ate a family-oriented Sunday meal where everyone go together after church. That was a big part of things for me.

Greek Tsiknopempti Traditions?

I realized Tsiknopempti is coming up soon, and it made me curious how everyone celebrates it, especially outside of Greece. Growing up, I always associated it with grilled meat, lots of smoke in the air, and a general feeling of celebration before Lent started, but we never had a really structured tradition at home. Now I’m wondering if I should start one.

Do you usually grill at home, go out to a Greek restaurant, or gather with friends and family? Are there certain foods you always make, or is it more about the atmosphere and being together? I’ve seen photos from Greece where entire neighborhoods are grilling outside, which looks amazing.

I’d love to hear what Tsiknopempti looks like for you, whether it’s something big and festive or just a simple meal that still feels meaningful.

What Does Philotimo Mean to You?

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the word, or really, the concept, of philotimo. It’s one of those Greek words that just doesn’t translate neatly into English. I was recently trying to explain it to a non-Greek friend, and I realized how difficult it is to put into words!

I ended up talking about ideas like honor, dignity, courage, generosity, and doing the right thing because it’s simply the right thing to do. I even used some historical examples, including the 300 Spartans at Thermopylae and the spirit of Ochi Day, to try to explain the sense of duty and selflessness that I associate with philotimo.

But I know the concept can also show up in much smaller, everyday ways. How would you explain philotimo to someone unfamiliar with Greek culture? What does the word mean to you personally?
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

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