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nm1999

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I am going to be attending a wedding in Greece. What are some of the traditions I can expect? I saw online:

- Writing names of the bridal party on the bride's shoes (I am not in the bridal party)
- Decorating the bed for the bride and groom
- Or course, having the service in an orthodox church

I am sure I missed some!
 
There will be no bridesmaids or groomsmen

The bride will write her friends names on the bottom of one of her shoes

If you're invited to one of the house's before the wedding, expect a ton of food and dancing

The bride and groom will drive separately to the church with their friends and family. You will know they are approaching by the sound of car horns getting louder (they honk their horns nonstop when they get close to the church)

The bride and groom are the first to enter the church. All of the guests will wait outside of the church and follow behind the bride and groom

There is no kissing in Greek weddings. The bride and groom are officially married when they walk around the table 3 times.

While the bride and groom are walking around the table, the guests will throw rice once the bride and groom begin their second walk around the table.

The beginning of the reception will happen fast after the couple takes pictures. The couple will walk in together, go straight to dancing, then cut the cake.Then you'll eat.

During the reception, and depending in the tradition of where the couple's family is from, you may hear a miroloi (a lament; pronounced mee-roh-loh-ee) or you may not. You'll know they're playing a miroloi because everyone will be silent/crying. Once that is over the immediate family will all dance together and later friends and other family members (aunts and uncles) will join in.

Greeks don't give wedding gifts; they give money
 
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I had bridesmaids and groomsmen at my GO wedding, and every one I've attended (lots) had them. This is in the US. Perhaps it's not done that way in Greece.

Guests were seated in church when bridesmaids walked in and then bride is escorted down the aisle by her father.

In the US the priest typicaly prompts bride and groom to kiss at the end of marriage ceremony.

There were no names written on the soles of my shoes.

The reception started with a sit-down dinner. The band played during dinner. As soon as dinner finished, bridal party and immediate family got up for Greek dancing.

Shortly after bridal party is dancing, members will usually reach out to guests and encourage them to dance, and then guests can join in with dancing.

It may well be different in Greece and perhaps in other parts of the US, but this was my experience a gazillion years ago. LOL.
 
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I had bridesmaids and groomsmen at my GO wedding, and every one I've attended (lots) had them. This is in the US. Perhaps it's not done that way in Greece.

Guests were seated in church when bridesmaids walked in and then bride is escorted down the aisle by her father.

In the US the priest typicaly prompts bride and groom to kiss at the end of marriage ceremony.

There were no names written on the soles of my shoes.

The reception started with a sit-down dinner. The band played during dinner. As soon as dinner finished, bridal party and immediate family got up for Greek dancing.

Shortly after bridal party is dancing, members will usually reach out to guests and encourage them to dance, and then guests can join in with dancing.

It may well be different in Greece and perhaps in other parts of the US, but this was my experience a gazillion years ago. LOL.
Your answer doesn't answer the original question " what are some if the traditions that can be expected at Greek weddings in Greece", not Greek American weddings. What you said is fairly common in America. What I talked about is only done by Greeks in Greece or is very specific to Greece,. Even in America, the kiss isn't necessary. In the Orthodox church, the kiss doesn't make the bride and groom married, it's walking around the table 3 times that does. Kissing is something that is traditional in America, so all weddings have a kiss at the end.

Anyway, another tradition (old tradition) is the bride is led to the church by a band playing a wedding song. The bride follows behind the band with her dad and her family walks behind her up until they meet the groom waiting at the front of the church where the dad hands her to the groom.

My wife and I are in our early 30s and this is what happened at our wedding last year (in Greece; she was born and raised in Greece and I'm Greek-American). I wanted to make it more traditional by wearing outfits from our villages, but she threatened to not show up... haha

Another thing Americans will find unique is that there is no dress code at Greek weddings (in Greece). You can wear whatever you want - it's not uncommon to see some people in shorts and others in suits.. people will be all over the spectrum with how formal/informal they are, and you can't tell people what to wear because it is considered rude. There is also no wedding rehearsal or rehearsal dinner either.
 
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Greek weddings are rich with traditions that make the ceremonies unique and unforgettable. The customs you've already mentioned are definitely part of the mix, but there are a few more you might encounter:

The Koumbaro or Koumbara: This is the Greek equivalent of the best man or maid of honor, and their role is integral in the ceremony, even exchanging the wedding crowns between the bride and the groom.
Stefana Crowns: Connected by a single ribbon, these crowns symbolize the couple's unity.

Since you're going to be a guest, you might be thinking about how to dress appropriately for such an occasion. If you're inclined to take the formal route, https://www.gentlemansguru.com/product-category/wedding-tuxedos/ has an exceptional range of wedding tuxedos that could make you fit right in, in the most stylish way possible.
 
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Greek weddings are rich with traditions that make the ceremonies unique and unforgettable. The customs you've already mentioned are definitely part of the mix, but there are a few more you might encounter:

The Koumbaro or Koumbara: This is the Greek equivalent of the best man or maid of honor, and their role is integral in the ceremony, even exchanging the wedding crowns between the bride and the groom.

Stefana Crowns: Connected by a single ribbon, these crowns symbolize the couple's unity.

I'm not sure how I forgot any of this.

In Greece, traditionally, your koubaros/koubara also become the godparent(s) for your future kids.
 
Wow, this has been so helpful - thank you for all of your thoughtful responses. I have a clear idea of what to expect!
 

Thinking about the Greek way of hospitality...

I thought I would ask your thoughts oh Philoxenia - or the Greek way, or art, of hospitality. I noticed this when I travel in Greece. People are so kind, they often go out of the way for us, when I feel that they don't have to! How can one describe this to someone?

From what I understand, Philoxenia is not merely a practice but a deeply ingrained value within Greek culture that extends far beyond the simple act of hosting. It reflects a genuine, heartfelt welcome to strangers, treating them with the same respect and generosity one would show to a dearly beloved friend. This beautiful tradition, passed down through generations, turns the act of hosting into an art form, embodying warmth, respect, and a profound sense of human compassion. There have been so many stories I can think of...

This thought process was triggered because we were watching My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 - someone in the village had taken on a Syrian refugee. Is this a Greek hospitality thing? Philoxenia?

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.

Netflix Show about Alexander the Great

I just noticed there was a show about Alexander the Great on Netflix. How is it?

I have been noticing some buzz that it's fairly controversial, but those who are unhappy about it ... I can't tell if they actually know about him, or if they are just upset about how he was depicted.

I am trying to figure out if I want to watch it so your honest reviews are welcome.

I have studied Alexander the Great a little bit and no a bit about his life, so I am sincerely hoping it's worth my time. I am between shows at the moment.

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.

Greek Naming Traditions?

I have noticed that in Greece, there are some traditions associated with naming their children. Although some Greek families in the United States have done this, many have seemed to lose the traditions.

Does anyone know what some of these traditions are? I am helping a friend name his upcoming child... Here's some of what I have learned:

1. Firstborn daughter names after maternal grandmother
2. Firstborn son named after paternal grandfather
3. Firstborn son named after father

Those are the ones I have figured out. I don't know what is traditional from Greece and what has just been made up amongst Greeks in the US.
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