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nm1999

Active member
I'm going to a Greek wedding this summer as someone's plus one, and I really have no idea how to dress for the wedding. My date isn't really giving me a lot of advice, and she doesn't usually go to a lot of Greek weddings herself, so I'm a bit clueless. If anyone could give me advice on how formal Greek weddings usually are, I would really appreciate it.
 
Is the wedding in Greece? If so, then there is no dress code, it's anything goes - men will be in jeans and a polo/dress shirt, khakis and a polo/dress shirt, most will not have dress shoes on, and kids might be in shorts. Most men will probably have on some khakis and a dress shirt. The bride and groom's dad may have on a suit. If I had to give you a dress code then it's "cocktail" at most. Women tend to wear cocktail attire. The reason your date isn't helping is because he/she doesn't know because the wedding couple doesn't tell people a dress code because it's considered rude.. It's almost like saying "I don't trust you to dress well enough for my wedding, so here is what you're going to wear so you don't embarrass me".

If the wedding is outside of Greece in the USA, then there will typically be a dress code on the card... I'd wear a suit and tie.

I won't talk to other countries because I don't know wedding dress codes there.
 
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I suggest cocktail attire as well...but it all depends on if you prefer to be overdressed or underdressed. You can play it safe and overdress (suit and tie) or if you don't mind, you could also wear a dress shirt, slacks, and dress shoes. The time of the wedding and location may also give you a hint to how formal or informal it is. If the wedding is outside it will definitely be more casual.
 
I would wear cocktail attire, as well. It is much better to be overdressed than underdressed, as people perceive dressing well as a sign of respect. I'd rather be the only dressed up one in the room than the only casually dressed one. So, when I have no idea what to ear to a wedding, I default to wearing a standard cocktail dress, no matter the situation (unless the dress code is specified on the invitation - it often is). So, double check the invitation and if the dress code isn't on it, my vote is cocktail attire.
 

How to choose godparents?

I'm currently planning a baptism for a child in the Greek Orthodox Church and finding myself at a bit of a crossroads. One of the most significant decisions we're facing is choosing the right godparents. I understand that in our tradition, the role of a godparent is not only a great honor but also carries profound spiritual and moral responsibilities. They are to guide the child in the Orthodox faith, ensuring they grow in the church and its teachings.

How do you choose? I have a few candidates and am trying to narrow it down.

Where did plate smashing come from?

When Greeks feel happy and are dancing and have a good time, they've been known to smash plates. I've seen it! It's not just a tourist thing - but they don't do it much because I am sure they won't want to smash their expensive dish wear.

I was just at a wedding and they had purchased plates to smash - so basically they were cheap throwaway plates that actually smashed really well. I almost wonder if they were made for the purpose...

It got me thinking - where did this tradition come from? Does anyone know?

Appropriate clothing for Holy Week services?

I was going to wear a floral dress to the service on Good Friday - I pretty much always do - and someone made a comment that they didn't think it's appropriate because it is a service of mourning.

You know, I guess that makes sense - but I haven't that much of it. What are your thoughts on it? I ended up choosing an outfit that looked a little more somber.

I am curious about the best things to wear through Holy Week! I am assuming the really spring-like colors are best on Pascha?

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- Brunch - We do this if it falls on a weekend.
- Dinner - Going out to dinner is great any time of the year!
- Journaling - We've done family journaling parties, sitting together reflecting on the month. Sometimes we read aloud what we write (depends how the month went LOL)
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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.
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

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