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kcixcy

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I've never really been to a Greek baptism or a Greek wedding reception. I've heard a lot about the baptism itself and I'm aware of what happens at the ceremony (my friend is the godmother of the child), but I don't know much about the reception... what should I expect? And how should I dress? Do they tend to be formal or casual? The baptism reception that I am attending is being held in a banquet hall.
 
I've never really been to a Greek baptism or a Greek wedding reception. I've heard a lot about the baptism itself and I'm aware of what happens at the ceremony (my friend is the godmother of the child), but I don't know much about the reception... what should I expect? And how should I dress? Do they tend to be formal or casual? The baptism reception that I am attending is being held in a banquet hall.
It pretty much consists of dinner and dancing...thats about it ahaha
 
I've never really been to a Greek baptism or a Greek wedding reception. I've heard a lot about the baptism itself and I'm aware of what happens at the ceremony (my friend is the godmother of the child), but I don't know much about the reception... what should I expect? And how should I dress? Do they tend to be formal or casual? The baptism reception that I am attending is being held in a banquet hall.
We do dress up for church and the reception follows the ceremony so you will be dressed up. The celebration is like a shower. You naturally eat a meal, bring gifts, and ooh and ahh at the baby. Enjoy....
 
We do dress up for church and the reception follows the ceremony so you will be dressed up. The celebration is like a shower. You naturally eat a meal, bring gifts, and ooh and ahh at the baby. Enjoy....
Oohing and ahing at the baby is my favorite part!
 
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I've never really been to a Greek baptism or a Greek wedding reception. I've heard a lot about the baptism itself and I'm aware of what happens at the ceremony (my friend is the godmother of the child), but I don't know much about the reception... what should I expect? And how should I dress? Do they tend to be formal or casual? The baptism reception that I am attending is being held in a banquet hall.
You will enjoy it for sure.... lovely ceremony, prayers for all,the little one being bathed in holy water and olive oil I think?....
And of course the oohing and ahhing from the baby!...lots of presents and goodies all around.... Celebrations,fun and Greek dancing.. Kalley Mera!
 
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A baptism reception is similar to a wedding reception, it is a celebration after the ceremony which happens in a church :)
 
I would say dress in similar clothes as you would going to church in your "Sunday best" but a little more elevated to that ... Greeks dress "To the Nines". The reception is often at a function hall, local restaurant, or someone's home or in the church hall. No matter where the reception is, you should dress as you would for a day wedding.
 

Ideas for Celebrating the New Month - Kalo Mina

Growing up, I heard my family say this all the time when there was a new month. I finally started paying attention to the tradition and ritual of saying it.

Kalo Mina actually means "Good Month" but my family took it a step further. We developed the habit of doing something special as a family to celebrate.It depends which day it falls. Some things we've done:

- 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)
- Goals - No matter if we do anything, like go out to dinner or brunch, we always sit and review our goals for the month together.

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?

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.

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?

Greek Name Days Celebrations

I have been encouraging my family and friends to let me know when their name days are. I know for my immediate family, of course, but I want to start honoring name days in addition to birthdays like they do in Greece.

But aside from wishing someone Chronia Polla, or happy name day, what else can we do? How do people in Greece celebrate? Is it much like a birthday?
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

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