Greek Wedding Traditions
Greek weddings are steeped in tradition and are often large and joyous affairs that celebrate love, family, and community. From the pre-wedding festivities to the wedding ceremony and reception, there are many unique customs and traditions that make Greek weddings a truly special occasion. Here are some of the most common Greek wedding traditions:
The Engagement
In Greek culture, the engagement period is a time for the families of the bride and groom to get to know each other and for the groom to ask the bride's parents for permission to marry their daughter. This is known as "krevati" or the "bedding ceremony." The groom and his family bring gifts to the bride's family and bless the bed where the couple will sleep on their wedding night.
The Wedding Ceremony
Greek wedding ceremonies are typically held in the Greek Orthodox Church and are steeped in religious tradition. The ceremony may include the exchange of rings, the crowning of the couple with wreaths, and the blessing of the marriage by a priest.
The Wedding Reception
The wedding reception is a lively and festive affair that often includes traditional music, dancing, and food. The bride and groom may perform a special dance known as the "kalamatianos" or the "tsamiko" to celebrate their union.
The Wedding Party
The wedding party is an important part of any Greek wedding. The bride and groom typically have several attendants, including bridesmaids and groomsmen, who help with the wedding preparations and participate in the ceremony.
The Wedding Dress
The bride's dress is typically a traditional Greek dress known as the "koumbaro" or the "gamos." The dress is often white and may be embroidered with intricate designs.
The Wedding Rings
Greek wedding rings are typically simple and made of gold. The rings may be engraved with the couple's names or a special message.
The Wedding Crowns
During the wedding ceremony, the couple is crowned with wreaths or crowns made of flowers and leaves. The crowns symbolize the unity and bond between the couple and their commitment to each other.
The Wedding Dance
At the reception, the bride and groom may perform a special dance known as the "kalamatianos" or the "tsamiko." This dance is often performed with family and friends and is a symbol of the couple's love and happiness.
The Breaking of the Plates
The breaking of plates is a popular tradition at Greek weddings. Guests will often throw plates on the ground to bring good luck to the couple and to ward off evil spirits.
In conclusion, Greek weddings are rich in tradition and are a celebration of love, family, and community. From the engagement period to the wedding ceremony and reception, there are many unique customs and traditions that make Greek weddings a truly special occasion. These traditions reflect the values of Greek culture and symbolize the commitment and love between the bride and groom.