The Greek Orthodox Ceremony
We are so excited to share a special part of our heritage with you — a traditional Greek Orthodox wedding ceremony, rich in symbolism, history, and love.
We know many of you may be unfamiliar with this type of service, so here’s a little guide on what to expect.
What is a Greek Orthodox Wedding?
A Greek Orthodox wedding is a deeply spiritual and symbolic ceremony that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. It’s less about exchanging vows and more about sacred rituals that represent the joining of two souls and their new life together, blessed by God.
Before the Ceremony
There are a few beautiful traditions that happen before the ceremony begins.
The Groom Waits Outside the Church
The groom will be waiting just outside the church entrance holding the bridal bouquet, ready to give it to the bride as she arrives. This is a traditional gesture of honour and affection - and a moment filled with anticipation!
Guests Gather Outside
Traditionally, guests wait outside the church and follow the couple in once they are united at the entrance. This creates a beautiful sense of community as everyone enters together to witness the ceremony.
Seating in the Church
There is no seating plan, and you are welcome to sit wherever you like. Traditionally, women stood on the left and men on the right, but this custom is not followed during weddings. Seating is limited, so many guests may stand, which is completely normal in Greek churches.
The Bride is Accompanied by Her Father
The bride arrives with her father, who walks her to the groom. He then symbolically gives her away, offering a blessing before the couple enters the church together.
Feel Free to Explore
The church has an open-door policy, so if you'd like to look around the space before or after the ceremony, you are very welcome to. Greek Orthodox churches are rich with iconography and tradition - we encourage you to take it in at your own pace.
The Structure of the Ceremony
The service lasts about 45 minutes.
The Betrothal (Engagement) Ceremony
The priest blesses and exchanges our rings, placing them on our right hands (the traditional hand of blessing in Orthodoxy).
Who is the Koumpara/Koumparos?
In Greek tradition, the couple is supported by a spiritual sponsor:
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In our case, this is Nikos (Koumparos) and Maria (Koumpara).
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Their role is a great honour - like a godparent to the marriage - and they’ll assist with the crowns, rings, and ceremony walk.
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They are a lifelong guide and supporter of our marriage, both spiritually and personally.
The Crowning Ceremony (Marriage Service)
This is the most symbolic part of the wedding and includes the crowning, common cup, and ceremonial walk - all rich in meaning and beauty.
After the Ceremony
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Congratulations in the Church
After the ceremony concludes, guests are invited to come up to the front of the church to congratulate the newlyweds. Once all the guests are outside, the bride and groom will exit the church together, and you’ll take part in a beloved Greek tradition - throwing rice! A symbolic gesture that wishes the couple prosperity, fertility, and happiness.
What Do Guests Need to Do?
You don’t need to take part in the rituals - just enjoy the moment and celebrate with us.
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Most guests stand throughout the ceremony, there are no strict rules to follow. Stand or sit, its up to you!
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Photos: Please avoid taking photos during the ceremony itself - we’ll share plenty afterwards!
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Dress code: Please dress modestly for the church - covered legs and shoulders are a good guide for both men and women.