The Family Gathering
In Greek culture, the wedding day begins with more than just getting ready - it's a celebration from the very start. Before the ceremony, both the bride and the groom host traditional family gatherings at their respective family homes (or wherever they are staying). These are joyful, meaningful events filled with music, family, blessings, and customs that go back generations
At the Bride's House
The bride gets ready surrounded by female relatives, close friends, and bridesmaids. This part of the day is all about love, preparation, and symbolic gestures:
Dressing the Bride
"Dressing the Bride" Ritual: Traditionally, the bride is helped into her dress by her female relatives. Each single female relative or friend adds a piece of the bridal outfit onto the bride. The shoes are br brought by the Koumparo as a gift from the groom, he then puts the shoes on the bride.
Blessings
Female relatives may give the bride their blessings, often with traditional expressions or lighthearted advice.
Names in the Shoe
The names of the single women attending are written on the sole of the bride’s shoe. After the wedding, whichever names are worn off are said to be the next to marry!
Live Music
Musicians come to the house to play traditional songs while the bride gets ready. It’s a festive atmosphere with singing and food. Once the bride is ready she is presented to the family and traditional dancing commences before departing to the church.
At the Groom's House
At the same time, the groom is also surrounded by family and friends, usually with a more boisterous energy!
Shaving of the Groom
A symbolic moment where the Koumparo shaves the groom as a gesture of trust and respect.
Music and Dancing:
Traditional musicians are often present here too, and it’s common to have dancing, food, drinks, and plenty of laughs.
Dressing the Groom:
The groom is helped into his wedding attire by close family members, including the Koumbaro.
The Bouquet and the March:
When the time comes, the groom sets off to the church with the bridal bouquet in hand, ready to greet the bride as she arrives.