The Greek Orthodox wedding tradition has been practiced for centuries and is quite different from other weddings performed around the world. The ceremony is very relaxed with photographs allowed at anytime. There are no vows exchanged just the presence of the couple in the church is recognized as proof of their love for each other. In a nice touch the groom and guests wait out the front of the church until the bride arrives before going inside.
Greek weddings contain three key traditions; each occurring three times, three represents the Trinity and thus eternity. The first involves the exchange of rings, the best man exchanges the rings three times between the bride and the groom. Next, the couple is crowned. Two crowns, each made of gold or twig are exchanged. The crowns are joined by single ribbon and are exchanged three times over. The ribbon represents the couple’s unity. And lastly the ceremonial walk, which represents the couple’s first steps together as a married couple. Guests are given an odd number of candied almonds, the odd number represents the couple’s combined strength and the almonds are a symbol of fertility.
