Wedding traditions in Greece are a vibrant mix of ancient customs and modern-day celebrations. At Glam Events, we’ve had the privilege of witnessing the magic of Greek weddings for years! With every celebration, we remember that these traditions are not just rituals—they’re a reflection of cultural values, love, and family. Planning a wedding in Greece, especially in Crete, is such a captivating experience. From the moment the engagement takes place to the joyful festivities of the wedding day, every aspect of a Greek wedding holds special significance.
Let us walk you through some of the most precious Greek wedding traditions.
6 Wedding Traditions in Greece
1. The Pre-Wedding Festivities: From Engagement to Preparation
Greek weddings traditionally begin well before the big day. After the engagement, a koumbaros (best man) or koumbara (maid of honor) is chosen, not just for their close relationship with the couple, but also to serve as a spiritual guide throughout the ceremony and marriage preparation.
In Crete, one unique custom is the “krevati” ceremony, or the decoration of the wedding bed. Though less common today, it’s still observed in rural areas and villages. On the eve of the wedding, friends and family gather to decorate the couple’s bed with rose petals, money, and even a baby—a symbolic blessing for fertility and prosperity. The event is joyful and lively, featuring music, dancing, and good wishes, and sets the tone for a celebratory wedding ahead.
2. Couple’s Preparation: Dressing the Bride and Groom
Greek weddings are rich in community spirit, and that extends to how the couple gets ready for their big day. The bride is traditionally surrounded by her mother and close female relatives, who help her into her wedding dress. This intimate moment is often accompanied by music, emotion, and shared joy.
The groom’s preparation is equally meaningful. Surrounded by male friends and family, he is ceremonially shaved and dressed, symbolizing his transition into married life. The scene is filled with lighthearted teasing, music, and sometimes a shot of raki, Crete’s traditional spirit, to ease any nerves. These cherished rituals are not just about getting dressed—they’re about love, tradition, and the strong bonds that support the couple as they begin their new journey together.
3. The Greek Orthodox Ceremony: A Spiritual Union
One of the most enduring wedding traditions in Greece is the Greek Orthodox ceremony, held in a church and rich with spiritual symbolism. Led by a priest, the ritual emphasizes the couple’s unity and the sanctity of their bond. The koumbaros or koumbara—the couple’s sponsor—plays an essential role once again, assisting in the exchange of the wedding rings and stefana (crowns). These crowns, connected by a ribbon to symbolize unity, are placed on the couple’s heads and exchanged three times, representing the joining of their lives.
The ceremony continues with the Dance of Isaiah, a moving ritual where the priest leads the couple three times around the altar while hymns are sung, marking their first steps together as husband and wife. As the newlyweds exit the church, guests throw rice, a joyful tradition symbolizing fertility, prosperity, and the hope for a fruitful life together. It’s a belief that as the rice rains down, it carries blessings and good fortune into the couple’s new beginning.
4. The Wedding Reception: A Feast of Life and Love
Cretan wedding receptions are famous for their warmth, abundance, and vibrant energy. Once the couple arrives, the celebration truly begins! With traditional Cretan cuisine, lively music, and dancing that often lasts until dawn, the reception is where modern elegance meets timeless tradition.
Guests are treated to beloved local delicacies like xerotigano (crispy sweet pastries) and antikristo (slow-roasted lamb), paired with generous pours of wine and raki, Crete’s signature spirit. Live music is a must—no Cretan wedding is complete without a band that gets everyone on their feet. At Glam Events, we make sure your reception is every bit as unforgettable as your ceremony. Whether you want to fully embrace Greek wedding customs or infuse the celebration with your style, we’ll craft an atmosphere that reflects your love story and leaves lasting memories for you and your guests.
5. The Kalosorisma: Welcoming Tradition in Greece
A uniquely heartfelt tradition in Cretan weddings is the kalosorisma, or welcoming of guests. As a gesture of hospitality and gratitude, the bride and groom personally greet each guest upon arrival, often offering a drink, such as wine or raki, to begin the celebration.
This warm welcome sets the tone for the entire event, emphasizing the importance of connection, community, and shared joy, core values at the heart of every Greek wedding.
6. Breaking Plates: Symbolizing Good Luck
Though less common today, the tradition of breaking plates still prevails at some modern Cretan weddings as a lively nod to Greek heritage. Historically, this act was to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits, adding an element of fun and symbolism to the celebration.
While some venues may have restrictions, at Glam Events, we find creative and safe ways to honor this beloved tradition, ensuring your guests enjoy the festive spirit without compromising safety or style.
Conclusion
To conclude, at Glam Events, we believe a wedding is more than just a celebration—it’s a meaningful journey that honors your love story and cultural roots. By thoughtfully blending wedding traditions in Greece with refined, personalized touches, we craft experiences that are as memorable as they are meaningful. Whether you envision a celebration rich in tradition or a modern event inspired by Greek charm, our team in Crete is here to bring your dream to life.
Let us help you create a wedding that beautifully balances timeless customs and contemporary elegance—an unforgettable day you and your guests will cherish forever.
Read our blogs HERE to find out everything you need to know about planning your wedding in Crete!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What services does Glam Events offer for weddings in Crete?
At Glam Events, we provide comprehensive wedding planning services, including venue selection, decoration, catering, floral arrangements, and entertainment.
2. Can you assist with destination weddings in Crete?
Of course! Don’t hesitate to reach out as we walk you through the entire process of planning your destination wedding in Crete.
3. How do you customize the wedding experience to fit our vision?
Our approach begins with a personal consultation where we discuss your ideas, preferences, and budget. We then create a tailored plan that includes theme design, color schemes, and specific traditions you want to incorporate. Our goal is to ensure your wedding reflects your style while embracing the rich cultural heritage of Greece.
4. What should we expect on the wedding day?
On your wedding day, our dedicated team will be there to oversee every detail, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Our team will handle it all so you can focus on enjoying your special day.
5. Do you have experience working with local vendors in Crete?
Yes, Glam Events has established relationships with a network of trusted local vendors, including caterers, florists, photographers, and musicians. We work closely with these professionals to ensure you receive the best service and quality, tailored to your wedding needs.
6. Can you accommodate dietary restrictions and special requests?
Absolutely! We believe that every guest should enjoy the celebration. Our catering partners can accommodate various dietary restrictions and special requests, ensuring a delicious and inclusive menu for everyone.
7. How far in advance should we start planning our wedding in Crete?
We recommend starting the planning process at least 12-18 months in advance, especially for destination weddings.
