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’re reminded that these traditions are not just rituals—they’re a reflection of deep-rooted 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 cherished Greek wedding traditions that make getting married in Crete truly unique.
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1. The Pre-Wedding Festivities: From Engagement to Preparation
First of all, Greek weddings often begin long before the wedding day. After the engagement, a koumbaros (best man) or koumbara (maid of honor) play a central role in the ceremony and preparations. Specifically, this close friend or family member is not only chosen for their closeness to the couple, but also to act as a spiritual guide.
In Crete, one unique pre-wedding tradition is the “krevati” or wedding bed ceremony. While less common today, this custom might still be followed in rural areas and villages. On the eve of the wedding, the couple’s bed is decorated with rose petals, money and often a baby (symbolizing fertility). This joyful event is filled with laughter, dancing and music, as loved ones gather to wish the couple prosperity and many children.
2. The Bridal Preparation: Dressing the Bride and Groom
Greek weddings are all about community, and that extends to the bride and groom getting ready. Specifically, it’s common for friends and family to help them dress and get ready for the big day. For the bride, the process is particularly emotional, as her mother and close female relatives assist her in putting on her wedding dress, often accompanied by music.
The groom is no less celebrated. His close friends and male relatives will shave and dress him, symbolizing his transition into his new life. It’s a communal activity, filled with teasing, music and sometimes a shot of raki (a traditional Cretan drink) to steady the nerves!
3. The Greek Orthodox Ceremony: A Spiritual Union
One of the oldest wedding traditions in Greece is the wedding ceremony itself, which takes place in a Greek Orthodox church. During the ceremony, the priest conducts rituals that symbolize the couple’s unity, highlighting the sacred bond they are forming.
The koumbaros or koumbara is once again an integral part of the ceremony, helping to exchange the wedding rings and crowns (known as stefana). The stefana are connected with a ribbon, symbolizing the couple’s union, and are exchanged over the bride and groom’s heads three times, representing their new life as one.
Then, the couple is led three times around the altar by the priest while hymns are sung. This ritual, called the Dance of Isaiah, signifies their journey together. After the couple exits the church, guests throw rice to celebrate their union and wish them fertility and prosperity. Furthermore, it is believed that as the rice rains down, it brings blessings upon the couple, encouraging a fruitful and happy life together.
4. The Wedding Reception: A Feast of Life and Love
Cretan wedding receptions are famous for their warmth, abundance and energy. Once the couple arrives at the reception, the real party begins! From traditional Cretan dishes to dancing that can last all night, the reception is where modern luxury meets timeless traditions.
Guests will most likely enjoy Cretan delicacies like xerotigano (sweet treats) and antikristo (slow-roasted lamb) along with wine and raki. Music is a key element, and no Cretan wedding is complete without a live band.
At Glam Events, we ensure that your wedding reception is as memorable as the ceremony itself, tailoring every detail to reflect your vision. Whether you want to embrace all aspects wedding traditions in Greece or add modern, personal touches, we work with you to create an atmosphere that celebrates love in all its forms.
5. The Kalosorisma: Welcoming Guests
A unique aspect of Cretan weddings is the kalosorisma, the welcoming of guests. It’s customary for the bride and groom to greet every guest personally upon their arrival and share drinks.
6. Breaking Plates: Symbolizing Good Luck
While it might not be as common as it once was, the tradition of breaking plates at Greek weddings still happens in modern Cretan weddings. Since old times, Greeks believe that it brings good luck and drives away bad spirits. Also, it shows that happiness and wealth should be shared freely. Though some venues may limit this practice, we can always find creative ways to keep this festive tradition alive, ensuring your guests have a blast!
Celebrate Your Love, the Greek Way!
At Glam Events, we understand that a wedding is more than just a day—it’s a celebration of heritage, love and the future. By weaving together these time-honored wedding traditions in Greece with personalized, luxurious touches, we create unforgettable moments for every couple.
Whether you dream of a wedding steeped in tradition or one that’s uniquely yours with a Greek twist, Glam Events in Crete is here to bring your vision to life. Let’s craft a wedding experience that blends timeless customs with modern elegance, making your special day one that you and your guests will treasure forever.
CLICK HERE to contact us today to start planning your dream wedding!
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?
Absolutely! 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.
