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GREEK-AMERICAN
Weddings FEBRUARY 10, 2018
The National Herald
TH
LD
NA RA
www.thenationalherald.com
E
TIO E
N AL H
2 Greek American Weddings THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 10, 2018
The National Herald
A weekly publication of the
NATIONAL HERALD, INC.
(ΕΘΝΙΚΟΣ ΚΗΡΥΞ), reporting the
news
and addressing the issues of
paramount interest
to the Greek American
community of the United States
of America.
Publisher-Editor
Antonis H. Diamataris
Assistant to Publisher, Advertising
Veta H. Diamataris
Papadopoulos
Special Section Editor Eleni
Sakellis
Production Manager Chrysoula
Karametros
37-10 30th Street, Long Island City,
NY 11101-2614
Tel: (718)784-5255 • Fax:
(718)472-0510
e-mail:
english.edition@thenationalherald.com
Democritou 1 and Academias Sts,
Athens, 10671, Greece
Tel: 011.30.210.3614.598 • Fax:
011.30.210.3643.776
e-mail: athens@ekirikas.com
Greek-American Weddings
By Eleni Sakellis said “no children allowed.” Where would they leave mom is helping already, or maybe not, your cousins
them when everyone they know who could babysit and friends who have already tied the knot are
Welcome to The National Herald’s annual Greek- will be at the wedding? probably very knowledgeable on the subject. Get their
American Weddings special issue! We hope you enjoy Family is vital to a Greek wedding, which is why advice over coffee, borrow their wedding planning
the articles and information we have gathered for you mothers and daughters fuss over the guest list and the binder, you know which friend has one, and if needed,
and wish those couples planning their big day all the seating arrangements. Do you really want to hear hire a professional wedding planner. There is a wealth
best for a long and happy life together! The Greek complaints from your theia about where she sat at the of information available online and in TNH as well. A
wedding and all its traditions celebrate love, life, wedding? Just keep in mind that you will hear those glance through the archive of our weddings special
faith, and family. same complaints at every family gathering for the issues will show how some things have changed and
next twenty years at least, if not longer, God willing. others have stayed the same in planning a wedding.
Those of us from the average, usually large, Greek The church, the reception hall, the food, the music, What remains constant is the love that brings the
family will undoubtedly have attended numerous the decor, the dress, every little aspect of the wedding happy couple together in the first place.
weddings throughout a lifetime. We may take for day can add up to a lot of stress for the happy couple, Above all, take a moment to appreciate how truly
granted the ceremony and tradition that make Greek mostly the bride, but with some forethought, and a blessed you are to have found the person you will
weddings so special. I recall being shocked and few ideas from TNH, we hope to ease some of the spend the rest of your life with. Your family and
saddened to hear that one of my classmates (non- burden. friends are also there to share in your happiness, so
Greek) had never attended a wedding in her life at While it can be hectic, we hope you enjoy the process make sure to thank them. Time spent with your loved
the ripe old age of 12 or 13. By that age, most Greek- of planning the wedding as much as possible. Keeping ones is always precious. The close personal
Americans have been to at least three or four things in perspective can help. Remember, you are not relationships we share are what make life truly worth
weddings and have probably participated as a flower the first or the last person to get married, and very living, so remember to make some happy memories
girl or ringbearer in at least one or two. Most Greeks few people plan an entire wedding on their own. Ask on your special day and throughout your lifetime.
would never imagine sending out an invitation that questions and ask for help when you need it. Whether We wish you all the best!
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4 Greek American Weddings THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 10, 2018
Greek Wedding Traditions
By Eleni Sakellis ter the bride is ready, includes wrapping a red
sash around the bride’s waist for fertility while
The Greek wedding has taken on mythic pro- music is played and all her relatives give her a
portions in the popular imagination worldwide, blessing. The red sash is also draped around the
thanks in no small part to the film My Big Fat groom’s waist at his house, and then the kapnistiri
Greek Wedding, even if it is nearing sixteen years takes place during which a censor is used to bless
since its release. the bride and groom.
Greek-Americans have done their part in ex- When the bride is about to exit her parent's
panding the idea of the Greek wedding in all its home, her parents break a large wedding pretzel
grandeur, from the huge guest list to the impres- or “nifopsomo” over her head and give all those
sive reception menu, but the traditional aspects in attendance a piece so they can wish all the
of the Greek wedding are what make it truly best to the bride for a happy marriage, health,
unique and special. Those of us from the average, and wealth.
usually large, Greek family will undoubtedly have In many regions of Greece, a procession to the
attended numerous weddings throughout a single church takes place with traditional songs per-
lifetime. I recall being shocked and saddened to formed for the bride and her family and the
hear that one of my classmates (non-Greek) had groom and his family along the way. A band some-
never attended a wedding in her life at the ripe times escorts the bride to the church and everyone
old age of 12 or 13. By that age, most Greek- in the community follows and dances all the way
Americans have been to at least three or four to the church. Traditionally, the groom waits out-
weddings and have probably participated as a side of the church for the bride’s arrival and then
flower girl or ring bearer in at least one or two. gives her the bouquet before they walk down the
There a lot of Greek wedding traditions and from aisle together. The father of the bride or her
one region to the next, there are many variations. brother gives the bride away to the groom outside
The traditional music varies, too, who has at- the church.
tended several Greek weddings of those from var- The wedding ceremony begins with the bless-
ious parts of the country will attest. ing of the couple’s engagement and the rings. As
The traditions actually begin well before the noted in Manhattan Bride, “The betrothal service
bride and groom have even met. The tradition of recognizes the engagement of the couple by the
the prika, or dowry, begins with the mother of church and includes the priest’s blessing of the
Among the traditions: “The stefana, or crowns, are
the bride buying items or making them by hand rings. He also alternately blesses the bride and
for her daughter’s future wedding, linens, cloth- groom three times.”
ing, household items, and usually storing them
in a large chest over the course of many years. In linked with a ribbon that symbolizes the union of As noted on nvphotographers.com, “The ste-
fana, or crowns, are linked with a ribbon that
the past, young women showed off their skills in
embroidery and other crafts in the items they two people into a married couple" symbolizes the union of two people into a married
couple and are placed on a table in front of the
made by hand for their dowry. Today, most of the bridegroom, along with the Bible, the wine, and
items a bride needs are purchased. the rings.
In the past, engagement rings in Greece were wed. Sunday is traditionally the preferred day for make the bed at the soon-to-be husband and “The koumbaro or koumbara exchanges the
usually not the diamond solitaire type we associ- weddings, but more and more couples choose wife’s house for good luck and fertility. After the rings three times and swaps the stefana three
ate with them today. The Greek engagement ring Saturday, and some now even choose to marry bed is made, flowers, money, and koufeta are times, before he places them on the couple's
was a gold band worn on the left ring finger after on weekdays. The Thursday before the Sunday thrown on top, and finally a baby is also set on heads. This is a physical demonstration of their
the engagement blessing and then the same ring wedding was when the dowry or prika was deliv- top of the bed. Whether it’s a baby girl or boy spiritual bonding (the couple and koumbari).”
served as the wedding ring, moved from the left ered to the couple’s soon-to-be home. In the days will supposedly determine what the firstborn child When the priest begins the wedding blessings,
to the right hand during the appropriate moment leading up to the delivery, it was a custom for the will be. The preference is traditionally for a baby he joins the couple’s right hands. Then the priest
of the wedding ceremony. In some villages, the dowry to be on display in the bride’s parents’ boy. In some regions, rice is also thrown on top blesses the stefana blessing, reads the Gospel of
engagement is still an important separate cere- home so visitors could admire it wish the bride of the bed. the Wedding in Cana (Jesus' first miracle), then
mony, though it is also how the wedding service well in her marriage. The dowry is no longer com- On the day of the wedding, the koumbaro or pours wine into a single cup or glass, and gives it
begins, but more on that later. mon, but in many places where Greeks have set- best man shaves the groom as part of the dressing to the couple to take three sips each from it. The
Setting the date is another aspect of the tradi- tled, the parents of the bride sometimes give the for the wedding tradition. Meanwhile at the couple drinking from a single glass symbolizes
tional Greek wedding that should not be over- gift of a house or help with buying a house which bride’s home, her maid of honor or koumbara their commitment to sharing their life and expe-
looked if you’re planning a church wedding. There has, to some extent, come to replace the dowry leads the bridesmaids in helping the bride dress riences for the rest of their days.
are certain times of the year when weddings are of the past. for the wedding. In some regions, the names of The Greek Orthodox wedding ceremony has
not performed at all, namely during fasting peri- Choosing the koumbaro and koumbara who the single bridesmaids are written on the soles of remained the same since the 11th century. “It is a
ods like Great Lent, the two weeks before the are “sponsors” of the wedding is another Greek the bride’s shoes and the names that are worn off ‘blessed union’ that implies this must be a per-
Dormition of the Theotokos on August 15, August tradition. The groom’s godparent is asked first, by the end of the night are those of the ladies manent union,” said Fr. Robert Stephanopoulos,
29- the commemoration of the beheading of St. then the bride’s godparent, if they decline or sim- next to be married. Dean Emeritus Archdiocesan Cathedral of the
John the Baptist, September 14- the Elevation of ply cannot do it, close friends and family are then Another shoe related custom is that the groom Holy Trinity, as reported in Manhattan Bride.
the Holy Cross, and the 40 days leading up to asked. The role is a serious one since the koum- is supposed to buy the bride’s shoes for the wed- The two parts of the Greek Orthodox wedding
Christmas. baro and koumbara participate in the wedding ding day. Either he or the koumbaro or best man service are the betrothal and the marriage service.
In ancient times, January was considered the ceremony and then are expected to baptize the delivers the shoes and the bride is supposed to A small table on which a special tray is placed
best month to marry since it was the month ded- couple’s first child, a huge responsibility. pretend that they are too big and don’t fit her. with the wedding crowns, betrothal rings, can-
icated to the goddess of marriage and fertility, Another tradition usually a few days before The koumbaro then places coins in the shoes for dles, goblet of sanctified wine, and the book of
Hera. The Roman version of Hera is Juno, which the wedding is the making of the marital bed. good luck and to help them, supposedly, fit better.
made her month of June the preferred month to The family and friends are invited to a party to The Cypriot tradition is called stolisma and af- Continued on page 13
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TΝΗ Tracks the Top Wedding
TNH Staff
Though many brides choose a traditional style for their wedding, it can be fun and memorable to incorporate some of the current trends into
the celebration. The National Herald searched through the top wedding trends for 2018 to compile the following list of ideas you might want
to use for the big day.
Colorful Florals
F loral arrangements are going colorful in 2018 with
dramatic shades and textures adding interest to
centerpieces, decorations, and bouquets. Dramatic color
palettes are a big trend this year with darker hues including
shades of purple and increased use of greenery taking center
stage.
Potted
Plants and Texture and Destination
Green, Translucent Weddings
Living Bars T he linens at most weddings can be a little boring with
white or off-white being the obvious choices. Textured
T he trend continues, but more and more couples are
embracing the local traditions at their destination
linens, featuring laser-cut designs are a great way to
A s an alternative to cut flowers, think about decorating the
aisle with potted plants that can be donated to the church
or given away to guests at the end of the ceremony. Wrap the
personalize the look of the reception. Translucent decorations
are also a trend this year with see-through elements and clear
weddings. Greek weddings feature many traditions you might
want to incorporate into your destination wedding in Greece,
including the procession to the church with live music and the
tents bringing light and clean design to the modern wedding.
pots with fabric to blend seamlessly into the décor for the traditional wedding songs. Some regions of Greece also have
wedding, and/or tie a bow around the pots for a pretty effect. pinning money to the bride, or the bride and groom, traditions,
The green, living bar trend brings a touch of nature to the bar but don’t worry about ruining your dress; the money is usually
area where the bar itself can be covered with greenery, living pinned to the other bills, making a sort of chain or money
plants or vines. A simple bar cart can be transformed with necklace for the bride and the groom.
fresh plants or bushes and painted latticework.
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THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 10, 2018 Greek American Weddings 9
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10 Greek American Weddings THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 10, 2018
Wedding Dress, Hair, and Makeup Trends for 2018
TNH Staff Classic looks for wedding
hair styles include updos and
The trends in wedding half updos which are always in
dresses for Fall 2018 seem to style, though today’s updates
be continuing the trends from on the classics add texture for
last year, but on a new level. a more casual updo. Chic pony
Capes made an appearance last tails are also a trend this year
year, in the form of the capelet, that might work with your
and the trend continues with individual style and Greek-
princess capes. Jackets are a inspired goddess looks can
trend this year with special incorporate elements of the
emphasis on moto jackets for casual updo or half up, half
the bride in a variety of fabrics down looks plus accessories
from lace to leather. woven into a loose braid or
The very flattering off-the- bun. Beachy waves and loose
shoulder look is still going braids, and floral accents can
strong with designers creating create a romantic look for the
new looks with various sleeve bride.
options including ones that
detach which give the off-the- Among the makeup trends
shoulder look to a dress that is, for 2018 are glossy lips, pink
in fact, completely strapless.
Poof sleeves and bell sleeves
were also seen on the runways.
As for lengths in 2018, tea-
length gowns offer a ladylike
choice designed by Ellie Saab,
Savannah Miller, and Oleg
Cassini, among many others.
The trend is a classic
reinvented with a whimsical
touch for the modern bride. If
the midi-length is not for you,
shorts have also made an
appearance on the runways for
the fashion-forward bride.
Pants by various designers
including Monique Lhuillier, only options. While black,
Lela Rose, Hayley Paige, Justin navy, and grey suits are classic,
Alexander, and Victor & Rolf modern grooms are choosing
Mariage, may be perfect look more colors for the big day.
for the chic city hall wedding. Among the colors the grooms
High-low hems, miniskirts, and and groomsmen are choosing
shorts suits were also on the these days are burgundy, forest
runways for 2018. green, and even shades of
Shoulder bows are also in mauve. Textures including
for this year while many casual tweeds and herringbone
designers opted for sleek, patterns can add a distinct look
modern looks recalling the for the guys.
minimalism of the 1990’s.
Plunging v-necklines were also When it comes to hair for
big on the runways as well as the big day, make sure you lips, pearly shimmer for a dewy
side cutouts for the more consult with your stylist well in glow, earth tone eye makeup in
daring brides. advance and try out some test warm browns, and the “no
hairdos to make sure they makeup” makeup look which
In terms of color, the work with your dress and veil includes glowing skin, light
varying shades of blush are on or whatever hair accessories blush, and lip tints in nude
trend this year from peach to you may choose to wear. Try shades for a barely there
soft nude tones lending a not to experiment with a suggestion of color. Always
romantic look to wedding drastic change in hair color, start with clean, exfoliated,
dresses. Black accents for style, or cut at the last minute, and moisturized skin. The
wedding dresses, like a belt at since it can add unnecessary trends and the “natural” look
the waist, or a bow hanging stress if it doesn’t come out just may not work for everyone, so
down the back, or black opera right on your special day. The test it out with your makeup
gloves worn with traditional- same goes for makeup, too, artist, and remember that
style gowns also made an always try it out first with your minimal makeup with a pale
impression on the runways. makeup artist and try some colored dress can wash out the
test photos, too. The hair, bride, especially in the many
For men, the traditional suit makeup and dress should all photos and under different
colors and textures are not the work together. lighting conditions.
According to research:
Couples that read together...
stay together!
The National Herald
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Renaissance Event Hall’s Teresa Lisson Speaks to TNH
TNH Staff
The Renaissance Event Hall in Long Island
City, NY is a convenient location for events and
weddings, particularly in Queens. Located close
to Astoria and Manhattan, couples can enjoy their
reception without worrying about guests having
to travel long distances, especially when they
choose to have the ceremony in one of the many
churches in Astoria.
For those interested in outdoor photos, the
hall is also located near Astoria Park, Socrates
Sculpture Park, Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Free-
doms Park, and Gantry Plaza State Park for dra-
matic views.
Renaissance Event Hall was recognized in the
last three years (2015, 2016, and 2017) with Wed-
ding Wire’s “Bride’s Choice” and The Knot’s “Best
of Weddings” Awards. The National Herald spoke
with Teresa Lisson, Renaissance GM and partner,
for the latest information on the wedding venue.
TNH: What makes the Renaissance Event Hall
a good choice for a wedding?
TL: We host only one event at a time. Our
space is newly renovated and in summer 2018
we will also open our backyard for ceremonies.
TNH: How have weddings changed at the Re- Courtesy of renAissAnCe event HAll
naissance since the time you started until now? Interior views of the Renaissance Event Hall in Long Island City, NY.
TS: We used to have many inquiries for all-in-
clusive packages where the flowers, DJ, and pho-
tographers are included. Now a days the couples For couples interested in planning their wed- ceiling flanked by two spacious, yet cozy bal-
like to customize their event alone to give a per- ding at Renaissance Event Hall, appointments are conies. The perfect setting for any stylish event,
sonal touch to the special occasion. available 11:30am – 6:30pm, 7 days a week. A from a wedding ceremony, reception, to corporate
TNH: How many guests attend an average baby grand piano is available to rent by the hour functions, award dinners, fundraisers, filming,
wedding at your venue? to be played by a pianist the couple provides or photo shoots and fashion shows.”
TS: 125-400 guests. the Renaissance can provide the pianist as well, The 12,000 square foot wedding venue also
TNH: How far in advance should couples begin for an additional fee. features a full-service kitchen providing catering
planning their wedding at the Renaissance? As noted on the website, “Guests are greeted options for buffet and plated dinners, capacity
TS: It should be 9-12 months, however, we in the lobby bar, its simple elegance punctuated for parties up to 350 seated guests and 450 cock-
had couples book less than 3 months in advance by a baby grand piano. The room flows to a grace- tail guests, state-of-the-art audio visual system.
and they had a lovely celebration. I suggest if you fully curved staircase. Marble steps descend to The hall’s event coordinator and team can as-
have never planned any event before, give your- reveal the neoclassic decor of the main reception sist with the details. More information is available
self at least a year.. hall and hardwood dance floor below. The soaring at renaissanceventhall.com.
Get informed
www.thenationalherald.com12 Greek American Weddings THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 10, 2018
The Institution of Marriage
in Ancient Greece
By Eleni Sakellis evidence, and examples from Homer
specifically, suggest that it was
If planning your wedding is stressing you out, more common in ancient Greece
take a deep breath and be thankful you aren’t for a man to have one legal
living and planning that wedding in ancient wife, his “lawfully wedded
Greece. To say we’ve come a long way since wife,” and then keep a
then is a bit of an understatement when you concubine, or more than
learn a few facts about the institution of one concubine.
marriage in ancient Greece. Most people Girls were often
probably know that marriage was not viewed in married off in their
the romantic sense until very recently in human teens, at about age 14
history. It is only in about the last 150 years or to 16, to an older man,
so that the idea that people could or even who was often about
should marry for love has taken root in the 30. There were no
popular consciousness. Marriages in the past specific ages that
were mostly arranged by the parents of the people could marry,
persons to be married. Whether the bride and but generally parents
groom liked each other or not might make no waited until their was now the bride’s kyrios, taking over that
difference at all in the negotiations since they daughters were of title and duty from her father, as noted in
were marrying for practical reasons, continuing childbearing age until Robert Flaceliere’s Daily Life in Greece.
the family line, extending land holdings, or the arranged marriage If things did not work out for the married
securing alliances between families. Money would take place. In couple in ancient Greece, either the husband
more than romantic ideals was the deciding Sparta, women rarely or the wife could initiate a divorce, but the
factor in the arranged marriage. It was more a married before age 20, as husband had a much easier time of it. All a
business deal rather than the ending of a noted in the book Spartan husband had to do to divorce his wife was send
romantic comedy. Women by Sarah B. Pomeroy, her back to her father’s house along with her
Though each city-state in ancient times had which also points out that Spartan dowry. If the now-ex-husband did not return the
its own laws regarding marriage, most were girls were educated along with boys dowry, he would have to pay 18 percent interest
arranged by the parents, and lawmakers viewed and were allowed to go where they wedding on it every year, as Pomeroy wrote in Goddesses,
it as a duty of each person for the public pleased while Athenian women were rarely ceremony- Whores, Wives, and Slaves: Women in Classical
interest. The laws of Sparta were particularly seen outside the house. the epaulia. Ritual Antiquity.
specific on the point of marriage being to raise The bride’s dowry was a major factor in a bathing, offerings made to the Demosthenes noted that in case a wife was
legitimate children who would be healthy and man’s decision to wed, along with her expected goddesses Artemis and Aphrodite, and feasting discovered to have committed adultery, her
productive members of the state. There are fertility, and skills including weaving. Gifts were were part of the ceremonies along with an husband would have to divorce her or face
examples in the laws of Lycurgus of Sparta exchanged to show the approval of both families unveiling of the bride and the bride cutting a losing the right to vote. For a woman to initiate
requiring legal action against people who for the bride and groom and for their alliance. lock of her hair as a rite of passage. The a divorce, she had to appear before the archon
married too late in life, unsuitably, and even Winter weddings were very popular for the bathwater for the bride-to-be’s ritual bath was and because women could not be citizens of
against confirmed bachelors, as noted in ancient Greeks with January as the most brought in with the loutrophoros, a special Athens, a male relative had to represent her.
Plutarch’s Life of Lycurgus. popular month since it was sacred to Hera the ceramic vessel with two handles and an If a young woman was the only heir to her
Childbearing was so important in Sparta that goddess of marriage. Marrying during the full elongated neck. The ceramic vessel was also father’s estate, and she married but did not
Xenophon notes the suggestion that if a Spartan moon was also considered lucky for ancient placed in the tombs of unmarried people. Many produce a male heir with her husband, upon her
woman has no children with her husband, she Greek weddings. examples were found at the Kerameikon in father’s death, her closest male relative could
should be allowed to move in with another man. The Ancient Greek wedding ceremony lasted Athens, some of which are in the National force her to divorce her husband in order to
Extending the family line was a priority and it three days and indeed in some parts of Greece Archaeological Museum of Athens. marry him or another male relative and keep the
occasionally meant someone like Spartan King and Cyprus weddings can last three days even The feasts were held at the bride’s parents’ estate or property in the family. Demosthenes
Anaxandridas II could have two wives, in today depending on the customs of the local house and men would be served first, and once noted that in Athenian law, the father of the
separate homes, in spite of the fact that bigamy villages. The first day consisted of a pre- they finished eating, the women would be bride/heiress had the power to dispose of her in
was not a tradition in Sparta or in Hellenic wedding ceremony- the proaulia, followed by served. Once the bride stepped over the his will, as did a husband in his will for his
culture in general, as Herodotus noted in The the gamos- the actual wedding ceremony on the threshold into her husband’s home the marriage widow since even in death the husband was still
Histories, Book 6, chapter 39 and 40. The second day, and the third day was the post- was considered legally binding and the husband the rightful guardian of his widow.
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www4seasonsflorists.comTHE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 10, 2018 Greek American Weddings 13
Food Trends for Weddings and a Traditional Recipe
TNH Staff up the food on the spot. for dramatic wedding cakes are sonal touch to your cake. Gamopilafo cook until both the lamb or goat
Another trend in hors d’oeu- a big trend this year. Metallic Traditional foods for wed- and the chicken are done about
The trend in foods for wed- vres is mini-comfort foods in- touches like gold leaf and gold dings include koufeta (Jordan about one hour. Remove the
dings is more casual and per- cluding mini cheese and spinach dust create a stunning look for almonds) handed out to each • 2 pounds lamb or goat cooked meats from the pots and
sonalized. While signature cock- bites, tiny baked potato bites, wedding cakes. guest. The number of koufeta is • 1 whole chicken, 3-4 pounds set aside.
tails have long been a trend at bite-sized soft pretzels, mini lob- Looking good is only part of always an odd number, symbol- • 3 cups rice Measure five cups of the
wedding receptions, signature ster potpies, mini macaroni and the equation for the wedding izing the couple’s life together • 2 tablespoons Greek extra cooking liquid and place in a
foods are just starting to take cheese bites, mini ham and desserts and creating special fla- which cannot be divided in half virgin olive oil large deep pot. Add the rice,
off. His and hers entree options cheese rolls, and lasagna bites. vor combinations can be a great and will likely be bittersweet • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon lemon juice, salt and pepper to
can be a fun way to personalize Served in little individual way to personalize the cake. like the almonds coated in juice taste.
the menu. Signature appetizers ramekins, the appetizers look Chocolate and vanilla are classic sugar. • Greek sea salt to taste Cover the pot and allow to
named for the bride and groom adorable and taste delicious. but may seem a bit tame when Traditional Greek wedding • Freshly ground pepper to come to a boil, then reduce heat
can also add a personal touch While the guests are dancing compared to flavors like bour- cakes featured honey, sesame taste to medium low and simmer un-
to the cocktail hour. Presenta- the night away, instead of forc- bon and mocha. For fruit fla- seeds, and quince, symbolizing til the rice absorbs the liquid.
tion, something we hear about ing them off the dance floor for vors, figs are apparently very the couple’s commitment. Rinse the lamb or goat and Serve the rice with the meat im-
all the time in cooking competi- the cake, passed cake pops can hot as a garnish for wedding Cypriot glystarkes, a type of chicken in cool water. Place the mediately and enjoy with a driz-
tion shows, is another food be a fun way to enjoy dessert at cakes in 2018, though Greek bread is also traditionally served lamb in a pot and cover with zle of olive oil on top. The Cre-
trend for weddings. Make the the wedding reception. Colorful people have been onto the fig at weddings, hearkening back water. Place the chicken in a tan version includes goat’s milk
reception extra special with in- cakes are another trend in wed- trend since prehistoric times at to the ancient tradition of bread large deep pot and cover with butter sautéed and poured over
stallations of hors d’oeuvres ding foods, especially hand- least. at the wedding. Gamopilafo is water. Bring both pots to a boil, the top of the cooked rice at the
hanging dramatically, or foods painted desserts for an extra Whimsical cake designs can a traditional Greek wedding skimming any foam that may end of the cooking process. For
cooked on an open fire during special touch. add fun to the special event and food made with meat and rice. collect on top. added flavor, sprinkle with the
the reception or a chef plating Hand-painted floral elements cake toppers can also add a per- The recipe follows. Reduce heat to a simmer and grated cheese of your choice.
Greek Wedding Traditions
Continued from page 4 ued, “It recounts the wedding of than respect) her husband.” In which cannot be divided in half from the islands) like the peren- cases pretending not to hand
Cana in Galilee, where the first Greece, when the cantor reads and will likely be bittersweet like nial favorite “Tou Gamou” sung over items leading to attempts
the Gospels serves as the “mat- miracle of the New Testament that phrase, the attendees turn the almonds coated in sugar. by Yiannis Parios. at “stealing” an item from the
rimonial altar,” Manhattan Bride was performed and water was their attention to the bride's feet At the reception, the bride For some weddings, the tra- other side.
reported. turned into wine.” As the wine in case she steps with her right and groom dance dition of pinning money to the On Saturday night, usually
After the stefana are in place was drunk in Galilee, the bride foot on the groom’s left foot, first, fol- newlyweds’ clothing continues. the night before the wedding,
on the bride and groom’s heads, and groom take three sips each demonstrating who will ac- As the couple is dancing, guests gifts are given to the koumbaro
the dance of Isaiah takes place. from the same cup of wine, sym- tually be in charge dur- approach them, wishing the cou- and koumbara which in the past
The priest leads the couple for bolizing the sharing of every- ing the marriage. ple “Na zisete,” and pinning the included wine and a sheep or
their first walk together as man thing in their lives. In some areas of money to their clothes. The tra- goat and led to a feast with tra-
and wife around the table with The Dance of Isaiah, follows, Greece, the new- ditional wedding gift is cash and ditional wedding songs sung.
the koumbaro or koumbara fol- and then three hymns of praise lywed couple the “money dance” is often a The gifts for the koumbaro today
lowing the couple while holding are sung, asking blessings “to only leaves the means of gathering the vary widely, though the gamok-
the ribbon of the stefana. They grant you length of days, fair church after gift envelopes from oulouro, a decorated sweet
walk around the table three children, progress in life and giving the the guests during bread, continues to be a part of
times and when the priest re- faith,” as noted in Manhattan koumbara or the reception the gifts.
moves the stefana from the cou- Bride. koumbaro a and on their The drinking of raki or tsik-
ple's heads, he says “What God A final blessing is given by gift. The bride way out. oudia is part of the celebration
has joined together, let no man the priest, the stefana are re- and groom I n as are kserotigana, fried
put asunder.” moved, and the dismissal prayer and the wed- Crete, the dumplings with honey for
The reading of two passages concludes the ceremony. ding party line weddings dessert. The single guests are
from the Bible follows the ste- After the ceremony, the ste- up by the church include served honey and walnuts.
fana. The first reading is the fana are placed in a stefanothiki exit to receive the entire Roasted meats, lamb, goat,
Epistle of St. Paul to the Eph- that is placed in the couple’s bed- the congratu- community pork, and local favorites are tra-
esians, which emphasizes the room above their bed. Various lations of the and last for ditionally served at Greek wed-
union of the bride and groom materials can be used to make guests. Rice, days. The day dings. Lamb youvetsi is one of
into one being. “There are basic the stefana which can be elabo- symbolic of fertil- before the wed- the favorite dishes. Wine, ouzo,
themes interwoven throughout rate and include beading to ity and wealth, and flower petals lowed by their parents and ding, family and and soumada- a drink made
every prayer recited,” Fr. match the bride’s or they can be are traditionally thrown at the closest relatives, who take turns friends gather at the from almonds, are also served at
Stephanopoulos said, as re- made of flowers. newlyweds as they exit the leading the dance. At some wed- bridegroom’s home for a festive weddings.
ported in Manhattan Bride, Among the words spoken by church. Gamopilafo (wedding dings, the groom's parents and dinner with plenty of food and A recently married Greek
adding that, “One such theme is the priest during the ceremony rice) is common dish at the din- relatives start the first dance wine. Also before the wedding, bride told Manhattan Bride,
mutual fulfillment, as seen in the is the line in the wedding missal ner following the church service. with the bridegroom. The second the bride and her parents assem- “There was so much symbolism
reading, ‘Husbands should love that exhorts the husband to love Bombonieres, a small wedding dance is for the bride's parents ble a basket with all the groom’s and ritual in our ceremony.
their wives as their own bodies. his wife as himself and the wife favor with koufeta (Jordan al- and their relatives. Popular di- necessities and clothing for the Everything meant something. Af-
He who loves his wife, loves him- to respect her husband. The monds) is handed out to each motika wedding songs include wedding while the groom and ter the crowning, you and your
self.’ phrase in Greek includes a word guest. tsamika, Epirotika (Epirus), his parents do the same for the husband are coming into this
“The second reading is from that can be translated as “fear” The number of koufeta is al- Thrakiotika (Thrace), zeim- bride. The relatives on each side whole new world together, and
the Gospel According to St. so it is lightheartedly thought of ways an odd number, symboliz- bekika, Kalamatiana, Kritika deliver the baskets, greeting it really is an amazing experi-
John,” Stephanopoulos contin- as “the woman shall fear (rather ing the couple’s life together (Crete) and nisiotika (songs each other warmly, and in some ence.”
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Protelia Weddings Talks to The National Herald
By Eleni Sakellis far in advance a couple should TNH: What should Greek-
begin planning their special day, American couples be aware of
Protelia Weddings is named and what Greek-American cou- when they decide to plan a wed-
after the Ancient Greek word ples can look forward to when ding in Greece? Do they need
“protelia,” which were the of- working with the company. special paperwork or permis-
ferings the couple made to the TNH: What can a couple ex- sion?
gods prior to their wedding to pect when they choose Protelia MC: It depending on the type
please them and be blessed for to plan their wedding? of ceremony and the religion of
the start of their new life to- MC: Having more than 15 the couple. In any case, we are
gether. So, Protelia is symbolic years of experience in designing willing to deal with all the bu-
of the couple’s preparation be- and planning dreamy weddings reaucracy required to perform
fore being blessed on their wed- and events, we pride ourselves any type of wedding ceremony.
ding day. on delivering the highest levels TNH: What do Greek-Ameri-
Protelia Weddings and of customer service for a truly can couples look for the most
Events is a boutique event plan- stress-free planning process. when they plan their wedding
ning company with over 15 As an event planning com- with you as opposed to what
years of experience in the field. pany with an excellent knowl- Greek couples look for?
Based at the beautiful wedding edge of the country and culture, MC: Greek-American brides
venue Kleopatra, Protelia since we organize unique events un- give more emphasis to detail,
2002 has successfully planned der the Greek sun, by trying to are very organized, and have
and organized over 800 wed- interpret the couple’s personal impressive weddings that re-
dings, baptisms, parties and vision of what Greece or the par- main unforgettable to their
other social and business events. ticular location they have cho- guests!
The company recently ex- sen means to them and give TNH: Are there any major
panded their business to offer them advice on which details differences, either in scale or
services for wedding and event will make a difference. preferences?
planning all over Greece as well We aim to immerse ourselves MC: Greek-American brides
as the Greek Islands. They can in our clients aesthetic, their are very interested in the excel-
create tailor-made solutions for personality, passions, artistic lent service and satisfaction of
the destination wedding of your sensibility and then create a their guests. They place a special
dreams. small piece of art customized to emphasis on the wedding gown.
The National Herald spoke their own dreams. They are real hostesses at their
with Mado Chatzipanagiotou TNH: How far in advance the more options we have to nization. The usual timeframe 15 years in planning weddings, event.
who manages Protelia Weddings should couples begin planning book the space that interests us that a couple organizes their we pride ourselves on being
and Events. Ms. Chatzipana- for their wedding with Protelia? at the best possible price and to wedding abroad is 6 months to able to organize the perfect More information is available at
giotou told TNH about their MC: The sooner a couple de- organize our partners to have a 2 years. However, we at Protelia wedding on any Greek island in proteliaweddings.com.
wedding planning services, how cides to set their wedding date, perfect result and a good orga- due to our great experience of much less time.
Wedding Receptions
at Ktima Kleopatra
to enjoy at Ktima Kleopatra. there any major differences, ei-
By Eleni Sakellis The wedding and baptism ther in scale or preferences?
venue also has a special feature, KK: The difference is that the
Ktima Kleopatra is a charm- the automatic sliding roof that Greek-American couples are
ing venue that combines ele- along with the sliding glass pan- more demanding in terms of the
gance and professionalism for a els converts the reception area organization and decoration, just
memorable wedding reception. from an indoor heated space or like the team from Kleopatra.
Not far from Athens, Ktima to an open outdoor one. In this TNH: How many guests does
Kleopatra is easily accessible way, Ktima Kleopatra can ac- Ktima Kleopatra accommodate?
from Attiki Odos and Varis-Ko- commodate your wedding re- KK: Ktima Kleopatra can ac-
ropiou Highway, and has an im-
pressive range of features for
the perfect wedding or baptism
reception.
Ponds with running water,
enchanting bridges, relaxing
lounge areas, a picturesque
chapel, wooden deck, pool, and
waterfall are among the features
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Greek-American couples can for their wedding with Ktima
look forward to when they plan Kleopatra?
their wedding at the venue. KK: The couples should begin
TNH: What can a couple ex- planning a year before their wed-
❚ Weddings
pect when they choose Ktima ding at Ktima Kleopatra to book
Kleopatra as the venue for their the date of their choice.
wedding? TNH: What should Greek-
❚ Sweet Sixteens KK: For more than 17 years American couples be aware of
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❚ Quinceanera team provides the highest caliber ding in Greece? Do they need
of services. special paperwork or permis-
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tηλ: (212) 929-4226 •fax: (212) 242-5479 table event! • A decree of absolution of
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• A copy of the local news-
www.aristonweddings.com www.internationalsounds.com Ktima Kleopatra as opposed to paper where your intent to
what Greek couples look for? Are marry was publishedYou can also read
