Unique island wedding traditions in Greece
What's the story
Greece's idyllic islands and vibrant cultural history make it a dream destination for weddings.
The country's customs infuse ceremonies with a sense of authenticity and significance, creating a memorable experience for couples and their loved ones.
Delve into five unique wedding traditions from the Greek islands and discover how these customs enhance the magic and meaning of saying "I do" in this beautiful corner of the world.
Stolisma
The Stolisma: A pre-wedding ritual
A day before the wedding, a tradition called the stolisma is held where the bride and groom are separately adorned in their respective homes.
This involves friends and family members singing traditional songs while dressing them in their wedding attire.
It represents the community's blessing and support for the couple's new journey together.
The ritual is filled with joyous music, creating an atmosphere of communal happiness.
Stefana
Crowning glory of love
The tradition of exchanging stefana, crowns connected by ribbon, serves as a beautiful focal point in Greek island weddings.
This act signifies unity and the establishment of a new kingdom by the couple.
Held above their heads by the priest or family members during the ceremony, this custom highlights the everlasting circle of love.
Isaiah Dance
The Dance of Isaiah: A circle unbroken
After they are officially wed, the couple partakes in the so-called The Dance of Isaiah.
This custom entails the couple, hand in hand, making three rounds around the altar or table, guided by either their priest or an individual carrying a significant religious icon.
This dance symbolizes the couple's eternal union under God's guidance while also expressing their shared joy in entering the journey of marriage.
Koufeta
Sweet beginnings with koufeta
Sugar-coated almonds, called koufeta, are traditionally handed out as favors to guests at Greek weddings.
These sweet treats hold profound symbolism; their bittersweet flavor symbolizes the bitterness and sweetness of life, while their white color denotes purity.
Served in indivisible odd numbers, they symbolize an unbreakable unity - embodying hopes for a strong marriage filled with sweetness amidst trials.
Proxenia
Ransom for love: A lighthearted custom
In Greek island weddings, a fun tradition is the "kidnapping" of the groom by the bride's family before the ceremony.
A "ransom" is then negotiated for his release, anything from dance promises to cash gifts for the couple's home.
This playful tradition, different on each island, is a way to show support from both families for the union.