Anastasia explained to me a Greek wedding tradition shown above. She wrote the names of her single friends and relatives on the bottom of her shoe. I researched this a bit more online here. I learned that the names that wore off by the end of the evening will get married soon. The names that have not worn off have to wait some more.
The koumbara, which is like a Maid or Matron of Honor, exchanged the wedding rings three times after the priest blessed them. “The exchange signifies that in married life, the weakness of one partner will be compensated by the strength of the other, the imperfections of one, by the perfection of the other. By themselves, the newly betrothed are incomplete, but together they are made perfect.” [Quoted from this website.]
The Stefana (Stephana or Stephania) are Greek wedding crowns that have been used in Greek wedding ceremonies since ancient Greece. They are linked together with a white ribbon, representing the holy union between Anastasia and James.
These crowns were the last ones made by a dear friend who recently passed away. He was also an active member of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in San Francisco for many years, making this a very special occasion for the church and the family members of their dear friend.
On the right, James drank from the common cup, as did Anastasia.
Anastasia and James held lambathes as the priest led them around the ceremonial table, in a circle, three times. These were their first steps as a married couple. Prayers were recited to seal their union.
This was my first Greek Orthodox wedding! It was so lovely. Congratulations to Anastasia and James!
Wedding Ceremony: Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in San Francisco
Make-up: LeAnne Sims
Hair: Paul Laxton
Flowers: Edmond’s Plaza Florist
Second Photographer: Amanda Lopez
Posted on February 9, 2012
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