This weekend was a true highlight for my family. We had the honor of attending and taking part in our dear friends Nick and Kristi’s wedding. (Handyman Husband and I are godparents to Nick’s girls, Ashleigh and Anna Marie.) After a year long engagement, the time finally arrived! In June, I hosted a “Koufeta Party” for Kristi. Koufeta is a favor given to the wedding guests. It consists of sugar coated almonds usually in an odd number signifying many things: the white represents purity, the egg shape represents fertility and the new life which begins with marriage, the hardness of the almond represents the endurance of marriage, and the sweetness of the sugar symbolizes the sweetness of this new beginning. Her bridesmaids, friends, future mother-in-law, Kiki, and Mother took part in this great evening. It took all of 10 minutes to put the koufeta together; however, we enjoyed drinks and dinner on the porch for much longer!
The beautiful bridesmaid’s luncheon was held on Friday. It was such a nice, relaxing, and special time spent with the bride, family on both sides, and friends. Friday evening we had the rehearsal at the church. Handyman Husband was the “Koumbaro” which means he served as the sponsor during the ceremony. Daniel was the ring bearer, and Elizabeth was the flower girl. Elizabeth has been waiting for this day to arrive for a year! (Kristi and Nick hosted a delightful afternoon in August for the youngest members of the wedding party. They dined on pizza and make-your-own ice cream sundaes. At this time, they were given their gifts which were so thoughtful and kind.) Please enjoy pictures from the bridesmaid’s luncheon, rehearsal, and dinner…
The Bridesmaid’s Luncheon
The bride, Kristi, on the left, and her sister, Rachelle, the matron of honor!
Delicious chocolate mousse to end the afternoon!
We also received yummy individually wrapped Oreo cookie cupcakes from Cupcakes on the Ridge which happens to be owned by my sorority sister, Christy!
The Greek Orthodox Church is rich in its history and traditions. This table houses the Gospel, the wedding crowns or stephana, the candles, and common cup. All have specific meaning. The bride and groom walk around this table three times guided by the priest. The Koumbaro holds the ribbon of their crowns during the procession. They are officially husband and wife when they take their first steps during this ceremonial walk.
The gorgeous wedding bands sitting on top of the Holy Gospel.
All Orthodox churches have domes which show an icon of Christ…icons are known as “windows into heaven.”
My parents and kids about to rehearse!
Our very own, Rev. Dr. Nicholas Verdaris, guiding Nick, the groom, Jack, the best man, and Handyman Husband, the Koumbaro!
Daniel showing Ashleigh and Anna Marie his monster trucks, and Elizabeth sitting with Thea Kiki, the groom’s mother!
Practicing with monster trucks on the ring bearer pillow, of course!
Kristi escorted by her brother, David!
One proud groom to be!
Parents of the groom, Kiki and George!
Elizabeth chatting it up!
Anna Marie, Ashleigh, Elizabeth, and Daniel!
And the happy couple…less than 24 hours until husband and wife!
Beautiful centerpieces at the rehearsal dinner!
The kids table with Kristi’s nephews, niece, Elizabeth resting, and Anna Marie. And Daniel just prior to knocking over a full glass of ice water!
Me and Daddy
Dear friends…Mother and Kiki
One of MANY self-portraits throughout the weekend! The first day of the three day event was fantastic! Look forward to sharing the wedding ceremony and reception tomorrow!
What is your favorite time during a wedding weekend?
Enjoy the day!
Jana
You did such a wonderful job of picturing and explaining the Greek Orthodox ceremony. Very interesting. And the bridesmaid luncheon decor was beautiful!! My favorite picture is Elizabeth ‘chatting’ it up. 😉
Thank you so much Devery! The Sacrament of Marriage in the Orthodox Church is truly wonderful! So glad you enjoyed reading and seeing the pictures!