The Ultimate Guide To Greek Wedding Bridesmaids

Greek weddings are steeped in ancient history and heritage, with many unique traditions and rituals. One aspect that is often of interest is the bridal party, and specifically, the number of bridesmaids that are typically included.

In Greek culture, the bridal party typically includes a Koumbaro or Koumbara, which are the Greek equivalents of the best man and maid of honour. They play an integral role in the ceremony, even exchanging the wedding crowns between the couple. While other bridesmaids and groomsmen may be included in the wedding party, they do not need to be Orthodox.

The number of bridesmaids chosen for a wedding can vary depending on cultural and traditional influences, as well as practical considerations and personal preferences. In some cultures, it is customary to have a large bridal party, while other traditions may favour a smaller, more intimate group.

For Greek weddings, the number of bridesmaids may depend on the size of the guest list, as having a large group of bridesmaids for a small wedding may seem disproportionate. Budget constraints and space limitations at the venue may also influence the decision. Ultimately, the decision is a personal one and may depend on the couple's vision for their special day.

The Koumbaro and Koumbara

The Koumbaro has several duties on the day, including delivering the bride's wedding shoes, a gift from the groom. When he arrives with the shoes, the bride will insist they are too big, so the Koumbaro fills them with money until they fit. All the unmarried bridesmaids then write their names on the soles of the shoes, and at the end of the wedding day, the names that remain visible are said to be the next to marry. The Koumbaro is also responsible for shaving the groom on the morning of the wedding, although this is optional depending on the groom's beard status!

Stefana crowns

The crowns are connected by a single ribbon and are placed on the heads of the couple by the priest, crowning them as king and queen of their home and founders of a new generation. The crowns are then exchanged on their heads three times by the koumbaro or koumbara.

• Gold-plated metal
• Silver-plated metal
• Hammered gold-plated metal
• Swarovski crystals
• Porcelain flowers
• Rhinestones
• Braided bands
• Pearl strands
• Gold leaves

Candles and the crowning ceremony

Candles play a significant role in Greek weddings, with the lighting of the candles being one of the most memorable and important rituals of the ceremony. The wedding service begins with the lighting of the candles, symbolising the couple's willingness to receive Christ, who will bless them throughout their marriage. The candles are typically placed on a small table on the altar, along with the wedding crowns, the book of Gospels, wedding rings, a cup of wine, and other decorative items.

The bride and groom are each given a taper candle, called Lambathes, which symbolises the light of Christ, illuminating their new life together. The candles can be plain or ornate, and they are usually white, 18-24 inches tall, and tapered. The couple holds these candles during the service, reminding them that Christ will be with them throughout the sacrament.

The lighting of the candles is followed by the joining of hands, where the priest joins the couple's right hands and calls upon God to unify them into one mind and body. The couple's hands remain joined throughout the service to symbolise their union.

The highlight of the sacrament is the crowning ceremony, where the priest places the wedding crowns, called Stefana, on the couple's heads. The crowns are attached by a single ribbon and are exchanged three times by the Koumbaro or Koumbara (best man and maid of honour, respectively). The crowns symbolise the couple being crowned by God as king and queen of their home and the founders of a new generation.

The crowning ceremony is a significant part of the Greek wedding tradition, rich in symbolism and ritual, and it is followed by other rituals such as readings from Scripture, the Common Cup, and the Dance of Isaiah, all of which take place during the ceremony and contribute to the solemn and respectful atmosphere.

The giving of the rings

The Koumbaro, or best man, then exchanges the rings three times between the couple. This symbolises their union and signifies that the worth of the bride's wedding band lies within her groom, and vice versa. The couple are now officially betrothed and able to complement each other.

The common cup

After the readings and once the couple has been crowned, the priest then leads them around the altar three times to seal their union. The koumbaro, or the best man, will follow behind the couple, holding the ribbons that join the crowns as the couple takes their first steps into married life. This "dance" is called the Dance of Isaiah and is considered the couple's first dance as a married couple.

Frequently asked questions