Greek Wedding Crowns

Greek wedding crowns are an integral part of any Greek wedding. One of the most

significant parts of a Greek wedding ceremony is indeed, the crowning of the couple.

Just like most things in the Greek Orthodox Church, the crowning is very symbolic in

nature.

It takes place right after the betrothal, when the groom and bride exchange their

wedding rings.

Let’s take a look at what the wedding crowns (stefana) really stand for, how the

mystery originated and why they are important accessories in the sacrament of

marriage.

At the beginning of the crowning ceremony, the priest holds the crowns in the form of

a cross and places them on the forehead of both the groom and bride. He then

places the wedding crowns on their heads while reading from the Holy Gospel. The

best man or maid of honor (koubaros or koubara) symbolically switches the crowns

between the groom and the bride a total of 3 times. The crowns are connected with a

white ribbon. This ribbon symbolizes the union of the couple. After that, the priest

along with the couple and the best man or maid of honor, circle around the altar 3

times while the Dance of Isaiah is chanted.

The wedding crowns or stefana in Greek, are royal symbols and they symbolize the

Kingdom of Heaven. With their marriage, the bride and groom now enter into their

own little kingdom where they will be the King and Queen of their household. They

are expected to rule their kingdom, their newly created family, with honor, respect,

love, faith and devotion to each other. The Greek wedding crowns also serve as a

visible reminder of the crowns that await them in the Kingdom of God.

In addition, it is also believed that the wedding crowns refer to the Christian martyrs

who endured many hardships and made many sacrifices. Similarly, marriage also

involves sacrifices and problems which the married couple need to work through

together in order to reach happiness.

In Ancient Greece, the winners used to receive crowns in honor of their victory. The

Orthodox Church crowns the couple in advance for the battle they will endure to let

go of their personal egos and start acting as one body and soul.

Traditionally, Greeks wear crowns which look like wreaths or olive leaves. Flowers,

either fresh or dry, are also a very common design characteristic.

Greek wedding crowns can range from the most simple to the most ornate.

Some of these crown designs include semi-precious stones, pearls, and

crystals and are typically made out of silver or gold.

After the ceremony has ended, the crowns are kept in a special crown

case. In the past, women used to hang this case above their bed next to

the image of Mother Mary. Nowadays, this case is usually displayed inside

crystal cabinets or on-top of the dining table.

Want to find out where to get the perfect Greek wedding crowns

(stefana) for your wedding? Email me at

info@PinelopiCreations.com or call me at (847) 701-5079. I have

lots of information, samples and pricing details to share with you.