Greece

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Contents 1 Weddings in Greece 2 Traditions 3 Why Greece? 4 Marriage License Requirements 5 Civil Ceremonies 6 Religious Ceremonies 7 Language 8 Currency 9 How to Get There 10 By Air 11 Land 12 Boat 13 Insider Tips 14 Best Time to Go 15 Planning 16 Venues 17 Ceremony 18 Religious ceremonies 19 Civil Ceremonies 20 Reception 21 Wedding Service Providers 22 Embassies and Consulates

Weddings in Greece

Off the coast of the Aegean Sea is a land that has been known as a cradle of man’s civilization, Greece. Greece, with its land and waters, has been a witness to the creation of history over the years. In this country, man was known to have transformed as a thinker, a lover, a being of many talents. Aside from this, Greece has showcased a unique sense of natural beauty, ranging from its greens, mountains, and shores, not to mention the people that offer a great culture. With these in hand, Greece makes a good destination for weddings and honeymoons.

Greece is surely one of the most romantic settings for any wedding, for it boasts a magnificent scenery, intimate ambience and golden sunshine. Offering a wide variety of hotels and villas to choose from, many with special bonuses and wedding extras. In Greece you can find a paradise in different faces, a few of which could be found on its famous island destinations: Corfu, Crete, Kefalonia, Kos, Rhodes, Santorini, Skiathos and Zante.

Greece is showered with a particularly rich and diversified natural environment, with lots of fascinating natural contrasts and areas of great ecological value. The country’s abundant natural gifts –comprised of indented coasts, imposing rocky massifs, caves, gorges, lakes, rivers, biotopes of spectacular beauty and unique natural habitats, matched with a warm mild climate, makes it a place for an ideal holiday escape.

Not long ago getting married in Greece required quite a bit of beaurocratic red tape, but these days the requirements are no more onerous than for most other countries.

Traditions

Being a cradle of man’s civilization, Greece has indeed undergone generations of changes and transformations in culture and belief, thus it has carried along a unique concoction of beliefs and customs for the present to cherish. Here are some of the traditions and practices followed in Greek weddings:

1. Wedding veils- in ancient Greece, brides wore wedding veils in shades of yellow and red, representing fire. These colors were supposed to protect the bride from bad luck.

2. Diamonds- were considered as teardrops from the Gods, reflecting flames of love.

3. A lump of sugar- the bride may take with her a lump of sugar on her wedding day for it symbolizes a sweet life.

4. The Ivy- this flower meanwhile is a symbol of endless love.

5. Smashing of dishes- dishes are smashed on the floor for good luck and money is thrown at the musicians.

6. Koufeta- are candy coated almonds which are served to guests as party favors in wedding receptions.

7. Greek circle dance-is done in wedding receptions as part of a huge party that will last all night.

8. Wedding bread- in some parts of Greece, particularly in Crete, wedding bread is baked and decorated with shapes of celestial objects and filled with dried fruits. The dough must contain many spices like cinnamon, coriander, allspice, clove, anise, ginger and nutmeg. Fruit peels and rum add to its flavor, and the aroma of the bread represents a sweet married life filled with love.

9. Dowry- the mother of the bride usually spends years collecting from sheets to towels and other household items for her daughter’s marriage. The dowry enables the bride to set up housekeeping.

10. Crowns- during the wedding ceremony, the bride and groom are adorned with crowns that are connected by a strand of ribbon. This signifies the union of the couple as well as indicates the pair’s “rule” over their household.

11. Rings- the engagement rings also serve as the wedding rings, and are traditionally blessed twice. When the couple becomes officially engaged, the priest blesses the rings and the couple will wear the rings on their left hand until the wedding. At the wedding ceremony, the priest once again blesses the rings at which time the bride and groom switches the rings to the right hand.

12. Spitting (mostly a dry spit--a symbolic gesture)- has been held as a sign of good wishes by Greek people for centuries. The guests would spit on the bride as she walks down the aisle.

Why Greece?

1. If you want an island wedding Greece has a lot of island destinations that feature white sand beaches and vast marine life.

2. Greece is home to an age old culture, so if you are a lover of history then why not spend your wedding in one of the country’s churches.

3. Greece has a warm and comforting climate, made more romantic by the Mediterranean breeze.

4. You may also choose from the country’s high peaks if you prefer a wedding with a good view.

5. If you are an art enthusiast and have a thing for aesthetics, Greece’s cultural landmarks and monuments would suit your taste.

6. Greek cuisine on your wedding banquet would make you feel like the gods in the country’s mythology. That alone would make your wedding all worth it.

Marriage License Requirements

The documents you will need to provide are the following.

A certified copy of both your birth certificates. If either of you are divorced, a certified copy of your divorce decree. If either of you is a widow a certified copy of the death certificate of your spouse. A certificate from the closest Greek embassy or consulate that states there are no obstacles to either of you getting married. This document needs to be dated within 60 days of the date you want to be married. A current passport. The first three documents will need to be translated into Greek before you take them to the offices of the municipality of the town you want to be married in.

Once you have all these documents together then you will need to go the offices of the municipality of the town you want to be married in where you will fill out a marriage application. This can only be done on weekdays and not weekends or holidays.

At this point you will receive a protocol number and your wedding date will be set for a week later. Next you will need to publish an announcement about your wedding in the local papers, and it must appear in the papers before the actual wedding date. You can get help to do this in the same office that you fill out your marriage application in.

The cost for a civil ceremony is about $30 which takes care of the stamp tax, making it a very inexpensive wedding.

Civil Ceremonies

Unlike in other countries, getting married in Greece can be done in any venue you wish to. You may have it in the city/town hall, the Registry Office, or at a hotel. Just have the necessary documents processed and submitted on time so your ceremony would go smooth sailing.

Religious Ceremonies

If you want a religious wedding ceremony, you must follow some guidelines set by the church, for each denomination has its own set of marriage requirements. Here are some of those rules:

1. Protestant Church Requirements:

• Both parties must be of Christian faith
• The bride and groom must undergo a series of premarital counseling with the Pastor
• The couple should process their wedding needs first-hand, such as having the flowers arranged in the venue as well as getting an organist
• One of them should be a Protestant, and neither the bride nor the groom can be from the Greek Orthodox faith
• Two witnesses must be present in the wedding ceremony
• If you have further questions, you may contact:

       The Parish Priest

106 72 Athens, Greece, or 5 Xenopoulou Street 154 51 Neo Psychico, Athens, Greece +30 671-2368, +30 647-9585

2. Roman Catholic Church Requirements

• The bride and groom must submit their baptismal, confirmation certificates as well as the freedom to marry.
• Special dispensation is required for mixed marriages. Divorce is not recognized.
• For more detailed information, you may inquire at:

       St. Dionisios Areopagitus Roman Catholic Cathedral
       9 Omirou Street 105 64 Athens Greece
       +30 362-3603

3. Jewish Faith Clerical Requirements

• Certificate of freedom to marry issued by the Rabbi of the area of residence
• Both parties must be Jewish
• You may contact: The Rabbi

       5 Melidoni Street 105 53 Athens, Greece
       +30 325-2875

There is no need to perform both wedding ceremonies, for each ceremony, either religious or civil, is considered legal under Greek laws. Once the marriage license has been issued, the bride and groom must submit another application to the mayor or head of the community where they will be married. The witnesses should bring their passports or Greek identification card during the wedding ceremony.

For foreigners getting married in Greece, their licenses will not necessarily be registered at their respective embassy or consulate, but at the Vital Statistics Office of the city where the ceremony was performed. This applies to all kinds of marriages, and having the marriage registered must be done within 40 days after the ceremony. The marriage can only be registered with the payment of revenue stamps. This can be done by the bride and groom themselves or by a third party who was given a power-of-attorney before a Greek Notary Public stating that he or she has the authority to process the registration of the marriage. Marriages which are not registered are not legally valid.

Language

The official language in Greece is the Standard Modern Greek, and it is spoken in the urban parts of the country. It has eight dialects, Cappadocian, Cretan, Cypriot, Demotic, Griko, Katharevousa, Pontic, Tsakonian, and Yevanic.

English is not widely spoken in Greece, so you may need to have things translated by an interpreter or if you do have friends who can speak both languages. French is also used as well as, to a lesser extent, German. Tourism is one of the largest livelihoods in Greece, so visitors should get by with a basic understanding of any of these tongues.

Currency

Since Greece is a member of the European Union, it uses the euro as its official currency. You may have your bank notes exchanged first into euros before going shopping especially in small shops in villages. Not all credit cards are accepted in Greece, like American Express. The recommended cards that you should bring however are Visa and MasterCard.

Here are some tips when bringing money to Greece:

1. Bring cash everywhere. ‘Cash is king’ in Greece, and not credit cards.

2. Before you leave home – list the numbers of traveler’s cheques on the form you will have been given by the bank you bought them from, as well as the list of phone numbers to call in case of loss. Put this in a plastic bag, seal it and keep this well away from your passport, credit cards etc - in the unfortunate event you find yourself without the valuable travelers cheques, you'll be able to get replacements locally and possibly even delivered to you while you're here.

3. Do the same with your credit cards, shopping cards, petrol cards, debit cards, passport and driving license - include the phone numbers to call in case of loss.

How to Get There

Going to Greece is easy, especially when you have the necessary documents needed for travel. For those who live in the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan and all other member countries of the European Union, a visa is not required when traveling to Greece for up to 90 days.

• Other countries which do not require a visa when visiting Greece include:

Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, El Salvador, Estonia, Guatemala, The Holy See, Iceland, Israel, Leetonia, Lithuania, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Singapore, South Korea, United Kingdom, Uruguay, Vatican and Venezuela.

• Meanwhile, the following countries need to present a visa when traveling to Greece:

Angola, Bangladesh, Republic of Congo, Ecuador, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria and Turkey.

Greece is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement. Those who are arriving in and departing from Greece on a charter flight may risk having the return portion of their ticket invalidated by the authorities if they leave Greece and remain overnight or longer in another country.

Documents Required in Applying for a Visa

1. Completed application form with stamped, self-addressed envelope. (b) Proof of sufficient funds to cover stay.

2. Fee (payable in cash only).

3. Passport valid for at least 6 months with blank pages to affix visa.

4. 1 passport-size photo.

5. Return or onward ticket or proof of booking/itinerary from travel agent. (g) Proof of reason for visit; a letter of reference from employer and letter of invitation from Greek company for business trips; a letter from school for school trip. If self-employed, a letter from a solicitor or an accountant.

6. Proof of travel insurance.

It takes an approximate of three weeks to one month to process the visa. A short-stay visa is valid for up to 6 months while a transit visa is good for up to 5 years of stay in the country.

You may also contact the Citizen’s Information Office if you need more help in processing your entry requirements to Greece.

Akademias 3, Stoa Davaki Opening hours: 10.00 -14.00 Tel. no: 210.3682700 Fax no: 210.3682474 E-mail: cio@mfa.gr

By Air

International flights serve going to and departing from Greece everyday as the country has over 16 international airports. However, only those in Athens, Thessaloníki, Iráklio (Crete), Rhodes and Corfu take scheduled flights. Athens handles the majority of flights, including all intercontinental traffic. Greece also has an extensive domestic air network. Some of the international airlines that fly to and around Greece are the following:

1. Aegean Airlines- operates scheduled domestic and international flights

• Aegean Airlines Headquarters
• 31 Viltanioti Str. 145 64 Kifisia
• +30 210 62 61 700, Fax: +30 210 62 61 900
• Reservations Department: 801 11 200000 (Greece)
• +30 210 6261000 (mobile phone or from abroad)

2. Air France (Athens office)

• 7 Megalou Alexandrou & Karaiskaki Str. 16542 Argyroupoli Greece
• Reservations & ticketing department
• Tel : 210-99.70.700
• Fax : 210-99.70.725
• Opening hours: Monday to Friday : from 9:00 am to 5.00 pm
• Closed on week-end and public holidays.

3. Air Transat- offers flights to Athens from Canada

• For those from Canada, you may contact Air Transat 5959 Côte-Vertu Blvd. Montreal, Quebec H4S 2E6 Canada
• General information: information@airtransat.com, 1-877-872-6728 or locally in the Montreal region 514-636-3630People who are hearing impaired can call 1-866-234-5136 (TTY) toll free within North America or 514-906-5196 in the local Montreal area.
• Reservations: 1-866-847-1112

4. British Airways

• 15 Esperidon str. Atlantic Building Strovolos P.O. CY2001 Nicosia
• Tel : +30 801 11 56000
• Fax: +30 801 11 48000

5. Delta Air Lines

• PR Connexion O.E.
• Christiane Hensel – Managing Director (e-mail: christiane.hensel@prconnexion.gr)
• Stella Ouroumi (e-mail: stella.ouroumi@prconnexion.gr)
• Address: Harilaou Trikoupi 127A 14671 Nea Erithrea Athens Greece
• Tel: +30 210 8003655/6

6. KLM Airlines

• Athens Office
• Megalou Alexandrou 7, and Karaiskaki Strs, Argyroupoli-16452
• Tel: +30 210 9110000
• Fax: +30 210 9648866

Other airlines that fly to Greece are as follows:

1. Air One (AP) Flying into Athens from Rome and Naples-Turin, Italy
2. Albanian Airlines (LV) Flying into Athens from Tirana, Albania
3. Armavia (U8) Flying into Athens from Yerevan
4. Blue1 (KF) Flights to Athens from Helsinki, Sweden
5. CSA-Czech Airlines (OK) Flights to Athens from Prague, Czechoslovakia
6. DBA Luftfahrtgesellschaft (DI) Flights to Athens from Munich, Germany
7. easyJet (EZY) - Flights to Athens from Milan's Malensa airport in Italy.
8. Flyglobespan (GSM) Flights to Athens from Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
9. Hemus Air (DU) - Flights to Athens from Sofia,
10. Iberia (IA) - Flights to Athens from Madrid, Spain
11. Malev (MA) - Flights to Athens from Budapest, Hungary; Dublin, Ireland; Helsinki, Sweden.
12. Olympic Airlines (OA) - Flights to Athens from Belgrade,Yugoslavia;Brussels,Belgium; Manchester, England; Moscow, Russia; Paris, France; New York City, New York, US.
13. Qatar Airways (QR) - Flights to Athens from Doha, Qatar
14. Royal Jordanian (RJ) - Flights to Athens from Amman, Jordan
15. SAS Scandinavian Airlines (SK) - Flights to Athens from Oslo, Norway
16. SkyEurope Airlines / SkyEurope Airlines Hungary (NE, 5P) - Flights to Athens from Bratislava, Budapest, Krakow
17. Sterling European Airlines (NB) - Flights to Athens from Oslo, Norway and Stockholm, Sweden.
18. Swiss International Air Lines (LX) - Flights to Athens from Zurich, Switzerland.

The approximate flight times in going to Greece coming from selected departure cities are:

1. From London to Athens is 3 hours 15 minutes
2. From Los Angeles to Athens is 18 hours 35 minutes
3. From New York to Athens is 10 hours 10 minutes
4. From Singapore to Athens is 11 hours 25 minutes
5. From Sydney to Athens is 22 hours 5 minutes

Land

If you plan on strolling around Greece, you either have the choice to take a bus, train, taxi or rent a car. Buses connect Athens to all the main towns in Greece There are two terminals in Athens: Terminal A and Terminal B.

For information on buses from Athens to the provinces, inquire at

• Terminal A, 100 Kifissou Street, Athens or
• Terminal B, 260 Liossion Street, Athens.

Inter-city buses are cheap, fast and efficient. Municipal buses within Athens and Thessaloníki show their number and destination on the front. Tickets can be purchased before boarding from ticket booths near main stops, or from a corner kiosk. You will have to stamp your ticket in the machine at the door when boarding.

Trains meanwhile are affordable but are rather slow, with the exception of the express trains between Athens and Thessaloníki, which take six hours and fifteen minutes. Main routes run between Athens and Thessaloníki, Athens and Corinth, and Patrá and Kalamáta with international connections. What makes a train ride in Greece worthwhile is the scenery. While on the train, you will have the chance to view the picturesque mountains of Greek countryside. The most fascinating rail journey in Greece is between Dhiakofton and Kalávrita.

Taxis are cheap as well as reliable, even for long journeys, especially if you are traveling with friends. Take note that taxis should be metered. Drivers may pick up other passengers going in the same direction, but this will not reduce your fare.

If you want to go on your own and be the boss of your itinerary, you may go with what other tourists usually do: rent cars and other automobiles when going around Greece during their stay.

Car Rental Companies in Greece

1. ACE Rent a Car

• 43, Lazaraki St.Glyfada 16674, Athens Greece
• Tel. +30 210 968-0700
• Fax: +30 210 968-0702
• E-mail: info@acerentacar.gr

2. ADA RENT A CAR

• 44, Amalias Ave, Athens, Greece
• Tel. +30 210 322-0087
• Fax: +30 210 322-6472
• info@adarentacar-greece.com

3. Athens Airport Car Rentals

• Spata, Athens Greece
• Tel. +30 210 965 2590, Mobile: +30 693 723 8015
• E-mail: info@athensairport-car-rentals.com

4. Pangosmio Rent a Car

• Agia Pelagia, 71002, Heraklion, Crete, Greece

5. MasterCar - Rent A Car Agency

• Sarti, 63072 Sithonia, Chalkidiki (Halkidiki), Greece
• Tel./Fax: +30 23750 94402
• Mobile: +30 694 470-2024
• E-mail: info@mastercar-greece.com

6. CLUBCARS -- CAR RENTAL HEAD OFFICE

• 24, 28th October St, Agios Nikolaos, Crete Island, Greece
• Tel. +30 28410 25868 or +30 28410 82804 or +30 28410 22370
• Fax: +30 28410 26668

7. Stelin Tours

• Car Rentals Makris Gialos opposite Sunwing Hotel)
• 72055, Lassithi Crete Island, Greece
• Tel./Fax: +30 28430 51770
• Mobile: +30 694 575-9657

8. ANSO Travel Services

• 74060, Plakias Rethymnon Prefecture Crete, Greece
• Tel. +30 28320 31712, +30 28320 31126 or +30 28320 31444
• Fax: +30 28320 31713

Boat

Ferries bound to Greece connect Igoumenitsa and Patrá with the Italian ports of Ancona, Bari, and Brindisi. Peraeus, the port of Athens, is the main gateway to the Aegean islands. Several nearby islands and points on the Peloponnese coast are served by hydrofoils, some of which go from Zea Marina, about 3km away not from the main Piréas harbor. Timetables are published monthly by the Greek National Tourist Office. Ferries also sail from Rafína.

You can also travel Greece via a cruise. A lot of cruises go to Greece from other parts of Europe. Try to check the following companies that offer a cruise trip to Greece:

1. Dolphin Hellas Travel & Tourism

• 16, Syngrou Avenue 117 42 Athens, Greece
• Tel: +30-210-9227772
• Fax: +30-210-9232101
• e-mail: dolphinhellas@travelling.gr

2. Alpha Yachting

• Main office in Greece: 67 Posidonos Ave., 16675, Glyfada, Athens-Greece
• Tel. +30-210-968 0486/7, Fax: +30-210-968 0488
• Mobile: +30-69 747 88 888
• E-mail:info@alphayachting.com

Insider Tips

Among the tips you must remember when going around Greece is when driving, since most tourists rent cars and other vehicles during their stay. Here are some points you must remember:

1. Minimum Age: Drivers must be 18.

2. Seat Belts: Must be used by front-seat passengers. With Greece's high accident rate, please, everybody, strap yourself in.

3. Children: Kids under 10 can't sit in the front seat.

4. Speed Limits Use these as a guide, but always obey the posted limits, which may vary.

• Urban areas: 30 mph/50 kmh
• Outside cities: 68 mph/110 kph
• Freeways/Expressways: 75 mph/120 kph

5. Horning: Illegal in towns and urban areas except in case of emergencies. Use it freely if needed; it could save your life.

6. Parking: Forbidden (though it may not be marked) within 9 feet of a fire hydrant, 15 feet of an intersection, or 45 feet from a bus stop. The "No Parking" sign is a red X in a blue circle.

7. Driver's Licenses: EU citizens can use their own. Other nationals should have an International Drivers License, though in practice, a recognizable photo license is usually accepted. US licenses have been readily accepted in the past but I recommend having the international version as a second form of ID. Many passport photo services also offer the International Driver's License forms.

8. Roadside Assistance: ELPA offers coverage to members of AAA (Triple-A), CAA and other similar assistance services. Check with your membership department for information on using the ELPA shared services in Greece. ELPA has quick-access numbers dialable in Greece: 104 and 154.

9. Athens Restricted Area: The central Athens area restricts car access to reduce congestion, but these restrictions do not apply to rental cars or those owned by foreigners in the country for a short stay.

10. Emergency Numbers: For visitors to Greece, dial 112 for multi-language help. Dial 100 for Police, 166 for Fires, and 199 for ambulance service. For roadside service, use the ELPA numbers above.

11. Toll Roads: Some of the special roads called Ethniki Odos do require tolls, which vary and must be paid in cash. There are only a few of these in Greece; keep 4 Euro handy in the car.

12. Driving Side: Drive on the right, same as in the United States.

13. Circles and Roundabouts: While these are standard in many European countries and in the UK and Ireland, they are new to many US drivers. These circles serve as a kind of perpetual-motion intersection, keeping traffic flowing without the use of signal lights. This sounds more difficult than it actually is, and roundabouts are actually kind of fun once you get used to them.

14. On the main roads, signs are in the Roman alphabet as well as the Greek one. Off the beaten track, signs are often only in Greek and you will need a knowledge of the Greek alphabet in order not to get lost.

Best Time to Go

Climate

For those who want a sunshine wedding, Greece is a good spot for the country is under sunny skies almost two-thirds of the year. It has a winter season, with mild rain showers, but sometimes temperatures drop to freezing point. The summer season meanwhile is long and dry, with temperature climbing up to 37°C (99°F). The mountain areas meanwhile experience rain during summer, and it sometimes snows on winter.

The northern parts of Greece such as North Macedonia and Epiros have freezing winters and very hot and humid summers. The Southern Aegean Islands as well as Peloponnese possess the Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and relatively mild winters. Snow covers the mountains in the winter season, while temperatures rise up to 40°C (104°F) during the months of July and August. The southern parts of Greece remain to be warm, especially from mid-April to November. Rains start to fall during October, and showers will continue until February with occasional clear blue skies during winter.

Insider Tips

Here are some points you have to consider when spending your wedding and honeymoon in Greece:

1. Banks: 8:00 to 14:00 daily, Friday 8:00 to 13:30. Closed Saturday, Sunday, and most holidays.

2. Shops are open Monday, Wednesday and Saturday 9 am-3 pm and on Tuesday and Thursday 9 AM to 8 pm. Many tourist shops are open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

3. Gas stations are open 7 AM to 10 PM. Some are open 24-hours a day, 7 days a week.

4. Government offices: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily, closed Saturday, Sunday and most holidays.

5. If you come in summer season, be ready for hot temperatures: Bring sun-block, dark glasses, and a hat.

6. Tap water is generally safe, but bottled water is readily available and better to drink.

7. Restaurant food is generally safe to eat. Avoid dishes made with ground meat because they may not be that fresh or safe.

8. Greece has been known to have a low crime rate, however, in recent years this has changed somewhat, with theft on the increase, particularly in crowded places like urban areas and holiday resorts. Many people are really honest, but for your own peace of mind keep your valuables under lock and key at all times.

9. For emergency police reaction, dial 100. The tourist police emergency number is 171, and 166 is for medical response.

Official Holidays in Greece

• New Year's Day (January 1)
• Epiphany (January 6)
• Lent (March)*
• Greek Independence Day (March 25)
• Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday (March or April)*
• Labor Day (May 1)
• Holy Spirit Day (early June)*
• Assumption (August 15)
• Ochi Day (October 28)
• Christmas Day (December 25)
• Boxing Day (December 26)

(*) dates vary according to the Biblical calendar

Planning

Indeed the fees in processing the necessary marriage documents in Greece are relatively inexpensive, but given that you are going to hold your wedding in a place foreign to you, better plan ahead. Getting married in a famed destination would give you a lot of ideas, in addition to the wedding packages that would come your way. In order not to get messed up, you should consider the following:

1. Get in touch with the wedding official. When you opt for a religious ceremony, better learn about the guidelines the church has set for weddings so you can prepare yourself as well as your spouse for a course of psychological, emotional and spiritual tests.

2. Take note of the following accessories needed such as headpiece/veil/tiara, gloves, wrap/shawl, shoes, necklace, earrings, engagement ring/wedding rings, bracelet, etc.

3. Send out invitations in advance to give your guests time to prepare for the wedding.

4. Have a good talk with your wedding photographer as to how you want your wedding to be recorded and embedded in history.

5. Interact with your wedding planner. Yes, the wedding planner takes care of everything but be sure to discuss things with him/her the details which you want to be present on your wedding.

6. To add a personalized touch, why not try to create your own wedding favors. Having them produced may cost too much, so if you are a little artistic, try to squeeze your creative juices on your wedding.

Venues

Finding a wedding venue is like finding a house in which you would gather your friends and loved ones whom you will share your most special day. Greece offers a variety of wedding venues that can satisfy your ideas and wishes, since the country is blessed with natural and cultural wonders. Here are some reminders that you may take note when selecting a wedding venue:

• Can the facility comfortably accommodate the size wedding and number of guests you are planning?
• Does it have handicap access?
• Does it have air conditioning?
• Is there a room available for the bride to use during the reception to change clothes or just freshen up?
• Can you have your ceremony in the venue and how and where will it be?
• What is the cost for setting up the ceremony seating?
• Ask if there are any restrictions in regards to using the facility. For instance, some historical sites have certain restrictions or rules regarding smoking, lit candles, and alcohol.

Here are some places in Greece where you may inquire more about your idea of a good wedding venue:

1. Astir Palace Aphrodite

• 40, Apollonos Str Vouliagmeni Athens 16671 Greece
• Tel: +30 310 890 2000
• Fax: +30 210 896 2582

2. Capsis-Bristol

• 2, Oplopiou & Katouni Str. Thessaloniki 546 25 Greece
• Tel: +2310 506 500
• Fax: +2310 515 777

3. Primarolia Art Hotel

• Patra, 33, Othonos Amalias Str. 26221 Patra, Greece
• Tel: +30 2610 624900
• Fax: +30 2610 623559

4. Kefalari Suites

• 1 Pentelis & Kolokotroni str 14562 Kefalari. Kifissia Athens, Greece
• Tel: +30 210 623 3333
• Fax: +30 210 623 3330

5. Sani Asterias Suites, Sani Resort

• 630 77 Kassandra Halkidiki, Greece
• Tel: +30 23740 99400
• Fax: +30 23740 99508

Ceremony

The most important part of the wedding is the ceremony, thus you have to make it as special as possible. In Greece, weddings are a regarded as a sacred occasion, for it now only ties the bond of the bride and groom, but as well as a commencement towards a formation of a new household, a union of two families, and a new life together.

Religious ceremonies

Greece has been home to a culture bound by faith, thus religious ceremonies have been part of history. Ninety-seven percent of the Greek population is Orthodox, while .5% is Catholic. Other religions have come to flourish as well, such as Judaism and Protestantism. It is important to follow the rules laid by the particular church in which you are to hold your wedding in order not to commit acts of sacrilege or other deeds that may be insulting to the church.

Greek Orthodox

1. Zoodochos Pigi -- Virgin Mary of the WatersKefalari

• Kefalari - Argos, ARGOLIDA Greece
• Tel: +30 312 907 7170

In a Greek Orthodox wedding, the ceremony itself is in two parts: the Service of Betrothal and the Ceremony of the Sacrament of Marriage. The exchanging of rings is the nucleus of the Service of Betrothal. The officiating priest then blesses the rings by holding them in his right hand and making the sign of the cross over the heads of the bride and groom. The rings are afterwards placed on the third fingers of their right hands. The "Koumbaro", the couple's religious sponsor, then swaps the rings over between the bride and groom's fingers for three times. The rituals in the ceremony are repeated three times as the repetition symbolizes the Holy Trinity: God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.

The Ceremony of the Sacrament of Marriage meanwhile consists of several parts. First, several prayers are recited and then as they come to an end, the priest joins the bride and groom’s right hands. Their hands remain joined until the end of the wedding ceremony, which symbolizes the couple's union. The bride and groom are then crowned with thin crowns called "stefana", which are joined by a white ribbon and have been blessed by the priest. The crowns symbolize the glory and honour that is being bestowed on them by God, while the ribbon means their unity. It is the "Koumbaro" who exchanges the crowns between the heads of the couple, also three times.

After the crowning is a reading of the Gospel, which tells of the marriage of Cana at Galilee. It was in this wedding where Jesus performed his first miracle, changing water into wine, which was then given to the married couple. Wine is given to the couple and they each drink from it three times.

The priest then leads the couple three times around the altar on their first steps as a married couple. The "Koumbaro" follows close behind the couple holding the "stefana" place. At this point the couple is usually showered with rice, which was earlier handed out to the wedding guests. Once the ceremonial walk has ended, the priest blesses the couple, the crowns are then removed and he separates their joined hands with the bible, reminding them that only God can break the bond which they have just entered into.

Roman Catholic Churches

1. Naxos Catholic Cathedral

• Kastro, 843 00 Naxos
• Tel. +30 0285 22470

2. Aghiou Nikolaou Church

• City Tinos, 842 00 Tinos
• Tel. +30 0283 22292

3. Saint John the Baptist's Cathedral (Vicar General's Office)

• Fira, 847 00 Santorini
• Tel: +30 0286 22244
• Fax: +30 0286 22428

4. Aghiou Dionysiou Cathedral

• Odos Panepisthmiou 24 106 72 Athens
• Tel: +30 01 3623603

5. Tou Christou Vasileos Church

• Timotheou 151, 116 33 Pagkrati
• Tel: +30 01 7668831

6. Panagias Faneromenis Church

• Spartis 81, 185 46 Pireus
• Tel: +30 01 4616036

7. Santa Maria Church

• Kathopouli 45, 851 00 Rhodes
• Tel: +30 0241 22305

8. Aghias Annas Chapel

• Sotiros 37, 851 00 Rhodes
• Tel: +30 0241 92969

9. Amnos tou Theou Church

• Ippokratous 22, 853 00 Kos
• Tel: +30 0242 29032

10. The Immaculate Conception of our Lady's Church

• Frangon 19, 546 45 Thessaloniki
• Tel: +30 031 539550

11. The Immaculate Conception of our Lady's Parish

• Riga Fereou st. 177, 382 21 Volos
• Tel: +30 0421/57971

12. Saint Joseph Church

• Venizelou st. 76,
• 681 00 Alexandroupoli
• Tel: +30 031 539550

13. Saint Paul's Church

• Kyprou st. 6,
• 654 03 Kavala
• Tel: +30 051 223163

Inter-denominational Church

1. St. Andrews International Church

• Paraschou 117 Gyzi 11475 GREECE
• Tel: +30 210 645 2583, +30 210 645 9620

2. Athens Christian Center A.C.C.

• 90 Evripidou Str. Athens, 00 GREECE
• 01-3310237

3. Rehoboth Apostolic Church

• Karavia 74-76 Kato patisia 11144 Athens, Attica, Greece
• Tel: +30 00301 21 11 045

4. E.E.C.F

• Karavia 74-76 Kato Patisia 11144 Athens, Attica, Greece
• Tel: +30 21 13 784

5. Greek Evangelical Church

• M.Botsari 24 Athens, Attica 11741, Greece
• Tel: +30 01 3231079

6. Apostolic Church of Pentecost

• Sfakion 49 Chania, Crete, Greece
• Tel: +30 6943408588

7. Free Apostolic Church of Pentecost

• Mermavelou 18 Heraklion, Crete 71300, Greece (Tel: +30810226442)
• I.Kakridi 5 Heraklion, Crete, Greece (Tel: +30 6944106800)

8. Church of Christ Safous

• 3, Ag. Titus
• Located at the Platia Elefteria Heraklion, Crete , Greece
• Tel: +306932960124; +302810288689

9. Bible Fellowship Of Iraklion Mihail Pedioti

• 14 Ikarou Ave, behind McDonald's
• Iraklion, Crete 71202, Greece
• Tel: +302810223816, +306948004391

10. Glad Tidings International Fellowship

• Platonos 33 Thessaloniki, Greece
• Tel: +30 2310 242 811

11. Thessaloniki Church of Christ

• K. Palaiologoy 18 Thessaloniki, 54635, Greece
• Tel: +30 31 447-995

12. Armenian Evangelical Church of Greece

• 30 Lamias Str. P. Kokkinia, Piraeus 185 42, GREECE
• Tel: +30 1 4913603

13. Apostolic Church of Pentecost

• Frangaki st. #12 62 Martyron Ave. #188 Giofyro, Iraklion, Crete 71303, Greece
• Tel: +30 2810259754, +30 6946584073

Civil Ceremonies

Beaches

The Greek islands host a wonderful array of beaches with captivating waters and lovely sunsets. Surrounded by two historic and at the same time romantic seas, the Aegean and the Mediterranean, having your wedding on the Greek shore would really be satisfying. Below are some of the known beaches in the islands of Greece:

1. Corfu- Corfu is known to having one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. A premiere tourist destination, Corfu is always infested with local and foreign visitors who want to experience swimming in the Mediterranean waters.

• Kanoni- located at the south of Corfu, Kanoni is filled with many hotels and facilities, and has been tourist spot not only because of its beaches but because of the Vlacherna Monastery, one of the most photographed structures in Greece.
• Paliokastritsa- on the west coast is a large resort area, all with sandy beaches and green forests and olive trees. It is quite an impressive place and is known for its lobsters which are sold in the small taverns. Nearby is the Monastery of our lady of the Mother of God, founded in 1228.
• Sidari- the former fishing village is noted for its tiny coves and narrow channels which have been cut out of the rock. It is a resort good for families since the water is very shallow.

2. Naxos- Naxos is a good choice for a beach holiday for it has some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. It has strong cool winds suited for windsurfing and kite surfing. The best shores can be found on the west side of the island, protected from the 'meltemi' north winds which cool the island in the summer.

• Agios Georgios- a town beach, it is about 6 kilometers away, and is accessible by local buses.
• Agios Prokopios- stretches for many miles and the water is a clean turquoise blue.
• Agia Anna- has fine shorelines good for camping around the beautiful and peaceful surroundings.
• Mikri Viglia and Kastraki- Kastraki's long beach of white sand is for those who want to get away from the large crowds in July and August.

3. Mykonos- most of the beaches of the island can be found in the southern area; they are protected from the wind and are all sandy. Being the most famous and popular beaches of Mykonos, they are overcrowded during peak season (Paradise, Super Paradise, Platis Yialos, Psarou and Ornos). The beaches of Paradise and Super Paradise are known to be the best party places in Greece. The beaches in the northern coast are less organized. In order to get there, you will need a private car or motorbike for no bus serves them, explaining why they are more peaceful.

4. Santorini- is an island well known for its beaches with colorful sands that hail from volcanic rocks on the eastern and southern sides of the island, as well as the sandy and smooth pebbly beaches on its western and northern parts.

• Kamari Beach- has black sand and pebbles embedded on the warm volcanic land.
• Monolithos Beach- another vast sandy beach, it is located 9 kilometers southeast of the island.
• Perissa Beach- it has black sand and dark waters.

5. Paros- this is the transport hub for the Cyclades Islands. The town has the usual little, white-washed labyrinthine streets, sunset bars and restaurants as well as a terrific church, the Ekatondapiliani. The countryside is a little dull but the beaches are quite exquisite.

• Livadia and Krios- are both calm and serene. With clear waters, they are tree lined and have good taverns.
• Golden Beach- tends to be overly windy, with choppy water and hard sand.
• Kolymbithres- is probably the prettiest beach on the island. It is near the tourist town of Naoussa, with shallow water enclosed by fine sand and strangely eroded rocks.

Parks

Most parks in Greece showcase a wide array of mountains, gorges and wildlife preserves. In addition, beautiful sceneries are packed in these areas making your stay all worthwhile. Here are some of the most famous parks in Greece:

1. Mount Olympus National Park- famous for being the home of the Greek god Zeus, Mount Olympus is known for its vast flora and fauna. Its highest peak is Mitikas, at 9,576 feet.

2. Parnassus National Park- the icy slopes of Mount Parnassus are now transformed into ski centers, so, if you want a snow fun wedding day, why not do it here.

3. Samaria National Park-located at the southwest part of Crete, Samaria Gorge was created by a river between Mount Volakias and the White Mountains. Some people claim that the gorge is 18 kilometers long but this refers to the distance between the settlement of Omalos on the northern side of the plateau and the village of Agia Roumeli. The walk through the National Park of Samaria is 13 km but you will have to walk the extra 3 kilometers to Agia Roumeli from the exit of the National Park making it that long. The most popular part of the gorge is the section known as the 'Iron Gates', where the sides of the gorge close to about 4 meters in and reach up to 500 meters high.

4. Vikos-Aoos National Park- located at Epirus, this gorge covers an area of 126 square kilometers. It was founded in 1973 and is a wildlife reserve. The Vikos Gorge is the deepest gorge as listed under the Guinness Book of Records.

5. Ainos National Park- Mount Ainos fronts the Ionian and Mediterranean seas, with an exquisite view of the waters during clear blue days. This panorama features no lights before the 1950s, but after having it developed as a tourist destination, the evening lights made the night sky shimmer with lights coming from smaller villages and towns, making most of the scenery of the land look brighter.

Monuments and Historical Sites

Greece is home to several monuments that depict the country’s transformation as a society, a nation, a bearer of religion, and a cradle of civilization. Ranging from temples of worship to peaks of science and art, spending your holiday wedding in any of these places would sure fulfill your fantasies especially when you are in love with culture and the past.

1. Acropolis of Athens- the Acropolis of Athens represents Classical Greek culture at its finest. A few days of stay just to take a feel of its ancient monuments and rich museums is a must for all those who are going to spend time in Greece.

2. Delphi-Delphi is a place of influence especially in ancient east Mediterranean. The oracles which were received by Persian kings and Athenian leaders helped shape history as we know it. The landscape is amazing, the ruins well preserved, and the site's museum houses some of the most important art works from ancient Greece.

3. Olympia- the Olympic Games may have transformed over the years to become the most spectacular show business in the world, but in Ancient Greece, all "civilized" cities gathered in ancient Olympia to participate in athletic competitions and cultural festivals.

4. Epidaurus- the vast wildlife sanctuary lies about in ruins, but the Epidaurus Theater itself is a visual treat. Its undestroyed structure it is still used today for festivals and concerts.

5. Phaistos (Crete) - most travel guides would pick another Minoan palace (Knossos) as the best destination in Crete, but Phaistos gives off a more cultural feeling despite the more popular Knossos.

6. Vergina- this unique archeological site houses an exquisite experience of the Macedonian culture. The tomb of Phillip II of Macedon has exhibited excellent examples of artifacts which are displayed under the Great Tumulus alongside the ancient tombs.

7. Akrotiri (Santorini)- the "Pompeii" of Greece, Akrotiri is the small prehistoric settlement which was buried under ashes when the volcano of Thera erupted. The people in this settlement seem to have had ample time to evacuate the island since no bodies were found during excavations. The town and the buildings themselves however have been preserved in remarkably good condition under the volcanic ash, and offer a rear glimpse into the life and culture of the Cycladic civilization.

8. Dodoni (near Ioannina)- if you are staying in the Southern Greece, Dodoni will probably be out of your way for it is located at the North East part of the mainland. The ruins and the oracle's history are a delight, anchored by a most impressive and perfectly preserved ancient theater.

9. Mycenae- While the ruins themselves at Mycenae require sufficient patience and imagination to appreciate and understand, a visit to the citadel that dominated Mycenaean Greece is a must for those who have read the Iliad and want to see the place from where Agamemnon reigned over bronzed age Greece.

Reception

The next important part of the wedding is the reception, and Greece is home a vast array of choices for you to mix and match. From the panoramic view to a night of merry-making made more delightful by the sumptuous buffet, the Greek isles have all these. However, you must consider some important points in selecting a wedding reception, such as:

1. The number of hours

• Most receptions last between 5-7 hours.
• Ask how many hours you will have for your reception. Some facilities will give you four hours and charge you additionally for every additional hour.

2. Ask about Money

• How much is the total rental fee?
• And specifically, what does the price include?
• Ask about the deposit, how much and when is the balance due?
• Ask if they have any "wedding packages". Sometimes facilities will offer a wedding package including food, flowers, wedding cake and even a limo.

3. Ask about any extra charges

• If it’s a community centre or historic venue, do you have to rent chairs and tables, and if so, is this an extra charge?
• What about linens and glassware are they included?
• Is there a cake cutting fee?
• What about a corking fee?

4. The food

• If the facility is a hotel or restaurant and will provide the food for the wedding, make sure that you’ve had an opportunity to sample the food and talk about menu choices.
• If you choose a location that requires an outside caterer, ask if you’re required to choose from their approved list or can you choose any caterer?

5. Ask about alcohol and bar service

• Does the facility provide the alcohol and bar service or do you bring your own alcohol?
• Do they supply the bartenders or do you hire them?
• Are there any restrictions about the type or quantity of alcohol to be served?
• Do they require a cash bar or is an open bar an option?
• Ask about their liability insurance and if it is sufficient for your size wedding.

If you want to inquire more about wedding packages offered in Greece, feel free to contact:

1. Santorini Wedding Consultants

• Fira, 84700 Santorini Greece
• Tel. +30 22860-24057
• Fax. +30 22860-24059

2. SANTO STAR TRAVEL (MAGIC BLUE - GENERAL TOURIST SERVICES)

• Karterados, 84700, Santorini, Cyclades Islands, Greece
• E-mail (all year round): info@magicblue-santorini.com
• Tel./Fax: (+30) 22860 22359, Mobile: (+30) 697 765-9175

3. Kastro - Studios - Apartments

• Antiparos, Cyclades Islands, Greece
• Tel. +30 22840 61011, Fax: +30 22840 61013, Mobile Tel. +30 697 961-6637
• Winter contact: Tel./Fax: +30210 575 7670

4. Elounda Palm Hotel

• Elounda, 72053, Lassithi, Crete, Greece
• Tel. +30 28410 41825, Fax: +30 28410 41803
• E-mail: info@eloundapalm-crete.com

You may also check what the restaurants have to offer:

1. Spondi (Mediterranean)

• 5 Pyrronos Street Athens 116 36 Greece
• +30 210 752 4021
• info@spondi.gr

2. Ideal (Greek) 46 Panepistimiou Street Athens 106 72 Greece +30 210 330 3000

3. Agnanti

• Glossa Skopelou, Skopelos, 37004
• +30 (0)24240 03 3606 / +30 (0)24240 03 3076
• +30 (0)24240 03 3606

4. THE OCTAPUS Restaurant

• Att: Tzanetos Vamvoukos
• Molivos' Harbour,Lesvos island, Greece, TK-81108
• +30-22530-71317

5. Papagalos Restaurant

• Oia, Santorini, TK 84702, Greece
• +30 22860 71469
• +3022860 72031
• info@papagalosrestaurant.com
• reservations@papagalosrestaurant.com
• webmaster@papagalosrestaurant.com

Wedding Service Providers

Honeymoon

To save yourself from all the worries in your wedding preparations, better leave your honeymoon plans with professional travel agencies, and they would be more than happy to arrange every aspect of it to free you. If you want to get married and spend your honeymoon trip in a particular destination, various Greek hotels offer all inclusive honeymoon packages, which include luxury honeymoon suites, idyllic honeymoons cruises, special romantic honeymoon dinners, private tours, sunset picnics, transfers to secluded beaches, and more. Honeymoon packages can be arranged in Greek Islands, such as Santorini, Mykonos, Antiparos, Crete, Naxos, Rhodes, Milos, Paros, Amorgos and other parts of the country.

1. True Greece

• Greece Operations Office: Authentiki Filoxenia EPE
• Perikleous 21 Marousi, 15122 Greece
• +30-210-6120656

2. Esperas Traditional Houses

• Oia, 84702, Santorini, Cyclades Islands, Greece
• Tel. +30 22860 71088 or +30 22860 71501
• Fax: +30 22860 71613

3. Dolphin Hellas Travel & Tourism

• 16, Syngrou Avenue 117 42 Athens, Greece
• Tel: +30-210-9227772 / Fax: +30-210-9232101 /
• email: dolphinhellas@travelling.gr

Guest Must Dos:

Of course, a wedding is a very important event both for the bride and groom. If you are a guest for this very special occasion, try to take note of the following:

• When you receive a wedding invitation, the first thing you should do is RSVP.
• Unlike a birthday party, people often send presents to the bride and groom before the wedding.
• Most invitations will give some idea of how dressy the occasion is. As a general rule of thumb, day weddings will be less glamorous than evening weddings, so lay off the cocktail gowns and pearls.
• While loads of cleavage may be appropriate for a night out on the pull, it’s not always a winning choice for a family wedding. A wrap or shrug cardigan is an excellent way of remaining discreet and looking good at the same time.
• Alcohol. Drink moderately.
• On the day of the wedding itself, don’t be nasty about seating arrangements.
• On the topic of seating arrangements –most likely you will have to speak to a few well-meaning older people that come your way. Small talk may not be your thing but in the interests of keeping the peace, a couple of minutes chit-chatting about the weather never hurt anyone.

Wedding Dress and Accessories

1. Stepsis Glam Wedding Accessories

• 7 Ioannou N teka str. 546 29 Thessaloniki Greece
• +30 2310 537907
• info@stepsisglam.gr

2. Savvas Gold - Savvas M. Pissas

• Silver and Goldsmith Workshop
• 13, Kosti Palama St., Nea Agora, P.C. 85100, Rhodes
• Tel.: (0030) 2241029941 - FAX: (0030) 2241029441

Flowers

1. gem floral creations

• AG. KONSTANTINOU 29, 151 24 Marousi Athens Greece
• Tel. +30 21 06104540 - 21 06128241
• Fax. +30 21 08022479

2. Wedding in Santorini

• Company Address: Messaria, 84700, Thira, Greece
• phones: +30 22860 34233, +30 22860 34288
• fax: +30 22860 34287
• e-mail:info@wedding-in-santorini.com

3. Zouganeli Flower Shop

• 84600, Mykonos Greece
• E-mail: info@mykonosflowers.com
• Tel: (+30) 22890 23425
• Fax: ( +30)22890-23495

4. HB Flowers

• Address: Ellinokastro,Trikala, PC 42100, Greece
• Mobile Phone: +30 6937 206 900
• Fax:+30 210 5615 714

Guest Accommodations

1. Elounda Homes and Villas

• Ivis 7, Knossos Gr 71409 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
• +30 2810 326593
• info@eloundahomes.com

2. Villa Marandi

• Summer Address: P.O. Box 2980, GR-84300, Naxos, Greece
• Tel.: +30-22850-24652/24784
• Fax: +30-22850-24784
• e-mail: info@villa-marandi-naxos.com
• Winter Address: 7 Kossou St., GR-11144 Athens, Greece
• Tel./Fax: +30-210-8072401

3. Hilton Athens

• 46 Vassilissis Sofias Avenue, Athens, Greece 11528
• Tel: 30-210-7281000
• Fax: 30-210-7281111

4. Great Crete Gay Guest House

• Heraklion 72053 Crete, Grece
• Tel: +44 0 871 789 9292 or +44 0 871 789 9293

Embassies and Consulates

If you wish to know more about Greece as well as the other necessary documents that you need to process in order to have your wedding at the Hellenic Isles, feel free to contact:

Citizen Information Office

• Akademias 3, Stoa Davaki
• Opening hours: 10.00 -14.00
• Tel. no: 210.3682700
• Fax no: 210.3682474
• E-mail: cio@mfa.gr