Ellinika Gamisia

This is the climax of Ellinika Gamisia. Two stefana (crowns) made of orange blossoms, myrtle, or gold filigree are tied together with a white ribbon. The ribbon symbolizes the unity of the couple. The priest places the crowns on the couple’s heads, and the Koumbaros exchanges them three times.

Why a crown? In Orthodoxy, the couple is crowned as the "king and queen" of their own domestic church. It is also a crown of martyrdom—acknowledging that true love requires sacrifice. As the priest chants, "Lord our God, crown them with glory and honor," the couple is forever transformed. ellinika gamisia

The newlyweds are announced, and immediately, the Trapezi (table) begins. Guests pin money on the bride and groom as they dance. This is not "buying" the couple; it is a practical financial gift to help start their new life. In some regions, the money is thrown onto a plate or into a vase held by the Koumbara. This is the climax of Ellinika Gamisia

Before the church bells ring, several traditions set the tone for a traditional Greek wedding. The priest places the crowns on the couple’s

The priest begins at the back of the church (the Narthex), symbolizing the couple's entrance into Paradise. He blesses the rings and exchanges them three times—not once, but thrice—in honor of the Holy Trinity. The Koumbaros then exchanges the rings between the couple’s fingers three times.

| English | Greek (phonetic) | |---------|------------------| | Congratulations | Na zisete (may you live) | | Long life to the couple | Zito oi neoi | | Dance | Horos | | Best man | Koumbáros | | Crowns | Stefána | | Sugar almonds | Kouféta | | The couple is leaving | Fevgoun oi néoi | | May you have children | Na se horésoume (said to bride) |