The Ceremony
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HoneyLi Hill
The ‘Hill’ Venue
Melini, Larnaca
7716, Cyprus
A Guide to an Orthodox Church Ceremony
We’re so happy to share this special day with you. Our wedding ceremony will follow the traditions of the Greek Orthodox Church; a beautiful and symbolic ritual, where every gesture holds deep spiritual meaning. We’ve put together this short guide to help you understand the significance of what you’ll witness. Your presence and prayers are a blessing to us, and we’re honoured to have you with us for this sacred beginning to our life together.
The Betrothal
The ceremony begins with The Betrothal- the exchange of rings, symbolising the couple’s commitment to one another. The priest blesses the rings and places them on the couple’s right hands. The spiritual sponsors then switch the rings between the bride and groom three times, representing the Holy Trinity and the unity of their bond.
The Crowning
The couple is then crowned with stefana, two blessed crowns joined by a ribbon, which represent the spiritual union of the bride and groom, their new life together under God, and the sacrificial love they are called to in marriage. The crowns are exchanged three times by the spiritual sponsors, affirming the sanctity and unity of the marriage.
The Common Cup
The bride and groom drink from a shared cup of wine, recalling the miracle at the wedding at Cana (John 2:1–11) and symbolising their shared life, with all its blessings, responsibilities, and joys. Just as they drink from the same cup, they will now share in all of life’s blessings & burdens together.
The Ceremonial Walk
The priest leads the couple in a circle around the altar three times, in what is known as the Dance of Isaiah. This act reflects their first steps as husband and wife, taken in the presence of Christ and the Church, and guided by faith. The circular movement represents eternity and the unbroken bond of marriage.
Wedding Timeline
HoneyLiHill, The ‘Hill’ Venue
2:30 PM
The celebrations commence with the stolismata, a cherished tradition marking the dressing of the bride and groom, shared with close family and friends.
5:00 PM
Join us at the small chapel of Saint George and Saint Demetrios, where we’ll exchange our vows surrounded by the beautiful mountains of Melini.
6:30 PM
The celebration continues with our wedding reception, starting with a Mediterranean feast and continuing into an evening of drinks, music, dancing and love.