Wedding crowns are an integral part in every wedding. But how many of you do you know what they really stand for? Read this article to find out what they symbolize along with some Greek traditions.

1. Greek Wedding Crowns

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.