Christina and Jon’s Greek Orthodox wedding in Hammond, Indiana was chic, yet traditional.  It was over-the-top, but in a kick-off your shoes, throw a suitcase of money in the air, and hug a friend sort of way.  When I took engagement photos for this couple in downtown Geneva, I knew that their wedding would be memorable, and it did not disappoint.

greek-wedding

Christina wore a strapless dress with a mermaid silhouette and sweetheart neckline, her hair in a stylish updo; the bridesmaids wore dazzling gold dresses. Jon and his groomsmen wore black suits and relaxed at his childhood home with his mother, father, and other close friends and family members while the ladies readied themselves for the day, gathering around to reminisce and enjoy each other. One of the special moments I was able to capture was when the bride’s mother surprised Christina by presenting her with a handkerchief made from one of the bride’s baby bonnets with her wedding date embroidered. These getting-ready images are full of emotion and joy, in preparation for a wonderful marriage celebration.

During the couple’s traditional Greek Orthodox wedding ceremony at Saint George Hellenic Orthodox Church, there was a solemn respect for the joining of their two lives, steeped in symbolism such as the crowning of the bride and groom with stefana and walking around the holy altar. The church itself was intimate and colorful, with intricate murals, ribbons, and golden accents. Meanwhile, across town, the reception venue, Dynasty Banquets, was setting up for the night’s festivities where guests would enjoy cocktails, dancing, and a custom photo booth.

The highlight of the night (and of any Greek Orthodox wedding) was a series of emotional speeches and the dancing. The bride and groom had hired a special pop singer, Efi Thodi, and band from Greece, which gave the night an authentic, upbeat, and festive atmosphere as the dance floor came to life. Circle dances, including the Kalamatiano, brought a feeling of connection between guests. Money fluttered through the air and gathered beneath feet. The night was just beginning… Enjoy!

greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-weddinggreek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding-Traditions greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding-chicagogreek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding greek-wedding

Cheers!

Esenam

RECENT WEDDINGS | WEDDING & ENGAGEMENT INQUIRIES