The Allure Films team had a blast being a part of Ali and Matt’s Greek wedding in Philadelphia! This fun couple and beautiful venue made the day unforgettable.
It was clear that our bride, groom, and all of their guests were having an amazing time celebrating! It was a pleasure capturing some special moments between our bride and groom in the City of Brotherly Love. We know that all of these special moments (big & small) add up to build amazing memories.
After a rehearsal dinner at Estia, a popular Greek restaurant in the heart of Center City, Ali and Matt tied the knot at St. George’s Greek Orthodox Church. This was followed up with an amazing reception at Front & Palmer, named one of America’s top 45 wedding venues by Brides.com. This unique and modern venue sure has a lot to offer!
After a few heartfelt words for the newlyweds, guests enjoyed a memorable evening of delectable food, dancing, and of course, lots of cake! Who doesn’t love cake?
Enjoy a short preview of Ali & Matt’s wedding day below.
Rebecca and Jared were all smiles, all day at their elegant spring wedding in Center City Philadelphia. They chose the Rittenhouse Hotel, a stylish and flexible venue, for their special day. With several elegant spaces to choose from, the hotel can be outfitted to match any vision.
This lovely couple decorated with florals and fabrics to achieve their springtime vision. After the ceremony, guests didn’t have to travel far. They enjoyed a fun evening of dinner and dancing right at the Rittenhouse!
The talented team at Lacroix provided a delicious meal that swept the guests off their feet, including a flowery cake that looked almost too good to eat. ]
Rebecca and Jared loved celebrating their special day with family and friends. We hope they enjoy their wedding video as much as Allure Films enjoyed filming it!
Take a look at some of the highlights from this spring wedding:
Going to a Greek wedding? Get ready to celebrate not only the bride and groom, but their entire family as well!
Greek culture is very family-oriented – marriage and children are still the natural ‘next step’ for a serious relationship. While weddings typically focus on the gathering of two families, Greek food, music, dancing, and the wedding ceremony itself are equally important.
Allure Films has compiled a short list of just a few Greek traditions you’ll see at a Greek wedding:
The Preparation
On wedding day, the bride traditionally prepares at her house while her family gathers and watches. The bride to-be comes out in front of her family wearing her dress, and the bridesmaids and maid of honor proceed to add accessories.
The groom prepares by getting dressed in his tuxedo or very formal suit by the best man. The groom also sits in a chair and best man proceeds to shave his face in what is referred to as “the last shave.”
The Ceremony
The betrothal service begins at the door of the church where the priest blesses the rings and puts them on the couples’ fingers three times. During the marriage ceremony, the bride and groom stand together with two candles. (Most things are done three times during the betrothal service, in reverence to the Holy Trinity.)
Jordan almonds (called koufeta) are given to the guests to represent the sweetness (sugar coating) and the bitterness (almond) of life. They are given in odd numbers to represent that this new couple being formed is indivisible.
The Reception
Modern couples tend to share a home before they get married, so they usually have all the basic house needs covered. For gifts, a fine piece of art or cash is acceptable.
Expect a lot of food! Greek brides and grooms are notorious for filling their guests up with traditional Greek dishes, from roasted lamb to suckling pig to famous spinach and feta pies.
Greeks do a variation of the money dance where cash is thrown at the musicians and the couple while dancing.
Besides hearing opa (a sound of acclamation), you may also hear na zisoun (wishes for a long life), and I Ora I Kali, which means, “Here’s to the good times that are coming.”
Experience it for yourself! Enjoy this wonderful look at Arhodia and Kosmas’ Merion wedding.
Diane and George, thank you for including the Allure Films team in your wedding celebration. These lovebirds tied the knot at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, and followed with a lovely reception at the Brantwyn Estate. The gorgeous medley of white floral decor was provided by Beautiful Blooms. Our favorite quote of the night was quite easy to choose this time around. “Marriage is not about finding a person that you can live with, but about finding that person you can’t live without.” That quote is so true, and it describes the love shared between Diane and George perfectly. Congrats newlyweds!
Bonnet Island Estate was a beautiful place for Sommer & Anthony’s wedding. Watch as family and friends gather to share the many magical moments shared between this bride and groom. Christian Oth Photography helped to capture the day through photos. Video One enjoyed being a part of Sommer and Anthony’s big day. Please enjoy this short wedding film preview. Congrats to our newlyweds! Enjoy.
