Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

Their story began on September 24, 2022, over a charming brunch in Yaletown, just days after both had returned from separate travels across Europe. Whether it was fate or perfect timing, the moment they met felt effortless and right. George was in his true state of readiness, and Athena had just returned from Greece, gently reminded by her yiayia that it might be time to find a nice boy. From the very first day, George knew Athena was the one. By their third date, on October 1, 2022, he asked her to be his girlfriend. What Athena didn’t know then was that, shortly before meeting her, George had applied for a UK visa. When it was approved, he knew he had to share the news. He took Athena to a cozy restaurant in Gastown and ordered a bottle of wine, maybe two. Taking a deep breath, George finally said: “I’m just going to come out and say it. Before I met you, I applied for my UK visa. I got the acceptance letter. It’s been approved. I’m going to move to London.” Athena nearly choked on her wine. Her eyes began to water, but before she could respond, George continued: “I’m telling you this not because I want to break up, but because I want to ask if you would move to London with me?” It was a leap of faith. She could say no, and that would be the end of it. Or she could say yes. Without hesitation, Athena said yes, and just like that, a new chapter began. London quickly became the time of their lives. They worked, explored, traveled to 18 countries in a short span, reunited with old friends, made new ones, and began collecting local art pieces, a passion that admittedly became more George’s than Athena’s. Their little flat in Angel, Islington, became home. They even joked about one day getting married at Islington Town Hall, a funny thought at the time and a quiet glimpse into the future. Now back in Canada, George and Athena are thrilled to begin their next chapter together, surrounded by the people they love most, as they celebrate their wedding day.

Our Story

The Church Ceremony🕓 Begins at 4:30 pm📍 Holy Church of Agion Apostolon Petrou &amp; PavlouPanos 9, Vari Voula Vouliagmeni 166 72, Greece Kindly note: There are many churches in Greece with similar names. The address listed above is the closest available address to the church and will be the easiest for guests to use when locating it. Please note that on Google Maps, the address may appear as an empty lot, however, the church is located directly beside it. Getting to the Church &amp; Transportation to the ReceptionThe church is located in a suburb of Athens called Vari. Please make sure to arrange your own transportation to the church. From the church to the reception, please let us know if you require vehicle arrangements - it's about a 15-minute drive, and guests are welcome to coordinate with others if needed. The Reception🕡 Begins at 6:15 pm until late (~5:00 am)📍 Island Art &amp; Taste (Residence)Leof. Poseidonos 66, Vari 166 72, Greece<a href="https://islandresortevents.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Venue Website Click Here</a>

Ceremony and Reception

Where to Stay 🏨These are suburbs and neighborhoods in the Athens area, each with different vibes, price points, and convenience to the wedding venues: Panos 9 is where the church is, and the red pinpoint is the venue. Suburbs Near the Venue 🚗Vari – 5–10 min to church &amp; receptionQuiet, relaxed, and most affordable Varkiza – 15 min to the venueSeaside suburb with beautiful views, moderate prices Vouliagmenoi – 15–20 min to the venueScenic, upscale, more expensive, one of the most popular areas Glyfada – 20–25 min to the venueLively, popular, priciest option, one of the most popular areas Central Athens 🏛️(Furthest away from the venue and church, depending on the traffic this can take up to 40 minutes to get here)Monastiraki – Main tourist area, close to shops, restaurants, and AcropolisPlaka – Charming historic neighborhood with cafes &amp; shopsSyntagma – Central, great transport access, near shopping &amp; restaurantsKolonaki – Upscale and stylish, more expensive but very safePsiri – Trendy area with nightlife, restaurants, and a vibrant crowd ❌ Avoid: Omonia – less safe and not recommended Travel Note ⛴️ Piraeus is the main port of Athens where the ferry terminals are located, if you plan to travel to the Greek islands before or after the wedding this is where you will depart from. Another way to travel to the islands is via the airport, which is not shown on the map. Airport is located just outside of central Athens. If coming direct from the airport, it will take you about 25 minutes to drive to the Vouliagmenoi, Varkiza, Vari areas. If driving direct to central Athens (in a different direction), it will take you about 30 minutes from the Airport to central Athens. We hope you enjoy your stay and make the most of your visit to Athens! 🌟

Where to Stay

What to Expect at a Greek Orthodox Wedding Ceremony&nbsp;✨Greek Orthodox weddings are known for being&nbsp;rich in tradition and symbolism&nbsp;— full of meaningful rituals that have been celebrated for centuries. Instead of spoken vows, the focus is on blessings, rituals, and shared moments that represent two people starting their life together. Here are a few highlights you’ll see during the ceremony: The Crowning&nbsp;👑 – The bride and groom are crowned with wedding “stefana” (crowns) connected by a ribbon, symbolizing their unity and the start of their journey together. The Koumbara&nbsp;🤍 – A very important role in Greek weddings! The koumbara (maid of honor) or koumbaros (best man) exchanges the crowns and rings three times during the ceremony, symbolizing the bond of marriage. The Common Cup&nbsp;🍷 – The couple shares wine from the same cup, a reminder that they’ll share all of life’s ups and downs together. The Dance of Isaiah&nbsp;🕊️ – The priest leads the couple around the altar in a joyful walk three times, their first steps as husband and wife. The ceremony usually lasts&nbsp;about 45 minutes&nbsp;and is a beautiful mix of music, ritual, and tradition.&nbsp;

George & Athena

George & Athena

Ceremony and Reception