Idea To Include Family Tradition and Heritage In Your Wedding Reception

I just got home from an incredible wedding we did today for a fantastic couple! They had a traditional Greek Orthodox ceremony today in a beautiful church in Calgary. For anyone who has attended an Greek Orthodox wedding, you know that the ceremony is full of rich traditions and symbolism, right from the wearing of the crowns joined by a single ribbon, showing that they will be the heads of their new household, to the ceremonial walk, where the priest leads the couple around the altar three times to represent their first steps together as man and wife. As the couple and their families had both been members of the church since they were children, the priest had watched them grow up physically and spiritually. He knew them well enough to include personal experiences from their childhood, and make it more personable and meaningful for the couple, their families, and everyone in attendance.

For the newlyweds, family and tradition were both extremely important to each of them. After such a culturally rich ceremony, they wanted to find ways to continue with traditions during their reception. One idea was to include wedding photos of both sets of their parents, as well as one of their engagement photos on their signing table. It showed the history as well as the beginning of a new family - an absolutely beautiful idea that is easy to do, relatively inexpensive, yet extremely effective! (The best kind!!!)

Another friend of mine has used a similar idea in her home decor. She has her wedding photo, but like a family tree, has gone back and used both her parents' wedding photo and her hubby's, as well as the wedding picture of all four sets of grandparents. Talk about showing your family heritage!

As more and more couples are looking to make their ceremonies their own, it doesn't mean that we have to forget about the past. Sometimes the best ideas come from going back to the basics...

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Cathy MacRae is a certified wedding and event planner, and owner of Creative Weddings and Occasions and Del Sol Destination Weddings. Located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, she plans wedding for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area. She is also a destination wedding and honeymoon travel specialist helping couples plan their weddings in paradise all around the world. For more information about planning your own wedding or for advice from Cathy, please contact her at cathy@creativeweddingsandoccasions.com .

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