Happy Greek Nature Inspired Destination Jewish Wedding on Ikaria
The perfect summer romance wedding in the middle of June surrounded with Greek nature. Nonetheless, Arielle and Alex’s wedding was somewhat unique. This power couple, from New York, featured in The New York Times, decided to have their unique destination Jewish wedding in Greece!
Their symbolic ceremony was officiated by their friend, under the natural, rustic Chuppah decorated with Greek olives and the unspoiled views of the Mediterranean Sea! Moreover, the whole venue was Greek nature inspired and decorated in the traditional rustic tavern style with olives, lemons and local florals, to truly experience the local traditions!
After the ceremony was over, the couple took a stroll to have their portraits taken by Mneme Photography on some of the most iconic locations and views. The beautiful bride wore a boho inspired Calla Blanche dress. A deep V, low back and bell sleeved fitted lace dress. While Alex wore a navy suit from Bonobos that Arielle purchased for him as a gift.
The Greek feast at this Destination Jewish Wedding continued well into the night. During which, tables were always filled with good food and “mezzedes” or small bites to share! This is what makes a destination wedding in Greece, a unique family experience!
Form the bride:
How did you two meet and how did he propose?
We met back in 2009 at a college toga party. In April 2012, we started dating in earnest after Alex asked me to join him for a secret show by the Hives, a Swedish garage rock revival band, at the Studio at Webster Hall in New York’s East Village.
When and where was the wedding?
Our wedding was on the island of Ikaria, Greece at Thea’s Inn. Thea, the owner, is a great family friend. She helped us figure out all of the details. We also had so much help from her generous family—like her daughter in law Evangelitsa—who did all of the decorations. We actually didn’t see a single decoration until the night before (and many the day-of) and it was perfect.
Why did you choose that venue?
We got married at Thea’s Inn of Ikaria and it was PERFECT. Our hostess Thea was amazing. She did everything and was so fun. The food was amazing, the view was like a postcard and everyone told us that they felt like they were in the movie “Mamma Mia”.
What happened on your wedding day?
We woke up together and had waffles and cappuccinos at a small café, then visited a church by the sea and lit a candle for my pappou and Alex’s father. Alex got ready with a friend and I got dressed with my mom and sisters. We had a short Jewish ceremony, the first on the island, which was officiated by a close family friend. Then we had a cocktail hour, dinner and Greek dancing, and a dance party until 4:00 AM! Everyone in the town was welcome to join us.
We actually didn’t have a first dance but we walked down the aisle to a song that Alex wrote and finished the ceremony to “Just Like Heaven” by The Cure.
Were there any special details you wanted to include?
Alex is a filmmaker and it was important that we document our wedding in a way that felt fun and relaxed. So, Alex filmed the whole thing on his camera at his own wedding. We wanted to have a Destination Jewish Wedding, and say our own vows to each other. I wanted to walk myself down the aisle as a symbol of modernity in marriage. As opposed to a man “giving away” his daughter to another man. Our favourite details of the day were dancing (specifically to Prince) and the fact that so many family members travelled from so far away to be with us. We felt so much love, and were overjoyed to be able to host everyone in such an amazing space.
Any advice for brides to be?
Be relaxed. Be in the moment. Don’t do anything because you feel like you “should.”
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List of Vendors:
Photography: Mneme Photography
Coordination, Décor & Venue: Thea’s Inn
Bridal Dress: Calla Blanche
Grooms Suit: Bonobos
