Roula and Chris embarked on an unforgettable journey to Crete for their dream Orthodox wedding, a celebration rooted in tradition and surrounded by the beauty of nature. The couple chose Crete, not only for its captivating landscapes but also for its rich history and cultural significance. Their wedding day was a true testament to their love and the union of their families, offering a glimpse into the magic of an Orthodox ceremony amidst a stunning Cretan backdrop.
Pre-Ceremony Preparations: A Moment of Anticipation
The wedding day began with the preparations at the villa. Both Roula and Chris got ready in separate parts of the estate, surrounded by their family. The atmosphere was full of excitement and anticipation as Roula’s bridesmaids helped her with the final touches, from her stunning gown to the delicate accessories. Her classic yet elegant look perfectly reflected the chic style of the wedding, while Chris prepared with his family, filled with the energy and camaraderie that marked the start of their special day.
The villa’s spacious interiors, featuring warm tones and traditional Cretan elements, provided the perfect space for these intimate moments. The sunlight filtering through the villa’s large windows illuminated these precious preparations, adding a natural glow to the morning.
The Ceremony: A Spiritual Union at Agios Minas Church
Once preparations were complete, the couple and their guests made their way to the Church of Agios Minas in the heart of Heraklion. This historic church, with its grand Byzantine architecture, is one of the largest Orthodox churches in Greece. The imposing exterior, adorned with detailed stonework and impressive domes, set the scene for an unforgettable ceremony.
The rich Orthodox traditions, including the exchanging of rings and crowns (known as the “Stefana”), were performed with reverence and joy. Surrounded by the church’s stunning frescoes and icons, Roula and Chris exchanged vows in front of their loved ones, marking the beginning of their new life together. The sound of hymns echoed through the church, creating a profound and emotional moment for everyone present.
The Reception: An Elegant Celebration at Mantillari Estate
After the moving ceremony, everyone returned to Mantillari Estate, where the villa had been transformed into an elegant reception venue. The team at Manfler Florist brought Roula and Chris’ vision to life with a chic and timeless decor that centered around white flowers.
Each table was beautifully adorned with personalized menu cards and name tags, adding a thoughtful and custom touch to the setting. These details, combined with soft candlelight and delicate lighting throughout the space, created an intimate and romantic atmosphere for the evening. The lights overhead gave the feeling of a starlit night, while the candles cast a warm glow, making the reception feel cozy and inviting.
A Night to Remember
The entire day, from the emotional ceremony to the elegant reception, was a seamless blend of tradition and modern elegance. Roula and Chris’ decision to travel to Crete for their wedding allowed them to experience not only the beauty of the island but also the rich culture and history that comes with it. Mantillari Estate provided the perfect setting, combining the natural beauty of the landscape with a sense of luxury and sophistication.
The talented Stavros Lykakis was there to capture every moment, from the couple’s preparations at the villa to their emotional first look and the joyous celebration that followed. His stunning photography allows us to relive these moments, showcasing the beauty of the day and the love between Roula and Chris.
This wedding was a true testament to the power of love and the beauty of Crete as a wedding destination. From the spiritual ceremony to the chic decor and romantic atmosphere, Roula and Chris’ wedding was everything they dreamed of and more.
Photography @lykakisweddingphotography
Videography @vasilis_tsagkarakis
Coordination @the_25_project
Venue @villa_mantilari
Flowers @manfler.florist
Catering @siganoscatering
Decoration lights @studio_k_kavlentakis
