If you are a guest at a traditional greek wedding, is a tie a must? Or is a suit jacket and shirt good enough?

Question

I'm not a close relative.... i'm the bride's sisters friends boyfriend.

I'm not greek, nor am I a family member. I'm the bride's sisters friends boyfriend....

Answer 1

You're headed to a wedding. Dress appropirately. (Yes, this means formalware - you're wearing a tie.)

Here's a little etiquette advice from someone who's been to a fair number of Greek weddings.

If you're headed to the church, you should dress in Sunday best and arrive early. (Since you're close to the family, you probably will be there.)

Hopefully the priest will do part or most of the service in English for your convenience, but chances are good it will be mainly or exclusively in Greek. Please be respectful and be quiet throughout the service. Stand when everyone else stands, and sit when everyone else sits. And, for God's sake, turn off your mobile.

Unlike Western Christian weddings, there's no exchange of vows. (In the Orthodox church, is seen as a given.) Also, applause in church is seen as disrespectful to the place, though there's a chance of it happening anyway.

At the reception, there will be dancing. The steps are simple, but it's easy to screw them up. If she pulls you in, then do it; otherwise, it's at your discretion.

There's also what's known as a Viennese table for desserts rather than the servers bringing things out. (O.K, so they do pass wedding cake, but usually nothing else.) Lots of the items may not pass muster to an American palette, but you never know; you may find something you like. Don't overload the plate.

Answer 2

TRUE greek wedding: Black and tie!!

You are 'family' by 'almost marriage'. You BETTER wear a tie. There is no rule about not changing into something more comfortable later but for the ceremony (till the cake cutting so to speak) you have to wear it.

Better check with the mother in law to be (or master of ceremony but he will refer you to her). She can give you dispensation.

Answer 3

Yes, tie is a must, not just in Greek weddings but all cultures.

Answer 4

You have to be properly attired or why bother going. Sounds like an imposition but why not impress your host on their special day ! Maybe that is why Paris Hilton has dated and almost married a Greek guy, they like to do it up right and you might even enjoy yourself and really fit in.

Answer 5

Ive been to one of those going with a suit jacket and shirt is good enough just wear what your comfortable in. Trust me theyll be happy that your there not for what your wearing.

Answer 6

Wear what you want to wear. Are you greek? You are not close to the family right? well is you answered no then does it really matter?

Answer 7

Don't jnow mate but enjoy!! I think a tie is a moders bit of kit. Not esential in all culturs.

Answer 8

T-Shirt and jeans... You want to fit in, right?

Answer 9

yes pls.