7+5 Greek Wedding Traditions with a Modern Twist

Greek weddings are steeped in customs that have passed from generation to generation. Today, more wedding events than ever prove that these beloved traditions not only endure, but evolve—infused with creativity, personal style, and the fresh perspective of couples who choose to honor them in meaningful ways.

In celebration of 75 years of Hatziyiannakis Dragee Confectionery, we gathered the 7 + 5 most iconic Greek wedding traditions that remain alive today. Even better? We’ve added modern ideas to help you incorporate them into your own wedding with style, personality, and flair.

Let’s explore the customs that continue to shape the Greek wedding experience.

#1 The Sugar Dragees Bowls at the Couple’s Home

On the morning of the wedding, friends and family arrive early to share in the couple’s preparation. And because no celebration is complete without something sweet, Hatziyiannakis’ sugar dragees take center stage – turning pre-wedding jitters into the ultimate sweet-sharing moment.

Modern Tip: Choose sugar dragees that combine exceptional taste and stunning colors. The Hatziyiannakis Pebble Dragees made with chocolate and real fruit or nuts offer a delicious, eye-catching addition to your wedding morning table.

#2 Writing the Single Friends’ Names on the Bride’s Shoes

A fun Greek tradition: the bride writes the names of her single friends on the soles of her shoes. Whoever’s name fades by the end of the night is said to be the next bride-to-be.

Modern Tip: Take it online! Have your friends film mini Instagram Stories as you write their names, and the next morning reveal which names disappeared. A playful, shareable wedding moment!

#3 The Groom’s Shaving Ritual

Traditionally, the groom is shaved by his best man or close friends shortly before the wedding—symbolizing the farewell to bachelor life.

Modern Twist: Transform this ritual into a chic gentlemen’s gathering. Invite a professional barber, create a stylish setup, and let your photographer capture emotional, candid moments of friendship.

#4 The Bride’s Fashionably Late Arrival

The bride traditionally arrives a few minutes later than scheduled—building anticipation and allowing guests time to gather.

Modern Twist: Make a grand entrance with a vintage car for unforgettable, editorial-style photos.

#5 Walking the Bride Down the Aisle

In Greek tradition, the bride’s father escorts her to the church, symbolizing her transition into a new family.

Modern Twist: Include your pet! It adds warmth, personality, and guarantees adorable wedding photos.

#6 The Bride Steps on the Groom’s Foot

During the priest’s recitation of “and let the wife fear her husband,” the bride playfully steps on the groom’s foot – a symbolic gesture of equality, delivered with humor and affection.

Modern Tip: Ask your videographer to capture the moment in slow motion – plus the groom’s reaction!

#7 Sugar Dragees Under the Pillow

The white dragees on the wedding tray symbolize the bright days ahead for the newlyweds. After the ceremony, single women take some to place under their pillow, hoping to dream of their future spouse.

Modern Twist: Turn it into a fun girly tradition your friends can share, extending the bachelorette mood beyond the party.

#8 The Wedding Favor as a Flavorful Statement

The wedding favor is the couple’s way of thanking their guests. It is offered right after the ceremony, which is why special attention is given to the wedding sugar dragees – after all, they are what give the event its sweetest touch. Forget the plain, hard sugar dragees of the past. Today, there are endless options in fillings, flavors, and colors, and the variety of Hatziyiannakis’ sugar dragees is truly vast, catering to every taste. Each couple can now create their own unique flavor combination.

#9 Odd Numbers in the Wedding Favor

Tradition dictates that a wedding favor should contain an odd number of sugar dragees (7, 9, or even 11) to symbolize the couple’s unbreakable bond. But that’s not all! A generous wedding favor filled with plenty of sugar dragees will simply offer your guests maximum enjoyment! Dare to mix white Hatziyiannakis sugar dragees with colored ones that match your décor, and create the perfect flavor-and-style combo that your guests will remember.

#10 Rice Toss at the End of the Ceremony

Guests shower the newlyweds with rice as a blessing for prosperity and stability.

Modern Twist: Upgrade the moment with heart-shaped confetti poppers for an ultra-romantic, Instagram-ready exit.

#11 Throwing the Bridal Bouquet

During the wedding party, the bride gathers her single friends on the dance floor, turns her back, and tosses the bouquet. Whoever catches it is said to be next in line to marry.

Modern Tip: Record a short, emotional message for the friend who catches the bouquet. Paired with slow-motion footage, it becomes a heartfelt keepsake she’ll treasure forever.

#12 Honey and Walnuts From the Groom’s Mother

After the ceremony, the groom’s mother offers honey (symbolizing a sweet life) and walnuts (representing fertility) to the newlyweds.

Modern Twist: Include this custom in your after-wedding breakfast the next day – accompanied by a handwritten wish from the mother-in-law.

Old-World Charm, New-Age Vows

Today’s couples don’t reject tradition – they reinvent it. Every custom you choose to keep becomes an opportunity to express who you are. These rituals aren’t just traditions; they’re bridges connecting generations, filling your wedding day with emotion, meaning, and unforgettable moments.