We are so excited to share this Moldovan-Russian wedding with you all–Greg and Daniela’s wedding celebration filled our hearts with so many happy memories! Although they met and live in the United States, Greg and Daniela’s wedding brings together not only two families but also two cultures. They were married in a gorgeous, symbolic, traditional Russian Orthodox ceremony that so closely resembled our own ceremony four years ago. Daniela was so excited to incorporate all her Moldovan traditions that they scheduled out almost every minute of their exciting reception. Although tightly scheduled and filled with sometimes crazy traditions, it was easy for us to anticipate the events of the day because, well, we knew them by heart. Alex is from Southern Ukraine, not far from the Moldovan border. We found that many of the traditions we followed for our own wedding were very similar to those in Moldova
As this week is OUR FOURTH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY, we thought it appropriate to share this beautiful wedding with you. It will come in two parts: I. Morning preparations and Ceremony and then II. Photo session in the park and Reception.
Enjoy!
In many Slavic cultures, the groom must first “buy” his bride in order to show that he will provide for her long into the future. Daniela’s brother Denis was the family representative and was a tough bargainer. But for him, it wasn’t about money–it was about love (although a little cash helped!)
In a Russian Orthodox ceremony, when the couple first enters the church, their rings are placed halfway down their fingers. Their witnesses exchange the rings three times before finally placing them on the ring finger of the right hand. They then move forward to the altar to become Husband and Wife, one whole.
This kind of family photo is every photographer’s dream. Gorgeous location, happy family, and a little bit of unexpected comedy to lighten the scene. This neighborhood dog came bounding in from the side–ball in tow–in hopes of finding a friend to play with!
Part II coming soon!
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Morning preparations & first glance: Hyatt Regency, Bellevue
Hair & Make-up: Many Faces by Maryanna
Ceremony: St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral, Seattle
Photography and Cinematography: Zinchuk Studios | Bellevue Wedding Cinematography + Photography
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