5 Details Mama Mia Missed About Greek Weddings in Greece

By Nicolette Petra 

1. Dress to impress 

If you've ever been to Greek Easter or seen the memes about it being the unofficial Greek fashion week, you'll know that the Greeks show up when it comes to weddings. Donna's denim overalls don't exactly fit the dress code. People wear anything from the smart casual "jeans-nice-top-and-sandals" option to glammed-up-to-the-nines formal wear. And yes, guests can (and do) wear white!

2. Assuming makes an ass out of u and me 

Unlike Mama Mia, not every wedding in Greece involves the bride riding a donkey up to a tiny church on a cliffside. It's more likely that the wedding will take place in a modern church with a view of either the mountains, ocean or both if you're lucky, depending on the location. The guests also forego waking on foot, instead reaching the church via their cars which have white ribbons tied around the side mirrors and antennas as part of the celebrations.

3. Chivalry isn't dead 

When the bride arrives everyone is waiting on the steps of the church for her to step out of the car. In particular, the groom waits alone on the steps and presents the bride with her bouquet of flowers. No need for BYO.

4. Smashing meals > plate smashing 

The bride and groom's arrival to the reception hall is not so much the cue for speeches but rather the signal to the waitstaff to bring the first of many courses to the guests. So, despite Pierce Brosnan's moving rendition of When All is Said and Done, there are no speeches at weddings in Greece. And sorry to disappoint, but there's generally no plate smashing either. Instead, napkins are constantly thrown around people on the dancefloor throughout the night. It definitely makes for an easier clean-up job. There are also moments when the guests tap on their plates with their knives and forks for bride and groom to kiss. Nothing like a bit of peer pressure.

5. Party til dawn 

No, seriously. There's no time for noise complaints or passing out early like Sophie during Voulez Vous. A wedding in Greece is a success when it starts at 7pm in the blaring heat and ends at 7 *AM* when your feet have become blistered and numb. Note to self - always, always, always bring band aids.