Elopements have long had a reputation for defying tradition—or, thought of as sudden and secretive. But my friends, they can be SO much more than that. Today’s editorial from Jaclyn Journey and Tracy Burch is proof. With ancient Greek Orthodox wedding traditions in mind, this beautiful story of a private union is one that I hope will portray how truly meaningful an elopement can really be.
From Tracy Burch… We designed Sophia and Nikolas’ Mykonos elopement to look and feel true to ancient Greek Orthodox wedding traditions while being effortless, timeless and elegant. Her lace Claire Pettibone gown with cape, all About Romance tiara, and foraged nosegay along with Nikolas’s modern Zara suit and black Greek leather sandals created an elegant and modern pairing.
The elopement took place in a classic Mykonian white stone church with red door dating back to the late 1700’s. This small chapel, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, was family owned with deceased relatives buried beneath it. Upon entering the chapel you see the icons and wooden/stone architecture and smell the burning incense and beeswax candles – a feast for the senses.
The stationery, designed by High Fancy Paper and Rachel Fisher Calligraphy, was inspired by the idea of an ancient wedding along with the sea salt air and ocean surrounding the island. Styled with the suite was a photo of Sophia’s grandparent’s wedding ceremony, beeswax wedding candles, custom Orthodox wedding crowns, communion wine, and instruments used in a celebratory musical procession with locals following the nuptials. The wedding crowns, a tradition dating back hundreds and years. Tied together with a white raw silk ribbon, the wedding crowns symbolize the glory and honor that is being bestowed on them by God during the sacrament. They also refer to the crown of martyrdom, since every true marriage involves self-sacrifice on both sides- the ribbon symbolize them working together through marriage until their death.
Photography: Tracy Burch Photography | Design : Jaclyn Journey | Event Planning: Jaclyn Journey | Floral Design: Jaclyn Journey | Wedding Dress: Claire Pettibone | Shoes: Bella Belle | Calligraphy : Rachel Fisher Calligraphy | Accessories : All About Romance | Film Processing : PhotoVision Prints | Paper: High Fancy Paper