Here are some images from Popi and Shawn’s wedding at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Norfolk, VA and Virginia Beach Convention Center. Although the temperatures outside were uncharacteristically warm for December, the winter themes in the couple’s design kept all of us in the holiday spirit. π
Last year I received an email from bride Popi, threatening to release incriminating photographs of me if I did not photograph her wedding. You see, Popi and I went to elementary school together and she recognized my name as she began planning her wedding. She continued: “We are planning a big, fat Greek wedding! My life is exactly like the movie.” Familiar friends from youth… incredible Greek traditions and food… and a crazy party. How could I possibly resist!?
The fun began at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Norfolk, VA, where I’ve spent decades getting fat and happy on delicious food and wine at the annual Greek Festival. Knowing the day would be full of exciting Greek traditions, I brought in my buddy, Charlie Gunter, to help me photograph the special moments. Charlie is married into a Greek family of his own, so I knew he’d be the perfect partner for the day. For those who’ve never witnessed a traditional Greek wedding, it truly is a beautiful experience. In addition to the unique cultural elements throughout, almost the entire ceremony is sung.
After the couple exchanged vows, we all made our way to the Virginia Beach Convention Center at the Virginia Beach oceanfront. The interior had been transformed into a beautiful winter-themed space and Charlie and I had a wonderful time photographing all the details by Palette of Petals and Stage Right Lighting. Debra of Incredible Edibles made sure my final wedding cake of 2015 was absolutely gorgeous. And in a special twist of fate, Chris of DJ on the Side and I both began and concluded our 2015 seasons together.
The reception was full of touching toasts and sentiments as well as plenty of the excitement and craziness Popi had forecasted. One of my favorite moments was watching Popi’s somewhat quiet father cutting loose on the dance floor. Every celebration is a treat to photograph, but it was extra special to be able to be there for an old friend and witness and document some of her family’s happiest moments. Congratulations Popi and Shawn! π
