• decorated candles for the couple to hold during the services;
• flowers for in front of the iconostas, behind the altar, and on the tetrapod;
• an icon for the tetrapod, usually of the “Wedding Feast at Cana”;
• rings for both the bride and groom, for the betrothal;
• crowns—The crowns may be either Greek-style flower or pearl wreaths linked by a long, white ribbon (called stefana), or Russian-style jeweled metal crowns. Flower wreaths may be ordered from the florist with the other flowers (bouquets, corsages, reception-table centerpieces) or from a specialty supplier, and may be live or silk. If you are using metal crowns, make sure your parish has a set, and that they are in good condition;
• a common cup—We used a crystal, chalice-shaped wine glass that matched our crystal pattern at our wedding. It’s now displayed in our china cupboard, front and center.

    If your wedding is on a Sunday or on a weekday when a Divine Liturgy is served, don’t forget to pack some snacks in the box of items going to the church building, especially if you have very little time between Divine Liturgy and the betrothal and crowning services. Don’t let a rumbling stomach or light head disrupt your wedding because you fasted for Communion and didn’t have time to eat.

    Finally, remember that our Lord Jesus Christ and the Theotokos attended and enjoyed at least one wedding reception! Take along an oversized icon of Christ to hang on the east wall (or display on an easel) during your reception if it’s not being held in an Orthodox parish’s banquet hall. There’s nothing stranger than standing up to ask the Lord’s blessing, and facing a blank wall!