An Unforgettable Wedding Experience: False Nails and Flying Plates
Every person has a memory that they will always remember and something they will never forget. For me, that moment was an extravagant Greek wedding that took place many years ago. It was a joyous occasion filled with traditions, cuisine, and a memorable misfortune.
A Greek Wedding Amidst Tradition and Love
Angel, my youngest daughter, was once in a long-term relationship with a Greek man named Christo. After their relationship ended, Angel remained friends with Christo’s family, including his sisters. One of these sisters was getting married, and Angel was asked to be a bridesmaid. This was an exciting opportunity for Angel, who had her own business as a seamstress.
The Wedding Day
The wedding reception was held at the Robinson Hall in Randfontein, a venue known for its large events. The reception was a lavish affair with everything meticulously planned. Five other bridesmaids, each in their own style of lilac dress, completed the look. Angel, who was skilled in making her own dresses, also made some of the bridesmaids' gowns.
The ceremony took place in the Greek Orthodox Church in Krugersdorp. Angel and I had visited the church for a funeral before, and we took the opportunity to appreciate the church's rich trappings. The sheer beauty of the church was a contrast to the somber occasion of a funeral, making the wedding all the more memorable.
From Soft Music to Flying Plates
The wedding was a feast for the senses, with a beautifully decorated hall featuring long trestle tables adorned in white and lilac. The band played soft, melodious Greek music during the meal, creating a serene atmosphere. However, the mood underwent a significant transformation after the meal.
The band switched to lively tunes, and the bride and groom took the dance floor for a traditional wedding dance that only happens at weddings. Once the dancing commenced, the groom led his bride back to her seat. But then, some unexpected chaos ensued.
Several young men joined the dance floor, forming a line and dancing faster and faster as the tempo increased. This led to a unique tradition: plates were thrown and broken on the floor. The shards of plates were flying everywhere, and some even landed beneath our table. I had heard of this tradition, but witnessing it firsthand was something else entirely.
A Missed Heel and Loose Nails
Angel, being a skilled seamstress, had short nails and opted for false nails. During the energetic moments of the dance, some of her false nails came off. She frantically searched for them under the table, hoping they were intact. Despite her efforts, she found none. In a fitting twist of events, the wine glasses, which we were using, were not as sturdy as the plates, and some also broke into pieces, landing under our table. I couldn't help but find the irony in our misfortune.
The Driving Home Adventure
Although the wedding was a memorable experience, there was an added challenge for Angel and me. We both had to drive home after the reception, and we agreed to leave together. It was a safer choice for both of us, considering the crowded and possibly intoxicated guests. We both decided not to drive too much ourselves to ensure we didn't get into a dangerous situation.
Final Thoughts
The memories of that wedding, filled with traditions, elegance, and a bit of misfortune, remain vivid in my mind. The wild dancing, the flying plates, and the entire experience created a perfect blend of joy and chaos. It was a day that will always be remembered and something I will never forget.