Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church

Rehersal Dinner

Pleasantdale Chateau

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

After Party

Day After Brunch

Our Wedding

A New Chapter That Changed EverythingSome love stories begin with a grand gesture, but ours started in the simplest, most unexpected way—one that neither of us could have planned but both of us were destined for. We met in the summer of 2015 as aspiring first year pharmacy students, at a time when we weren’t necessarily looking for love, yet love found us anyway. From the very beginning, there was something different about the way we talked, laughed, and just existed in each other’s presence. Conversations that were supposed to last minutes stretched into hours, and what started as casual encounters soon became the foundation of something undeniable. Growing Together Through Life’s JourneyFrom weekend getaways to late-night heart-to-hearts, we quickly became inseparable. Effie’s kindness, intelligence, and unwavering support became Dans anchor, and Dan likes to think that his humor, determination, and love for Effie brought the same comfort in return. We built our relationship on trust, understanding, and the simple joy of experiencing life side by side. Despite living in different states—Effie in Long Island and Dan in Connecticut—we always found ways to make time for each other. Whether it was through long drives, spontaneous trips, or just making the most of the moments we had, the distance never felt like a burden because every reunion made our love even stronger. The Proposal That Brought Us HereOn a cool afternoon, in a place that has always brought Dan peace—the boardwalk near Dans house, at a gazebo he had decorated for the occasion—Dan got down on one knee and asked the most important question of his life. It was the perfect moment in a place that held so much meaning for us. With tears in Effies eyes (and maybe Dans, too), Effie said yes, and our forever officially began. The Next Chapter AwaitsNow, as we prepare to walk down the aisle and celebrate our love with all of you, we can’t help but reflect on the journey that brought us here. From our first meeting to this very moment, every experience, challenge, and milestone has only strengthened our bond. We can’t wait to celebrate this new chapter with our family and friends—because our love story wouldn’t be complete without all of you who have been part of it in some way.Here’s to love, laughter, and a lifetime of adventures ahead!

Our Love Story

Our Story

Photos

Tina and I have been inseparable since we were three years old. After moving from Queens to Long Island, our moms became best friends—and so did we. God may not have given us sisters by blood, but we found sisterhood in each other.

For 30 years, we’ve shared life’s biggest moments, laughter, and love. I was honored to stand by her side at her wedding, and now, I couldn’t imagine anyone else standing by mine. Having Tina as our Koumbara is a true blessing, and I’m so grateful for our forever friendship.

Tina Vilbig

Teddy isn’t just my best friend—he’s my family. My first cousin, my brother in every way that matters, and my partner in crime since birth. Born just six months apart, we grew up together, got into trouble together, and always had each other’s backs.

When I brought Dan into my life, he and Teddy bonded instantly. From late-night balcony talks in Chios to basketball debates, they became family, too.

Having Teddy as our Koumbaro is an honor. His love and loyalty have always been unwavering, and we couldn’t imagine this day without him by our side.

Teddy Sagos

Maria isn’t just a best friend—she’s family in every way that matters. We met when I was just four years old and have been inseparable ever since. 

Anything that happened in life, big or small, near or far, we always shared everything together. I remember I called her after Dan and I first kissed, she knew in that moment that he was the one for me. 

Our journey has been one of laughter, adventures, and unconditional love. No matter how much time or distance comes between us, nothing ever changes—she’s still my better half. Having her by my side on this special day means everything to me.

Maria Margaronis

Luis is my younger brother by 10 months, we grew up together, sharing the same schools, friends, and eventually the same career. From high school with Victor to undergrad at UConn and then pharmacy school, we were inseparable, even as roommates through it all. We’ve had our share of crazy times, but no matter what, we always pulled through together. Luis is someone I trust completely—loyal, dependable, and always there when you need him. I couldn’t imagine life without him, and I wouldn’t want to celebrate this day without him next to me.

Luis Manuel Lavoura

Maria has held a special place in my heart since the day she was born. I was just 16 when she came into my life, and from that moment on, everything changed. She was the most perfect little baby, then a fearless little girl, and now, she’s grown into an incredible young woman—one who is about to embark on her next big adventure in college.

I am beyond proud to call her my goddaughter. Watching her grow has been one of the greatest joys of my life, and I couldn’t imagine this day without her by my side. She will always and forever hold a special place in my heart.

Maria Sagos

Victor is my younger brother by 2 years and 8 months, but he has always been someone I’ve looked up to—especially when it comes to sports. He was an incredible soccer player, and I loved watching him play, knowing something special could happen at any moment. I had the chance to play alongside him and Luis in high school, and those were some of the best times. Victor is fiercely competitive, and he always brought out that same fire in me. Beyond sports, he’s kind, thoughtful, and—surprisingly—a great cook! No matter what, I know Victor always has my back, and I’m grateful to have him standing by my side on my wedding day.

Victor Lavoura

My perfect twin cousins, Nicole may be the quieter one, but don’t be fooled—she is fierce in her own way. From the day she was born, wrapped up in a tiny blanket, I knew she was special. More cautious, always observing, but never afraid to prove just how strong she is.

Watching her grow from a tiny baby into the incredible, determined young woman she is today has been a gift. No matter what, she always knows how to put a smile on my face. I couldn’t imagine this day without her standing by my side.

Nicole Zannikos

Nelson is my youngest brother, born 10 years and 9 months after me, but despite the age gap, he has always been there for me. If I needed help with something—whether it was a project, fixing something, or just having someone by my side—Nelson was always the first person I called. I had the privilege of watching him grow up, from changing his diapers to coaching him in soccer and seeing him become the incredible person he is today. He went to UConn, my alma mater, but did something I always wished I could have—studying abroad. His ability to navigate Europe, figure things out on his own, and adapt to any situation inspires me to travel. He’s independent, intelligent, and has always done things his own way, and I truly admire him for it. I’m grateful to have him by my side on this special day.

Nelson Lavoura

My perfect twin cousins, Ava is and always has been a firecracker—spunky, outspoken, and never afraid of anything. From the moment she was born, I was mesmerized by how perfect she was. Watching her grow has been one of the greatest joys of my life.

She’s the kind of person who can make you laugh no matter the situation, bringing energy and light wherever she goes. From her first steps to the incredible young woman she’s becoming, I’ve been lucky to witness every moment. Having her by my side on this special day is a true honor.

Ava Zannikos

Athan is my godson and junior groomsman, but more than that, he was the first person outside of my immediate family that I felt a deep sense of responsibility for. Watching him grow into the respectful, caring, and responsible young man he is today makes me incredibly proud. I especially admire the way he is as a big brother to Amalia—he’s kind, protective, and always looking out for her.  Athan takes school seriously, but he also knows how to enjoy life. When we see each other, we can spend hours playing and catching up. I love hearing about how his life is changing, what he’s working on, and all the success he’s achieving. I’m honored to have him standing beside me on this special day.

Athan Barbosa

I still remember the day Alexis was born—so perfect and so cute. From the very beginning, she has always marched to the beat of her own drum, never afraid to be herself.

Now, she’s growing into a smart, kind, and loving young teenager, and I couldn’t be prouder. I’m so lucky to have her in my life, and I can’t wait to share this special day with her by my side.

Alexis Sirris

Wedding Party

Q + A

Wedding Code: ZNLPDC&nbsp;Date and Code must be accurate in order to secure date.

Pleasantdale Chateau & Conference Estate

The Marriott hotel is available for guest from Saturday night to Monday. Please use the link provided to get the rate listed above. For the night of the wedding, we will have a shuttle service from the Château to the hotel.

Daniel and Effie

Daniel and Effie

D&E

Wedding Day

1:30 PM–2:45 PM

Ceremony

Reception

10:30 PM

After Party

9:00 AM

Day After Brunch