The kum and kuma support the newlyweds by offering guidance throughout the marriage, and God Willing, become godparents to the couple’s children. When the couple officially ties the knot, these individuals – and their families by extension – become each other’s “kumovi”.

The second witness is called “stari svat” in Serbian; traditionally (as in the case with us), he is the groom’s maternal uncle. Nowadays, he is jokingly called a “marriage elder” or “old wise man” and is someone the couple can go to as a source of advise and knowledge.

The domaćin is the host and master of ceremonies at a Serbian wedding. The word domaćin translates to host.

Throughout the service, everything is done in threes in remembrance of the Trinity (the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit). The three-finger formation (with thumb, index, and middle finger brought together) used by those of Serbian-Orthodox faith represents the Holy Trinity, as well.

The rings are first blessed by the priest, who holds them in his right hand and makes the sign of the cross over the couple’s heads. The rings are then placed on the right hand, the hand with which promises and/or oaths are traditionally made and the hand which the presence of God is recognized through the sign of the Cross. The rings are then exchanged between the couple three times. You will notice that their right hands are tied together when the priest reads the prayer that beseeches God to "join these servants, unite them in one mind one flesh." The hands are kept joined throughout the service to symbolize the "oneness" of the couple.

The rite of the crowning is the apex of the wedding service. The crowns are representative of the glory and honor with which God crowns the couple during the sacrament. The Bride and Groom are crowned as queen and king of their own little kingdom, which they will rule with wisdom, justice, and integrity.

The couple will drink wine, representative of the blood of Jesus Christ, from a chalice to symbolize that they will be sharing the happiness and sorrows of life together. They do this three times. Then, the priest will lead the bride and groom three times around the table on their first steps as a married couple.

Kolo is a traditional, collective folk dance performed by dancers who are interlinked to form a chain, usually moving in a circular line holding hands with their arms down. It is performed to the accompaniment of music at private and public gatherings and involves all members of the local community. Here is a video is you want to learn it! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HdcACqkWwg4

P.S. this will count towards your steps :)

We are blessed to be loved by so many people with kids, however we are limiting kids to family and Kumovi only.

Yes, formal attire is required.

Please refer to your RSVP card about the number of seats reserved in your honor.

There is parking at both the ceremony location and at the reception.

Please mail-in your RSVP by 15 October 2024.