Daniela and Draz were married at St. George Serbian Orthodox in Schererville, Indiana.
I started the morning with Daniela and her bridesmaids getting ready at her home. Allison started with Draz at his home. Daniela and Draz each had a celebration (Skup) happening at their respective homes.
After Draz and Daniela were dressed, his group traveled to meet Daniela and “negotiate” for her with her family members. It was a fun tradition – especially when Draz’s people requested a photo of the bride and they brought out a stained glass portrait from Daniela as a teenager. There was more celebrating after the couple came together Daniela’s Skup with dancing and food.
Eventually it was time to head to the church for the ceremony. Orthodox churches are always some of the most visual ceremony locations that we see and St. George was no exception. The community filled the church, but it still felt very intimate. I love all the pageantry – I mean, those ceremonial crowns!
After the ceremony we had time for some portraits with the couple and their family and the wedding party. The reception kicked off with some great toasts from the fathers and brothers of the couple. Daniela’s dance with her father turned into a joint dance with Draz and his mother and that led into the couple’s first dance.
The dance floor opened with traditional Serbian musicians including an accordion. The live music provided a great energy and so much fun!
Thanks again to Daniela and Draz for inviting us into your homes and your letting us document all of your beautiful customs and traditions – I’m hoping to see more Serbian Orthodox weddings in the future !
