We are smitten with Penelope’s Reem Acra gown, Roses. The capped sleeves detailed in pearls and Swarovski crystals is such an artful touch in an equally artful atmosphere. Penelope + Brian combined traditional and modern venues for their special day with a Greek Orthodox wedding ceremony and a contemporary reception held at the McNay Art Museum…why yes we would love to take in the art exhibits over cocktail hour, that sounds lovely!
Penelope + Brian | August 2014 | San Antonio, Texas | Dress Listing: Reem Acra, Roses
The Ceremony
Our beautiful ceremony was held at the St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Church. It’s a historical church built in 1926 with special meaning to me because my grandfather was a founder. There were over 200 guests and two priests officiating. One of the priests was my cousin who traveled from Michigan. The ceremony was a traditional Greek ceremony comprised of The Betrothal, The Rite of Crowning, Prayers, The Crowning, The Drink from the Common Cup and the Dance of Isaiah.
The Reception
Our reception was held at the picturesque McNay Art Museum. This place also has a special meaning to me because my uncle’s architecture firm designed it. Guests were able to browse the art gallery during cocktail hour or sit outside and enjoy drinks while listening to the Monte Vista strings performing in the beautiful Blackburn Patio. The beautiful auditorium was illuminated with purple script side wall lighting, pin lights cascading on all the tables, three classy chandeliers, and our scripted initials on the back wall behind the authentic Greek band. There was plenty of Greek food and music that began with the guests participating in the traditional Greek dancing that circled in between all of the tables. We took dancing lessons to learn how to Two Step, which paid off when we had our first dance to “When You Say Nothing At All” by Alison Krauss.
Penelope’s Dress Search
A week after I got engaged, I flew to San Antonio because my mom found a dress she wanted me to try on. Our first stop was Nordstrom’s bridal shop followed by several small boutique stores in San Antonio. I tried on several dresses but ended up purchasing the first one, the one my mom had seen and hoped I would choose. I wanted a dress that was different and one of a kind. When I put the dress on I felt like a Greek goddess and fell in love with the sleeves that were made of beautiful Swarovski crystal and pearls. The dress was made of tulle, which was elegant and very comfortable. A must have for all the dancing at our big fat Greek wedding!
How Penelope Felt in Her Wedding Dress
Greek goddess, Beautiful, Excited
Why Penelope Decided to Sell Her Wedding Dress
I felt like a princess the entire evening, so I don’t want my stunning dress to sit in our closet and never get worn again. Knowing how much weddings cost, I would love for another bride to have the opportunity to wear such a gorgeous dress that looks brand new but not have to pay retail price. There is no need to spend your entire wedding budget on a dress. I hope to make another bride’s wedding dress dream come true!
