Tamara and Andrew

Tamara and Andrew were married on October 5, 2019 in a traditional ceremony at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Tamara’s daughter Mara, and Andrew’s daughter Kristen, were the beautiful bridesmaids.

This was a special wedding for the fact that Tamara and Joanne (owner of Katherine’s Daughter Events) are dear friends. When Tamara asked Joanne to help her with planning and coordination, there was no hesitation. Joanne said yes.

The challenge was that Tamara was in North Carolina and Joanne lives in Pittsburgh. However, the process was smooth as they both committed to regular video chats. When the time came for Joanne to fly to NC for the wedding, everything was ready!

One of the biggest questions for this wedding was the priest. The previous one was due to retire and Tamara was not sure who was actually going to marry her and Andrew! And Andrew wanted his pastor as part of the ceremony too. It all came together with Father Constantine Shepherd officiating, Father Chris Foley assisting, and Pastor Touree Marshall reading the epistle.

This was the first time Joanne could remember a full choir in response during a Greek Orthodox ceremony. Becki and Greg King were the Koumbari. The entire ceremony was very touching.

At the reception, family touches were evident everywhere. Tamara, her family, and friends hand made paper flowers from a vintage heirloom book. These were included in her bouquet and the centerpieces. The teacups that held the flowers were from Tamara and Andrew’s personal collection. Doilies were borrowed and the books also belonged to the couple.

The ceremony took place at 11am and the reception followed in the church hall. Guests were welcomed with a coffee and mimosa bar, and Krispy Kreme donuts! Breakfast was served after a greeting and prayer and included a grits bar with all the toppings! Groove Food provided the jazzy music that had everyone stepping.

Tamara and Andrew, It was an honor to be part of your special day! I wish you a wonderful, happy marriage. May God grant you many years. 

Love, Joanne

Tamara’s Dress- ModCloth

Andrew’s Suit- Men’s Wearhouse

Kristen’s Dress- David’s Bridal

Mara’s Dress- Francesca’s

Photographer- Michelle Shay

Church- Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church

Caterer- Town and Country Grille

Donuts- Krispy Kreme

Band- Groove Food