Blog
Notes from the workbench on candles, christenings and weddings.
Orthodox wedding shopping list: what I make and what I do not
I make the wedding candles and nothing else for the ceremony. Here is the full list of what an Orthodox wedding needs, which items I cover and where the others usually come from.
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Christening bundle or separate pieces: how to decide
The luxury bundle is $350. The same day's items bought one at a time can come to a similar amount or well under it. Here is how the two compare and which suits a godparent or a guest.
Read moreGreek Orthodox wedding candles: a guide for the koumbaro or koumbara
The koumbaro or koumbara usually buys the wedding candles. What to confirm with the couple before you order, and how the order works from my end.
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Choosing a christening candle colour
Green, blue, navy, pink, lilac, dusty pink or pearls. Most people choose in under a minute once they know what the choice is actually about.
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What to give at an Orthodox christening when you are a guest
You are invited, you are not the godparent, and you have no idea what to bring. Here is what most families expect from a guest, and what to leave to the kum.
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Keeping the christening candle after the day
The candle comes home from church and then sits in a wardrobe for years. Here is how I keep mine, and what to do when the tulle starts to yellow.
Read moreWhat to write on Orthodox wedding candles
One name per candle, spelt the way the person spells it, confirmed before I start. That is most of it. The rest is the questions couples ask me every week.
Read moreWhat the godparent buys for an Orthodox christening
A new godmother messaged me last month with one line. What am I meant to buy? Here is the list I sent her, and the two questions to ask before you buy any of it.
Read moreThe slava candle, and why I get asked for it every November
Every November the same message arrives. Do you make slava candles? I do, to order. Here is what one is, when to ask, and what I need from you.
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