WEDDING PLANNING : Renaissance North Hills : March 2024
The Venue
Zoe and Sam’s wedding day was a seamless blend of classic elegance and heartfelt tradition, set against the sophisticated backdrop of North Hills in Raleigh, NC. The Renaissance Hotel played host to both the morning preparations and the lively evening reception. Its modern luxury made for the perfect space where timeless love could take center stage. Just a short drive away, Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church stood in graceful contrast, its ornate architecture providing the sacred setting for their deeply meaningful ceremony.
Preparations
A First Look
Zoe and Sam are the kind of couple that radiate warmth and sincerity. Zoe, with her eye for detail and love of all things timeless—especially pearls—infused the day with sentimental touches that reflected her personality. Sam’s deep admiration for Zoe was palpable, especially during their emotional first look when she surprised him with a heartfelt gift that brought him to tears. Their love is rooted in tradition, devotion, and mutual respect—a bond celebrated with family, friends, and centuries-old customs.
The Greek Orthodox Ceremony
Held at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Zoe and Sam’s ceremony honored the rich traditions of their faith. From the moment the koumbaro and koumbara (wedding sponsors) stepped forward to guide them, to the symbolic sips from the common cup, each ritual was a powerful reminder of the sacred commitment they were making. In keeping with Greek custom, rings were placed on their right hands, symbolizing virtue. Perhaps the most touching moment came when the couple donned the Stefana—Zoe’s crown a treasured family heirloom—before walking the Dance of Isaiah, circling the altar three times as husband and wife.
The Renaissance Reception
Zoe’s love of pearls was a theme that ran throughout the day—from elegant accessories to subtle décor touches, bringing a soft sophistication to the overall aesthetic. One of the most endearing moments came before the ceremony, when the father of the bride, brimming with anticipation, made an impromptu visit to the bridal suite just to share a quick hug with his daughter. Later, their official first look was equally moving, a quiet pause before the whirlwind of the day.
Back at the Renaissance Hotel, the celebration began with a three-course meal that delighted every palate. Guests enjoyed fresh salads, rich entrees, creamy cheesecake, and a sweet assortment of traditional Greek desserts. As the evening unfolded, the dance floor became the heart of the party. A joyful mix of traditional Greek dances and modern favorites kept guests moving well into the night. Whether breaking plates or breaking it down, the celebration never lost momentum.
The couple ended the night in style, sneaking away for one last photo session in the hotel elevator before ascending to their honeymoon suite—a sweet and cinematic conclusion to a day filled with laughter, love, and legacy.
Are you ready to start planning your big day with Premier Party Planners by your side? Then Let’s Chat!
Vendor info
Ceremony: Holy Trinity
Reception: North Hills Renaissance
Desserts: Cheesecake & Varieties
Florist: Lilac Floral
Photographer: Daise Photography
Videographer: The Family Films
DJ: Tu-Can-Jamz
Stylist: Reign Beauty
Rentals: Curated Events
Transportation: North Hills Transportation
Wedding Planners: Premier Party Planners @premierpartyplanners
