A Mythical Greek Island Celebration: Marta & John’s Dream Wedding
June 18, 2022
Marta and John exchanged vows in a breathtaking setting at the Pelagia Aphrodite Hotel in Agia Pelagia, Kythera, Greece—the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite. Their wedding was a harmonious blend of romance, tradition, and sustainability, set against the stunning backdrop of the confluence of the seas.
Marta’s bridal look was nothing short of enchanting. She wore a Galia Lahav gown, discovered at Kinsley James, Walnut Creek, CA. From the moment she tried it on, she knew it was “The One.” Not only was it an exquisite piece, but it was also so perfectly tailored to her that she couldn’t imagine wearing anything else. In fact, Marta cherished her gown so much that she wore it beyond her wedding day, capturing its beauty in multiple photoshoots along the Amalfi Coastduring their honeymoon. With so many memories tied to it, she entrusted Elegance Preserved’s Wedding Dress Cleaning service to ensure it remained flawless for years to come.
One of the most unforgettable moments of the wedding was Marta’s grand entrance—riding sidesaddle on the island’s only donkey, led by live musicians playing a Greek wedding song. As they approached the ceremony site, the donkey hesitated at a metal grate, then suddenly leaped forward. Marta held her breath, prayed she wouldn’t fall, and then burst into laughter. That unexpected moment of lightness became one of her most cherished memories.
The couple’s wedding was a truly one-of-a-kind experience—an international Greek island destination wedding with a sustainability focus. As the sun set over the ocean, guests gathered on the lawn of Pelagia Aphrodite Hotel, where long family-style tables were adorned with white linens, lavender, and olive branches. The atmosphere was intimate yet magical, framed by twinkling lights and the gentle sea breeze.
Their special day was made possible by an incredible team, with vendors from both the U.S. and Greece. Marta’s gown was meticulously altered by Halena Couture (San Jose, CA), while John and his groomsmen were impeccably dressed by Cassara Brothers (Los Altos, CA). Their memories were beautifully captured by Cassie Green Photography. The entire event was brought to life by local Kytherian vendors, with wedding planning by Melanie Psaltis and catering by Dimitris Panaretos.
Marta’s journey with her wedding dress didn’t end after the reception. She wanted to preserve its beauty and keep it as stunning as it was on that magical day. On the recommendation of Halena Couture, she turned to Elegance Preserved, a team known for their expertise in wedding dress cleaning and preservation.
