NEW YORK – Barbara Papantoniou and George Mossos married on May 8 at the Transfiguration of Christ Greek Orthodox Church in Mattituck on Long Island with family and friends present, observing mask-wearing rules and social distancing as much as possible on this happy occasion. The event highlighted how much we have missed in-person occasions with our loved ones and how we are all adjusting to the new “normal” in a post-pandemic era. Presiding priest of the Transfiguration community, Fr. Andrew Cadieux, officiated.

The new Mrs. Mossos works as a General Contractor WBE, and Mr. Mossos for DEP field operations. The two were introduced by a mutual friend whose original message, a copy of which was placed at each table at the reception, called the couple, “my two favorite people.”

The bride is the daughter of Mary and Elias Papantoniou with roots in Kalamata on her mother’s side and from Kos on her father’s side. The groom is the son of Frideriki and Panagiotis Mossos with roots in Kerkyra on his mother’s side and the Peloponnese on his father’s side.

The koumbaro/ best man Alex Thomaidis, a lawyer, in his toast during the reception, wished the couple all the best. The bride’s eldest niece, Lia Karas, served as koumbara, and made a moving speech as well at the reception. She noted how much her aunt means to her and how happy she is for the newlyweds, who are not only husband and wife but also best friends.

Also in the bridal party were the bride’s youngest niece, Alexandra Karas, and the groom’s nephew, Stavros Mourkakos.

The reception was held at the Vineyards in Aquebogue at Riverhead with the safety rules again being observed. The tables were spaced to avoid crowding and attendees were encouraged to wear masks when on the dance floor and when walking around indoors, but when seated at the tables, eating and drinking, masks could be removed.

The bride and groom’s first dance was followed by the always moving moments when the bride dances with her father and the groom dances with his mother. The traditional Kalamatiano then brought family members and friends to the dance floor to celebrate the happy couple.

A slideshow of family photos was shown on the screens at the venue, highlighting Barbara and George’s journey through life and as a couple. Many photos had not been seen in years by some family members and brought back cherished memories.

Photos were also taken outdoors with the family members present including aunts, uncles and cousins, all expressing the hope that the entire family will see each other soon in person.

Though not as big as many of our family’s “big, fat Greek weddings” of the past, the wedding did capture the spirit of the bride and groom and gave all those present a chance to share in Barbara and George’s special day. Everyone looks forward to many more festive in-person occasions in the future.

We wish the newlyweds all the best for a long, happy, and healthy life together. Na zisete!

It should be noted that the author is the bride’s cousin and also godsister.