Welcome to Greece

Wedding Day

Sunset Sailing 

Our Wedding

July 2021 – A Chance Encounter Emily was on vacation. Anthony was at work. She dropped her phone, he picked it up. Just like that, their story began. Over the next four years, Emily continued her tradition of visiting Greece a few times each summer. Somehow, though, she always managed to find a reason to return to Paros. Anthony, by pure coincidence, always seemed to be completely free whenever she called. Funny how that worked out! A long-distance relationship was never part of the plan, but it didn’t take long for Emily and Anthony to realize that what they had was worth pursuing. Together, they took a leap of faith and committed to an international love story. In August 2025, they decided to spend the rest of their lives together, and with the blessing of their families, they joyfully announced their engagement that November. 2026 – We Do! Five years, countless flights, and one incredible adventure later, it’s finally time to make it official. Forever starts now.

Our Story

Photos

Beloved yacht captain and devoted viognier connoisseur. From the island of Andros, Yiannis is the descendent of a long line of ship captains. You can find him sailing the Aegean with his beautiful partner, Maria, and their dog, Lucy .

Yiannis Boukouvalas 

George and Maria have been married for 32 years. They've raised 4 children together, and now spend their time traveling the world. Recent adventures have taken them as far as New York and China!

Maria Kanale and George Lochaitis 

Edmund and Janinne have been married for 40 years. They’re thrilled to be celebrating the marriage of the first-born child.  Janinne will spend her days soaking up Greek sun as Ed makes his way through 1000 Greek coffees.

Edmund and Janinne Duffy 

The official sponsor and primary witness in a Greek Orthodox wedding, basically our Best Man. Christos is the younger cousin of Anthony. They have grown extremely close as adults, bonding over the chaos that is working for a family business. Good luck spotting him without his emotional support vape!

Christos Roussos 

The Orthodox equivalent of a Maid of Honor. Anthony and Alexandra are from the same village of Kostos. Their grandparents were friends, and the families were elated as the two of them developed a deep and genuine friendship as adults. Alexandra is adored by all who meet her. A wonderful person, loyal friend, and our favorite instagram photographer.

Alexandra Nikolatou 

Wedding Party

We invite guests to dress in elegant semi-formal attire — think suits or jackets for gentlemen and cocktail dresses or dressy separates for ladies. Bright and bold colors are encouraged.What would a Greek wedding be without an evening full of dancing? Whatever you wear, just make sure it’s something you can move in!Be mindful of footwear, ladies. The church area is not completely even, so stiletto heels are not recommended. Block heels, wedges, and more formal flats and sandals are all appropriate shoe options.In the evening we will be next to the sea. The reception restaurant is indoor/outdoor, so bring a shawl or light jacket for when it gets breezy at night.

Dress Code

Q + A

Kanale's Rooms & Suites

Christiana Hotel

Travel

Coffee Greek coffee culture is a social ritual centered around connection, relaxation, and filoxenia (hospitality). Rather than a quick grab-and-go experience, drinking coffee is an event. Locals spend hours at cafes conversing, people-watching, and savoring both traditional hot brews and iconic iced beverages. Traditional Brews &amp; SpecialtiesGreek Coffee (Ellinikós Kafés): Finely ground beans are simmered slowly with water (and often sugar) in a long-handled pot called a briki. It is poured unfiltered into a small cup, allowing the grounds to settle at the bottom. The sweetness is controlled during brewing and specified by terms like sketos (no sugar), metrios (medium), and glykos (sweet).Frappé: Invented in Greece in the 1957, this shaken instant coffee (usually Nescafé), water, and ice is a nostalgic summer staple.Freddo Espresso / Cappuccino: The modern obsession. These highly popular iced drinks are made by vigorously mixing espresso with ice to create a thick, creamy foam, topped with cold frothed milk in the cappuccino version.

THE BEACHES KOLOMBITHRES BEACHFrom the port of Naoussa, grab a taxi-boat to the Kolombithres beach. It is a short 20 min ride but very bumpy so try and sit on the upper deck or you might get seasick. Arriving at the Kolombithres beach you can see why it is so famous – there are huge white rocks all along the shore. These lend a very otherworldly feel to the beach. They can also help you find a great secluded spot on the beach! Kolombithres beach is a beautiful, well-organized beach – you could rent umbrellas and beach chairs at a few spots.It also has the best views not just with its beautiful rocks but out to the sea where you can see Naoussa in the distance. You can spend an entire evening swimming here – the water is crystal clear and very shallow for a long distance. The water is also very calm with very little waves. SANTA MARIASanta Maria is a huge beach with blue waters located very close to Naoussa. This beach is famous for its watersports – from windsurfing and water skiing to scuba diving. There are also several bars and restaurants around it. We absolutely loved the beach and it received the top rank in our list of Paros beaches to come back to! GOLDEN BEACHGolden Beach is the largest and most famous beach of Paros. It is a beautiful beach with endless golden sand and lots of restaurants around. Organized with sun loungers, water sports and sailing, this is one where you can spend the whole day at! NEW GOLDEN BEACHThe New Golden Beach is quieter, though just as beautiful as the Golden Beach. Not as developed as the Golden Beach, this is the one to head to if you are looking for more privacy. MONASTIRI BEACHThis beach is located towards the north of the island, a little beyond the Kolombithres beach. It has some of the same features as the Kolombithres beach but it’s quite a bit smaller and can be more crowded. Reservations are recommended if you'd like to rent a lounge chair and umbrella.

CULTURE Paros offers a deep dive into traditional Cycladic culture, blending ancient history, centuries-old religious heritage, and vibrant seasonal festivals. Ancient History &amp; Architecture: Visit the Archaeological Museum of Paros in Parikia to see exhibits spanning from the Neolithic to Roman periods, including the famous Gorgon statue. Just outside Naoussa, wander through the <a href="https://jillonjourney.com/things-to-do-in-paros/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ancient Marble Quarries at Marathi</a>, where the legendary Parian marble used for the Venus de Milo was sourced. Iconic Churches &amp; Monasteries: Tour the 4th-century <a href="https://www.visitgreece.gr/inspirations/cultural-tour-on-paros/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Panagia Ekatontapiliani</a> in Parikia, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Greece. Inside, you can visit the on-site Byzantine Museum to view rare post-byzantine icons. Historic Villages: Wander the car-free alleys of <a href="https://www.invibrantcompany.com/articles/the-insiders-guide-to-paros" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lefkes</a>, a mountain village famous for its neoclassical homes, traditional Folklore Art Museum, and the marble-paved Byzantine Road. In Naoussa, photograph the ruins of the 15th-century Venetian Castle at the harbor. Local Enology &amp; Craft: Discover local grape varieties (like Monemvasia and Mandilaria) by booking a tasting at the historic <a href="https://thetravelpsychologist.co.uk/10-things-to-do-in-paros-greece/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Moraitis Winery</a> in Naoussa. For a hands-on craft experience, visit Yria Ceramic Studio near Kostos to shop for handmade island-style pottery

SHOPPING Shopping in Paros is a highlight of the Cyclades, known for high-quality boutiques, handmade ceramics, and unique Greek jewelry. The best retail experiences are concentrated in the island's two main hubs: Naoussa (upscale, trendy, and bustling) and Parikia (diverse, slightly more affordable, and lived-in). Top Shopping Areas &amp; Highlights:Naoussa: The premier destination for chic boutique fashion, swimwear, and handmade leather goods. Wander through the winding, flower-lined streets to find curated pieces. Parikia: The island's capital and commercial center. You’ll find everything from tourist knick-knacks and local delicatessens to fine jewelry stores along the bustling main road and near the historic Kastro quarter. What to Buy:Jewelry: Paros has a rich tradition of goldsmiths and silversmiths. Look for unique, handcrafted pieces at <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g189432-Activities-c26-Paros_Cyclades_South_Aegean.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Memories Jewellery</a> or <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g642170-Activities-c26-Naoussa_Paros_Cyclades_South_Aegean.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Zina Fragi Designer Jewellery</a>. Ceramics &amp; Art: The island is renowned for its pottery studios and galleries. Visit local legends like Yria Ceramic Studio for beautifully crafted, traditional, and contemporary earthenware. Local Delicacies: Pick up authentic Greek products like local thyme honey, Parian wine, and spoon sweets at specialty shops like To Melissi Delicatessen. Pharmacy: Greek pharmacies are legendary for their high-quality skincare, herbal remedies, and budget-friendly cosmetics. Iconic, locally sourced items worth buying include Apivita face masks, Korres Greek Yoghurt cleansers, and Frezyderm sunscreens. And of course, be sure to take a look at all of the handmade Greek Leather products, including Sandals, Belts, and Handbags. Pro-Tip for ShoppersStores in Paros typically stay open from the morning right through until after midnight, catering to the evening crowds. Because the shopping is localized in open-air, pedestrian-only alleys, comfortable walking shoes are a must as you browse the boutiques

HIKING Hiking in Paros offers an incredible way to explore the island's ancient footpaths, olive groves, and coastal views. The most famous route is the Byzantine Road, a 1,000-year-old marble-paved path stretching 3.5 km from the mountain village of Lefkes down to Prodromos. Top Hiking Trails in ParosThe Byzantine Road (Lefkes to Prodromos): The absolute must-do. It is an easy, downhill trail that takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes. You can extend it by walking another 20 minutes to Marpissa, and all the way down to the beach at Piso Livadi. Paros Park Loop: Located on the Ai Yiannis Detis peninsula, this network of easy trails takes you past the lighthouse, stunning rocky cliffs, and secluded coves. There are three main routes ranging from 1 to 3 hours, perfect for sunset views. Marathi Ancient Marble Quarries: A 6-km loop in rural Marathi that explores the underground caverns where the legendary, translucent Parian marble was mined for ancient masterpieces (like the Venus de Milo). Livadia to Telegrafos Hill: A 9.5-km circular hike beginning near Parikia bay, featuring ancient ruins, rugged coastal views, and hilltops with spectacular panoramic seascapes.