Debbie Matenopoulos and Jay Faires's Wedding

Who: TV personality Debbie Matenopoulos and Jay Faires

When: July 5, 2003

Where: The couple exchanged vows inside St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Los Angeles, California.

The Ceremony: The bride's pride in her Greek heritage was evident as she walked with her father down an aisle lit with twenty-one crystal chandeliers to stand with her intended in view of a painting of the Virgin Mary, silently blessing their union. The 45-minute ceremony was steeped in tradition, as crowns (known as stefana) bound together with ribbon were switched three times upon the heads of the bride and groom, and the couple followed the priest three times together around the wedding table. (The number three, which is representative of the Father, the Son and The Holy Spirit, is a prominent fixture in Greek tradition).

The Dress: The bride chose an understated ivory silk creation by designer Monique Lhuillier (who would go on to construct the wedding attire of Britney Spears and Natalie Imbruglia), with a body-hugging bodice and a plunging V-neckline which was mirrored at the back of the dress. A three-quarter length veil was attached to the bride's blonde tresses, and a small calla lily bouquet completed the all-white ensemble.

From sky blue to deep indigo, eight bridesmaid's wore gowns by Los Angeles-based Thresad in every shade of the color. All carried matching nosegays of pale blue blossoms gathered together with ribbons of identical hue, while the flower girl also wore a dainty wreath of light blue blooms in her hair.

The groom opted for a traditional black tuxedo by Dolce & Gabbana.

The Reception: As the saying goes, "a man's home is his castle", and these words ring particularly true with the abode of the bride and groom -- a Norman-influenced fortress erected during the Flapper Era which became party central for the post-nuptial festivities. Approximately 300 guests dined on roasted lamb, spanakopita hors d'oeuvres and a five-tiered wedding cake with a simple white frosting exterior concealing five distinct tastes, before converging outdoors, where the sound of shattering dinnerware (a Greek tradition to ward off evil spirits) harmonized with heart-stirring renditions of traditional Mediterranean melodies and pop classics.

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