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Celebrity wedding planner Sofia Crokos grew up in a “very intense” Greek family, so she’s well-acquainted with big, fat Greek celebrations.
“The cooking part, the dressing of the table part, the setting up and planning it all — it was sort of instilled in me from a young age,” Crokos tells PEOPLE. “I hate to say this, but we were making love to the food. We were so intensely involved. There was like 20 bosses in the kitchen versus one — that’s very Greek.”
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After working in fashion for several years, Crokos returned to her passion: executing weddings — for stars like Robert Downey Jr. and Marc Anthony — parties and gatherings that incorporated the vitality of Greek celebrations. (She eagerly awaits the premiere of My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2, on March 25th.)
“Growing up, even when we were not hungry, food was always pushed our way,” she says. “Someone will say, ‘What do you mean you don’t eat meat? Why don’t you try it?’ My sister is vegetarian, and even my cousins are like, ‘Ok, I just made it with chicken stock.’”
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Christian OthCrokos shares five tips for making your wedding — or party! no pressure! — a little Greeker and a little fatter.
1. First and foremost: Go all out with the Greek food.
“From the preparation to gathering around the table to eat, food is a huge part of the Greek culture. Start off your meal with some classic nibbles, including stuffed grape leaves, olives, olive oil, and dips — such as tzatziki, tarama, and melitzanosalata (roasted eggplant dip). Include delicious and traditional Greek delicacies for the main course such as grilled fresh fish and horta (collard greens) or roasted lamb with lemon oregano potatoes. And, of course, don’t forget to conclude the meal with some sweet baklava and Mastiha ice cream!”
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“If you’re planning a wedding, individualize the experience by incorporating customary dishes and recipes from the Greek island that the bride and groom’s families are from. (Example: if the bride’s family is from Santorini, make sure to serve fava and tomatokeftedes, which are tomato balls). Also, keep in mind that many Greek foods have ancient significance in weddings — such as koufetta (Jordan almonds), which symbolize health and wealth; honey, which symbolizes sweetness and the endurance of a marriage; and rosemary, which symbolizes fidelity, love and abiding friendship — so make sure to include these, too!”
2. Crank some traditional music.
“Walk down the aisle or let guests mingle at cocktail hour to the beautiful melodies of the Greek bouzouki. Later in the night, turn up the volume and get the dancing started with some classic Greek tunes, including the infamous Kalamatianos or ‘Zorbas dance.’ Before you know it, your guests will have their hands in the air, shouting out ‘Opa!’”
