Woodland Whispers and Lakeside Vows: Mary & Kyle’s Dreamy Adirondack Wedding
You’ll Love This Ukrainian Wedding in New York—Tradition, Tattoos & Epic Party Vibes
We’re all about weddings that mix culture, romance, and an unforgettable party—so when we saw this Ukrainian wedding in NYC, we had to share it! From heartfelt traditions to celestial elegance (and a seriously epic dance floor), every detail was pure magic. We caught up with Elizabeth Treimanis of Elizabeth Treimanis Events—the mastermind behind the celebration—to get the inside scoop. Stay with us till the end for our expert tips on planning your own Ukrainian wedding!
Tati and Roman Wedding Photographers
Tati and Roman Wedding Photographers
“Nicole and Connor’s wedding was a bold fusion of culture, personality, and celestial elegance, celebrating their story in every detail.
The day kicked off with a photo session at the New York Public Library, a nod to Connor’s love of literature, with its grand architecture setting the stage for timeless portraits. Their ceremony seamlessly blended Jewish and Ukrainian traditions, officiated by Connor’s brother and Nicole’s sister. They honored both cultures, with the breaking of the glass and the blessing of the Korovai—baked by seven happily married women, rich in symbolism. Standing on a traditional Ukrainian rushnyk cloth, they shared their vows, a beautiful representation of unity and the journey ahead. A small, extra-salty section of the bread symbolized the tough moments in their marriage, while the rest was as sweet and rich as their love.
Tati and Roman Wedding Photographers
Tati and Roman Wedding Photographers
Tati and Roman Wedding Photographers
Tati and Roman Wedding Photographers
Tati and Roman Wedding Photographers
At Midtown Loft & Terrace, the reception was a celestial literary dreamscape brought to life through New York Party Decor’s delicate florals, Nicole’s DIY décor, and Elizabeth Treimanis Events’ expert coordination. Guests sipped cocktails while taking in the iconic Empire State Building views, a stunning backdrop to the evening’s festivities. Thoughtfully curated entertainment kept the energy high—a 1920s glam photo booth, a custom tattoo station with mystical designs, and personalized hangover kit place cards as a playful nod to Nicole’s medical residency.
Tati and Roman Wedding Photographers
Tati and Roman Wedding Photographers
Tati and Roman Wedding Photographers
Tati and Roman Wedding Photographers
Tati and Roman Wedding Photographers
The night was packed with unforgettable moments—Nicole’s parents serenading the couple with a traditional Ukrainian song, the electric energy of the Hora, and the couple soaring above the dance floor in celebration. Every touch was intentional, every detail personal—a wedding that wasn’t just an event, but an experience. The day was beautifully captured by Tati and Roman Photography, preserving the magic for years to come.”
Tati and Roman Wedding Photographers
Tati and Roman Wedding Photographers
Tati and Roman Wedding Photographers
The Vendors
Coordinator: Elizabeth Treimanis Events
Caterer: Creative Foods Catering // Band: Sweet Tooth Music // Floral Designer: New York Party Decor // Reception Venue: Midtown Loft and Terrace // DJ: Daniel Linares Entertainment // Photographer: Tati and Roman
Tips and Ideas for Planning Your Ukrainian Wedding
A Ukrainian wedding isn’t just a celebration—it’s an experience. It’s lively, steeped in tradition, and brimming with symbolism. If you’ve never been to one, imagine a grand feast, traditional rituals, and an energy that could keep a dance floor alive until sunrise. Having attended a few Ukrainian weddings in London, I can tell you—they are unforgettable. If you’re planning your Ukrainian wedding, whether in Ukraine or abroad, here’s what you need to know.
What Makes a Ukrainian Wedding Unique?
The beauty of a Ukrainian wedding lies in its deep-rooted customs. From the moment the couple decides to get married, traditions begin to unfold. One of the most symbolic rituals is the blessing from parents—a heartfelt moment where the couple seeks approval and best wishes from their families before tying the knot.
Then comes the Korovai, the traditional wedding bread. This isn’t just any bread; it’s a masterpiece, baked by seven married women who are considered to have strong, happy marriages. The Korovai is decorated with symbolic ornaments—doves for love, periwinkle for fidelity, and the sun for prosperity. [Source: Ukrainian National Museum]
The ceremony itself is often wrapped in layers of tradition. A rushnyk (embroidered cloth) is placed beneath the couple’s feet as they exchange vows, symbolizing their new journey together. At some weddings, the couple might even drink from a shared cup to represent their unity.
Watch this video to learn more about traditional Ukrainian weddings:
Lessons from Real Celebrations
Living in London, I’ve been lucky to attend several Ukrainian weddings, each with its own creative twist while still holding on to those essential traditions.
1. The Venue Matters
Many Ukrainian weddings are large-scale affairs, so choosing a venue with ample space for dining and dancing is crucial. One couple I knew booked the iconic One Marylebone, transforming it with cascading floral arrangements and candlelit tables, making it feel like a grand Kyiv ballroom. If you’re aiming for an outdoor setting, venues like Kew Gardens provide a stunning backdrop for both Western and Ukrainian traditions to intertwine.
2. Balancing Modern and Traditional Elements
One wedding I attended managed to blend the old with the new seamlessly. The couple had a traditional ceremony with rushnyks and a Korovai, but the reception? A live jazz band, neon signs, and a midnight snack bar serving Ukrainian varenyky (dumplings). Guests loved the mix—it felt personal yet culturally rich. [Source: BBC Food – Ukrainian Recipes]
3. The Importance of a Great MC (Tamada)
Unlike many Western weddings, where speeches are kept to a few toasts, Ukrainian weddings often have a Tamada, a master of ceremonies responsible for keeping the energy up. A good Tamada will entertain, lead games, and ensure the celebration never has a dull moment. At one London wedding, the Tamada orchestrated a hilarious shoe game where the couple answered questions about their relationship—cue lots of laughter from the guests.
4. The Art of the Wedding Dance
The first dance is always a moment of magic, but at a Ukrainian wedding, it’s often followed by the Hopak, a fast-paced, high-energy dance that gets everyone on their feet. At one wedding, the groom and his groomsmen took this to another level—performing an acrobatic Hopak that left guests cheering. If you want to wow your guests, consider adding traditional Ukrainian dances to your reception. [Source: Ukrainian Dance World]
Final Thoughts
A Ukrainian wedding is more than just a ceremony; it’s a deeply symbolic, emotional, and joyous event. Whether you incorporate every tradition or simply add elements that resonate with you, the goal is the same—to celebrate love in the most meaningful way possible.
So, if you’re planning a Ukrainian wedding, embrace the traditions, add your personal touch, and get ready for a celebration your guests will never forget. Just make sure you have comfortable shoes—you’ll be dancing all night!
