Prince Nikolaos of Greece and Chrysí Vardinogianni officially tied the knot on February 7, 2025, at the Holy Church of Saint Nicholas Ragavas, located in the historical Plaka district of Athens. This significant union follows the couple's relatively quick rise to romance and engagement, initially revealed to the public just weeks prior to their wedding. The ceremony, described by local media as the "wedding of the year," marked the second marriage for both individuals, as each came from previous unions.
Chrysí Vardinogianni, the daughter of esteemed Greek shipping magnate Giorgos Vardinogiannis, walked down the aisle adorned with the Antique Corsage Tiara, previously worn by Nikolaos’s ex-wife, Princess Tatiana. The design of her bridal gown was masterfully crafted by renowned Greek designer Christos Costarellos, combining classic elements with modern details, perfect for this royal affair. Newspapers reported the exquisite gown featured hand-beaded French lace, complemented by layers of silk tulle.
Approximately 100 guests attended the intimate ceremony, which created a warm atmosphere, punctuated by the significance of the location. The church, known for its 11th-century Byzantine architecture, has special historical connections to both the Greek royal family and the nation itself. Noteworthy attendees included Queen Sofia of Spain, who greeted guests with her signature warmth, along with members of the Danish royal family, including Queen Anne-Marie’s sister, Princess Benedikte, whose presence lent international flair to the event.
The wedding was officiated by His Eminence Amphilochios, Metropolitan of Kissamos and Selinos, ensuring the traditional Orthodox rites were respected. The couple's families not only showed support but also highlighted the longstanding connections between them, emphasizing their considerable legacy within the Greek elite and the broader European royalty.
Invitations to the wedding had been issued under the guise of discretion, reflecting the couple’s desire for privacy after their previous public high-profile relationships. The couple had known each other for many years, with their bond reportedly growing stronger late last year after both experienced significant changes and concluded their previous marriages.
Prince Nikolaos, styled as the prince of Greece and Denmark, previously announced his divorce from Princess Tatiana in April 2024, after 14 years of marriage. This transition was mutual, characterized by respect and continued friendship with the emphasis on maintaining their familial ties, particularly for the sake of their shared lives. Meanwhile, Chrysí also navigated her previous relationships, having divorced Greek singer Stefanos Xypolitas and splitting from director Konstantinos Markoulakis just months before this new chapter.
Celebrations continued after the ceremony, with guests moving to the Yacht Club of Greece for a reception filled with joyous moments and heartfelt toasts. The combination of family, friends, and royal tradition created a distinctive charm for the gathering, representing not only two families joining together but also the continuation of the royal heritage.
Chrysí's choice of attire, along with the symbol of tradition represented by the tiara, encapsulated the merging of modernity with the heritage of Greek royalty. Russian and Spanish royals, represented by their royal family members, lent additional gravitas to the proceedings, celebrating what was undeniably symbolic of both personal and national significance.
Crown Prince Pavlos, Nikolaos's brother, noted post-ceremony, “I don’t think he’s nervous at all. I’m very happy; I think he’s very happy,” emphasizing the joy surrounding the new union. The sentiment captured the overall mood of the event, which many viewed as symbolizing new beginnings for the couple.
Despite the private affair, the celebration has caught the attention of the public and media, highlighting the interest of Greece's royal links to the broader framework of European aristocracy. Many well-wishers gathered outside the church to offer congratulations, celebrating what is seen as positive news for the formerly reigning Greek family.
While their union marks the beginning of their life partnership, it also stands as a poignant reminder of the evolution within the modern Greek monarchy, showing how traditional ties can continue even after the end of previous marriages. The wedding of Prince Nikolaos and Chrysí Vardinogianni has not only rekindled interest in Greek royal affairs but also serves as inspiration for many who have navigated the waters of love, loss, and renewal.