The two crowns stephana are linked together by a ribbon and they have several rich symbolisms for the Orthodox Wedding Ceremony. They express the joining of the two souls and the creation of a new household, a "kingdom" which they are charged to rule wisely and with full responsibility to each other and to God.

The crowning is a sign of victory, just as athletes were crowned in ancient times at their triumphs. In this instance, the Bride and Groom are crowned on account of their growth as mature Christians, prepared for the responsibilities of a Christian marriage.

The stefana also represent martyrdom, sacrifice and steadfast devotion. In marriage, the couple must deny themselves and take up their cross as they relate to their spouses in building up the marriage and to commit themselves as responsible parents to their children.

During the ceremony the priest crowns the couple, and the "koumbaro" or "koumbara" - the sponsor who will participate sacramentally in the service and has to get the crowns- switches the stephana back and forth 3 times, symbolizing that the two are now one.

The circle also signifies the eternity of marriage. At the end of the ceremony, the priest invokes a blessing and lifts the crowns from the heads of the newlyweds, indicating the end of the marriage ceremony and the beginning of their lives together. After the wedding, the bride and groom take off the crowns and place them in the wedding crown cases.