Athens, Greece — Against a backdrop steeped in history and royal tradition, Princess Theodora of Greece and American attorney Matthew Kumar exchanged vows in an opulent ceremony held at the historic Metropolitan Cathedral in Athens, following two previous postponements. The chosen venue holds special significance, being the same place where Theodora’s parents wed sixty years earlier.
The wedding, initially scheduled for May 2020, faced delays due to the global COVID-19 pandemic and was further postponed following the death of Theodora’s father, King Constantine, in January 2023. King Constantine was the last reigning king of Greece, his rule abruptly ending when he went into exile in 1967, followed by the formal abolition of the monarchy in 1973.
Despite their royal titles now bearing no governmental power, Theodora and her family continue to hold a place of ceremonial significance within Greece. Theodora, the younger daughter of King Constantine and Queen Anne-Marie, was escorted down the aisle in a ceremony officiated by His Eminence Metropolitan of Syros, Dorotheos II, in accordance with Greek Orthodox traditions.
The bride’s gown, a striking creation by Greek designer Celia Kritharioti, featured a classic strapless design with a fold-over neckline. She accessorized with an antique Irish lace veil and the historic Khedive of Egypt Tiara—a piece worn by six royal brides before her. Matthew Kumar complemented her attire with a traditional black long coat suit paired with a green vest.
The couple’s path to the altar began with their engagement in November 2018, announced following a romantic proposal near London’s Tower Bridge. “Words can’t express our happiness and excitement,” Theodora shared on social media at the time, eagerly anticipating her marriage to Kumar whom she professed to deeply love.
The guest list included a who’s who of European royalty, such is the breadth of Theodora’s family connections across the continent. Noteworthy attendees were former Queen Sofia of Spain and her children, Infanta Elena and Infanta Cristina along with Cristina’s son Juan Urdangarin, reflecting the strong familial ties that bind these royal families.
Princess Theodora, beyond her royal engagements, is also known for her pursuits in the arts. Born in London and educated in theater arts, she later moved to Los Angeles in pursuit of an acting career, gaining recognition for her role on the soap opera “The Bold and The Beautiful.” Kumar, on the other hand, has established his career in law, working with a Los Angeles-based firm.
The couple’s decision to wed in Athens was more than a nod to familial tradition; it was a declaration of their personal connection and commitment to Greece, a sentiment echoed in their statement celebrating Greek culture and heritage. The preservation of their titles, as explained on the royal family’s website, stems from agreements dating back to the 1815 Treaty of Vienna which allows the hereditary use of such titles despite the monarchy’s dissolution.
In essence, Princess Theodora and Matthew Kumar’s wedding was not just a celebration of their love but also an emblematic event intertwining personal joy with the enduring legacy of Greece’s royal past.