FAQs
Question
What is the dress code?
Answer
Formal attire. This can mean floor or ankle-length dresses for women and a suit and tie/bowtie for men.
Question
Can I bring a Plus-One?
Answer
Your invitation will indicate whether you may bring a Plus-One.
Question
Are kids welcome?
Answer
Although your kids would be adorable on the dance floor, this is a child-free wedding, so please make other arrangements for your little ones.
Question
What time should I arrive?
Answer
The ceremony will start at 5:15pm, so please arrive 15 minutes before so you have plenty of time to take your seats.
Question
Where should I park?
Answer
There will be valet parking with a fee. Otherwise, there is a parking lot right across from the hotel. Please consider taking an Uber or taxi if you intend to take advantage of the open bar.
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Where can I stay?
Answer
Please see our “Accommodations” tab for hotel options.
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Answer
Jewish Questions? Jewish Answers!
Question
What is a chuppah?
Answer
A chuppah is a structure under which a couple gets married. It symbolizes the new home they will build together. It is traditionally supported by four poles without walls, signifying an open and welcoming home to family and friends.
Question
What is a kippah, and do I have to wear one?
Answer
A kippah is a small cap some Jewish men wear as a sign of respect. Some guests choose to wear them during the ceremony or throughout the entire evening. Kippot will be available for the men upon arrival, but there is no pressure to wear one if you do not feel comfortable!
Question
What traditions will I see during the ceremony?
Answer
Circling: Traditionally, the bride circles the groom seven times at the start of the ceremony. In Judaism, women are considered more spiritual than men, so by encircling the groom, the bride symbolically elevates him to her level. There are different interpretations of this tradition, but this is our favourite. The number seven is relevant as it is the most sacred number in Judaism, symbolizing wholeness. Reading of the Ketubah: A ketubah is a marriage contract that the couple signs during a more private ceremony, called a Bedeken, before the chuppah ceremony. It is read aloud under the chuppah. Breaking of the Glass: The end of the ceremony is marked by the groom smashing a glass with his foot. This is when you can shout “Mazel tov!” and celebrate! We break glass to remember the destruction of the Temples in Jerusalem and to symbolize the fragility of relationships. It’s also the last time Connor will get to put his foot down! Do I also get to break a glass? No, you do not!
Question
What traditions will I see during the reception?
Answer
The Hora: The hora is a fun celebratory dance! It starts with guests holding hands and forming circles around the newlyweds. Eventually, the newlyweds, followed by the parents, are lifted on chairs while the guests continue dancing around them. The hora is an inclusive dance, and everyone is welcome to join in. If you feel like getting in a good workout, you can join the chair-lifting. Otherwise, grab the hand of the person next to you and try not to stomp on any toes. Challah: The wedding meal starts with a hamotzi (a blessing) over a loaf of challah, which is traditional Jewish braided bread. The challah represents abundance and sweetness in the marriage. Each guest gets a small piece of the challah to represent the commitment of building a shared life.
Question
Resources
Answer
https://www.theknot.com/content/hora-dance https://reformjudaism.org/beliefs-practices/lifecycle-rituals/weddings/12-rituals-you-may-see-jewish-wedding https://www.smashingtheglass.com/a-guide-to-the-jewish-wedding-ceremony-and-order-of-service-under-the-chuppah/