Before the ceremony, the ketubah (marriage contract) is signed in the presence of witnesses. The test of our ketubah describes our commitment to each other and our promises for our future life and family. The signing of the ketubah will be witnessed by Laura Palmer, friend of Kali, and Scott Kaplan, friend of Jonathan.
The kippah is the Jewish head covering and the tallit is the prayer shawl. Both are worn as a sign of respect during ceremonies. The kippah that Jonathan will wear is handmade by his grandmother.
The chuppah (wedding canopy) is intended to create an intimate, sanctified space symbolizing the home that the bride and groom share together. The sides are left open to signify that all friends and family are welcome into their new life and home. The roof of our chuppah is Jonathan's grandfather's tallit.
During our ceremony, we share a glass of wine from a Kiddush cup (ceremonial cup). The Kiddush cup was a gift from the Bakers.
Sheva Brachot (seven blessings) are recited in Hebrew and in English. The seven blessings represent not only the happiness of the couple but of the entire community.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, the groom will break a glass under his foot in memory of the destruction of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. The broken glass also reminds us of the delicate nature of marriage, which must always be nurtured. As the glass breaks, it is customary for the wedding guests to shout "mazal tov!" a wish of congratulations and good luck.
The yichud (seclusion) takes place immediately after the ceremony. The bride and groom retreat to a private room to share their first few moments alone together as husband and wife.
Guests at a Jewish wedding are commanded to share in the joy of the bride and groom. The seudat mitzvah is a celebratory feast, so please join us as we continue to celebrate our marriage into the evening!