Jewish Wedding 101

Question

Ketubah

Answer

The ketubah is a Jewish marriage contract. Ours highlights our commitment to one another and to building a home based on love and mutual respect. It will be signed before the ceremony by us and two witnesses, and the English translation will be read during the ceremony.

Question

Chuppah

Answer

The ceremony will take place under a wedding canopy on four posts. The chuppah symbolizes the home we will create together in our married life. The open walls signify that family and friends will always be welcome.

Question

Circling

Answer

As we enter the chuppah, we will circle each other seven times. This conveys unity and completeness, and the establishing of a new family unit.

Question

Kiddushin

Answer

Two cups of wine are used during the kiddushin, one represents the marriage proposal and one the nuptials. We both share the cups, representing our shared future.

Question

Seven Blessings (Sheva Brachot)

Answer

The blessings are recited over the second cup of wine. There are traditional blessings, but we will be having seven of our friends & family members share their own blessings.

Question

Breaking of the Glass

Answer

At the end of the ceremony, Michael will break a glass under his foot in memory of the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem. The broken glass also reminds of the delicate nature of marriage, which must always be nurtured.

Question

MAZEL TOV!

Answer

A wish of congratulations. It's customary to yell this as the glass breaks!