FAQs

Question

What is the dress code?

Answer

Fall festive! If suits are your thing, one in a dark color would be good (no tie necessary if you'd like, but feel free to rock one!) If frocks are more your speed, a floor-length or fancy cocktail dress suitable for fall would be a good call!

Question

What will the weather be like?

Answer

How do we know?? (But it usually ranges from the mid-forties at the coldest to the mid-sixties at the highest in early November. Rain isn't as likely in November, but it's still a possibility.)

Question

What should we do about COVID-19 concerns?

Answer

These are incredibly valid concerns! We completely understand if you feel unable to make the trip to Charlottesville this November. We will be hosting a zoom feed (or something like that -- check back later for more info) of our wedding, and we also hope to hold at least one post-wedding celebration in Tallahassee and one in Charlottesville once the coronavirus blows over. We have provided information about lower-risk airlines in the travel section if you do want to fly in (though driving is probably the safest from a Coronavirus point-of-view.) We will also be providing masks at the wedding, and will amend our ceremony and reception to adhere to CDC guidelines. You can find the most up-to-date Coronavirus information here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

Question

Can you explain the Jewish wedding tradition of ________ (part 1)

Answer

Badeken: The badeken happened earlier -- it’s a short but meaningful ceremony where the groom covers the bride’s face with her veil. The Ketubah: This is an ancient marriage contract, that specifies our commitments to each other. Erin and Josh chose a text that felt meaningful to them, and designed their ketubah! Chuppah: The marriage ceremony will take place under a canopy on four posts, known as a chuppah. Erin and Josh built it themselves, and it represents the home they will build together. Yarmulke/Kippah: Traditionally, Jewish men cover their heads during rituals. You can wear one of the kippot that has been ordered for this occasion. Hakafot: Both parents will walk the groom and bride down the aisle, and when they reach the chuppah, the bride will circle the groom seven times. This circling represents breaking down the walls between themselves. The Talit: The bride and groom will be draped in a fringed prayer shawl, a symbol of their joining together.

Question

Can you explain the Jewish wedding tradition of ________ (part 2)

Answer

Sheva Brachot: The rabbi and several readers will recite the 7 ritual blessings. Breaking of the glass: At the end of the ceremony, Josh and Erin will stomp on a glass and everyone shouts MAZEL TOV! Yichud: Immediately after the ceremony, Erin and Josh will spend time alone to reflect on the really cool thing that just happened. Kiddush and Motzi: A few short blessings over wine and bread are said before the dinner meal. The meal will be kosher-style, so there will be no dairy served. Hora: You can expect a lot of Jewish circle dancing known as hora. There's very little to it, just hold hands and step to the music. Follow the guy next to you when you're unsure. The bride and groom will also be lifted on chairs in the air at this time to add to the festivity. L'chaim: When we toast, we say "L'chaim," a Jewish expression which translates in Hebrew as "to life." This is the traditional phrase used at joyous events to celebrate being alive and also to long life ahead.