FAQs

Question

What precautions will you be taking for COVID-19?

Answer

We will closely monitor guidance from the CDC and the City of Austin for proper precautions and plan to take all steps necessary to ensure the health of all our guests. Please check back closer to the time of the wedding for more updates.

Question

I've never been to a Jewish wedding before, what should I expect?

Answer

Lots of fun, traditions, and a little bit of Hebrew! We will detail all the traditions in our ceremony program, but have listed some of the big ones below: Ketubah: The ketubah is a Jewish marriage contract with ancient roots. Our ketubah highlights our commitment to building a home based on love, Jewish tradition, and mutual respect for one another. Chuppah: Our ceremony takes place under a wedding canopy on four posts, known as a chuppah. The chuppah symbolizes the home that we will create together in our married life. Its open walls signify that family and friends, old and new, will always be welcome. Kiddushin: Two cups of wine are used during the kiddushin, one symbolizing the marriage proposal and the other the nuptials. We share both cups, symbolizing the life commitment that we make to our shared future, including its joys and sorrows.

Question

What should I expect: part two

Answer

Seven Blessings (Sheva Brachot): Seven blessing are recited over our second cup of wine. These blessings include praise for God, a prayer for peace in Jerusalem, and a prayer that our married life be filled with joy. Breaking of the Glass: At the conclusion of the ceremony, Matt 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.

Question

What is the hora?

Answer

Rumored to be the reason Marisa is marrying Matt, the hora is a highly energetic circle dance for all guests to participate in. We will all dance and celebrate together before Marisa and Matthew are lifted up in the chairs. It's easy to follow along but for those of you who have not participated in a hora and want a little preview, take a look at the link below so you feel like a seasoned pro at the wedding! https://www.bimbam.com/the-hora-how-to-dance-at-a-jewish-wedding/

Question

Do I need to wear anything specific for a Jewish wedding?

Answer

We ask that all male guests wear a kippah (also known as a yarmulke) during the ceremony. We will provide these at the entrance to the ceremony.

Question

Wait....is Marisa Jewish now?

Answer

Yes! She chose to be chosen and finished conversion this summer!

Question

Are kids invited?

Answer

We love your kids—we really do! But we want our wedding to be your night off and ask that you make other arrangements for them.