FAQs

Question

Aren't you already married?

Answer

Legally, yes. Jewishly, no. We had a small ceremony with our parents and siblings on 12/5/20, but like many other couples during COVID, we were not able to have our wedding. This will be our wedding celebration as well as our Jewish marriage ceremony. We also now have the right to uninvite anyone who asks us this question again.

Question

How should I dress?

Answer

Formal. Get fancy!

Question

What's the food situation?

Answer

Our wedding will be kosher with chicken/fish/vegetarian options for the meal. All appetizers are vegetarian.

Question

What time I should I arrive?

Answer

The ceremony will begin promptly at 4pm, so be ready!

Question

What jewish traditions should I expect at your wedding? (Part 1)

Answer

Ketubah: The first ritual is the signing of the ketubah, an ancient marriage contract, that specifies our commitments to each other. Badeken: The badeken is a short but meaningful ceremony (before the main ceremony) where the groom covers the bride’s face with her veil. Chuppah: Onto the betrothal ceremony which will take place under a canopy on four posts, known as a chuppah. Yarmulke: Traditionally, Jewish men cover their heads during rituals. We will have yarmulkes available for anyone who would like one! Hakafot: Traditionally, both parents will walk the groom and bride down the aisle. When we reach the chuppah, we will circle each other seven times. Talit: The bride and groom will be draped in a fringed prayer shawl, a symbol of their new home.

Question

What jewish traditions should I expect at your wedding? (Part 2)

Answer

Sheva Brachot: After drinking wine and exchanging rings, 7 people very close to us will recite the ritual blessings. Breaking of the glass: At the end of the ceremony, Tommy will stomp on a glass and everyone shouts MAZEL TOV! Yichud: After the ceremony, Molly and Tommy will spend some time alone for the first time as a (jewish) married couple. Kiddush and Motzi: We say a few short blessings over wine and bread before the festive dinner meal. 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 person next to you when you're unsure. The bride and groom will also be lifted in chairs 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.