FAQs

Question

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

Answer

Signing the Ketubah- The ketubah is the Jewish marriage contract to which Sara and Nate have agreed. We will sign it surrounded by our immediate family before the rest of the festivities. Kabbalat Panim- The Kabbalat Panim includes two pre-ceremony traditions – the Tisch and the Bedeken. Guests are invited to greet Nate & Sara, offer blessings, and share words of wisdom. Then, Nate will be brought to Sara where he will make sure that she’s the right bride (this custom comes from a biblical story) and lower her veil over her face. We encourage you join in singing “Od Yishama”- Od Yishama עוד ישמע בערי יהודה ובחוצות ירושלים קול ששון וקול שמחה קול חתן וקול כלה Od yishama, b’arei Yehuda u’v’chutzot Yerushalayim: kol sasson v’kol simcha, kol chatan, v’kol kallah! Yet again let it be heard in the cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem: the voice of joy and the voice of gladness, the voice of the groom and the voice of the bride. Chuppah/Ceremony- The chuppah symbolizes the Jewish home that Sara and Nate will build together—open on all sides to welcome in their family and friends and tethered by pillars representing the shared values that ground them. When Sara arrives at the chuppah, she will circle Nate six times. They will then walk in a circle together once, totaling to seven circles. The number seven represents wholeness, as in the seven days of the world’s creation. The seven circles also are symbolic of the unity between Sara and Nate and the new family circle they will create together. The end of the ceremony is marked by Nate breaking a glass, which signifies the couple’s connection to Jewish history and acknowledges loss even in the midst of our joy. Hora- After Sara and Nate's introduction as a newlywed couple, we'll dive into the hora! Just grab the hand of the person next to you and move in a circle. Nate and Sara will be lifted in chairs, and if you've been hitting the gym, you're welcome to join the lifting crew!

Question

What time should I arrive?

Answer

Check out the "Schedule" tab for the full schedule of events. The Tisch & Bedeken will begin at 4:30 pm, we hope you'll join us for this important moment of our wedding.

Question

Are there any other events that I should know about around the wedding?

Answer

Yes! Check out the "Schedule" tab for the full list of wedding weekend events. You'll be prompted to RSVP for these events (as well as any additional by invitation only events) when you come back here to RSVP.

Question

When should I RSVP by?

Answer

We hope you loved getting our save the date in the mail! Invitations will be mailed out during Summer 2026, a specific RSVP date will be listed on the invitation.

Question

I have a food allergy, can I make a special request?

Answer

Once you recieve your invitation you'll be directed back here to RSVP. At that time you'll also select your meal and let us know about any dietary restrictions you have. We have many loved ones who keep kosher and eat dairy out of the house, we see you, you'll be well fed!

Question

Are you registered? Where?

Answer

Yes! Right here, on Zola! Click on the "Registry" tab to check out the full list of gifts that Sara has been curating at all hours of the night.

Question

Is there a dress code?

Answer

Yes! We are requesting Black Tie attire. Tuxedos and floor length gowns are preferred. Dress your best!

Question

Can I bring a date?

Answer

Only guests listed on your invitation are invited to our wedding. Thanks for helping us to keep guest count under control. If you're seeing someone new, we'd love to grab a drink with you and them after the wedding!

Question

Are kids welcome?

Answer

We absolutely love your kids! Only guests listed on the invitation are invited to our wedding. If you need suggestions on babysitters please email us. Sara happens to know a plethora of fabulous local college students. We can't wait to see your kids after the wedding and throw a living room dance party to celebrate with them!

Question

Do you have any hotel recommendations?

Answer

Yes! Click on the "Travel" tab for guidance on booking a room in our room block or for other local hotel options.

Question

Is there parking for the ceremony or reception?

Answer

The only parking available at the Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City is valet parking. If you are driving, please pull up to the front of the hotel and the hotel team will gladly valet your car for you. Please drink responsibly if you are driving, we love you!

Question

Is there transportation provided?

Answer

There is no transportation provided at any point during our wedding weekend. Click on the "Travel" tab for guidance on getting around the area.