10:00 am - 1:00 pm
An Aufruf is a Jewish pre-wedding ceremony on Shabbat where the bride are called up to be blessed. For dresswear, simple and respectful is perfect. Nothing fancy is needed. As for religious garments, you're probably familiar with the yarmulke (which, like so many Jewish words, has a bunch of different spellings and pronunciations, like yamika or kippah).
As you walk into the synagogue, you'll be welcomed by a greeter (you can say hi or - if you're feeling adventurous - you can say shabbat shalom!) and handed the weekly pamphlet that lets you know what's going on for the week plus more information about services. There will also be a basket full of kippot. It's expected for men to wear a kippah during services - so please pick one from the basket, there are an assortment of different colors and fabrics. It is optional for women to wear one as well. At the end of services you will be able to return them to the basket before we have our delicious lunch. What about the prayer shawl I see some folks wearing? That's called the tallit - some traditionally receive one for their bar/bat mitzvah - and they are worn during services that include readings from the Torah. You only wear one if you’ve done so in the past when going to synagogue - so if this is new to you, there’s no worries here!"
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm
We'll be at Oak + Violet in the Park James Hotel after dinner time so if you're around and free, please drop by and mingle!
3:30 pm - 4:15 pm
We will plan to start the ceremony promptly at 3:30pm. If you are planning to drive, please see our note about parking in the FAQ section.
5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
There will be a cocktail reception immediately after the ceremony, followed by dinner and dancing.