Our wedding will include various Jewish traditions that we are excited to share with you all! This page can be used as a resource to learn more about these customs and how you can join in on the fun during the big day. In essence, Jewish weddings are all about joy, song, and community. The traditions connect us to our history, while also adding pure celebration to the evening. So sing loudly, dance hard, and know that by adding your voice and energy, you’re part of what makes the day so special to us. We are so excited to celebrate with you all!
The Ketubah is a Jewish marriage contract, outlining our commitment to each other. The Ketubah is signed by the bride and groom, as well as witnesses, before the ceremony begins.
The Tisch is a lively pre-ceremony gathering where our rabbi will share words of Torah, surrounded by singing and toasts from guests. If you are inclined to learn one Jewish wedding song beforehand, Od Yishama is what we would recommend, as it is sung at all the highest energy moments. The Bedeken follows, where the groom veils the bride, accompanied by the energetic chanting of Od Yishama. This custom is linked to the biblical story of Rebekah, who veiled herself before meeting Isaac, and to the story of Jacob being tricked into marrying Leah instead of Rachel, reinforcing the importance of being present and seeing one another clearly prior to the ceremony.
Our ceremony will take place under a Chuppah, a canopy made from a tallit (prayer shawls) passed down from our loved ones. Under the Chuppah we will exchange rings, words, the seven blessings, and conclude with the breaking of the glass.
The hora is a Jewish wedding tradition where guests will energetically dance in circles, singing Jewish melodies, lifting the couple on chairs, and celebrate together. At our wedding we will also have a second Hora later in the night. During this Hora, guests can participate in a custom known as "shtick". Guests are invited to entertain the bride and groom - some perform funny dances or tricks - it’s all about laughter, joy, and keeping the party going.