Our Ceremony

We’re overjoyed that we will be able to share the Jewish culture and faith with our guests.

Learn more about what to expect at our ceremony.

Terms and rituals in Jewish weddings

 

Yarmulke (yaa·muh·kuh) or Kippah (ki·puh)

A kippah is a skull cap or hat worn as a sign of respect while in a synagogue or at events of great significance (like a wedding!) While observant Jewish men may wear them all the time, we only ask men wear them during the ceremony to acknowledge the custom. They are yours to keep afterward, too!

Seven blessings

Sheva brachot, recited by the rabbi to the couple, praising God for creation and love, while offering good wishes for the bride and groom's marriage

Chuppah (hup-pah)

The wedding canopy symbolizing the bride and groom's first home. It is open on all four sides so they can be welcomed and supported by their family and community.

Stomping the glass

The Jewish wedding ceremony always ends with the groom stepping on a glass. This serves as a reminder that life is bittersweet and that the happiest of moments should be treasured and not taken for granted. Once the groom steps on the glass, everyone shouts, "Mazel Tov," This is also the couple's signal to take their first kiss as bride and groom.

Mazel Tov! (maa·zuhl taav)

This will be said during the ceremony. It literally translates to, “good luck” in Hebrew.

Ketubah (kuh-too-bah)

Traditionally, a Ketubah was a legal document between the bride's family and the groom. In modern times, ketubot have evolved as lovely artistic expressions of love and commitment between the bride and groom. Ours will be on display at the ceremony and reception.