Jewish Wedding Traditions
Before the ceremony…
The Ketubah
The Jewish tradition of the ketubah (the marriage contract) is over two thousand years old. Before the ceremony, the ketubah is signed in the presence of witnesses. The text of out ketubah describes our commitment to each other and our promises for our future life in family.
The Ceremony…
The Kippah
The kippah (yarmulke) is the Jewish head covering. It is worn as a sign of respect during ceremonies.
The Chuppah
The chuppah (wedding canopy) is intended to create an intimate, sanctified space symbolizing the home that the bride and groom will share together. The sides are left open to signify that all friends and family are welcome into their new life and home.
The Wine
During our ceremony we share a glass of wine from a Kiddush cup (ceremonial cup). The sweetness of the wine represents the sweetness of our love for each other.
The Rings
In the Jewish religion, it is customary to get married in plain wedding bands without any ornate detail. For purposes of exchanging our vows, the groom will be getting married the bride’s grandpa’s wedding band and the bride will getting married in the groom’s grandma’s wedding band.
The Breaking of the Glass
A broken glass cannot be mended. Like wise, marriage is irrevocable. It is a transforming experience that leaves individuals forever changed. While there are many other interpretations of this practice, it signals an end to the ceremony with shouts of “Mazel Tov!” (Congratulations!)
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