Jewish Wedding Essentials

• The text. The traditional ketubah is written in Aramaic. Many couples today choose a modern, egalitarian text in Hebrew and English that reflects the promises they make to each other.
• The signing. It usually happens just before the ceremony, in a small gathering with your witnesses, your officiant and your closest family. It is often one of the most intimate moments of the day.
• Who signs. Traditionally two witnesses. Many modern ketubahs also have lines for the couple and the officiant.
• Afterward. Some couples have it read aloud beneath the chuppah, then frame it and hang it at home.
• Timing. Custom designs take time, so choose yours early. Todd can help you find a text that fits.

• What it is. A canopy held up by four poles. It can stand on its own, covered in flowers, or be a simple cloth held by four people you love.
• Why it is open. The open sides recall the tent of Abraham and Sarah, which welcomed guests from every direction.
• The tallit. A prayer shawl from a parent or grandparent can become the canopy itself, or be wrapped around your shoulders for the final blessing.
• Who stands with you. Parents often stand beneath or beside the chuppah, a reminder that two families are coming together.

• What they are. A kippah (plural kippot, also called a yarmulke) is a small head covering worn as a sign of respect.
• How to offer them. Place a basket near the entrance to the ceremony so guests can take one as they arrive. A small sign helps guests who are new to the tradition.
• Who wears one. Anyone is welcome to. Guests of every background usually appreciate being included.
• Making them yours. Choose a color and fabric that match your wedding, and print your names and date inside.

• The traditional form. The bride circles the groom seven times as she arrives at the chuppah.
• The egalitarian form. Each partner circles the other three times, then you complete a final circle together.
• When it happens. At the very start of the ceremony, usually to music. It sets a calm, intentional tone.
• Why seven. Seven is a number of completeness in Jewish tradition. You will hear it again in the Seven Blessings.

• Two blessings. In a traditional ceremony wine is blessed twice: once near the beginning and again with the Seven Blessings.
• A blessing guests know. The blessing over wine is one of the shortest and best known in Judaism, so guests often join in.
• Which cup. Use a family cup, a new one chosen for the day, or one from each family.
• What to pour. Any kosher wine or grape juice works. White is kinder to a wedding dress.

Here is the heart of each blessing in plain English. Wording varies from community to community, and Todd can help you choose a translation that feels right.

1. Wine. Blessed is the Creator of the fruit of the vine.
2. Creation. Blessed is the One who created all things in glory.
3. Humanity. Blessed is the Creator of human beings.
4. Companionship. Blessed is the One who formed us in the divine image and made us able to build a life together.
5. Continuity. May Zion rejoice as her children return to her in joy.
6. Love. Bring great joy to these loving companions, as You gave joy to the first couple in the Garden of Eden.
7. Joy. Blessed is the One who created joy and gladness, love and harmony, peace and friendship. May the sounds of celebration always be heard.

To honor loved ones, invite up to seven people to each read one blessing, in Hebrew, in English, or in both.

• Personal vows. A traditional Jewish ceremony has no spoken vows, so many couples add their own just before the rings.
• The ring. By tradition it is a simple, unbroken band, a symbol of a marriage that is whole.
• Where it goes. Often on the right index finger during the ceremony, then moved to the ring finger afterward.
• The words. There is a form of the ring declaration for every couple. Todd will help you find the words that fit.

• How it works. The glass is wrapped in a cloth napkin or pouch and placed on the ground at the very end of the ceremony. One partner, or both together, steps down firmly.
• What it means. Explanations include remembering the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, and remembering that love, like glass, deserves care.
• The kit. A glass-breaking kit includes a glass made to break cleanly and a pouch that collects every piece.
• The keepsake. Afterward the pieces can be preserved as artwork, set into a mezuzah, or kept in a frame.