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This section is primarily for my non-Jewish friends and family. It is my wish that you feel completely comfortable, at ease and a huge part of our wedding ceremony and reception. The following information should help. I am so grateful for your unconditional love, encouragement and support of this decision. I am very lucky to have each of you in my life. Wedding Huppah  The wedding ceremony takes place under the huppah (a wedding canopy), which symbolizes the home the bride and groom will build together. The huppah is supported by four poles, which will be surrounded by dear friends and family. The huppah is the essence of a Jewish wedding ceremony.
Processional and Circling The custom of escorting the bride and groom to the huppah is an ancient one. It was felt traditionally, that the bride and groom on their wedding day, are comparable to a queen and a king and should, therefore, be accompanied with an entourage to the huppah. Usually the parents of the groom escort him to the huppah, followed by the bride accompanied by her parents. The bride will circle the groom seven times before going under the huppah. The circling symbolizes the binding of the bride to the groom to begin a new family. The circling also represents the seven Jewish wedding blessings. Breaking the Glass Probably the most well-known Jewish wedding tradition, and certainly the most exciting! The groom will smash the glass with his foot at the conclusion of the wedding ceremony. The breaking of the glass represents the destruction of the Temple in Israel and serves as a reminder of how fragile life can be. Another interpretation given is that the smashing of a glass is irrevocable and permanent. So too, may the marriage bond be. "Mazel Tov" is shouted loudly after the glass is broken. This is the joyous shout of celebration that the couple is united as one. The celebration soon begins! The Celebration! The wedding reception is a very important part of the Jewish wedding. The reception is a blessed Simcha - the celebration of joy and a joyous occasion. At a Jewish wedding, it is a post-ceremony party whose purpose is to heighten the jubilation of the bride and groom. The guests have the important role to rejoice the groom and bride; this is done with exuberant dancing and singing, and the telling of toasts, jokes and stories. The celebration includes the "hora" - the well-known tradition of exuberant dance performed by everyone at the wedding reception. Guests join hands and circle the bride, groom, and their families rejoice in the marriage. The bride and groom may be lifted above the circle, as well as the bride and groom's parents. It is by far, the most fun and outrageous part of the party - I invite all of my friends and family, Jewish and non-Jewish to dance with us. More Helpful Links Jewish Wedding: Glossary of Terms Jewish Wedding: Ceremony Rituals (elaboration) Jewish Wedding: Reception Rituals | ||||||||
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