Jewish Wedding Traditions

Jewish weddings incorporate many traditions and practices from a Hebrew heritage. For instance, the first of many Jewish wedding customs starts with the signing of a marriage contract. According to Jewish wedding traditions, this signed document is rather ornate and will likely be framed and elaborately displayed in their new marital home.

After the signing of the marriage contract, most Jewish wedding ceremonies start with a processional. Each set of parents of the bride and groom process down the aisle with them to the huppah, a special canopy which is one of the more popular pieces of Jewish wedding symbolism. It represents the sheltering presence of God during their union. This Jewish wedding ceremony structure is also called a hoopa.

Once the Jewish wedding vows are recited, then the marriage Jewish wedding blessings are read. The next phase, according to Jewish wedding tradition is the stomping of the wine glass by the groom. After the Jewish wedding ceremony is complete, the bride and groom are given a little together time before the reception.

Among the Jewish wedding rituals, includes lively singing and dancing. One Jewish wedding dance incorporates a handkerchief. The bride and groom each hold an end while being lifted onto chairs. This part of Jewish wedding traditions signifies their status as king and queen of the evening.

Other Jewish wedding rituals include the music. You will hear Jewish wedding songs as well as Yiddish music. There are also different customs in Jewish wedding traditions that honor the mothers and fathers of the bride and groom. Each is different depending on whether the bride and groom are only children or the oldest or youngest of the families.

For the most part, there are many traditional and not so traditional Jewish wedding gifts that are often bestowed on the lucky couple. Menorahs, candlesticks, picture frames and collectible driedles are popular. Gift certificates and normal house wares are also acceptable.

Other Jewish wedding traditions that are often observed include the exchange of plain gold bands with no adornment. In addition, the groom and groomsmen wear yarmulkes on their heads. Many of the foods at the reception are prepared kosher-style, which means no mixing of meat or dairy. Sometimes, the reception kicks off with a blessing of the bride and groom over challah bread.

There are many other Jewish wedding traditions that are observed. However, the above listed things are just a sampling of what you can expect if you attend a Jewish wedding.