The Ketubah
The Ketubah, dating back to the first century, is the Jewish legal contract that states the obligations of the bride and groom to each other. Cassie and Aaron’s Ketubah signifies their commitment to marriage and to the values, love, and promises in which their relationship is built. It was signed prior to the ceremony by the bride and groom, the rabbi, and two non-familial witnesses.
The Bedeken
The tradition of the groom lifting the veil from the bride’s face before the ceremony dates back to biblical times, when our ancestor Jacob was tricked into marrying Leah instead of Rachel, the woman he truly loved. Since Aaron will not see Cassie before the ceremony, he will do a symbolic check to assure his intended bride is underneath the veil.
The Processional
It is Jewish custom for the bride and grooms’ parents to escort their children to the chuppah. Upon Cassie’s arrival, she will circle Aaron seven times. This ancient tradition can be seen to represent the seven days of creation, just as marriage is the creation of a new family circle. All seven circles symbolically demonstrate that Cassie’s primary allegiance has shifted from her parents to Aaron and that Aaron is now bound to Cassie more intimately than to his parents. After circling, Cassie will stand to Aaron’s right as the Torah teaches, “she shall be like his right hand,” a partner through life.
The Chuppah
The ceremony takes place under a chuppah, or wedding canopy, representing the new home that the bride and groom will build and share together. It is open on all sides recalling Abraham’s tent, which had open doors on all four sides so guests coming from any direction would feel welcome.
The Ring Ceremony
Cassie and Aaron will exchange rings, which historically were complete circles to represent the never-ending completeness of the couple’s love and marriage. They will recite traditional Jewish vows, consecrating them to Moses and Israel. After the ceremony, Cassie will wear the ring Aaron gives her.
Blessings
The seven blessings, sheva brachot, are recited over a cup of wine, representing the seven days of creation. As the bride and groom drink from the same cup, they commit to sharing life’s joy and sorrows.
The Ceremony’s End
The ceremony concludes with the groom breaking a glass. There are several interpretations of this tradition. One of the most popular is that the shattered glass represents the destruction of the ancient Temple in Jerusalem and the losses suffered by the Jewish people. On happy occasions, we do not forget the pain and suffering that still afflicts so many. In modern times, it reminds us of how fragile life and love can be and is a reminder of the sanctity of marriage, for a broken glass cannot be mended. As Aaron steps on the glass, family and friends call out “Mazel Tov”, the traditional expression of congratulations and good wishes.
Yichud
After the couple leaves the chuppah as husband and wife, they will spend their first moments as husband and wife alone- a period of bonding, a time of privacy and peace before the festivities begin. You will see them again at the reception when they are announced as Mr.& Mrs. Aaron Savedoff!
The Celebration
It is Jewish custom for all guests to participate in the wedding celebration. We hope you will enjoy music, food, dancing, and happiness together with Cassie and Aaron. It is a mitzvah (Jewish biblical obligation) to make the Bride and Groom merry and to treat them as King and Queen. It is customary to lift the new couple and their parents on chairs and carry them, as if on thrones, while dancing the Hora. Please join in the merriment and revelry of the celebration!