Whether you’re religious or not, participating in Jewish wedding traditions is an experience of a lifetime! I get excited to photograph Jewish weddings because they’re filled with deep intentionality and epic celebrations. It is such a beautiful and fun balance! 

What are some Jewish Wedding Traditions?

If you are unfamiliar with Judaism, it varies from Orthodox and traditional to modern. Knowing what to expect ahead of time will ensure that you aren’t left in the dark. It will give you more confidence in celebrating a Jewish wedding, and who knows, the experience may compel you to learn even more about the faith and culture. Even some of my own friends have converted to Judaism because they are so into their religion!

Traditionally, this was the bride’s celebration, where friends and family gathered to celebrate with her. This happens before the ceremony, but it may now occur in conjunction with the Groom’s Table (see below).

Tisch

A tisch is a celebration on the groom’s side, where the men get together to celebrate before the wedding ceremony begins

Bedeken

This is one of the most beautiful Jewish traditions. Similar to a First Look, the bedeken is the veiling of the bride by her groom-to-be. It’s an intimate moment where the groom reverently covers her face with the veil. It is to symbolize that they are two distinct people, even in marriage, and that he values her inner beauty.

Ketubah signing

As one of the oldest Jewish traditions, this document is part of Jewish civil law. It outlines the wedding couple’s responsibilities to one another. Similar to a secular prenuptial agreement, it is a legal document that outlines various protections and rights. The document is signed before two witnesses and then read to guests before the ceremony.

Walk to the Chuppah

This is another sweet tradition where the groom’s parents walk him to the chuppah. The bride and her parents follow soon after.

Vows

As with any wedding, the ceremony consists of the couple exchanging vows under the chuppah (altar). However, a Jewish altar is very distinct. It has four corners like a roof, symbolizing the new life together as a couple.

Circling

This has taken on many forms over the years. Traditionally, the bride would circle her groom for protection against evil. Also, it can symbolize the creation of a new family, with the couple circling together.

Erusin or Kiddushin

This is the actual betrothal part of the ceremony. They share a glass of wine and complete the ring consecrations.

Sheva B’rachot: Seven Blessings

The seven blessings are an ancient ritual in which family and friends can offer blessings. Sometimes (with wine) similar to non-religious toasts. They may be given in Hebrew and/or English.

Glass or Plate Breaking

This is one of the most well-known Jewish traditions. Most think it is celebratory, when in fact it may represent the destruction of the Temple. It symbolizes that marriage has both difficult and joyful times. 

Mazel Tov!

You’ve probably heard shouts of “Mazel tov!” at mitzvahs or weddings, but what does the cheer mean? In Yiddish, the direct translation is similar to “Good luck!” or “Congratulations!” 

Yichud

This is a time set aside for the newlyweds to rejoice privately together – usually for about 20 minutes. They may enjoy their first meal or even a sweet bite together to relish the moment!

Hamotzi

Blessings over challah bread. Usually performed by a grandfather or an uncle.

The Mizinke

This Jewish Wedding Tradition is reserved for parents of the last child to be married. The parents sit in the center of the dance floor with crowns on their heads, while people dance around them and congratulate them. I

Hora

Get ready to dance the hora at a Jewish wedding reception. Everyone dances in a circle and lifts the couple up in chairs in the middle of the circle. You might even see a few festive kicks in there. It’s impossible not to join in on the fun!

Sherele

A fun “scissor-step” dance – similar to a quadrille – you might see at the reception.

Final Toast

After blessings, the couple’s glasses of wine are poured into a third glass to symbolize their marriage. Cheers to the newlyweds!

As a wedding photographer who has photographed tons of Jewish wedding traditions, I can answer any questions you may have or even photograph your big day!