Although you might not find “something blue” on Ritualwell, you will find much that is “borrowed,” “old,” and “new.” Jewish tradition is rich in wedding customs, and we have attempted to bring you some samples from this delightful smorgasbord. You will find pre-wedding customs such as ten’aim (engagement), during which it is customary for the mothers of the couple to break a plate, the bedecken (the veiling of the bride and modern alternatives), and the tischen (literally, “tables,” where grooms and/or brides receive blessings and enjoy other rituals immediately prior to the wedding ceremony). You will also find several complete wedding ceremonies along with a breakdown of the constituent parts and alternatives for them, various ketubot (wedding contracts), ideas for tzedakah (charity), and much more. We also explore weddings and ceremonies not envisioned by the rabbis of old—interfaith marriages and weddings and commitment ceremonies between partners of the same sex.
There is a folk tradition that the gates of heaven are particularly open to the prayers of the bride and groom. In some communities, wedding couples are handed small pieces of paper prior to the processional on which personal prayers are written. They read these prayers as they walk down the aisle and while circling one another. This prayer is offered in that tradition.
A brief article describing the practice of kiddushin (the first part of the wedding ceremony) and modern variations and alternatives
These words are addressed to stepchildren standing under their new parents’ huppah
A brief explanation of the custom of the huppah, ideas on creating one’s own huppah, and an explanation of circling
Taken from traditional sources and intended to be read prior to each of the seven wedding blessings
Seven blessings for a Jewish wedding suitable for pluralistic or non-religious ceremonies
Under the huppah, a heterosexual couple expressed their sadness for the inequitable status of same-sex couples
A ritual template for creating a Jewish wedding service that celebrates gender and sexual diversity
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