Welcome to Synagogue Or Shalom, our Sephardic synagogue for our wedding celebration. We’re delighted to have you join us for this sacred occasion. In Orthodox Jewish tradition, weddings are rich in symbolism and ritual, reflecting the sanctity of marriage as outlined in Jewish law.


During the ceremony, you’ll witness various customs, such as the signing of the ketubah (marriage contract), the recitation of blessings over wine, the ring exchange and of course the symbolic breaking of the glass. 

The Jewish wedding ceremony is divided into two parts - the Kiddushin (“betrothal”) and the Nissuin (“marriage”), both of which take place under the Chuppah. 

The Chuppah represents the future home we will build together. The four “walls” of the Chuppah are wide open and are a symbol of hospitality and welcoming of guests in our home. The “cover” of the Chuppah is a symbol of G-d’s presence and protection over us. There is nothing else inside the Chuppah except for the people inside. This reminds us that the basis of a Jewish home is the people residing inside, not material possessions. 

Rabbi Marouani will recite the betrothal blessings, after which we will drink from the Kiddush cup. The cup we are drinking from belonged to my brother. After this, Jack will place the ring on my finger and make a declaration in Hebrew at which point we will be officially engaged. 

Rabbi will now read the Ketubah which is our marriage contract. 

We now move to the Nissuin. Our friends, family and Rabbi will recite the Sheva Berachot. These blessings thank G-d for his creation and the joy he bestows upon us, wish that we will rejoice together like Adam and Eve and pray for the rebuilding of the Jewish temple in Jerusalem. We drink from this cup of wine to complete this stage of the wedding ceremony. 

Finally, the moment everyone waits for - the breaking of the glass! Jack will recite a verse from Psalm 137:5-6 “If I forget you, O Jerusalem, let my right hand wither, let my tongue stick to my palate if I cease to think of you, if I do not keep Jerusalem in memory even at my happiest hour”. 

This represents the permanent nature of marriage. Once the glass is shattered - it’s forever, there is no going back. It is a metaphor for the two souls fragments that are reunited once again. It symbolizes the destruction of the Jewish Temple, and the hope that it will be rebuilt, just as our soul fragments were reunited once again. It is a symbol of Tikkun Olam - our idea that every person has the responsibility and the ability to improve the world, even if it’s in a small way. 


As guests, you’re encouraged to observe with reverence and respect the customs and practices of our synagogue. Please be mindful to dress modestly and avoid using electronic devices during the ceremony, as a sign of respect for the sanctity of the occasion.


We’re grateful for your presence and support as we embark on this joyous journey together. Thank you for being a part of our special day.