A wedding is a ceremony where two people are united in marriage. Its traditions and customs vary widely between cultures, communities and individuals. Despite the wide variation, a wedding ceremony typically includes the exchange of vows and rings by the couple, a public declaration of commitment, and a shared ritual to signify the unity of the union. It may also include readings, songs, and the signing of a marriage license or certificate.
The most important part of a wedding is the exchange of vows. It’s the part that will be remembered years later, not the flowers, cake or dress. When people look back on their own weddings, they often recall that moment when the maid of honor began to cry during her reading or when the groom just couldn’t stop smiling as he stood there with his beloved.
It is the moment when you and your partner publicly make a commitment to spend the rest of your lives together, no matter what comes. It is a moment of joy, but also one of great responsibility, as you now join your lives together in a sacred bond that changes everything. It is a moment when you become “one.”
Traditionally, the ceremony takes place under a beautiful four-poled canopy structure called a chuppah, which symbolizes a new Jewish home. You can choose to be accompanied under the chuppah by your parents or stand alone. During the ceremony, you will recite your vows to each other and promise to love, cherish, and honor each other for the rest of your lives. You will also exchange rings and, upon the officiant’s instruction, place calls on each other’s ring fingers to solidify your relationship.
In the course of your life, you will face challenges and experiences that challenge your beliefs or deepest emotions. Your wedding ceremony can be a time to share those challenges with your loved ones and acknowledge that even in the most difficult of times, there is always love, forgiveness and compassion.
Your guests will want to get to know you better, so consider using your ceremony as an opportunity to share some personal details about your relationship and why you chose to invite them to be a part of your big day. This is also a great way to introduce your wedding party and give them a chance to shine.