Circling

After Meri and Mark escort Maia down the aisle, she and Jason will each circle the other seven times. Circling is a symbol of mystical protection that spiritually binds Maia and Jason to one another. Traditionally, the number seven signifies wholeness and completion; here it signifies the completion of the couple’s search for each other and the creation of a more complete being.

Chupah

The wedding ceremony takes place under the chupah, a canopy representing the home Maia and Jason will build together. Open on four sides, it resembles the tent of Abraham and Sarah, a tent always open to family and friends. Jason’s grandfather’s tallit and Maia's father's tallit will be incorporated into the top of the chupah to symbolize the importance of family and tradition in Maia and Jason's lives.

Kiddushin and Nissuin – Betrothal and Marriage

Maia and Jason’s close family and friends will recite the sheva brachot, the seven marriage blessings, which reference the seven days of creation. The blessings praise God for fruit, creation of the world, creation of humanity, wisdom, intelligence and free will of man, and the couple’s joy and happiness. The final blessing wishes the couple delight, cheer, love, harmony, peace and companionship

Breaking the Glass

The breaking of the glass is a reminder that, even in our moments of greatest joy, we should not forget the ideal of a rebuilt Jerusalem and our obligation to fix the many imperfections of the world. Reflecting on these ideas, Jason will break a glass, which also signifies the end of the wedding ceremony.

J&M