A Jewish marriage contract. It is considered an integral part of a traditional Jewish marriage, and outlines the rights and responsibilities of the groom, in relation to the bride. The couple, a rabbi or cantor, and witnesses all participate in the signing of the ketubah.

A head covering worn during religious services and ceremonies in Judaism. They will be available prior to the beginning of the ceremony, if you choose to wear one.

A Jewish prayer shawl with knotted corners worn over the head or shoulders by Jewish people. They are used to prepare the mind and heart for prayer.

The structure over the bride and groom during the ceremony. A chuppah has four corners, a covered roof and is open on all sides to symbolize the new home the bride and groom are building, that will be open to family and friends. The canopy is often made of a tallit belonging to the couple or their families. The bride and groom have chosen to use the tallit of Andrew's late maternal grandfather, Papa.

In modern ceremonies, both the bride and the groom exchange wedding rings as a symbol of true partnership, mutual love and respect. An authentic Jewish wedding ring is a simple, solid band made of gold. The ring is placed on the index finger of the right hand while reciting a vow in Hebrew. There are many interpretations for this, but the most recognized explanation is that the index finger is considered the closest to your heart. The bride and groom have chosen to use the wedding bands of Andrew's late maternal grandfather and great-grandfather.

Seven different blessings are bestowed upon the couple when they are standing under the chuppah. They may be given by the officiant, the rabbi or the cantor, or friends and family members.

At the end of the ceremony, the groom steps on a glass inside a cloth bag to shatter it. This symbolizes the fragility of the relationship and reminds one another to treat that relationship with special care. “As this glass shatters, so may our marriage never break.” However, it's more of an exciting gesture to celebrate the new marriage. After the groom breaks the glass, the guests yell, "Mazel Tov!"

A Jewish phrase expressing congratulations or wishing someone good luck.

Sometimes referred to as the "chair dance", the wedding couple is lifted above the crowd on chairs, while "Hava Nagila" is played. Their family and friends dance in circles around them. During the hora, the couple each hold one end of a handkerchief or napkin to signify their union.

Many of the wedding poems, toasts and blessings you know and love are of Celtic descent. These Irish wedding blessings and toasts are typically short but packed with emotion and impact. The bride and groom have asked a traditional Irish blessing to be read by the Bride's brother, Corey.