The Chuppah is the wedding canopy which symbolizes the home the couple will build together. The chuppah rests on four poles, yet it has no walls reflecting the idea that family

and friends will always be welcome in the home.

Blessing of the Bethrothal (Kiddushin): The Kiddushin begins with the recitation of the opening blessing. The first one is the blessing over wine. Bride and Groom will share a cup

of wine, a Jewish symbol of joy and the sanctification of a celebratory time.

Exchange of Vows: Michelle's and Spencer's promises to one another.

Exchange of Rings: As the rings are circles with no beginning and no end, they symbolize the bride and groom's love is never ending.

Reading of the Ketubah: The Ketubah is a marriage contract, required by Jewish law, attesting to the commitments and obligations of the bride and groom make to each other as a married couple. It is one of the oldest elements of Jewish weddings, dating back over two thousand years. Prior to the ceremony, the ketubah was signed by the groom and bride, two witnesses and the Rabbi.

The Seven Blessings (Sheva Brachot ):

The Sheva Brachot comprises most of the wedding liturgy. These blessings symbolize the 7 days of creation. The blessings also represent the joy of creation which occurs under the chuppah. A second glass of wine is shared at this time.

Rabbi's blessing

Breaking of the Glass: At the conclusion of the ceremony, the groom will break a glass by stepping on it. Tradition says that this represent the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem.

Other interpretations say that the broken glass remind us that life is fragile and even in times of joy we must not forget our people's journey throughout history. The sound of the

breaking of the glass is greeted by shouts of 'Mazel Tov' - a wish of good fortune to the newly married couple.

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