Question 1

What traditions are part of a Jewish wedding?

Accepted Answer

The main traditions are:
 • Ketubah - document that expresses the couple's wedding promises to one another
 • Chuppah - wedding canopy beneath which the ceremony takes place
 • Exchange of rings - includes couple's brief expression of their love and commitment
 • Seven blessings - traditional or alternative good wishes for the couple and their future
 • Breaking the glass - celebratory conclusion of the wedding ceremony

Question 2

How long do the weddings you officiate usually last?

Accepted Answer

The length of the ceremony depends on the couple's choices and is usually about half an hour.

Question 3

Many of the people at the wedding won't be Jewish. Will there be lots of Hebrew? Will they understand the ceremony and its meaning?

Accepted Answer

The amount of Hebrew depends on the couple's choices. Anything I say in Hebrew, I translate or introduce first in English. At the weddings I officiate, non-Jewish guests consistently tell me that they appreciate how inclusive the ceremony is and how well they understand each of its elements.

Question 4

What is the difference between a Jewish wedding and an interfaith wedding?

Accepted Answer

I offer Jewish and interfaith couples the same choices for their wedding ceremony, so the differences depend more on the couple than on whether or not they are interfaith. Some couples also choose to include elements of other cultural and faith traditions.

Question 5

Why is it that many rabbis will not officiate at interfaith weddings?

Accepted Answer

Their reasons vary from what is allowed within their branch of Judaism, to concern that children of interfatih couples are less likely to identify as Jews, to a belief that a Jewish wedding only accurately represents a couple in which both people are Jews.

Question 6

On what days and at what times do you officiate weddings?

Accepted Answer

I officiate weddings on Saturday evenings at 5:00pm or later, on Sundays, and on weekdays. I have occasionally pushed back the beginning time on Saturdays when needed to allow time after the wedding for dinner/ dancing/ etc. My bottom line for weddings is that they are honest, respectful, joyful, and inclusive, and that the couple and I plan the ceremony together so it is deeply meaningful for them and their guests.

Question 7

What if we live out of town or for other reasons are not able to meet with you in person?

Accepted Answer

I regularly hold online meetings with couples who live out of town or prefer meeting online.

Jewish & Interfaith Weddings with Singing Rabbi Miriam

I would be happy to meet with you to get acquainted, answer your questions about working together, and discuss how I might help you realize your vision for your wedding ceremony.