How to plan a Jewish wedding in the UK
A Jewish wedding is rich with symbolism, built around the chuppah ceremony and the signing of the ketubah. Traditions differ across communities, from Orthodox to Reform, so adapt this to what fits you.
This guide covers the key moments, a running order, and how to plan for the day. Plan every part in We Do, free.
The moments of a Jewish wedding
Depending on your community, the day often includes:
- Aufruf — the couple is honoured at synagogue in the run-up.
- Kabbalat Panim — pre-ceremony receptions where guests greet the couple.
- Bedeken — the veiling of the bride.
- Ketubah — the signing of the marriage contract before witnesses.
- Chuppah — the ceremony beneath the canopy, ending with breaking the glass.
- Yichud — the couple's first private moments together.
- Seudah & Sheva Brachot — the festive meal and seven blessings, with dancing.
The chuppah
The chuppah is the canopy under which the couple is married, symbolising the home they will build. The ceremony includes the seven blessings (Sheva Brachot) and ends with the breaking of the glass, greeted with cheers of 'Mazel tov!'.
The reception that follows is famous for the hora, the celebratory circle dance. Build a running order that gives the ceremony, the meal and the dancing room to breathe.
A typical running order
A common shape for the day:
- Before the chuppah: Kabbalat Panim receptions, bedeken and the ketubah signing.
- The ceremony: the chuppah and breaking of the glass.
- Straight after: yichud, the couple's private moments.
- The celebration: the seudah, sheva brachot and the hora.
How far ahead to plan
Book your venue and, if relevant, your synagogue and officiant early, then catering and photography. Kosher catering may need a specialist, so start that conversation sooner. A rough timeline: venue 12 months out, catering and photography soon after, then outfits, invitations and final numbers as the day approaches.
Common questions
What is the ketubah?
The ketubah is the Jewish marriage contract, setting out the couple's commitments. It is signed and witnessed before the chuppah ceremony.
What is the chuppah?
The chuppah is the canopy the couple stands under during the ceremony, symbolising their new home together. The ceremony ends with breaking the glass.
What are the Sheva Brachot?
The Sheva Brachot are the seven blessings recited over the couple during the ceremony and again at the festive meal.
How far ahead should we plan a Jewish wedding?
Start around 12 months out. Kosher catering in particular can need a specialist supplier, so it is worth arranging early.
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