by Darma
(Arizona)
Hello,
I am so confused. Am I paying the Wedding location Caterer and I am their customer? Then why is the caterer telling me how much time I have for a wedding ceremony? I do not want a rush Jewish wedding ceremony. Isn’t the wedding and the marriage the most important part of my wedding day? On top of that, they are going to charge me extra if I run 15 minutes overtime. What!
Can you guide me with this non-enjoyable discovery with my Caterer?
Thank you,
Dear Darma,
You asked a good question. I have had a few couples falling into this situation that affected their Jewish wedding ceremony to be rushed. From my viewpoint, it was not comfortable!
Caterers know this business. They have designed how many hours for each part of your wedding day. Pre-Ceremony, Ceremony, Cocktail Hour, and Reception. When the venue has beautiful views and property, it will include dressing and photos. They are there to take care of you both.
The Jewish wedding ceremony under the Chuppah is the central focus of the whole entire wedding day. You will be a married couple and your marriage is the celebration.
As a guide – you need around 20 minutes for the pre-ceremony to sign the Ketubah and Marriage License signing and include the other beautiful traditions in that pre-ceremony.
As a guide – the Chuppah, the ceremony under the Chuppah is around 30 minutes for a traditional Jewish wedding ceremony. The processional and walking back up the aisle is not included. Add an additional 15 minutes.
Before signing a contract, ask questions. Anything not written in the contract put it in writing.
Enjoy the planning of your wedding day, don’t lose sight of what is important.
Thank you for asking.
Rabbi Andrea