A Traditional Jewish Wedding Day (part I)

Mikvah

Prior to their wedding day, some couples immerse in a Mikvah for purification. This is a type of t’shuvah (repentance), a way to regain perfection before the wedding day. Couples will then typically refrain from any intimate relations from the time of the Mikvah to the wedding day.

Fasting

Some traditional Jewish weddings begin with a fast, the bride and groom will fast until the first ceremonial glass of wine. Symbolically, their past life and sins are overcome and they are forgiven — its considered a "private Yom Kippur", because a person enters marriage in a state of purity, sinlessness and absolution. Fasting and confession also remind the bride and groom that they are at the threshold of a new life.

Chossen's Tish (Groom’s Table)

To the accompaniment of whiskey and song, traditional grooms (Chatan in Hebrew, Chossen in Yiddish) begin the Jewish wedding celebration with as many male guests as possible, toasting, giving and receiving last-minute advice, dancing, and toasting some more.

[Click here to read Part II] of a Traditional Jewish Wedding Day