The Tree of Life

I had the pleasure of helping a couple plan their wedding which was steeped in Jewish tradition and symbolism.  The Bride, born and raised Catholic, converted to Judaism.  The wedding weekend was full of activity, which culminated at an elegant ceremony and reception in historic Mt. Vernon.  The reception, located on the 13th floor with its high decorated ceiling and magnificent chandelier, was draped in white.  The most important symbol for Judaism, the tree of life, a potent symbol for weddings, with their deep roots and intertwined branches, was incorporated elegantly into every aspect of this wedding.   The tree stood tall on the invitation, printed in both Hebrew and English…and again on the program, which explained each tradition…and again on each table, acting as the centerpiece. The Bride and Groom met, alone, in a small room among the many couches and grand paintings.  The Bedeken, or veiling of the bride, and the signing of the Ketubah, the Jewish marriage contract, took place with family and friends by their side.  The Bride and Groom met again, this time on the 13th floor, under the Chuppah, the marriage canopy, where they stood taking their vows in Hebrew and in English with their parents by their side.  The ceremony ended with the traditional breaking of the glass, and the newly married couple spent a few moments together in Yichud…oneness/togetherness.  The reception started with the traditional prayer over the bread before dinner.  The flavor for the rest of the night was celebration, which included dancing to the traditional wedding Hebrew folk song, Hava Nagila.

photography by www.thomasgraves.com