This is a poor man's guide to some of the traditions in a Jewish wedding. I plucked it from our cousins, Mike and Shana. They included the text in their wedding program.
The Ketubah - The traditional ketubah is a written contract that describes a husband's responsibilities to his wife. In modern times the ketubah affirms the obligations that the bride and groom assume toward each other. It also affirms the religious bonds of the union. Two witnesses unrelated to the family are required.
The Bedeken - The Bedeken, or Veiling, takes place immediately before the ceremony as the groom lowers the veil over the face of his bride. This custom recalls the Torah passage in which Rebecca veiled herself in modesty in seeing Isaac. The groom also insures that he has not made the mistake Jacob did when he unknowingly married the wrong woman.
The Chupah - The Chupah is a canopy that symbolizes the bride and groom's home. It is open on all sides so that family and friends are always welcome.
The Circling - Circling is a magical means of protection. By circling, the bride and groom create an invisible wall to protect each other from evil spirits, the glances of others, and from the temptations of the world.
Kiddushin - In English: sanctification. The wedding ceremony itself is divided into two parts Erusin (betrothal) and Nussuin (nuptials). Until the 11th century, the two were separated by as much as a year. Now they are unified in one service, separated by the reading of the Ketubah.
Erusin - Erusin is introduced with a blessing over the wine, the Kiddush. The bride and groom share the first cup under the Chupah with their family members. It continues with the betrothal blessing and the exchange of rings.
Kinyan - During Kinyan or ring ceremony, the traditional wedding ring for the bride must be free of any precious stones and must be made of a single pure metal. It can have no holes breaking the circle, representing the wholeness achieved through marriage and a hope for an unbroken union. It is placed on the index finger because it is believe there is vein that flows directly to the heart. In modern times, the bride and groom exchange rings.
Nussuin - Nussuin or nuptials contains the Shevea B'rachot, or seven blessings. These include another blessing over the wine (to be shared by the bride and groom only). There are also blessings for the creation of the universe and humankind, the survival of the Jewish people and Israel, and the joy of the bride and groom.
Break of the Glass - there are a number of explanations for this tradition. One recalls the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem reminding us that even at the height of personal joy, we remember sadness. Another explains the shattering glass as a symbol of the fragility of life and love. Another interpretation is that the smashing of the glass is irrevocable and therefore the marriage will last for all time.
Yichud - After the ceremony, and during Yichud or seclusion the couple spends a short period of time together to share the first few minutes of married life.
