Your Jewish Wedding

033 - Kiddush (The Blessing Over Wine) - Origins and HistoryThis is THE central blessing of almost every Jewish celebration - but WHY?Join Rabbi LeighAnn for a little anthropology and a lot of chit chat surrounding this ubiquitous ritual.Don't forget - you can reach me (Rabbi LeighAnn) any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com or everyonesfavoriterabbi.com or rabbileighann.com !Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding. There are SO many options, from Ketubah consulting to ceremony planning. If there's something you have in mind, don't hesitate to ask - I'm here to help!IG: @yourohiorabbiPodcast IG: @yourjewishweddingpodcastSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnnhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kiddush#:~:text=Kiddush%20https://www.learnreligions.com/kiddush-101-2076790https://theconversation.com/let-us-adore-and-drink-a-brief-history-of-wine-and-religion-35308https://www.jpost.com/jewish-world/judaism/world-of-the-sages-lhaim-75020https://www.doctrineanddevotion.com/blog/wine

I probably made a bunch of people upset years and years ago - but I can't remember all the details. (There's a reason you're supposed to apologize as soon as you mess up.) Between Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur, Jews are called to do an honest accounting of our souls, and to make amends where we can. In this episode, I'll explain that a little more, and why MY apology, however imperfect, is pretty necessary right now. Links: Today is not yesterday - https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/1612482/jewish/Today-Is-Not-Yesterday.htmGam Zeh Yaavor -https://www.ansheamunim.org/gam_zeh_yaavorCheshbon haNefeshhttps://mussarinstitute.org/cheshbon-hanefesh-3/Detours and Destinations Podcasthttps://www.92ny.org/archives/featured-series/detours-and-destinationsEpsiode with Rabbi Shirahttps://www.92ny.org/archives/detours-destinations-rabbi-shira-stutmanRabbi Shira’s podcasthttps://chutzpod.com/Don't forget - you can reach me (Rabbi LeighAnn) any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com or everyonesfavoriterabbi.com or rabbileighann.com !Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding. There are SO many options, from Ketubah consulting to ceremony planning. If there's something you have in mind, don't hesitate to ask - I'm here to help!IG: @yourohiorabbiPodcast IG: @yourjewishweddingpodcastSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnn

031 - "Do You Plan to Have a Jewish Household?" (Finding a Rabbi Series)It’s one of the most common questions a rabbi may ask a couple before deciding that he or she is the right fit for the couple’s wedding.If a rabbi asked you this question, do you know how you would answer?Does it conjure feelings of fear, confusion, and dread?Don’t worry. I’m here to help.Don't forget - you can reach me (Rabbi LeighAnn) any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com or everyonesfavoriterabbi.com or rabbileighann.com !Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding. There are SO many options, from Ketubah consulting to ceremony planning. If there's something you have in mind, don't hesitate to ask - I'm here to help!IG: @yourohiorabbiPodcast IG: @yourjewishweddingpodcastSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnnhttps://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/zachor-why-jewish-memory-matters/https://forward.com/community/355485/are-rabbis-who-refuse-to-marry-interfaith-couples-hurting-jewish-continuity/#:~:text=**%20When%20Len%20Saxe%20revealed%20the%20new,94%%20of%20in%2Dmarried%20couples%20who%20have%20Jewishhttps://www.aprilonline.org/jewish-life/

You know about breaking the glass, but what about breaking a PLATE?Welcome to the first LISTENER QUESTION episode of the Your Jewish Wedding Podcast, where I answer Olivia’s question: “I was wondering if you could explain the breaking of the plates by the mothers?”Yes! There is a Jewish custom where the mothers of the people getting married break a plate to “Seal the deal.”(Watch a short video of a plate-breaking I facilitated here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1p9wGz9E92s2LajZY8LAPj07MTcblOiJN/view?usp=drive_link)As with anything to do with Jewish Weddings, there are many explanations for this custom and different ways to do it. It is connected to what was traditionally an engagement agreement called a tenaim.  So, obviously, we need to learn about that first.Show Notes are below.Don't forget - you can reach me (Rabbi LeighAnn) any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com or everyonesfavoriterabbi.com or rabbileighann.com !Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding. There are SO many options, from Ketubah consulting to ceremony planning. If there's something you have in mind, don't hesitate to ask - I'm here to help!IG: @yourohiorabbiPodcast IG: @yourjewishweddingpodcastSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnnText of a egalitarian tenaim example:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1a-o-c__kVCmRz2wD-NkOy12NLB324dAAs9YLGxXBOfg/edit?usp=sharingTraditional explanations of tenaim/breaking a plate:https://ohr.edu/ask_db/ask_main.php/2632/Q1/https://judaism.stackexchange.com/questions/49234/why-do-the-mothers-break-the-platePieces of the broken plate as auspicious:https://ketubah.com/jewish-wedding-superstitions-segulahs/Contemporary Tenaim/Plate Breaking Resources:https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/tenaim-the-conditions-of-marriage/https://ritualwell.org/ritual/dowries-smashed-dishes/

Have you felt ghosted and abandoned by your favorite rabbi (me, obviously) ? Did you come here expecting an apology for my half a year absence? Well, you won't get an apology, but you will get an explanation. Settle in for an update on what I've been up to, and some thoughts about how I'd like to expand my efforts to make a Jewish wedding accessible for anyone who wants one. 

Clueless about your Hebrew name? What about your fiance/e's? Your ketubah will most likely ask you to provide your Hebrew name - for very important reasons. Don't phone this one in - listen for tips and tricks on the best way to determine your Hebrew name and that of your beloved -whether he or she is Jewish or not. 

I interview Reverend Mercy Ibarra, an interfaith/bilingual officiant (and possible MOT?)  in Los Angeles. (Yes, she’s done Jewish weddings. And technicalities aside, she was brought up Catholic.) If you don't want a religious ceremony but your Abuela is NOT happy about it, Reverend Mercy can help!Listen for more on her experience with planning traditional AND innovative/personal ceremonies, hear her take on the Four Questions with Rabbi LeighAnn Lightning Round, and a bonus on babies (!) at the end.Where to find Reverend MercyInstagram: [email protected] Reverend Mercy is Reading Now:Bury Me Standing https://www.amazon.com/Bury-Me-Standing-Gypsies-Journey/dp/067973743XSarah Silverman’s Show:https://g.co/kgs/HP6TS4MThe best Matzah Balls in LA:https://www.cantersdeli.com/The Matzah Balls she hasn’t tried:https://www.langersdeli.com/The Garcia-Shapiroshttps://phineasandferb.fandom.com/wiki/Garcia-Shapiro_family~~~Don't forget - you can reach me (Rabbi LeighAnn) any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com or everyonesfavoriterabbi.com or rabbileighann.com !Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding. There are SO many options, from Ketubah consulting to ceremony planning. If there's something you have in mind, don't hesitate to ask - I'm here to help!IG: @yourohiorabbiPodcast IG: @yourjewishweddingpodcastSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnn

Here’s exactly how to plan a QUICK and EASY Passover Seder for first-timers. The most important thing is to start somewhere and to always ask questions!If you’re short on time, go straight to 13:45One-Sheet Haggadah:https://drive.google.com/file/d/10AMF__xWaP27AZBOUy-EDgMFN1uZq0cO/view?usp=sharingHistory of the Haggadah:https://www.jewishbookcouncil.org/pb-daily/a-brief-history-of-the-haggadah#:~:text=90%20BCE%3A%20The%20first%20ever,%2C%20included%2C%20and%20thereafter%20immortalized.Don't forget - you can reach me (Rabbi LeighAnn) any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com or everyonesfavoriterabbi.com or rabbileighann.com !Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding. There are SO many options, from Ketubah consulting to ceremony planning. If there's something you have in mind, don't hesitate to ask - I'm here to help!IG: @yourohiorabbiPodcast IG: @yourjewishweddingpodcastSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnnHere’s exactly how to plan a QUICK and EASY Passover Seder for first-timers. The most important thing is to start somewhere and to always ask questions!If you’re short on time, go straight to 13:45One-Sheet Haggadah:https://drive.google.com/file/d/10AMF__xWaP27AZBOUy-EDgMFN1uZq0cO/view?usp=sharingHistory of the Haggadah:https://www.jewishbookcouncil.org/pb-daily/a-brief-history-of-the-haggadah#:~:text=90%20BCE%3A%20The%20first%20ever,%2C%20included%2C%20and%20thereafter%20immortalized.

What does the circling under the chuppah MEAN? Will it be weird if we do it at our wedding? Will we feel awkward? Will we freak out our guests? Should we explain it? Aaaaarggh!Yes, for many couples, considering circling under the chuppah just feels like TOO MUCH. Too much Jewiness, too much time, too much foreign weirdness...and yet, many still feel drawn to it. Are you hoping to include circling in your Jewish wedding and searching for an explanation for the ritual that speaks to YOU? You've come to the right place.  Watch some videos of others circling to get an idea for how it looks and whether you want to do it. https://youtu.be/uUdBNTpAoiA https://youtu.be/LNYjFmP-NaQ Don't forget - you can reach me (Rabbi LeighAnn) any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com or everyonesfavoriterabbi.com or rabbileighann.com !Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding. There are SO many options, from Ketubah consulting to ceremony planning. If there's something you have in mind, don't hesitate to ask - I'm here to help!IG: @yourohiorabbiPodcast IG: @yourjewishweddingpodcastSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnn

Bekah specializes in simple, beautiful, and personal ketubahs for each of her couples. Using her experiences in interfaith and Jewish life from childhood onward, she approaches each couple with the curiosity and knowledge to make their ketubah process mean much more than just picking out a piece of paper to sign.Find Bekah and work with her at www.foreveriepaper.comPodcast - http://www.unsettledpod.com/ by Max FreedmanBook - https://www.jaymichaelson.net/books/godinyourbody/Don't forget - you can reach me (Rabbi LeighAnn) any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com or everyonesfavoriterabbi.com or rabbileighann.com !Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding. There are SO many options, from Ketubah consulting to ceremony planning. If there's something you have in mind, don't hesitate to ask - I'm here to help!IG: @yourohiorabbiPodcast IG: @yourjewishweddingpodcastSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnn

The traditional circling at a Jewish wedding has so much history and so many different meanings. As fun as its origins may be (you'll see!) I get most excited about how other cultures incorporate circling into their wedding ceremonies, too. Please note: something went awry with the break music in editing. I don't really anticipate many, if any, of you caring. :) Shownotes:The first six minutes or so of this podcast are just me talking about the weather and scented candles.~ 19 minutes: Kreissmesser article:https://feminismandreligion.com/2020/01/30/the-kreismesser-women-and-magic-swords-in-jewish-tradition-by-jill-hammer/~Don't forget - you can reach me (Rabbi LeighAnn) any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com or everyonesfavoriterabbi.com or rabbileighann.com !Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding. There are SO many options, from Ketubah consulting to ceremony planning. If there's something you have in mind, don't hesitate to ask - I'm here to help!IG: @yourohiorabbiPodcast IG: @yourjewishweddingpodcastSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnn

Rabbi LeighAnn chats with close friend of the Pod DJ Snead. Tune in for advice on choosing your ceremony music, how to find music pros you trust, and more!Find and book DJ Snead at https://www.djsnead.com/Don't forget - you can reach me (Rabbi LeighAnn) any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com or everyonesfavoriterabbi.com or rabbileighann.com !Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding. There are SO many options, from Ketubah consulting to ceremony planning. If there's something you have in mind, don't hesitate to ask - I'm here to help!IG: @yourohiorabbiPodcast IG: @yourjewishweddingpodcastSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnn

As long as it has four poles and a top, your chuppah can be ANYTHING you want it to be. It’s a PERFECT option for interfaith couples to represent both sides of their family! Here are some suggestions for how to make the chuppah at your Jewish or interfaith wedding personal and gorgeous.The art in my living room:https://www.etsy.com/listing/1282770863/tree-of-life-no-2-paper-giclee-printThe photo of the indoor Jewish wedding I mentioned:https://www.bridgemanimages.com/en-US/picart/jewish-wedding-in-the-jewish-portuguese-community-engraving-from-illustration-de-ceremonies-et/engraving/asset/4897971My Pinterest Page for Chuppahs:https://pin.it/48pQPf9Don't forget - you can reach me (Rabbi LeighAnn) any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com or everyonesfavoriterabbi.com or rabbileighann.com !Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding. There are SO many options, from Ketubah consulting to ceremony planning. If there's something you have in mind, don't hesitate to ask - I'm here to help!IG: @yourohiorabbiPodcast IG: @yourjewishweddingpodcastSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnn

The Chuppah - Whether or not you've been pronouncing it correctly, you probably know it is one of THE visual symbols of a Jewish wedding. But where did it come from? Yes! This is one of those super nerdy episodes where we talk about the Bible and the Talmud, with. - what else? - lots of tangents. :) Don't forget - you can reach me (Rabbi LeighAnn) any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com or everyonesfavoriterabbi.com or rabbileighann.com !Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding. There are SO many options, from Ketubah consulting to ceremony planning. If there's something you have in mind, don't hesitate to ask - I'm here to help!IG: @yourohiorabbiPodcast IG: @yourjewishweddingpodcastSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnnShow notes: Bava Metzia: https://www.sefaria.org/Bava_Metzia.75b.15?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=enJewish Law on Placing the Chuppah outdoors:https://outorah.org/p/27297/https://outorah.org/p/27297/Reference for synagogue skylights for a chuppah:https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/the-huppah-or-wedding-canopy/Honi the Circle Maker:https://www.emanuelnyc.org/2021/01/25/the-story-of-honi-and-the-carob-tree/The art in my living room:https://www.etsy.com/listing/1282770863/tree-of-life-no-2-paper-giclee-printThe photo of the indoor Jewish wedding I mentioned:https://www.bridgemanimages.com/en-US/picart/jewish-wedding-in-the-jewish-portuguese-community-engraving-from-illustration-de-ceremonies-et/engraving/asset/4897971My Pinterest Page for Chuppahs:https://pin.it/48pQPf9

Are you Jewish and stressing over whether and/or how to have a Christmas tree in your house? Are you wondering if you would be the first Jew to ever do something so crazy? (Spoiler: no, you wouldn't.) Tune in to this episode to chat with Rabbi LeighAnn about tips for making the Christmas Tree choice, alternatives and compromises that *could* make it work for you and your partner, and stories about some famous (and normal)Jews who LOVED their Christmas trees. Don't forget - you can reach me (Rabbi LeighAnn) any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com or everyonesfavoriterabbi.com or rabbileighann.com !Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding. There are SO many options, from Ketubah consulting to ceremony planning. If there's something you have in mind, don't hesitate to ask - I'm here to help!IG: @yourohiorabbiPodcast IG: @yourjewishweddingpodcastSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnnLinks mentioned in this episode:https://www.jta.org/jewniverse/2010/theodor-herzls-christmas-treehttps://forward.com/israel/356767/when-theodor-herzl-lit-his-christmas-tree/https://time.com/5736523/history-of-christmas-trees/https://jewishunpacked.com/why-do-some-jews-put-up-christmas-trees-around-new-years-unpacking-novy-god-sylvester/https://www.amazon.com/Latke-Who-Couldnt-Stop-Screaming/dp/1932416870

Bedeck the halls? Nah. Bedeck the BRIDE! (But seriously, what the heck is a bedecken?)Chat with Rabbi LeighAnn about the Jewish custom of veiling the bride, one of the most underrated Jewish wedding customs!Don't forget - you can reach me (Rabbi LeighAnn) any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com or everyonesfavoriterabbi.com or rabbileighann.com !Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding. There are SO many options, from Ketubah consulting to ceremony planning. If there's something you have in mind, don't hesitate to ask - I'm here to help!IG: @yourohiorabbiPodcast IG: @yourjewishweddingpodcastSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnnShow notes:https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/313719/jewish/The-Jewish-Veiling-Ceremony-Bedeken.htmhttps://ketubahazoulayart.com/bedeken-ceremony/https://sacred-texts.com/jud/gm/gm10.htmhttps://www.smashingtheglass.com/badeken-jewish-wedding-traditions-explained-4/https://ritualwell.org/?s=bedeckenhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baal_Shem_Tovhttps://thewoksoflife.com/how-to-do-a-chinese-wedding-tea-ceremony/https://kolsasson.net/kabbalatpanim/#bedeken

Abby filled me in on her Jewish-Anglican wedding ceremony planning for her upcoming celebration in August 2024 ka''h! Abby is a political psychology maven, and her YouTube channel is full of really interesting discussion of everything Political Psych with a heavy side of snark. Go listen here:  https://www.youtube.com/@PoliticalPsychwithAbbyDon't forget - you can reach me (Rabbi LeighAnn) any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com or everyonesfavoriterabbi.com or rabbileighann.com !  Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding. There are SO many options, from Ketubah consulting to ceremony planning. If there's something you have in mind, don't hesitate to ask - I'm here to help! IG: @yourohiorabbiPodcast IG: @yourjewishweddingpodcastSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnn

The wedding couple is treated like royalty on their wedding day - literally! If you didn't know about the custom of the Groom's Table and Bride's Throne in a Jewish wedding, you're not alone! These customs are usually seen as part of the more Orthodox-leaning weddings, but ANY couple can consider incorporating them. (It's VERY cool that we see similar wedding customs across many cultures.) As always, adjust according to your wants and needs.Don't forget - you can reach me any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com.Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding, or to ask me anything! I'd love to meet you.IG: @yourohiorabbiSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnnMentioned in this show:https://sixdegreesofkosherbacon.com/2021/03/04/the-brides-throne-by-ben-and-others/https://kolsasson.net/kabbalatpanim/#tischAngela’s Fantasy Creations: https://www.instagram.com/angelasfantasycreations/?hl=enBridetender ep with Angela: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/creating-blinged-out-beauty-with-angelas-fantasy/id1508058489?i=1000630179335

Hear all about Estee and Ira's glitz-and-glam February 2022 wedding, featuring a mirrored gold chuppah, some reluctant circling, and a hilarious clergy team.Estee hosts the Bridetender Podcast, where you can hear all about the wedding industry straight from the vendors, and take advantage of all Estee's incredible wedding knowledge she's gained as a luxury planner with years in the biz. Tune in here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bridetender/id1508058489Feast your eyes on the stunning photos of Estee and Ira's wedding here on IG https://www.instagram.com/reel/CoUmT6dOQ1b/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==, where you should also FOLLOW HER! https://www.instagram.com/thebridetender/Don't forget - you can reach me any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com [http://www.yourohiorabbi.com/].Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding.IG: @yourohiorabbiSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnn

You have the ketubah...now what's the plan for signing it? Where? When? How many people? Do we REALLY need a half hour to sign a document?Here’s everything you need to know about the ketubah signing ceremony.Part 1 - Safeguarding your ketubah (Yenta lecturing about ketubah safety timestamp: ~27:00)\Part 2 - LogisticsPart 3 - The Spiritual sideDon't forget - you can reach me any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com. Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding.IG: @yourohiorabbiSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnnLinks mentioned:The Bridetender podcast - My guest episode: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/estee-gordon/episodes/Jewish-Weddings--Traditions-and-More-with-Your-Ohio-Rabbi-e2bumkc/a-aak3dvhLieberman clausehttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lieberman_clauseDrs Rachel and Josh G’s wedding: https://www.yourohiorabbi.com/mazaltovs/drs-rachel-and-josh-ghttps://judaism.stackexchange.com/questions/210/lifting-a-handkerchief-before-signing-the-ketubah#:~:text=Thus%2C%20at%20the%20wedding%2C%20the,the%20act%20of%20acquisition%22).Pens that I use: https://www.amazon.com/Pentel-EnerGel-Permanent-0-7mm-Medium/dp/B079Q7XW6G/Ketubah artist recommendations for canvas: https://www.jerrysartarama.com/liquitex-professional-paint-marker-fine-2mm-light-portrait-pink?gad=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwqP2pBhDMARIsAJQ0CzoBb0BL9rFYsZirFiFzPqG0IqhCXWv_j4tt8xKHeQAib2EZDYlEr-IaAqqoEALw_wcB

You've decided to sign a ketubah! Yay! So...how can you make it your own?As we learned in Episode 12, the Ketubah has some very antiquated origins, especially in terms of how it treats women. Plus, I assume the two of you won't be exchanging goats and dowries. Here's how you can honor the spirit of the ketubah and uphold its original purpose, making it fit your contemporary values and sensibilities. Transcript here:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1MBoh7L6CHaL0oYKZZ4wHjnQOAOOi4H31u7sWiFrLWNw/edit?usp=sharingDon't forget - you can reach me any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com.Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding.IG: @yourohiorabbiSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time!Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnnThisisnotaketubah.com

Recorded on October 17, 2023I really thought that the situation in Israel wasn't relevant to Jewish Weddings. But as I talked to some of my couples, past and present, I learned otherwise. Full transcript here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TrGeiZAADKmbDcyYr08lh-epocZruMpFpPXTuT8pow0/edit?usp=sharingDon't forget - you can reach me any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com. Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding.IG: @yourohiorabbiSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnn

Rabbi LeighAnn reviews a brief history of the evolution of the ketubah, the Jewish Marriage Document, so couples can better understand the context when they are considering purchasing and signing one. Don't forget - you can reach me any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com.Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding.IG: @yourohiorabbiSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time!Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnnThisisnotaketubah.com Charlie Brown ektubah Anime ketubah TIM BURTON ketubah Ketubah with a henna had Pop art ketubah Ketubahs with subway maps and skylines On the history of the ketubah text:https://www.atlantajewishtimes.com/the-ketubah-ritual-contract-of-love/#:~:text=In%20fact%2C%20the%20traditional%20ketubah,of%20the%20ketubah%20in%20America.The structure of the ketubah text:https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/the-ketubah-text/Show notes:https://thisisnotaketubah.com/Nishima Kaplan: http://artketubah.com/https://ketubahazoulayart.com/ketubah-design-an-overview/

The FIRST episode in our "A Jewish Wedding Story" series! I sat down with my neighbor and friend Erin to chat about her interfaith-Jewish backyard wedding. Officiated by her husband John's brother, it was a beautiful mix of their values and beliefs, nestled within layers of Jewish wedding traditions. During our chat, we covered: - Jewish mom guilt!- Trying to find a rabbi!- The Jewish stuff Erin's non-Jewish husband John insisted on having!- Conversion? - Their Jewish household, 10 years laterThank you so much, Erin? Would you like to tell me about YOUR Jewish or Jewish-interfaith wedding? Send me an email at [email protected] !Want to work with me (Rabbi LeighAnn) on your wedding? You can reach me any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com. Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding.IG: @yourohiorabbiSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnn

Looking for tips and tricks for combining your faith/culture's wedding traditions with those of your fiance/fiancee's? You've come to the right place. Let's think creatively - It will be beautiful.Don't forget - you can reach me any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com.Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding.IG: @yourohiorabbiSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnnBa’al Shem Tov quote about souls and lights https://quotefancy.com/quote/171534/Baal-Shem-Tov-From-every-human-being-there-rises-a-light-that-reaches-straight-to-heavenHenna for weddings:https://www.linandjirsa.com/mehndi-photography-for-indian-weddings/https://ketubahazoulayart.com/jewish-henna-ceremony/Muslim Weddingshttps://getethnic.com/blogs/muslim-wedding/Hindu Mandaphttps://www.kenzacreations.co.uk/the-mandap-is-the-point-of-focus-for-an-indian-wedding/#:~:text=The%20Mandap%20serves%20as%20the,represent%20energy%20and%20symbolise%20spirituality.https://bookamandap.com/6-auspicious-meanings-of-an-indian-wedding-mandap/

Concerned that your "interfaith ceremony" will actually turn out to be a single-faith ceremony with a shoutout or two to the "second-tier" tradition? Don't write off an interfaith ceremony just yet! Trust me, it's NOT impossible - it just takes a particularly conscious preparation. In this episode, we'll go over some things you should consider as a couple before getting in to the details of your interfaith ceremony, including:- What are the most important parts of a wedding ceremony in your faith or culture? Which are non-negotiable? - Is there a chance that your traditional prayers would include wording that excludes or invalidates your partner's faith? - What are the barriers to your comfort with your partner's faith or cultural wedding traditions?Don't forget - you can reach me any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com. Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding.IG: @yourohiorabbiSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnn

Now that we understand the historical context of Jewish Interfaith Marriage, let's talk about the ways it's viewed by Jews today. Don't forget - you can reach me any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com. Need a rabbi for your interfaith wedding in Ohio and beyond? Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding.IG: @yourohiorabbiSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnnLinks:Pew Studyhttps://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2021/05/11/jewish-americans-in-2020/Rabbi Lau-Lavie’s study:https://www.labshul.org/portfolio/joy-a-proposal/NJPS 2000https://www.jewishdatabank.org/databank/search-results/study/307Stories of more negative reactions:https://18forty.org/podcast/when-a-child-intermarries/Is Intermarriage good for the Jews? https://www.brandeis.edu/jewish-experience/jewish-america/2022/june/intermarriage-interfaith-marriage.htmlKeeping the Faith (Is intermarriage hurting or helping the Jews?)https://www.brandeis.edu/magazine/2022/summer/featured-stories/intermarriage.htmBrandeis “Beyond Welcoming” studyhttps://www.brandeis.edu/cmjs/noteworthy/couples.htmlhttps://www.cfrij.com/https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2017/07/intermarriage-conservative-judaism/533637/https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/most-children-of-intermarriage-are-being-raised-jewish-668154CCAR (reform rabbis) resolution link https://www.ccarnet.org/ccar-responsa/arr-445-465/RA (Conservative) Responsa on Interfaith marriages:https://www.rabbinicalassembly.org/sites/default/files/public/halakhah/teshuvot/19861990/epstein_congratulations.pdfhttps://www.rabbinicalassembly.org/sites/default/files/assets/public/halakhah/teshuvot/2011-2020/aron-kodesh-dissonance.pdfReconstructionist Resolution linkhttps://therra.org/resolutions/intermarriage-committee-80.pdf

Confused about why Interfaith Marriage seems to be such a HUGE deal to so many Jews? Let's talk about it.In Part 1, we'll go through a brief history of the Jewish people's relationship to intermarriage, going all the way back to the Torah. As the title says, it's brief and imperfect, but I think it's important for our understanding as we move through the conversation. Don't forget - you can reach me any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com. Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding.IG: @yourohiorabbiSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnnLinks:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interfaith_marriage_in_Judaismhttp://www.edmundcase.com/attitudes-about-intermarriage/intermarriage-in-the-bible-and-rabbinic-tradition/https://www.medievalists.net/2014/04/intermarriage-christians-jews-medieval-canon-law/Pew Studyhttps://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2021/05/11/jewish-americans-in-2020/https://www.ccarnet.org/ccar-responsa/arr-445-465/

Do I require premarital counseling as a wedding rabbi? No. Do I offer premarital counseling? Also, no. Do I suggest it? Sure! Well, most of the time. 1:00 Why I don’t offer or require premarital counseling18:00 If I were going to do premarital counseling, here’s the kind I would do20:00 Types of premarital counseling27:30 Reasons to pursue premarital counseling37:15 Reasons NOT to pursue premarital counselingLinks: https://www.wf-lawyers.com/divorce-statistics-and-facts/#:~:text=43.,after%20the%20age%20of%2025www.18doors.orgwww.meltonschool.orgDon't forget - you can reach me any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com. Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding.IG: @yourohiorabbiSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do!<3 Rabbi LeighAnn

You've decided you want a Rabbi for your wedding! How exciting. But...how in the world do you find one? Part 1 - Determining your "must haves" and "must nots" BEFORE you start your searchPart 2 - (29:49) How to search for a Rabbi - From Google to Jewish Geography, here are all my best recommendations. THE Rabbi search resource for interfaith couples: www.18doors.org(Tell them Rabbi LeighAnn sent you. If you want. It won't affect anything.)Work with me! www.yourohiorabbi.comFind me on Instagram @yourohiorabbiSend your questions to [email protected] - There is always more learning to do!

"But Rabbi, we're not religious! Do we have any business planning a Jewish wedding ceremony?" Yep.  For SURE. (What, you thought I'd be unbiased?)In this episode, we'll dive into common reasons that non-religious/spiritual couples give for why they can't/shouldn't have a Jewish ceremony. - Not believing in Gd- Lack of Jewish knowledge, especially about Jewish weddings- Feeling weird about Hebrew- Not wanting to disrespect the future spouse's religion/family- Feeling like an outsider to Judaism- Really, super duper NOT believing in Gd.Yep. We're tackling it all. Anita Diamant's book mentioned in the show: https://anitadiamant.com/books/the-jewish-wedding-now/Don't forget - you can reach me any time at www.yourohiorabbi.com. Fill out the contact form there if you'd like to work with me on your wedding. IG: @yourohiorabbiSend questions for me to answer on this podcast to:[email protected] to see you next time! Remember - there is ALWAYS more learning to do! <3 Rabbi LeighAnn

Can we have a Jewish wedding on Shabbat? YES! And also...no. Okay....sort of. It depends on who you ask? Right. We need a  longer explanation.Join Rabbi LeighAnn for a deep dive into the laws, customs, and considerations surrounding Saturday Jewish weddings.Please visit 18doors.org for a clergy matching service made especially for Jewish and interfaith couples searching for a rabbi to officiate their wedding or other lifecycle ceremony.Work with me! www.yourohiorabbi.comFind me on Instagram @yourohiorabbiSend your questions to [email protected] - There is always more learning to do!

Check the Jewish calendar first, THEN settle on your date.I know that almost nobody finds a rabbi as the first thing on their planning list.That’s fine, I just want to give you the info you need so you have the best shot at finding a rabbi to officiate your ceremony if that’s something you desire.What I do NOT want is for you to be really excited about your Jewish wedding,  and really wanting to find a rabbi for your date, then finding out that you've planned a wedding for...oh no! Rosh HaShanah?So, pull out your calendars, and let's talk Jewish Holidays to Avoid in 2024.As promised, here are the dates I mentioned during the show: Purim - Saturday 3/23Passover- Starts M 4/22 and ends Tues 4/30 (avoid Saturday before)The Omer until Lag baOmer (33rd) or until Rosh Chodesh Sivan (44th-ish)Shavuot - June 11-1317th of Tammuz - July 24Tisha B’Av - M-T 8/12-13Selichot - Sat 9/28Rosh HaShanah - W-F 10/2-4, The Saturday after this is almost a sure noYom Kippur - F-S 10/11-12Sukkot - W-W 10/16-23Shimini Atzeret/Simchat Torah W 10/23-25Chanukah - Christmas through 2 JanuaryWork with me! www.yourohiorabbi.com  Find me on Instagram @yourohiorabbi  Send your questions to [email protected]  Remember - There is always more learning to do!

Do we even need a rabbi for our Jewish or interfaith wedding? It's a question a lot of couples have...and nobody ever asks. Spoiler: No, you don't. But listen for all of Rabbi LeighAnn's reasons that you should consider at least consulting a rabbi on how to include Jewish elements into your wedding ceremony. From choosing wedding vows to including your parents in the ceremony to smashing the glass and yelling "Mazal Tov!," there's a lot to learn about Jewish weddings. Call one of the pros - there are tons of rabbis who will be so excited to hear from you. How to find a rabbi? That's for next week. See you then! Questions? Send me a message at [email protected]. I'm here to help. <3 Rabbi LeighAnn