Avoid headaches by using a wedding checklist

Here's a timetable suggested by author Rita Milos Brownstein in her book, "Jewish Weddings," for the bride and groom.




Six months to a year:

• Contact local newspapers to announce your engagement.

• Select the date. (Certain dates are off-limits according to Jewish law.)

• Choose a location for the ceremony and reception.

• Send save-the-date cards.

• Choose a caterer.

• Choose a rabbi and/or cantor to officiate

• Discuss the different elements of Jewish weddings and decide what to include.

• Book the photographer.

• Book the videographer.

• Order dress and veil. Check with your officiant about dress requirements. Does the bride need to cover her shoulders? Does the groom need to wear a kittel (white ceremonial robe)?

• Choose attendants.

• Choose a florist for the arrangements.

• Compile the guest list.

• Book musicians for the ceremony.

• Book band or disc jockey for the reception.




Four to six months:

• Reserve any rental equipment needed.

• Order kippahs and benchers if needed.

• Order wedding cake.

• Order invitations and thank-you notes.

• Choose the type of chuppah you would like. Check with your synagogue to see if it has one you can use.

• Contact the synagogue if you plan on having an aufruf the Shabbat before the wedding.

• Purchase the groom's attire.

• Choose a ketubah.

• Decide on favors.

• Choose gifts for the bridal party.

• Hire a calligrapher, if needed.

• Reserve hotel rooms for out-of-towners.




Two to four months:

• Choose menu with the caterer.

• Purchase or make a guest book.

• Decide on the people you'd like to hold the chuppah, make the blessing over challah and read the seven wedding blessings.

• Decide on the type of decorated chairs for the bride and groom.

• Set ceremony details with rabbi, cantor.




One to two months:

• Have programs designed and printed.

• Mail invitations.

• Ask family and friends for an itinerary of Sheva Brachot dinners.

• Obtain a marriage license.

• Make plans to donate your wedding dress to charity, if desired.

• Purchase wedding bands.

• Visit a mikvah if you plan on incorporating this tradition into your married life.




Two to four weeks:

• Have final dress fitting.

• Decide on seating plan, write place cards.

• Wrap wine glass for breaking.

• Prepare candy for aufruf.




The day before:

• Ask a friend to handle all the ritual elements — ketubah, chuppah, Kiddush cups, rings and glass for breaking.

• Finalize seating.

• Start fasting at sundown to purify yourself, if you desire.