Rabbi Rappaport tries to make sure each ceremony resonates with the wishes of the bride and groom for themselves as well as for their family and friends.
“For a memorable ceremony, have you thought about any that may have moved you? Have you added poetry or music? Have you shared your relationship with your officiant? One couple sang a song to each other. Another bride and groom recited poetry. Although not everyone can sing, it’s always possible to express something unique about your relationship.

“At one wedding, the bride was Scottish and she arranged for a bagpiper, skirt and all, to lead the guests into the cocktail hour, which was a special idea. He must have gotten his signals mixed up, because there I was, just finishing the wine ceremony, and he walked in playing the bagpipes! Well, the bride’s face froze.
“The guests began looking at me, confused, as if to say, ‘What’s going on?’ I let him continue playing and when he finished I just said, ‘Everyone wants to get into my act!’ That broke any tension, and I know that moment will be part of how they will remember their wedding.

“My ceremonies honor traditions,” says Rabbi Rappaport, “and we can include whatever traditions you want. I also can add anything that reflects you as a couple. Chanting and breaking the glass, for example, adds soul to your ceremony, while also linking your union to age-old traditions.”

Rabbi Marcia Rappaport
212.741.7378, www.rabbimarcia.com