One of the things I love most about being Jewish is how there’s never just one way to do things. As the saying goes, “two Jews, three opinions!” This is a common and beloved theme in our culture and weddings are no exception!

Every couple brings their own personal touch, and over the years, I’ve seen how beautifully diverse Jewish weddings can be. 

In 2024, I’ve noticed five amazing trends within the Modern Orthodox Jewish wedding scene that I just can’t get enough of! They blend tradition with fresh, new practices in ways that feel meaningful and modern while still honoring the roots of our faith. 

And if I am being totally honest with you, I have 100% cried seeing each and everyone of these new trends!

Ketubah Signing Under the Chuppah

This one is for all the strong, proud Jewish women out there who want to be fully present when their Ketubah is being signed. 

Traditionally, the Ketubah signing takes place in a private room before the ceremony (without the bride), but more and more couples are choosing to make this moment part of the ceremony itself, right under the chuppah. 

It’s such a powerful statement of partnership, with both the bride and groom sharing the moment in front of all of their loved ones. It’s a beautiful way to honor the significance of the promises written and make the moment even more intimate and meaningful. 

Plus, it’s an empowering way for the bride to be right there as the ink is put to paper, highlighting the equal role both partners play in the marriage they are about to enter.

A Joint Tisch

One of the trends I’m loving this year is the joint tisch, where both the bride and groom, side by side, celebrate with their guests before the wedding!

Traditionally, the Tisch is a separate event: the groom and his friends gather to sing, drink, and engage in lively discussion, while the bride’s celebration takes place in a completely separate room. 

But in 2024, more couples are choosing to have a joint tisch, bringing everyone together for a shared pre-chuppah celebration! 

It’s a beautiful way to start the festivities with a sense of unity, excitement and simcha. 

There is something so special about seeing parents, siblings, friends and the entire community come together with pure happiness and anticipation. This trend creates an unforgettable energy and sets a tone of togetherness for the rest of the celebration. 

Both Exchanging Rings + Circling

In 2024, I’m seeing more and more couples incorporating both the bride and groom exchanging rings and circling each other during the ceremony, and I absolutely love it! 

Traditionally, the groom places the ring on the bride’s finger and the bride circles the groom but now more than ever before couples are opting for the bride to give a ring to the groom under the chuppah and the groom circles the bride as well! How cool is that?!

The circling symbolizes the creation of unity and a new home. It’s a deeply significant act which feels even more meaningful when both partners circle each other.

This twist on the tradition emphasizes the partnership and balance of the couple. It’s so powerful to watch and brings an extra layer of meaning to the ceremony.

There is something so heartwarming in seeing both the groom and bride recite the words “Harei at mekudeshet li b’taba’at zo k’dat Moshe v’Yisrael.”

This translates to:
“Behold, you are consecrated to me with this ring, according to the law of Moses and Israel.”

Seeing both the bride and groom perform these loving acts of commitment feels like an even stronger, more meaningful way to begin their marriage. 

Wrapping a Tallit Around Both the Bride and Groom

Traditionally, the groom wears the tallit under the chuppah, symbolizing the sacredness of the moment. However, more couples are choosing to have the bride join him, creating a shared experience that symbolizes their mutual commitment and the creation of their new home together. 

The act of enveloping both partners in the same tallit is deeply symbolic, representing the protection, love, and unity that will surround them throughout their marriage.

It also reflects the Jewish value of partnership, where both individuals are equal participants in building their future. 

This trend adds a powerful layer of connection between the couple and their families, as the tallit is often passed down through generations, making it a beautiful way to honor heritage while embracing the future together.

Original Songs Sung by Family or Friends During the Reception

One of the sweetest and most personal trends I’ve seen at Jewish weddings in 2024 is family and friends singing original songs during the reception. 

These performances add a truly unique and heartfelt touch to the celebration. Whether it’s a creative parody of a popular song, a funny tribute to the couple, or a heartfelt, original tune celebrating the couple’s love story, these songs never fail to put a smile on everyone faces. 99% of the time, everyone is singing the chorus by the end!

I’ve seen everything from funny and playful tunes about the couple’s first meeting to heartfelt songs that honor their families and traditions. The best part? There are no rules—anything goes, and it’s always a beautiful reflection of the couple’s unique journey and the love that surrounds them!

The beauty of Jewish weddings lies in both their deep-rooted tradition AND their incredible diversity—there’s no “one right way” to celebrate and continue the tradition, and that’s exactly what makes each wedding and each couple so uniquely special. 

From personal twists on timeless rituals to new trends that bring fresh energy to the celebration, Jewish weddings are constantly evolving while staying true to the heart of our faith.

Ultimately, these new trends serve as a powerful reminder that the most important thing is honoring the love, joy, and connection between the couple, their families, and their community.

The traditions may vary, but the essence remains the same.

Now more than ever, we need to celebrate and support Jewish love in all its forms.

These weddings are a reflection of the rich, evolving story of the Jewish community and the beautiful connections we create. These weddings connect us to our past and our future.

 I’m so excited to see what trends 2025 will bring, and I can’t wait to continue capturing these meaningful moments with you all!