The wedding ceremony was held outside after a 90 reception. Even after sunset it was nearly 90 degrees Fahrenheit with humidity to match. The food at the reception was excellent - if it were up to me I’d do the reception followed by the ceremony and then just do a dessert bar - I certainly didn’t need to eat a sit down meal at 10 pm, though again, the food was excellent.
Israeli DJs play their music loud. Really loud. Most wedding venues have to be located far from residential neighborhoods because of the noise problem. I wasn’t able to stay in the room where the dancing was, and I’m with people and like to talk to them so I spent most of my time outside.
I’ve been to Israeli weddings of 400 guests and no one thinks much of it. I think anyone the family has ever known or interacted with gets invited. This wedding was smaller, I’d say about 150 people. It was a mix of Israelis and visitors, mizrachi and ashkenazi Jews (the Moroccans are genuine party animals and created a very festive atmosphere, but again, very loud).
For the ceremony itself, it’s quick. No real wedding party, just the parents. Only 12 chairs in front of the huppah, which means most people are standing, sort of like paparazzi straining for the best position to get a photo. The officiant has to work pretty quickly, but also, a lot of the explanations that officiants give in the US, for the benefit of secular or non-Jewish guests aren’t necessary in Israel. The speeches get saved for dinner so there is no long message to the couple under the huppah.
During a difficult time that everyone in Israel is experiencing, having the opportunity to celebrate something and feel old familiar feelings of love and connection were really important. Try the asado beef and don’t forget to tip the bartender.
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