In every wedding I officiate, I am reminded of the deep and beautiful significance of focusing on what truly matters in life. When Michelle and Jack approached me to officiate their Jewish wedding ceremony in Toronto, they had a vision. It wasn’t about impressing anyone with extravagance—it was about celebrating their love, their values, and the traditions that bind them together.

As a Jewish wedding officiant, I often hear couples worrying about the details—everything from the perfect Jewish wedding venue to the most stylish Jewish wedding attire. Don’t get me wrong, those elements are important, but Michelle and Jack taught everyone at their wedding a profound lesson: the real value of a wedding is not in how much money you spend, but in how deeply you honor your relationship and the people you love.
Are You Investing in Love or Impressions?
Let me ask you something—how did you feel the last time you spent a significant amount of money on something just to impress others? Maybe it was a designer outfit for a party or an extravagant gift for someone. Did it bring you lasting happiness, or did the moment fade as quickly as it came?
Michelle shared with me that when planning their wedding, they were tempted to follow the trend of spending on the most lavish decor, the fanciest Jewish wedding photographer, and over-the-top Jewish wedding decorations. But after some reflection, they decided to take a different path. Instead of focusing on impressing their guests, they wanted their wedding to reflect their love story, their commitment to each other, and their connection to Jewish wedding traditions.
The Chuppah as a Symbol of Simplicity and Strength
At their wedding, standing under the Jewish wedding chuppah, Michelle and Jack embraced the beauty of simplicity. The chuppah, an open canopy symbolizing the home they would build together, was decorated with flowers from a local garden. It wasn’t extravagant, but it was meaningful.
This is what I love about traditional Jewish weddings—the focus is on the rituals and the values they represent. Whether it’s the signing of the Jewish wedding Ketubah, the blessings over wine, or the joyous Jewish wedding dance during the Jewish wedding Hora, each tradition is steeped in meaning and connection. These customs remind us that love isn’t about appearances; it’s about substance.
Lessons for Life and Marriage
Michelle and Jack’s story is a reminder that focusing on what truly matters leads to lasting happiness—not just in weddings but in life. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that success or joy is tied to external validation. But as I told Michelle and Jack during their ceremony, the strongest marriages are built on shared values, trust, and the ability to focus on each other rather than on outside expectations.
Here are three key lessons from their Jewish wedding celebrations that apply to all of us, whether we’re planning a wedding, a baby naming ceremony, or simply navigating life:
1. Celebrate What’s Real
Michelle and Jack didn’t let societal pressures dictate their choices. Instead, they focused on what felt authentic to them, from their Jewish wedding music to their heartfelt Jewish wedding vows. Think about your own life—are you investing in what’s real and meaningful, or are you spending energy trying to impress others?
2. Build Strong Roots
Much like the rituals in a Jewish wedding ceremony, every step in a marriage should be about building a strong foundation. Whether it’s through the Jewish wedding customs of breaking the glass (symbolizing life’s fragile moments) or sharing the blessings of wine (symbolizing joy), these traditions remind us to nurture our relationships with care and intention.
3. Give Without Expecting in Return
During their Jewish wedding reception, Michelle and Jack made a point to thank their families and guests for their love and support. It wasn’t a grand speech to impress—it was a heartfelt acknowledgment of the people who had shaped their lives. The joy you give to others, whether through words or actions, will always come back to you in meaningful ways.
A Legacy of Love and Values
One of the most touching moments of Michelle and Jack’s wedding came when their parents spoke about the legacy they hoped to pass down to their children. They emphasized the importance of love, respect, and faith—values deeply rooted in Jewish wedding traditions.
This moment reminded me of the importance of family milestones like a baby naming ceremony Jewish families often hold to welcome a new life into the community. Just as weddings mark the start of a couple’s journey, these ceremonies celebrate the continuation of love and tradition across generations.
Final Thoughts: Stop Chasing, Start Building
When I stood with Michelle and Jack under the chuppah, I saw a couple that wasn’t worried about what anyone else thought. They were fully present, focused on each other, and committed to building a life rooted in love, faith, and tradition.
This is what I want everyone planning a Jewish wedding Toronto to remember: Stop wasting your energy trying to impress. Instead, invest in what truly matters—your relationship, your values, and the community around you. Whether it’s through planning a meaningful Jewish baby naming ceremony or embracing the simplicity of modern Jewish weddings, the goal should always be to celebrate what’s real.
As someone mentored by a great Jewish wedding Rabbi, I’ve learned that the most memorable moments come from authenticity, not extravagance. Let’s work together to create a ceremony that reflects who you truly are, honoring the beauty of Jewish wedding rituals while celebrating your unique love story.
A Call to Action
If you’re planning a wedding or a special milestone like a baby naming ceremony, let’s make it meaningful together. As a Jewish wedding cantor in Toronto, I’m here to guide you through every step, from incorporating traditional Jewish wedding customs to creating a ceremony that feels personal and profound.
Reach out today, and let’s create something unforgettable. Because at the end of the day, your wedding—or any celebration—isn’t about impressing others. It’s about honoring your love, your story, and the values that will carry you forward.
Celebrate love, honor tradition, and build something meaningful. Let’s make it happen.
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