Inviting Rabbi to Stay
for my
Wedding Reception

by Rick Briskman
(Chicago, Illinois)

Dear Rabbi:

I am having a Conservative wedding and the ceremony will not start till almost 8:00pm when the rabbi arrives (Chicago time).

After the ceremony, is it proper etiquette to ask the Rabbi (when we meet for our final meeting) and his wife if they would like to stay for dinner and the reception? It is not a kosher wedding reception, but there are some items that are vegetarian.

Groom-to-be, Rick


Dear Rick,

Mazel Tov for your upcoming Jewish wedding ceremony and celebration of your marriage.

It is customary to invite the Rabbi, your wedding officiant, and their spouse. Try not to take it personal if they decline.

As for the food served at your reception, there is something always natural from the ground, a tree or the sea (with scales and or fins) that is permitted to eat and of course, your Rabbi's comfort level at a non-kosher reception. Again, try not to take it personal.

If the Rabbi and their spouse happen to be strictly Kosher, you can always offer to purchase Kosher Meals by the Orthodox Union. They are delivered directly to your reception location. Your caterer will be able to assist you with the ordering. It takes care of those whom are Kosher observant and able to celebrate with you both.

Enjoy all the planning and especially when you stand next to your bride receiving blessings from G-d under the Chuppah.

All my best,
Rabbi Andrea Frank