How To Celebrate a Traditional Jewish Wedding

Step 9: Breaking the Glass

The wedding ceremony ends when the grooms steps on and breaks a glass. The custom of breaking a glass under the Chuppah is derived from the Talmud. It is written that a rabbi broke a vase during a wedding feast in order to warn those present against excessive joy. Even during times of great joy, we should remember the tragic destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem.

After the ceremony ends, the bride and groom retire to a private room, called Heder Yichud, to symbolically "consummate" the marriage. In the room, the couple breaks their fast and takes a few moments to relax together before going to greet all the wedding guests at the party.