The Tradition of Breaking a Glass
Weddings are filled with traditions and customs, and one of the most beautiful and joyful ones is breaking a glass. This tradition is most commonly associated with Jewish weddings, but it is also practiced in some other cultures. The breaking of the glass symbolizes the fragility and preciousness of life, as well as the commitment of the couple to stand together in both happy and difficult times.
How to Break the Glass
Breaking the glass is usually done at the end of the wedding ceremony, right after the couple is officially pronounced married. The groom usually steps on a glass wrapped in cloth or in a decorated bag, and breaks it with his foot. Some couples choose to have the bride break the glass as well, or to have two glasses to break, one for each partner.
Choosing the Right Glass
When choosing a glass to break, it is important to make sure it is made of tempered glass, which is much safer than regular glass. Tempered glass is designed to break into small pieces rather than shatter into dangerous sharp fragments. You can find tempered glass at most glass shops or online retailers.
How to Decorate the Glass
Many couples choose to decorate the glass that will be broken, to make it more special and personalized. Some ideas for decoration include painting the glass with the couple’s names or wedding date, adding ribbons or beads, or even using a special glass that has sentimental value. Just make sure that any decorations you add do not make the glass more fragile or dangerous to break.
The Joyful Moment of Breaking the Glass
When the moment comes to break the glass, it is important to remember that this is a joyful and celebratory moment. Guests often shout “Mazel Tov!” or “Congratulations!” as the glass is broken, and the couple kisses and embraces. Some couples even choose to have the glass shards collected and turned into a special keepsake, such as a picture frame or a piece of jewelry.
What to Do After Breaking the Glass
After the glass is broken, it is traditional for the couple to spend a few moments alone together, to reflect on their marriage and the commitment they have made to each other. This can be a quiet and emotional moment, or a joyful and celebratory one, depending on the couple’s personalities and preferences.
In Conclusion
Breaking a glass at a wedding is a beautiful and joyful tradition that symbolizes the fragility and preciousness of life, as well as the commitment of the couple to stand together through thick and thin. Whether you choose to decorate the glass or use a special one with sentimental value, the moment of breaking the glass is one that will be remembered and cherished for years to come.
FAQs About Breaking a Glass at a Wedding
What does breaking a glass symbolize at a wedding?
Breaking a glass symbolizes the fragility and preciousness of life, as well as the commitment of the couple to stand together in both happy and difficult times.
Is breaking a glass only done at Jewish weddings?
No, breaking a glass is also practiced in some other cultures, although it is most commonly associated with Jewish weddings.
What kind of glass should be used for breaking?
It is important to use tempered glass, which is designed to break into small pieces rather than shatter into dangerous sharp fragments.
Can the bride also break the glass?
Yes, some couples choose to have the bride break the glass as well, or to have two glasses to break, one for each partner.
What can be done with the glass shards after they are collected?
Some couples choose to have the glass shards collected and turned into a special keepsake, such as a picture frame or a piece of jewelry.
