JEWISH WEDDING CEREMONY
La Venta Is Your Premier Jewish Wedding Venue in Los Angeles, CA
Celebrating Love, Families, and Tradition with Jewish Wedding Packages
At La Venta Inn, we create incredible spaces for incredible moments. We can design a personalized, culturally immersive atmosphere for your Jewish wedding celebration. Our timeless Spanish villa, boasts stunning ocean vistas and stately gardens for a tranquil and idyllic backdrop for the memories of a lifetime. From signing the ketubah to walking down to the chuppah to the final “Mazel tov” of the night, we are there to ensure every second of your Jewish wedding is flawless. Explore everything La Venta brings you as the premier Jewish wedding venue and services in Los Angeles. California.
As Seen On:
Jewish wedding traditions are a rich tapestry of cultures, families, and individuals. We honor the history of tradition while helping you infuse your family’s long-standing traditions — and the ones you make as you form your own family. The loves and marriages of thousands of years of Judaism have led to the culmination of your story and how you continue to write it.
It’s our deepest honor to be (one of the first) to wish you a Mazel Tov and lift a glass to your future with your beloved. We’re here to celebrate all couples: Traditional, interfaith, LGBTQ+, and cross-cultural Jewish families are welcome at La Venta Inn.
It’s our deepest honor to be (one of the first) to wish you a Mazel Tov and lift a glass to your future with your beloved. We’re here to celebrate all couples: Traditional, interfaith, LGBTQ+, and cross-cultural Jewish families are welcome at La Venta Inn.
What Can You Expect in a Jewish Wedding Program?
Jewish weddings are famous for their combination of meditative reflection and merry revelry. The combination of thousand-year-old tradition and modern sensibilities evokes a joy unlike any other. Jewish weddings are the prime symbol of L’dor V’dor — all families, loved ones, and generations sharing joy and tradition.
What Are Jewish Wedding Traditions?
Talking about what to expect at a Jewish wedding is a complex topic. Jews all over the world answer this differently, so we’ll do our best to keep different cultures, denominations, and more in mind as we share our guide to Jewish wedding traditions.
Bedeken - Jewish Wedding Veil Ceremony
Bedeken translates to “to veil” and people believe this practice stems from the story of Rachel and Jacob in the book of Genesis. Many versions of this ceremony exist; the groom typically lowers the bride’s veil over her face before marrying. While it’s historically been a role for the groom, same-sex couples have incorporated this tradition into their day, too.
Glass Breaking
Some opt to purchase a Jewish wedding glass-breaking kit. Some kits may include the glasses and accompanying velvet or other fabric pouches. Others may include an empty mezuzah or decorative jar that couples can put the glass in after it’s broken. While colorful glasses are increasingly popular, couples might go with a lightbulb. Lightbulbs are typically far less expensive and make that signature *pop* sound that incites the celebratory “Mazel Tov!”
The breaking of the glass was historically done only by grooms; however, modern Jewish wedding traditions have given this moment a new spin with both couples partaking. Frequently, Jewish LGBTQ+ couples and heterosexual couples opt to both break the glass together. As we know from Fiddler on the Roof, the traditions of a Jewish wedding can transform over time!
A note here for safety’s sake: Make sure whatever footwear you don that day is safe to stomp a glass in. If you’re not certain, leave a thicker-soled shoe at the altar or by the chuppah.
The breaking of the glass was historically done only by grooms; however, modern Jewish wedding traditions have given this moment a new spin with both couples partaking. Frequently, Jewish LGBTQ+ couples and heterosexual couples opt to both break the glass together. As we know from Fiddler on the Roof, the traditions of a Jewish wedding can transform over time!
A note here for safety’s sake: Make sure whatever footwear you don that day is safe to stomp a glass in. If you’re not certain, leave a thicker-soled shoe at the altar or by the chuppah.
Chuppah
One of the more instantly recognizable Jewish wedding traditions is the chuppah (sometimes referred to as a Jewish wedding canopy). Also spelled “Huppah,” meaning “canopy” is a symbol of the home the newlyweds will share. Standing under the chuppah represents to all attendees that the couple is entering the bond of marriage.
A Jewish chuppah has four poles and a fabric roof, often a tallis or tallit (Jewish prayer shawl). Modern takes on the traditional are just as stunning. We’ve seen fabric elements like handmade quilts or flowing organza. Chuppahs can evoke nature with elaborate flower arches or poles replaced with trees (real or artificial) or tall boxwood shrubs. Twinkling lights or chandeliers that mimic the stars. Some might swap the classic rectangular shape with architectural hexagonal chuppahs or circles.
A Jewish chuppah has four poles and a fabric roof, often a tallis or tallit (Jewish prayer shawl). Modern takes on the traditional are just as stunning. We’ve seen fabric elements like handmade quilts or flowing organza. Chuppahs can evoke nature with elaborate flower arches or poles replaced with trees (real or artificial) or tall boxwood shrubs. Twinkling lights or chandeliers that mimic the stars. Some might swap the classic rectangular shape with architectural hexagonal chuppahs or circles.
Ketubah Signing
Many believe the ketubah or Jewish wedding certificate (which dates back to the 1st century AD) is one of the most Jewish marriage traditions. Historically, the ketubah outlined what the groom must do for his bride, acting as a type of protection for women.
Ketubahs are not legal documents in the United States but can still carry tremendous emotional weight. Who signs the document can differ based on the couple and denomination of Judaism.
For an Orthodox Jewish wedding, witnesses are typically two men who observe Shabbat and are unrelated to the couple. Conservative, reform, secular, or interfaith couples often see the couple sign as well as friends, family, and the officiant.
If you’re attending a Jewish ceremony, you likely won’t see the ketubah signing as it’s usually a private moment before the public proceedings. Luckily, there’s still a good chance you’ll see the document as it’s featured framed in a place of honor at many Jewish wedding receptions.
The ketubah is a wonderful opportunity to bring cultures or religions together. Ketubah designers often make secular, LGBTQ+ text, or fully customizable passages that can evoke different faiths or upbringings.
For example, interfaith or intercultural ketubahs are a popular way of combining Chinese and Jewish wedding traditions. Honoring Chinese cultural heritage, these ketubahs might feature symbols with the dragon or phoenix and the double happiness symbol (囍) surrounding translations of the text that could include Hebrew, English, Mandarin, or more.
Ketubahs are not legal documents in the United States but can still carry tremendous emotional weight. Who signs the document can differ based on the couple and denomination of Judaism.
For an Orthodox Jewish wedding, witnesses are typically two men who observe Shabbat and are unrelated to the couple. Conservative, reform, secular, or interfaith couples often see the couple sign as well as friends, family, and the officiant.
If you’re attending a Jewish ceremony, you likely won’t see the ketubah signing as it’s usually a private moment before the public proceedings. Luckily, there’s still a good chance you’ll see the document as it’s featured framed in a place of honor at many Jewish wedding receptions.
The ketubah is a wonderful opportunity to bring cultures or religions together. Ketubah designers often make secular, LGBTQ+ text, or fully customizable passages that can evoke different faiths or upbringings.
For example, interfaith or intercultural ketubahs are a popular way of combining Chinese and Jewish wedding traditions. Honoring Chinese cultural heritage, these ketubahs might feature symbols with the dragon or phoenix and the double happiness symbol (囍) surrounding translations of the text that could include Hebrew, English, Mandarin, or more.
Jewish Wedding Dances
Out of all the Jewish wedding reception traditions, perhaps the most beloved is the high-energy dancing.
Arguably the most famous Jewish wedding dance is the Hora (also spelled Horah) to the Hava Nagila. The Hava Nagila is a Jewish folk song synonymous with joyous celebrations from weddings to Bar and Bat Mitzvahs.
This circle dance is done either just before the dancing starts or when the couple is first introduced to the reception. Brides and grooms dance in the center, and people leave the outer circle to dance with them.
The newly married duo, along with parents or grandparents, are lifted onto chairs and bounced up and down. The newly married couple often holds a napkin between them. Coordination beforehand is recommended — those lifting the chairs should be strong enough to keep themselves and the love birds safe.
Another dance worth celebrating is the mezinke. The mezinke toasts parents who have seen their last child married: Mezinke means “little one” in Yiddish. Parents with all married children are surrounded by loved ones dancing to the Klezmer tune “Di Mizinke Oysgegebn, The Youngest Daughter is Given Away.”
Some variations of this dance include giving the mother a flower crown. In others, revelers dance with decorative brooms to symbolize “sweeping” the last child out of the house. Although the mezinke started as an Ashkenazi Jewish wedding tradition, it’s getting popular with Mizrahi and Sephardic Jewish weddings, too!
Arguably the most famous Jewish wedding dance is the Hora (also spelled Horah) to the Hava Nagila. The Hava Nagila is a Jewish folk song synonymous with joyous celebrations from weddings to Bar and Bat Mitzvahs.
This circle dance is done either just before the dancing starts or when the couple is first introduced to the reception. Brides and grooms dance in the center, and people leave the outer circle to dance with them.
The newly married duo, along with parents or grandparents, are lifted onto chairs and bounced up and down. The newly married couple often holds a napkin between them. Coordination beforehand is recommended — those lifting the chairs should be strong enough to keep themselves and the love birds safe.
Another dance worth celebrating is the mezinke. The mezinke toasts parents who have seen their last child married: Mezinke means “little one” in Yiddish. Parents with all married children are surrounded by loved ones dancing to the Klezmer tune “Di Mizinke Oysgegebn, The Youngest Daughter is Given Away.”
Some variations of this dance include giving the mother a flower crown. In others, revelers dance with decorative brooms to symbolize “sweeping” the last child out of the house. Although the mezinke started as an Ashkenazi Jewish wedding tradition, it’s getting popular with Mizrahi and Sephardic Jewish weddings, too!
What Do I Wear to a Jewish Wedding?
Jewish wedding attire can change based on the location and personal preferences of the couple. For instance, synagogues might have guidelines for apparel. Some temples request wedding dresses to cover the shoulders and knees and have cleavage coverage. Men could be instructed to wear a suit jacket, long pants, and a yarmulke or kippah (a brimless cap).
The denomination of the synagogue can affect these rules. For example, a Reform Jewish wedding ceremony might have more looser restrictions than an Orthodox one.
Weddings outside a temple typically allow greater flexibility and freedom in dress. Shorter dresses, pantsuits, sheer fabric, and more are all on the table.
Brides could visit shops specializing in Jewish wedding dresses or a secular one, depending on their requirements. Brides might prefer to don a suit or pantsuit instead. Check with your venue or officiant for suggestions or your rabbi should you marry in a synagogue.
The denomination of the synagogue can affect these rules. For example, a Reform Jewish wedding ceremony might have more looser restrictions than an Orthodox one.
Weddings outside a temple typically allow greater flexibility and freedom in dress. Shorter dresses, pantsuits, sheer fabric, and more are all on the table.
Brides could visit shops specializing in Jewish wedding dresses or a secular one, depending on their requirements. Brides might prefer to don a suit or pantsuit instead. Check with your venue or officiant for suggestions or your rabbi should you marry in a synagogue.
What Do You Need For a Traditional Jewish Wedding?
These are a few items to consider bringing for your Jewish traditional wedding:
- Jewish wedding food: Sephardic weddings might feature a type of rice pudding called Sutlach. Ashkenazi wedding receptions could have chicken and fish on the menu. One of the most recognizable Jewish wedding food traditions includes the blessing of the challah with a hamotzi, a blessing (often given by a parent or elder).
- A thoughtful gift: Classic Jewish wedding gifts include mezuzahs, candlesticks, Kiddush cups, or similar. Certain Judica stores have specific Jewish wedding registries, while other couples have registries at secular big box stores. Others might opt for a honeymoon or house fund. Jewish culture frequently sees monetary gifts in multiples of 18. Eighteen is associated with the Hebrew letter “chai” or long life, making 18 a lucky number.
- A Kiddush Cup: Families wanting to do a Kiddushin or wine blessing will want a ceremonial kiddush cup. The newlyweds take a sip from the same cup during the ceremony to signify becoming one.
- Jewish wedding rings: Per custom, wedding rings in Judaism didn’t have any stones. The metal (often gold or silver) represented a variety of ideals, including the untarnished, pure nature of their devotion. Another commonly cited reason was that pure gold, unlike stones, could not be faked, so the ring’s value couldn’t be contested.
Celebrate With La Venta Inn — The Top Los Angeles Jewish Wedding Venue
Exclusive Ocean Views
The Pacific Ocean is the ultimate backdrop for your engagement party, rehearsal dinner, and wedding. The peaceful roll of the waves sets the stage for an unforgettable day.
Historic Charm
The La Venta Inn has stood proudly since 1923, making it a testament to strong foundations and tender care. Designated as a California Historic Resource in 1990, when you marry at the La Venta Inn, you too become a part of its world-famous, long-lasting legacy.
Personalized Service
Dedicated to excellence, our team of service professionals spare no effort in securing flawless traditional Jewish wedding festivities, meticulously attending to each aspect outlined in your wedding day schedule.
Traditional Jewish Wedding Catering in Los Angeles, CA
Discover the most luxurious destination for your Jewish wedding in Los Angeles, CA at La Venta Inn. Sample our diverse and customizable menu offerings, designed to complement your special day with a curated selection that reflects on and celebrates cultural traditions.
We can accommodate up to 10% of your total guest count with a Certified Glatt Kosher Caterer, and the food is cooked before arriving to our facilities. Please note, La Venta Inn is not a certified Glatt kosher caterer, but we can do kosher-style catering. For kosher-style Jewish weddings catered at La Venta Inn, we don’t serve any shellfish or pork products, and we keep meat and dairy separate. Upon request, we can also use disposable single-use plates instead of our house china. While not a universal standard, please let me us know which type of kosher requirements you have for your wedding, and we are happy to help guide you accordingly, whether that’s bringing in different plates or other accommodations. We’re here to help!
Made by Meg Catering
Elevated catering for weddings, corporate events, and more.
Disclaimer: Kosher meals provided at request
Immerse Yourself in the Elegance and Tradition of Past Jewish Weddings Hosted At La Venta Inn
If you’re looking for a venue exclusively for a Jewish wedding ceremony, our Ceremony-Only packages allow you to hold your ceremony and take photos at La Venta before continuing to your fully Glatt Kosher reception venue.
Our stone altar provides an ideal setting for a Chuppah, with a stunning ocean view as your backdrop.
The Grounds: Find the Best Jewish Wedding Venue At La Venta Inn
The Ceremony Lawn
Immerse yourself in nature when you step into our expansive garden oasis, where lush landscapes and delicate blossoms create a picturesque backdrop. Revel in the breathtaking vistas of the ocean and rugged cliffs — the perfect marriage of land and sea.
The Courtyard
In our courtyard, rustic elements blend with the natural beauty of indigenous gardens, providing an ideal sanctuary for intimate moments like your ketubah signing, first look, or bedeken ceremony.
The Ballroom
Create lasting memories in our charming rustic ballroom, a space suited for the laugher-filled hora or the newlywed’s emotional first dance.
Client Testimonials
Hear from couples who have experienced the magic at La Venta Inn and discover why we are the premier choice for celebrating your love story.
This place has an insanely beautiful view from up top, and it is one of those rare places, which goes well with any type of event but, particularly, it is great for wedding events. I had an amazing experience and they offer the best service. I would recommend it any time!
~ Harshit R.
Great venue! Spectacular view! Amazing staff and management! I truly enjoyed working with the team and will definitely refer them! La Venta Inn is at the top of my vendor list!
~Sophia S.
We had the best experience today at La Venta Inn. We highly recommend this for a wedding venue in South California. The manager was incredibly helpful and the property is beautiful and updated. Best wedding venue in the area!
~ Cassandra T
LA Venta inn is a beautiful venue for weddings. The building overlooks the ocean and you can see for miles. You can even see downtown Los Angeles. One of the most scenic views in Southern California. The building is old but has a nice charm to it.
~ Steven B.
About Us
Nestled in the heart of Palos Verdes Estates, La Venta Inn has been a beacon of elegance and charm since its inception in 1923. Renowned for its stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and its exquisite Spanish architecture, our venue offers a unique blend of historical grandeur and contemporary luxury.
Specializing in hosting culturally rich ceremonies like the Chinese Tea Ceremony, we pride ourselves on our ability to blend tradition with modern sophistication, ensuring every couple’s heritage is honored and celebrated. From our lush, manicured gardens to our elegant indoor spaces, La Venta Inn provides the perfect backdrop for your most cherished moments.
Specializing in hosting culturally rich ceremonies like the Chinese Tea Ceremony, we pride ourselves on our ability to blend tradition with modern sophistication, ensuring every couple’s heritage is honored and celebrated. From our lush, manicured gardens to our elegant indoor spaces, La Venta Inn provides the perfect backdrop for your most cherished moments.
Host Your Dream Jewish Wedding at La Venta
Now is the perfect moment to reserve your wedding venue. Reach out to our team today to explore options and discuss which Jewish wedding traditions you’re looking forward to. We’re here to help and eager to assist every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely, we host plenty of custom Jewish weddings here at La Venta. Our industry experts are ready to help and bring your vision from paper to in person. Let’s talk about how!
Our Los Angeles Jewish wedding venue is very flexible and can accommodate gatherings of all sizes. Chat with our experts today about your wedding details.
Whether your guest list is big or small, we can provide parking spots for your loved ones.
Yes! The La Venta team is excited to arrange a tour for you so you can see the beautiful location of the best day of your life.
We would be thrilled to do so! Our designers and creative staff are dedicated to helping you uphold Jewish wedding traditions, the beliefs, and cultures you hold dear. An essential part of our commitment to this is with our custom decor packages and offerings.
Yes. Our award-winning, Michelin Star chef is well-versed in all areas of Jewish, Western, and international cuisine. La Venta’s culinary geniuses are easily able to meet a wide variety of diverse needs and specific dietary restrictions. Menus can be prepared kosher-friendly, separating dairy products and meat, and avoiding all shellfish. We can accommodate Glatt Kosher upon request for small groups.
We recommend booking the La Venta Inn at least one year in advance — which also helps ensure you have time to plan out the tiniest details stress-free.
We prepare all of our stunning indoor spaces before your wedding so you have a second location should inclement weather arise.