Weddings

A Sacred Beginning. A Jewish Journey. A Community for Life.

At Congregation Shaarei Kodesh, we believe that every Jewish wedding is not just a personal milestone, but a communal celebration – a sacred moment that reflects the values of love, holiness, and partnership at the heart of Jewish life.

Our synagogue exists to ignite the Jewish spark (lehadlik) within each person and to journey together as a kehilla kedosha – a holy Jewish community. A wedding is one of the most powerful ways we fulfill this purpose: by helping two individuals connect with one another, with tradition, and with the Divine Presence that dwells between them. A wedding is more than a joyous day – it is a profound spiritual moment that reflects your unique bond, and our shared Jewish story. 

When a couple stands beneath the chuppah, they are not only affirming their love for each other, but also joining a larger story: the ongoing, evolving story of the Jewish people.

Whether you were raised at CSK, are new to our community, or are seeking a spiritual and meaningful Jewish wedding experience, we welcome you with open arms and open hearts.

Our Approach to Jewish Marriage

Jewish marriage (kiddushin) is a sacred covenant rooted in mutual respect, love, and holiness. At CSK, we honor the beauty of tradition while recognizing the individuality of every couple. Whether you are deeply rooted in Jewish practice or exploring it anew, our rabbi and community are here to guide and support you.

We joyfully officiate weddings for:

  • Members/Chaverim and non-members/Sacred Guests
  • Couples of all ages 
  • Those seeking traditional, egalitarian, and/or creative Jewish ceremonies. 

Walking the Journey Together: Rabbi David Baum

Rabbi David Baum meets with each couple in the months leading up to the wedding at least three times. These sessions explore not only the details of the ceremony but also the deeper values that sustain a loving Jewish partnership – communication, sacred commitment, and the legacy of Jewish life. Together, you will:

  • Discuss the meaning and structure of a Jewish wedding ceremony
  • Explore writing personal vows, selecting a ketubah, and planning rituals like the badeken and chuppah
  • Reflect on building a home rooted in Torah and Jewish values
  • Review any halachic or logistical considerations

Additional Counseling

Rabbi Baum is a trained facilitator with the Prepare and Enrich program whose mission is to help couples build strong marriages. This program is tailored for those couples who would like additional counseling sessions focused on learning the tools for a healthy marriage.

Ceremonies & Celebrations at CSK

We are proud to offer our sanctuary and social hall as beautiful spaces for your ceremony and/or celebration. You may also choose to hold your wedding offsite, with Rabbi Baum officiating.

Options include:

  • Aufruf (pre-wedding aliyah and blessing at a Shabbat service)
  • Personalized ketubah signing
  • Use of our building for ceremonies or receptions
  • Opportunities to involve family members meaningfully in the service

Costs & Honoraria

At Congregation Shaarei Kodesh, we are honored to support our members and their families in celebrating sacred milestones.

  • Weddings are offered at no charge for CSK members and their children aged 26 and under.
  • For sacred guests – couples who are not members of our congregation – Rabbi David Baum is available to officiate, and there is a customary honorarium for his time and preparation. Please contact the synagogue office for details regarding fees and availability.

We are committed to making your simcha meaningful and accessible, and we are happy to discuss your individual needs.

Planning Details

When to Reach Out

We recommend contacting Rabbi Baum or our office at least six months before your desired wedding date.

Connect With Us

We would be honored to be part of your sacred journey. To begin the process or ask questions, please contact:

Let us help you build not just a beautiful ceremony – but a beautiful life grounded in Jewish tradition, values, and community.