marriage

"Immersing before my wedding created an opportunity to reflect on my past and future - an intimate and spiritual way to connect with my mom and slow down in the middle of this hectic time. Thank you for your guidance and your incredible, beautiful mikveh!" Alex
Immersing in the mikveh prior to a wedding allows the bride and / or groom to quietly mark the transition from being single to being married.  Mayyim Hayyim can help you create an island of peace, contemplation, and perspective amid the public ceremonies and celebrations that surround the big event. 

According to traditional practice, a bride visits the mikveh within four days of her wedding, seven days after the end of her period.  Mayyim Hayyim leaves such decisions to each woman who comes to immerse.  If you are interested in learning more about the laws and customs specific to bridal immersion, please contact Mayyim Hayyim's Assistant Director.

Though not a traditional practice, many grooms have embraced the custom of immersing in the days prior to their weddings.

Same-sex couples who are sanctifying their relationships with a wedding or a commitment ceremony always find a warm welcome at Mayyim Hayyim. 

Some couples immerse at different times; some time their immersions (one in each of our two mikvaot) at the same hour. Some people choose to keep their pre-wedding immersions private and come to Mayyim Hayyim alone, or with one friend or family member.  And some people choose to invite guests to celebrate with songs, poems, blessings, food and drink.  If you are interested in renting our celebration space for such a party, make sure to inquire about specifics when scheduling your appointment.

Immersion Ceremony for a Bride
Immersion Ceremony for a Groom

Parents of the Bride or Groom

The marriage of a son or daughter is an important milestone in a parent's life. Moms and dads sometimes decide to immerse prior to a child's wedding, reflecting on the changes in the family, and the addition of a new son or daughter.  Mayyim Hayyim has created ceremonies to help parents of the bride or groom articulate this powerful, but largely unacknowledged moment.

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