1 Booking a date
When you decide to marry, pick the most convenient month. Then make a shortlist of preferred dates. On some holidays and other dates, a traditional wedding cannot be held according to Jewish law. Also consider the likely weather, and the commitments of overseas guests.
2 The guest list
Prepare a guest list in advance - you need an estimated number when you book the venue. Consult family members and set your budget.
3 The Venue
You have a date, a budget and a potential guest list. Now you are ready to check out some of the indoor and outdoor party spaces at your preferred location. Choose a venue that fits your budget and taste. If you plan to marry in the summer, you must book six months beforehand. In the winter, four months' notice is usually sufficient.
4 Parking
Large venues offer convenient parking arrangements but smaller venues or those in city centres rarely do so. When parking is not available, it is advisable to make an arrangement with the nearest private carparks.
5 Catering
Some venues offer their own catering. Others let you choose from a list of recommended caterers. In any case, before you book any caterer, make an appointment and taste the food. Choose between buffet or à la carte waiter services. Your decision may determine the menu - and the style and atmosphere of the party. Tell the caterer about your favourite foods, so the menu can be customised.
6 Air conditioning and shading
Summertime in Israel might be too hot and humid for you and your guests. On the one hand, the easiest solution is an air-conditioned indoor venue. On the other, you could marry on a beach or in a garden under the stars. Sun shading is required for afternoon weddings.
7 Rabbis
Choose your rabbi according to your lifestyle and religious preferences, along with cantors and musicians. Check the registration requirements. For instance, for an Orthodox wedding, you must acquire a licence from the Israeli Rabbinate. You also need to register at the rabbinic court in the UK, presenting your certificate of Judaism and bachelorhood. You must state the identity of the rabbi who is to officiate in Israel and the rabbinic court in the UK will contact the rabbi and appoint them to perform the chupah.
8 Wedding attire
In an indoor, temperature-controlled venue, you can wear whatever you choose. If you prefer an outdoor wedding, the weather should be taken into account - your wedding dress might be too hot - or even too cold if you have chosen an outdoor venue near Jerusalem, where even summer nights can be surprisingly chilly.ly.
9 Nearby accommodation
Beware of time-consuming traffic jams on your wedding day. Book your photo sessions and other happenings close to your venue, to minimise travel time.
10 Transport
Hire a bus and driver to pick up overseas guests from their accommodation before the wedding and drop them off afterwards, so they can consume alcohol freely and enjoy the festivities. Do not forget to mention the pick-up and drop-off locations on your wedding invitation.
11 Invitations
The design must include all the necessary information - date, time, address and RSVP details. Post invitations earlier than you would for a UK event - maybe 10 weeks in advance - especially if sending to overseas guests. Do spread the word by email, Facebook and other social media. It is useful to send guests a "save the date" message soon after setting the date, to enable overseas guests to arrange flights and accommodation.
This list by Ronit Hogi of Ronit Hogi's Events Production is to alert you to some of the aspects that may differ from planning a UK wedding. In addition, you may need DJs, musicians, the flowers, guest artists, photographers, designers, entertainment, a cake, gifts for your guests and more.
