It’s Wedding time !

Mazeltov and Congratulations. My name is Talia, the Synagogue administrator. As most of my time is spent organizing Rabbi Ian’s schedule, I created this page to help you navigate the process of booking Rabbi Ian.

In an attempt to address the most frequently asked questions by couples, Rabbi Ian and I had a quick three part Q & A session:

Rabbi Ian questioned me about the booking process:

If a couple want to book me what do they do first ?

Couples and wedding consultants can check out your schedule at the link above to see where you are on any specific date and if their preferred date and time is open.

Then they email me or call (858) 952-1200. I will ask for their information and arrange for you to call them.

When a couple emails or calls can they book me immediately ?

Yes, I send every couple an email with everything they need to know. They can book you within a few minutes. However, they normally want to talk with you on the phone or wait to meet with you before they make a commitment.

How does a couple know that have booked me ?

They will receive an email from me and will see their status switch to booked on your online schedule.

What is your biggest challenge with my schedule ?

When I receive a multiple requests for the same date.

Why don’t you answer the phone ?

In addition to spending over 30 hours a week organizing inquiries, your schedule and wedding website updates, I maintain a full time job. I answer all of my emails as quickly as possible. I leave answering and calling couples to you.

I questioned Rabbi Ian on logistical questions:

Do you marry Interfaith, Jewish and Non Jewish couples ?

Yes. The Pacific Synagogue was established as a resource for Interfaith couples, unaffiliated Jewish couples and the many other couples who face spiritual challenges.

Do you co-officiate weddings ?

Yes. I have co-officiated with many Priests and Ministers. I am also fortunate enough to have several Priests and Ministers as friends.

How far will you travel for a wedding ?

I have traveled to Hawaii, England and Ecuador, just to name a few. Mexico is a regular destination as are many other U.S. locations -- from the West Coast to the East Coast and many points in between.

How long is the ceremony ?

The ceremony is designed around all the various traditions the couple wish to include. It will usually be 30 minutes, excluding the processional and recessional.

How much time do you invest in a wedding ?

As much as eighty hours, traveling, face to face time, calls and emails. Then, of course, I begin to prepare everything for the ceremony.

Is there something the couple should do in order to ensure that their wedding ceremony goes smoothly ?

Every couple receives a personal website that is dedicated to their wedding. It includes a “Brides Checklist planner” to ensure that nothing is left to chance.

What is a Ketubah ?

It is a marriage covenant that expresses the hopes, dreams and love of the couple. We offer a free Ketubah to every couple.

How much Hebrew is in the ceremony ?

As much or as little as a couple wishes. All Hebrew will be translated into English so that everyone understands everything.

Does a non Jewish fiancé need to convert to Judaism ?

I do not believe that a person should change their faith just to get married. Your faith is woven into the fabric of who you are.

Must a couple agree to a bring up their children Jewish ?

No, this is not a prerequisite.

Will guests understand the ceremony ?

Yes. Every element chosen for the ceremony is clearly explained. Everyone feels the intensity of the spiritual and emotional bonds the wedding couple are building with one another.

Do you speak other languages ?

Yes. I am bilingual in English and American English. Over the years, I have included Spanish, Italian, French, German, Japanese, Vietnamese, Tegalo, Korean and Russian in my ceremonies.

Do you have a sense of humor ?

I grew up addicted to Monty Python, Benny Hill, Dave Allen, Spitting Image, Morecambe and Wise, The Two Ronnies, Porridge, Not the Nine O’Clock news, Alas Smith and Jones, and many other weird U.K. fonts of humor. I am also a bit of a sci-fi addict. For news I watch Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert.

I also questioned Rabbi Ian about financial things:

What do you charge ?

Nothing – zip, nada, zero, gornisht, rien. I don’t have a fee or charge. However, all my couples make a pledge to support the Pacific Synagogue.

What do you suggest couples pledge to the Synagogue ?

Couples who wed between San Diego and Los Angeles tend to pledge $900. For weddings that require significant travel, I suggest a pledge of $1,500. Many couples exceed these amounts and their generosity have allowed the Pacific Synagogue to remain operational as costs have risen.

What happens when a couple don't make the suggested pledge ?

Great question. There are two situations where this occurs. Firstly, a couple may face true financial hardship. There is a Synagogue Tikkun Olam fund which was established specifically for couples who face genuine adversity. Secondly, there are couples who simply don’t want to make the suggested pledge, and a faithful effort is made to accommodate them.

What happens to the pledges ?

Each year the pledges are pooled and used to sustain the Synagogue. These activities include; rent, salaries, travel, loan repayments, advertising, Tikkun Olam, professional fees and other sundry expenses.