Whether you are a Chicago native or involved in the wedding planning from afar, there are essential ingredients to a Jewish wedding that Chicago does particularly well. The right music and food at a wedding can make all of the difference.

Having the right music is one of the most important components to a well-orchestrated wedding. There is no shortage of Jewish musical entertainment bands and orchestras in Chicago, but there are three that are particularly noteworthy.

Mesmechai Leiv Orchestras is a great choice for a more traditional wedding. They specialize in and are much more limited to Jewish music. Their music resonates and is very soulful, ensuring a beautiful ceremony and reception.

If you plan on breaking out your favorite non-Jewish specific hits along with your Jewish fix, Key Tov Orchestra is right up your alley. Key Tov Orchestra has the perfect balance of enthusiasm and execution for both simcha music as well as popular secular songs; they range in hits going generations back to even the most current popular songs. Key Tov caters to wedding needs all over the observance spectrum, not to mention their pricing is more reasonable than most alternatives.

Music definitely sets the mood for a wedding, but is pointless if guests don’t have the energy to sing, dance, and enjoy them. Choosing the right food provider can be a tricky task, but luckily there are two kosher catering companies in Chicago that make your life significantly easier.

Danzinger Kosher Catering is one of the most popular kosher caterers in the Chicago region. Known for not letting the word kosher diminish from the selection and flavors they make available. They are praised for high-quality gourmet platting that is as delicious as it looks. Danzinger is also known for adapting and accommodating to the wants and appetites of the bride and groom.

If you are looking for another great option in the Chicago area, Kosher Gourmet is a pretty good bet. Kosher Gourmet puts their heart and soul into their catering services and is known for being particular about special dietary needs. They have some well-known Chicago names working in their kitchen and they provide delicious and savory food to everyone’s liking.

No wedding would be complete, however, without the necessary props. At any traditional wedding you are bound to find such items as a kippot (Jewish head covering), Talit (prayer shawl), ketubah (marriage contract), and personalized birkonim (after meal prayer books). There is one premier location in Chicago to go for all of your religious artifact needs. Rosenblum’s was established in 1941 and is the home to Jewish books, music, and lifecycle items in the Chicagoland area. As the main provider for individuals and synagogues in the area, it has developed a reputation as one of the premier book dealers in the country. If you can’t find all of the necessary components to your Jewish simcha, celebration, here than it does not exist.

For more elaborate Kiddush cups and even wedding gifts, there is one great alternative. Hamakor Gallery is the only Judaica store in the heart of one of Chicago’s most thriving Jewish communities. Judaica displayed beautifully around the store with clear artistic beauty, is a guaranteed sight at Hamakor; they have great customer service and have beautiful pieces for sale that would make for a fantastic wedding gift.