- Jordana Rubel &Morton BrilliantWelcome to our wedding weekend!November 17, 2013We're excited to welcome friends and family to Charleston for our wedding!Our goal is a fun, relaxed weekend. We want everyone to get to know each other while enjoying one of the finest cities on the planet.** (just stop and ask any local you meet on the street).
- AccommodationsRenaissance Charleston Historic District HotelWe've reserved a bloc of rooms at the Renaissance Charleston Historic District Hotel, located in the heart of downtown Charleston's historic district. Ask for the "Rubel-Brilliant" wedding rate of $234 per night. Note that the rate is good through 10/23; however, the hotel may book up earlier. Please make your reservations promptly. For families wanting larger, connected rooms, the nearby Historic District Doubletree Hotel is ideal.If you prefer a true local experience, airbnb.com has a number of homes and apartments for rent. We recommend either staying on the penninsula south of Meeting Street, or on one of the near-in islands like Sullivan's or Isle of Palms (each 15-20 minutes from downtown).
- Rehearsal DinnerSaturday, November 16, 2013
6:30-9:30 pmPlease join us on Saturday, November 16 from 6:30 to 9:30 at the South Carolina Aquarium for an unforgettable evening of exotic animals, great food and celebratory toasts.Casual dress. Hosted by Howard and Marilyn Brilliant.
- Our WeddingSunday, November 17, 2013
11:30 amFounders Hall is a new facility located at historic Charlestowne Landing, about 15 minutes from the hotel by car. The outdoor (weather permitting) wedding ceremony will start at 11:30 am on Sunday, November 17, followed by a "SouthernTerranean" brunch and reception featuring background music by Charleston Virtuosi.Our reception will conclude by 4 pm.No jacket required. - Other DetailsThe fine print.TransportationWe recommend renting a car for the weekend. It will come in handy for sightseeing, and is necessary for transportation to Saturday night's dinner and Sunday morning's ceremony. There is ample parking at both locations. Rentals are available at Charleston's airport, and throughout downtown Charleston.GiftsHow does the old saying go? "Your presence is our present." Our house is already stocked and we are in the process of beautifying it with finds from our travels both far and near. So, really, the best present you can give us is your presence.We would be honored if you made a contribution in our names to either FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered! or The Jewish National Fund, two organizations whose important work we support, or to a worthy cause in your own community.WeatherAverage November temperatures in Charleston are a high of 67 and a low of 54. But nothing's average about Charleston -- so be sure and check with certified meterological professionals before packing.Dress CodeWe are aiming for a relatively informal weekend. Whatever your preferred description -- nice casual, no jacket required, Charleston chill -- relax, dress festively, and enjoy yourself.Meeting Up With the Bride and GroomIf you want to spend some extra time with us, here's what we'll be up to on Saturday:8 am -- Meet in the Renaissance hotel lobby for a three-to-four mile leisurely run around downtown.10 am until 1 pm -- Leave from the hotel and walk up King Street to the Charleston Farmers Market for brunch and frisbee.2 pm -- Meet in the Historic Market for a carriage ride (small cost).Wedding PlanningYou'd be amazed how much planning it takes to create a relatively informal weekend. Much thanks to our parents Howard and Marilyn Brilliant and Gene and Myrna Rubel for their patience and support. A shout out too to Chelsye Harp of Intrigue Events, for (1) learning to love shakshuka and (2) helping to plan a great wedding.Jewish Wedding 101We'll sign the wedding contract ("ketubah;" this one is designed by Jordana's childhood friend Ruth Mergi) before the ceremony begins.During the ceremony, we'll stand underneath a canopy ("chuppa") that symbolizes the new home we build together. At the ceremony's conclusion, Morton will break a glass under foot (your cue to shout "mazel tov!")The newly-minted husband and wife will then retire to spend 10 minutes alone ("yichud"). Yichud is followed by the ritual photographs ("smile!"), after which the newly-married couple will rejoin the festivities.Our ceremony will be officiated by Rabbi Adam Rosenbaum of Synagauge Emanu-El, Morton's childhood congregation.
- Enjoy Yourself!Around Charleston.ExpeditionsFor first-time visitors, the Charleston Visitor's Center, located about three blocks from the hotel at 375 Meeting Street, is a great place to start.Charleston is America's most historic city. Walk around! A few places not to miss:Explore the city's main arteries: King Street (excellent shopping), East Bay Street (containing the famous Rainbow Row), and Meeting Street (which leads to Charleston's southern tip, the Battery).Check out the Historic Charleston City Market for sweetgrass baskets and many other souvenirs.Get to know the campus of the College of Charleston, including its free museums.Stroll through the picturesque neighborhood of Ansonborough.Take a look at America's oldest Reform Temple, which is one block from the hotel.Relax in Marion Square Park - in the center of downtown Charleston.Our home-away-from-home, Sullivan's Island, is a 15 minute drive from downtown Charleston; an afternoon walk will do wonders for the soul.For the KidsThe Alley is a popular retro-modern combination bowling alley, arcade and restaurant. Carriage tours are great fun; they can be booked in advance, and are conveniently headquartered close to the hotel. The Children's Musem of the Lowcountry is also close by.Off the penninsula, The Animal Forest at Charlestowne Landing is a 22-acre zoo and nature preserve that features native South Carolina wildlife in a natural setting. Coincidentally, it's at the same park as the wedding.FoodMaking a long weekend of it? Consider eating at some of our favorite places.The Charleston Farmer's Market is open from 8 am to 2 pm on Saturday; brunch there is a treat. Sit in the courtyard at nearby KuDu and enjoy some coffee or tea. Hominy Grill has been on every foodie TV show around. Cru Cafe ("comfort served daily") is tucked in a corner of the historic market.If you're making a long weekend of it and looking for dinner, you can't go wrong with F.I.G., The Grocery, McCrady's or Butcher and Bee.There are a number of kid-friendly options on King Street near the hotel; ask the concierge for specific recommendations.For an adventure off the penninsula, consider the legendary Bowen's Island Restaurant or Poe's Tavern on Sullivan's Island.
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