To recite Sheva Brachot (the Seven Blessings) at a special meal that is made for a groom and bride during the week following their wedding, a minyan (ten men) is required to be in attendance, plus a panim chadashot (a man who did not attend the chuppah, wedding, nor any previous Sheva Brachot for this couple) who will serve as guest of honor. According to many poskim (halachic authorities), the panim chadashot does not have to partake of the meal, but it has to be made in his honor, as his presence enhances the meal.
There is a disagreement amongst poskim whether it is necessary for the men who will recite the Sheva Brachot to partake of the meal. The accepted custom is that they may recite Sheva Brachot even if they did not eat. The consensus amongst poskim is that at least seven of the ten men forming the minyan have to wash for bread; poskim compare this to saying Hashem’s name in Birachat Hazimmun where the same requirement applies. Some poskim are of the opinion that it is sufficient if three out of the ten men have washed for bread. Since the possibility of saying Hashem’s Name in vain is involved—a very serious prohibition—one should follow the stringent opinion and ensure that at least seven of the men have washed for bread and the remaining three should partake of some of the food.
Rav Yosef Yeshaya Braun, shlita, Mara D’atra, member of the Bet Din of Crown Heights; 1 Minute Halacha, #376; from crownheightsconnect.com
