I always struggle with putting into words my experience and emotions during my clients wedding day.  There are so many beautiful moments during the day that by themselves would seem sweet but all together as a whole make it incredible.   When I walked into the bridal suite…also, the first time I met Megan, I was greeted with a huge smile and a hug.  She laughed and invited me into to share in her beautiful day.  Introducing me to her family and friends with such grace that it made me want to know her more.  I don’t think there is a friend or family member who can be around her with out laughing or smiling.  Then there is Joel.  Slightly more reserved but has equal impact.  I loved watching him with his brothers and friends.  There was such an ease with their relationships.  All through out the night Joel would ask if Jen and I needed anything.  You could see the details coming together because of how much he cared for all his friends and family.  One of the reason’s I love being a wedding photographer is getting to have a front row to seeing how couples work together.  And these two, opposites…but not.   You can see how people work well together and this couple I could see loved and respected each other greatly.    You can see it in the way Joel responds to Megan in these photos.

This wedding was my 2nd Jewish wedding I’ve photographed and I’m amazed and touched each time by the beautiful symbols during the ceremony.  The signing of the ketubah (marriage contract) was beautiful.  Friends and family gather around before the wedding ceremony as they sign and it describes their commitment to each other.  The text is then read during the ceremony to all the guests.   Megan and Joel were married under a Chuppah (wedding canopy) that is a symbol of the home they will build together.  Representing shelter but that its also open to all sides as a sign of being welcome in their home by friends and family.   Another symbol I loved and one that many may know but not the meaning is the moment where the groom breaks the glass and everyone shouts Mazel Tov!   The glass symbolizes the strength of the bride and groom to overcome any adversity that lies ahead while remaining in love.  Shattering the glass reminds us that love is fragile and must be protected.  After Joel smashed the glass the crowd shouted “Mazel Tov” to wish the couple good luck, fortune and love.   I love that Megan and Joel had given all the guests explanations of what each symbol meant during the ceremony.  SO beautiful.  Do you see how its hard to describe just one moment in a wedding day?  And this is just a highlight of their gorgeous day.  What an honor to see this, to photograph this sweet couple and share these moments.  I’m beyond excited to share the conclusion of Megan and Joel’s wedding.  Thank you so much again and “Mazel Tov” to you!  <3  Here are a few favorites from their beautiful day!  Also, at the end of this post are all the amazing vendors that helped make this day special for Megan and Joel.

Elizabeth Ann Photography | kreatid Photography and Design

Cinematographers | Rising Moon Films

Venue | Villa Parker

Catering | A Spice of Life Catering and Events

Florist | Olive and Poppy

Rabbi | Rabbi Birdie Becker