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Yesterday my mom sent our family group chat a photo of my dad. He was in the ocean with his hands raised in the air with the most triumphant smile on his face. I just stared at it in awe. My heart did a flip.

Wow.

Just wow.

Dozens of memories flooded my mind all at once. From boogie-boarding with my dad in Ocean City when we were younger to walking into the hospital at Shock Trauma dazed and confused and to all of the little moments from the past 8 years that proven time and time again how strong my dad truly is.

Still amazed at the photo my mom sent us, I shook my head and ran down to show Robert. I never thought this would happen. I never thought my dad would be able to go back into the ocean.

One word came to mind as I reached the bottom of our stairs; persistence.

My dad is one of the most persistent people I know. He never gives up, he never backs down. Maybe it’s his stubbornness that pushes him forward. Maybe it is his faith and the determination to be able to keep up with his grandkids. Maybe it’s a combination of all three? Whatever the reason is my Dad has taught me to keep going. To never give up and to fight for whatever it is I want.

My dad has this incredible inner strength and self awareness that won’t ever let him settle. He doesn’t settle. No matter what life throws his way, he never settles. He learns, he adapts and he moves forward.

Persistence. Determination. Perseverance.

As I sat down next to Robert, he looked at me with a smile and said “I know. I just saw the photo. How cool is that!?”

I hope with all my heart that I have at least one tenth of my dad’s inner strength and I hope that Robert and I can go through life together with the same persistence, same determination and same perseverance as my dad.

My dad made it into the ocean and I am completely and totally stunned.

“I want to give Lisa this at the first look” Neil said to me as he held out a Hadas (Myrtus) branch.

I looked up at Neil, “Oh I love it! Does Lisa love Hadas branches?” I asked as I turned my focus back on capturing their beautiful rings.

“No, I just want her to smell it.”

I immediately looked up at Neil and bursted out laughing. Well this was a first, but I have to admit, I was not that surprised. It was exactly the kind of thing I could expect from Neil and I absolutely loved it.

A few minutes later, Neil was looking sharp in his blue and black suit and was ready to go.

He was standing with his eyes closed and Hadas branch in hand. Neil was about to see his bride for the first time on their wedding day and the look of excitement and joy on his face brought me butterflies.

Lisa came up behind him and looked like an absolute vision. Her hair was perfectly styled, her dress was totally her and her smile was brighter than the sun above us.

“Neil” she said.

He turned around.

Smiled immediately.

Gave his bride a hug and then said… “Here!” as he handed the Hadas towards Lisa.

“What is this?”

“Smell it!” Neil said.

Lisa couldn’t help but laugh as she took a quick whiff of the Hadas Branch that Neil saved just for her. There was a knowing sparkle in her eye that made my own smile widen.

“We used it last night at Havdalah (a Jewish religious ceremony that marks the symbolic end of Shabbat and ushers in the new week) and I wanted you to smell it too”

And with that my heart melted.

He wanted her to smell it too.

Neil wants to share everything with Lisa. No matter how big or small of a moment, he wants to share it all with her. He wanted to laugh with her, smile with her, cry with her and smell things with her! Lisa was right next to Neil wanting to go hand in hand with him through all of life’s adventures.

Lisa and Neil have a true partnership and it is equally beautiful and powerful.

As we sat in the loft of the Bishop Farmstead Barn, listening to all six of the heartfelt speeches given by Lisa and Neils family members, I felt the love I felt the excitement and I felt the energy that is only present when two people find their true beshert (is the Jewish notion that means destiny or your predestined spouse).

Lisa and Neil, my wish for you is that you will always be able to share all of your moments together. The ones filled with joy and happiness, the ones that challenge you and the ones that smell and make you laugh!

Mazel Tov Lisa and Neil! I couldn’t be happier for you!

The Creative Team:

Venue: Bishop Farmstead | @jamcatering

Bridal Boutique: RK Bridal | @RKBridal

Bridal Dress Designer: Maggie Sottero | @maggiesotterodesigns

Bridal Alterations by: Pinpoint Bridal | @pinpointbridal

Bridal Earrings: Olive and Piper | @oliveandpiper

Bridal Shoes: David’s Bridal | @davidsbridal

Caterer: Above and Beyond catering | @aboveandbeyondny

Band: Shirsoul | @shirsoulmusic

Invitations: Lisa (THE BRIDE!)

Hair and Make Up Artist: Shimmer for You | @shimmerforyouLLc

Florals: Botaniq Blooms | @botaniqblooms

“But then when Dana came around,” Joel said into the microphone during his best man speech. Joel paused. Collin looked over at Dana, “he was the coolest and most confident guy.”

Dana smiled up at Collin.

I don’t think there was a dry eye in the room.

Joel was right. Together Dana and Collin were two of the coolest, most confident, awesome individuals who go after their dreams and support each other no matter what.

As high school sweethearts, they have been through it all together. From attending art classes together to going to every high school dance together, to living hours apart during under grad and even farther away while Collin was in Medical School. No matter how far away they were from each other or where life has taken them, they stuck together. Dana and Collin bring out the best in each other and the word is a better, brighter place because of it.

Spring Lake Manor has never looked so good or partied so hard. With the stunning floral center pieces and delicious looking donut tower, it was the most beautiful way to start this next chapter in their lives together. As we danced the night away, I saw the way Collin and Dana looked at each other and I knew, after all this time and all the craziness that has happened in the past year and a half, these two lovely souls were finally exactly where they were supposed to be, married to one another, shining even brighter.

Dana and Collin, thank you for being the two of the coolest, most confident awesome individuals I could ever meet. My world is better because of you. Cheers to 120 more years of happiness.

xos,

Yael

The Creative Team

Hair and Make Up Artist: Spruce Salon | @sprucesalonnj

Reception Venue: Spring Lake Manor | @springlakemanor

Ceremony: St. Margaret’s Church

DJ: Frank Martinez of Theory NYC | @theorynyc

David pulled out his vows and looked up into Caitlin eyes. And it was as if no one else was there. Everyone else melted away and it was just the two of them.

Honestly, it felt like time stopped.

He didn’t even need to read his words for everyone to see and know how deeply he truly loves Caitlin.

It’s that simple.

And once he started reciting his vows, the emotions, the love and the pure admiration just flowed out of him with a warmth that is only saved for the people that you cherish the most.

From the moment they met, he just wanted to make Caitlin happy. David would do anything and everything for her. And she him. No matter what is going on in their busy lives, no matter where they are and who they are with, they are each others top priority. It is truly inspirational.

The way she looks at him makes me feel a mix of bliss, contentment and the warmth of home.

Every time Caitlin talks about David there is a sparkle in her eyes and laughter in her voice. It is crystal clear how much they she loves him. How much she appreciates him and how much she values David.

As they stood up there, making promises to one another, in front of their closets family and friends in the courtyard of the Phoenixville Foundry, their bond only grew. Their love only flourished and they walked into the next stage of their lives together, hand in hand, looking like two of the happiest people in the world.

Now, what could be better than that?

Caitlin & David, you inspire me on a daily bases, your warmth and love for each other and everyone around you is beyond touching. My hope for you is that you will spend the next 120 + years living life to the fullest and always look into each others eyes and have the rest of the world melt away. Cheers to you!!

xo!

Yael

The Creative Team

Venue: Phoenixville Foundry | @Phoenixville Foundry

Florals: Cottage Flower Designs | @cottageflowersdesign

Dress Designer: Reem Acra | @reemacra

Veil: Anne Barge | @annebarge

Bridal Boutique: Elizabeth Johns | @elizabethjohnscouture

Bridal Shoes: Bella Belle Shoes |@bellabelleshoes

Bridesmaids Gifts: The White Invite | @thewhiteinvite

Cake: The Master Baker | @themasterbaker

Invitations: Kramer Drive | @kramerdrive

Groomsmen Suit: Jos A Banks | @josabank

Groomsmen Attire: Mens Wearhouse |@menswearhouse

Groom & Groomsmen Ties: Kennedy Blue | @kennedyblueofficial

Bridesmaids Dresses: Kennedy Blue | @kennedyblueofficial

Catering: Queen of Hearts Catering | @queenofheartscatering

Band: BVT Live: Jelly Roll | @jellyroll_bvtlive

Three years.

Deanna & Harel have been engaged for three years and finally, they can call each other husband and wife!

As Deanna walked up behind Harel at the Merchant Exchange Building in Old City Philadelphia, she was glowing. The closer she got to Harel the more her eyes lit up.

“Harel” she said with so much love that it sounded like the most beautiful word in the world.

Harel slowly turned around. His smile grew. His eyes softened with pure affection as he saw his beautiful bride in her wedding gown for the very first time.

They both hesitated and at the same exact time started running towards each other with arms wide open.

My heart sang.

It was the epitome of bliss.

As we made our way from the Merchant Exchange Building to Mikvah Israel, I could feel the love flowing between them. It wasn’t the wedding celebration they originally planned but it was special and unique none the less.

With the help of Naticia of Calla Lily Event Planning, Deanna and Harel turned the walkway of Mikveh Israel into the most charming and elegant wedding space. With a long farmers table, beautiful candles and hints of flowers, it was dreamy and intimate in the most loving way. As the guests all found their seats and began to chat, I looked over to Deanna and she was still glowing.

After waiting three years since Harel popped the question, they finally are married and if you ask me, there is nothing more beautiful.

Deanna & Harel, heres to 120 years of happiness, health and endless laughter. My wish for you is that you never stop glowing and always run to each other with that much love and affection!

The Creative Team:

Venue: Mikveh Israel |@mikve

Event Planner: Calla Lily Event Planning | @thecallalilyeventplanning

Hair Stylist: Bridal by Natalie | @bridal_bynatalie

Make Up Artist: Kendall Marie | @kendallmarie.co

Band: Two Rivers Chamber | @tworiverschambermusic

Bridal Boutique : Philly Bride | @philly_bride

Bridal Gown Designer: | @martinalianabridal

Florist: Carl Alan Florist

Videographer: Tsunami Films | @tsunami.films

Catering: Daniel Israel Catering |

Grooms Attire: The Black Tux | @theblacktux

Invitations: Minted |@minted

Kippot: Zion Judaica

Event Rentals: Lilac and Lace Co. | @lilacandlaceco

Everyone stood. Lauren and her parents started making their way down the aisle and I couldn’t help myself but take a quick peak at Ben waiting for his bride. My heart melted. Not only did I see love and joy in his eyes but I saw a flicker of something else… I saw a look that screamed “finally!”

They finally made it to their wedding. Lauren finally put on her white dress and they finally started this next chapter of their lives together. This is what they have been planning for, wishing for and looking forward to and now, these high school sweethearts are finally husband and wife and nothing could be sweeter.

As Ben stomped on the glass, I whispered to myself “finally!”

It was truly beautiful.

It may have been the hottest day of the year this far at Fresh Meadow Country Club but it didn’t matter. All that mattered was they were able to spend the happiest day of their life together with their closest family and friends. And let me just say, did they celebrate! Once Greg and Josh got the music going, the dancing was explosive, fun and honestly, adorable.

Watching Lauren’s brothers and Ben swing her around the dance floor left me grinning all night long. Seeing Ben’s sisters dance their heart outs made me want to dance my heart out too (I definitely indulged in this if I am being totally honest). And hearing all of Lauren and Ben’s friends and family sing “Piano Man” as they huddled around our bride and groom at the end of the night brought tears to my eyes in the happiest way.

Lauren & Ben, I hope you never stop celebrating. Celebrating your love for one another. Celebrating the family you will have together and celebrate all of the little moments in between. Cheers to you! I couldn’t be happier for you!

The Creative Team:

Venue: Fresh Meadow Country Club | @freshmeadowcountyclub

Bridal Gown: Martina Liana at Lotus Bridal | @lotusbridal @martinalianabridal

Florist: Pedestals | @pedestalsfloraldecorators

DJ: Bravura Weddings | @bravuraweddings

Videographer: Jovon Photography and Video | @jovonphotography

Bridesmaids Dresses: Birdy Grey |@bridygrey

Groom’s Attire: Suits Supply | @suitsupply

Groomsmen Attire: Menguin | @menguintux

Invitations:  Out the Box Creative | @showitadmin

Wedding Cake: Butter Cooky Cake | @buttercooky_bakery

A couple weeks before Covid hit, Reva and Ben were set up for their first date. When he asked her where he should pick her up, he wasn’t expecting to hear his own address! They lived in the same apartment building! Could you ask for a more New York love story?

Then the world came to a halt, businesses temporarily closed, people started working remotely from home and we were all under lockdown. Turns out, being told not to leave your apartment building when the person you just started dating lives right down the hall can turn into one incredible, deep and meaningful connection.

When I first saw Reva and Ben together, I think my heart skipped a beat. Their love for one another glimmered in every word, every smile and every glance. They were treating each other with so much affection, so much admiration and so much understanding that it seemed as if they have not only known each other, but loved each other for years.

As Reva and Ben stood under the Chuppah smiling at each other with all of their closest friends and family surrounding them, I couldn’t help but think WOW. They did it. They found the light during one of the most intense years. They found the love. They found each other and together and it is just stunning in every way.

Reva and Ben, you are one of the most remarkable and sweetest couples I have met and I know that together you will always find the light, always find the love and always overcome every obstacle.

The Creative Team:

Venue: Hilton Meadowlands @HiltonHotels/

Bridal Attire: Kleinfields Anne Barge Florist: Yishai

Band: Blue Melody Group @bluemelodygroup

Videographer: Abominable Productions @abominablefilms

Caterers: Prestige Catering @presitge_caterers

Make up Artist: Kate Forecast @makeupbykatieforecast

I am not the first one to say this and I definitely won’t be the last one, but 2020 has been quite a year! During all the ups and downs, adjusted plans and crazy lock downs, one thing has been consistent and so very clear, I have the best and most incredible clients a person could ask for.

The joy, the love and the intimacy that I had the luxury of capturing this year has been an honor. All of you have filled my life with even more purpose, more happiness and more warmth than ever before.

It has been such a special and unbelievable experience witnessing all of my 2020 couples celebrate their love in one way or another. I know this year has been tough and devastating in general, but this year has also reassured me that true love is strong, true love is epic and true love can be everything.

I feel blessed on more levels than you can imagine.

I am SO excited to announce that for the third year in a row Yael Pachino Photography LLC won “The Knot Best of Weddings” and none of it was possible with out you, my amazing, kind and strong couples. This is all because of you. Because of your support. Because of your encouragement. Because of your strength. And because you were kind enough to share your YP experience with The Knot, so thank you for not only filling my 2020 with beautiful moments and wonderful memories, but for the heartfelt words that left me speechless!

From the bottom of my heart, I could not be more touched and honored by this truly magnificent award!

Not only do your testimonials earn YPP fun awards, but your words also help future brides! They speak louder than radio ads, Facebook boosts and even magazine spreads. 84% of people trust online reviews just as much as they trust their friends. That means that you have an impact on others. You have the chance to help future brides who are just like you find the perfect wedding vendors for them. So, thank you!

I am overwhelmed by the love I get on a daily bases. I could not be where I am today without all of you. I cherish every moment I spend with you, every phone and every ZOOM meeting. You all mean the world to me!

Thank you to each and every one of you! My heart is so full because of you!

With a bag of chia seeds in my left hand, my keys and cream colored gloves in the other, I pushed open our front door.

“Robert!” I called out. Letting him know I was home. No answer. “Robert!” I screamed again. That’s when I saw it. Our small wooden table placed strategically in the doorway. It had a single card standing up on it. My heart fluttered. The beautiful orange, Autumn sunset was peaking through the windows behind the table making it glow in the most romantic way. I dropped everything I was holding, walked over to the table and picked up the card. My hands were shaking, my heart was beating fast and my mind was just in heaven.

The first thing I noticed was Robert’s handwriting all over it. He covered every inch of the card. It felt so genuine, so personal that even before I actually began to read what he wrote, big, fat happy tears fell down my face. I took a deep breath in and started to read. As I soaked up each and every one of his words, I couldn’t help but fall completely in love with him all over again. His kindness, his thoughtfulness, his honesty just swept me off my feet. I literally was weak in the knees.

At the bottom of the card Robert wrote,”Meet me on the dam, you’ll never guess what’s going to happen!” I was laughing, I was crying, I had mascara running down my face, but I didn’t care. I didn’t even try to pull myself together, all I wanted to do was see Robert.

I placed the card back down on the table and opened the door to our backyard. There he was, the man I loved with every fiber of my being, sitting on the far side of the dam, looking at our house waiting for me. When I saw him, I just started to run full force. It wasn’t pretty and it definitely wasn’t cute. I ran across the deck and through the trees, I hopped over the creek and jumped onto the dam. I couldn’t get to him fast enough. As I was running my heart out, Robert was smiling and casually walking across the dam (very telling of who we both are). The second I was within a foot of Robert, I leaped into his arms. I never wanted to let go. He spun me around, put me down and then got down on one knee.

It was everything I could have wanted and nothing I expected. Nothing could make me happier than spending my life with you Robert Goldberg.

“I’m covid free” Kruti screamed out to Neel and the next thing she knew Neel was down on one knee asking her to marry him. A negative covid test and a proposal? What could be better!

They weren’t even engaged yet when I first heard from Neel and something about that just warms my heart in the sweetest way. He was ready, he was just so ready to be engaged to his Kruti that he didn’t even wait to propose to set up an engagement session.

The second I saw them together, it made sense, they were each others perfect match and nothing was going to keep them from celebrating their love.

Fairmount Park was packed that day, but as we walked around and avoided the crowds of people, it was as if Neel and Kruti didn’t notice anyone else. All they saw were each other. Neel looked at Kruti with so much love, so much admiration that I was smiling from behind my mask and my camera all evening long. Kruti’s love for Neel shined through every time they locked eyes.

Neel, Kruti your love is inspirational and I know that you two are going to be smiling at each other through it all!