Weddings

One of the things I love most about being Jewish is how there’s never just one way to do things. As the saying goes, “two Jews, three opinions!” This is a common and beloved theme in our culture and weddings are no exception!

Every couple brings their own personal touch, and over the years, I’ve seen how beautifully diverse Jewish weddings can be. 

In 2024, I’ve noticed five amazing trends within the Modern Orthodox Jewish wedding scene that I just can’t get enough of! They blend tradition with fresh, new practices in ways that feel meaningful and modern while still honoring the roots of our faith. 

And if I am being totally honest with you, I have 100% cried seeing each and everyone of these new trends!

Ketubah Signing Under the Chuppah

This one is for all the strong, proud Jewish women out there who want to be fully present when their Ketubah is being signed. 

Traditionally, the Ketubah signing takes place in a private room before the ceremony (without the bride), but more and more couples are choosing to make this moment part of the ceremony itself, right under the chuppah. 

It’s such a powerful statement of partnership, with both the bride and groom sharing the moment in front of all of their loved ones. It’s a beautiful way to honor the significance of the promises written and make the moment even more intimate and meaningful. 

Plus, it’s an empowering way for the bride to be right there as the ink is put to paper, highlighting the equal role both partners play in the marriage they are about to enter.

A Joint Tisch

One of the trends I’m loving this year is the joint tisch, where both the bride and groom, side by side, celebrate with their guests before the wedding!

Traditionally, the Tisch is a separate event: the groom and his friends gather to sing, drink, and engage in lively discussion, while the bride’s celebration takes place in a completely separate room. 

But in 2024, more couples are choosing to have a joint tisch, bringing everyone together for a shared pre-chuppah celebration! 

It’s a beautiful way to start the festivities with a sense of unity, excitement and simcha. 

There is something so special about seeing parents, siblings, friends and the entire community come together with pure happiness and anticipation. This trend creates an unforgettable energy and sets a tone of togetherness for the rest of the celebration. 

Both Exchanging Rings + Circling

In 2024, I’m seeing more and more couples incorporating both the bride and groom exchanging rings and circling each other during the ceremony, and I absolutely love it! 

Traditionally, the groom places the ring on the bride’s finger and the bride circles the groom but now more than ever before couples are opting for the bride to give a ring to the groom under the chuppah and the groom circles the bride as well! How cool is that?!

The circling symbolizes the creation of unity and a new home. It’s a deeply significant act which feels even more meaningful when both partners circle each other.

This twist on the tradition emphasizes the partnership and balance of the couple. It’s so powerful to watch and brings an extra layer of meaning to the ceremony.

There is something so heartwarming in seeing both the groom and bride recite the words “Harei at mekudeshet li b’taba’at zo k’dat Moshe v’Yisrael.”

This translates to:
“Behold, you are consecrated to me with this ring, according to the law of Moses and Israel.”

Seeing both the bride and groom perform these loving acts of commitment feels like an even stronger, more meaningful way to begin their marriage. 

Wrapping a Tallit Around Both the Bride and Groom

Traditionally, the groom wears the tallit under the chuppah, symbolizing the sacredness of the moment. However, more couples are choosing to have the bride join him, creating a shared experience that symbolizes their mutual commitment and the creation of their new home together. 

The act of enveloping both partners in the same tallit is deeply symbolic, representing the protection, love, and unity that will surround them throughout their marriage.

It also reflects the Jewish value of partnership, where both individuals are equal participants in building their future. 

This trend adds a powerful layer of connection between the couple and their families, as the tallit is often passed down through generations, making it a beautiful way to honor heritage while embracing the future together.

Original Songs Sung by Family or Friends During the Reception

One of the sweetest and most personal trends I’ve seen at Jewish weddings in 2024 is family and friends singing original songs during the reception. 

These performances add a truly unique and heartfelt touch to the celebration. Whether it’s a creative parody of a popular song, a funny tribute to the couple, or a heartfelt, original tune celebrating the couple’s love story, these songs never fail to put a smile on everyone faces. 99% of the time, everyone is singing the chorus by the end!

I’ve seen everything from funny and playful tunes about the couple’s first meeting to heartfelt songs that honor their families and traditions. The best part? There are no rules—anything goes, and it’s always a beautiful reflection of the couple’s unique journey and the love that surrounds them!

The beauty of Jewish weddings lies in both their deep-rooted tradition AND their incredible diversity—there’s no “one right way” to celebrate and continue the tradition, and that’s exactly what makes each wedding and each couple so uniquely special. 

From personal twists on timeless rituals to new trends that bring fresh energy to the celebration, Jewish weddings are constantly evolving while staying true to the heart of our faith.

Ultimately, these new trends serve as a powerful reminder that the most important thing is honoring the love, joy, and connection between the couple, their families, and their community.

The traditions may vary, but the essence remains the same.

Now more than ever, we need to celebrate and support Jewish love in all its forms.

These weddings are a reflection of the rich, evolving story of the Jewish community and the beautiful connections we create. These weddings connect us to our past and our future.

 I’m so excited to see what trends 2025 will bring, and I can’t wait to continue capturing these meaningful moments with you all!

It was like a dream… the palm trees were swaying in the wind, the sun was setting, the temperature was more than perfect and when Shelby walked down the aisle, Danny had the biggest smile that lit up all of Boca Raton. It was one of those moments that you just knew every single person there would cherish forever. The way these two love each other is truly beautiful, genuine, and sweet. I mean, they were jumping up and down with excitement at their first look, and that says it all!!

Every time Shelby and Danny have hugged me hello since I met them, they have hugged me at the same time. They don’t take turns. They embrace me with warmth and love together!

Even those small gestures, they do as a unite.

Their souls were made for one another.

They are linked in a way that words can’t describe, and I, for one, feel completely and totally blessed to know their love, capture their wedding, and feel their vibrance!

Whatever these two beautiful humans do in life, I know every moment, every obstacle, and every adventure will bring them closer and closer together. I, for one, cannot wait to see where their life takes them!!

A couple that hugs together stays together.

Shelby and Danny, I adore you more than you know!! Cheers to you, your marriage, and 120 + years of health and happiness!

Creative Team:

Venue: Broken Sound Club @brokensoundclub

Cantor: My Personal Cantor | @mypersonalcantor

Ceremony Music: The Elegant Harp | @elegantharp

Videographer: Affordable Pro Video: |@vincentingraoapv

Hair Stylist: @phairisluxury

Make-Up Artist: @rachellaurenbeauty

Wedding Planner: @itsallinthedetailsbymb

Photo Booth: The Gala Photobooth | @thegalaphotobooth

Florist: Dalsimer Atlas | @dalsimeratlas

Band: The Headliners Band | @theheadlinersband

Waking up to photograph Rachel and Shai’s wedding made changing the clocks WAYY easier and a lot sweeter this year!

Let’s just say it was one beautiful day. Not only was the weather the definition of perfection, but the love, spirit, and joy that encompassed the entire day left me absolutely speechless.

The beauty of Rachel and Shai’s wedding day, held amidst the vibrant early November foliage, is a testament to the power of love and the richness of Jewish tradition.

And right now, the Jewish people need as much joy and as much love as we can find.

Don’t even get me started on the twinkle in Rachel’s eyes or the adorable grin Shai was sporting all day.

These two were meant for one another in the always and forever, best friends for life, partner through everything kind of way. It brings me so much happiness as a photographer to be a part of wedding days like this one, but brings me even more warmth and comfort as friend to know that no matter what, Rachel and Shai have each other!

Rachel and Shai, cheers to you, your love, and 120+ years of health and happiness!!

Creative Team:

Venue: Appleford Estate | @applefordestate

Florist: Floraltology | @floraltology

Dress Designer: Casablanca | @casablancabridal

Dress Boutique: Best Total Wedding Plaza | @besttotalweddingplaza

Band: Mitlas Productions | @mitlasproductions

Caterers: Classical Caterers

Make-Up Artist: Daneene Jensen and Associates | @daneenejensenhairmakeup

Invitation suite: Cohen Printing | @cohenprinting

Printers: Paperless Post | @paperlesspost

Elegant, fun, joyful, loving, stunning, colorful, silly, full of life and sweet are just some of the words that come to mind when describing not only Sarah and Zach as a couple but their magical wedding at the Fairmount Horticulture Park in Philadelphia, PA.

It was truly an incredible October day. The sun was shining, the smiles were heartwarming and the sense of community and commitment was something to absolutely admire. 

This is the kind of celebration that the entire Jewish people needed right now. 

The kind of celebration that reminded everyone that love, family and joy is what really matters. The kind of wedding that honored tradition and culture. The kind of marriage that started off with nothing but endearment, devotion and glee. 

The love Sarah and Zach have for one another was evident in every moment, every detail and every smile. Their easy going, fun-nature made for one EPIC reception, with dancing that never stopped!

Sarah and Zach, cheers to you, your marriage and 120 + years of health and happiness!

Xos!

Creative Team

Photographer: Yael Pachino Photography LLC | @yael_pachino

Venue and Catering: Fairmount Park Horticulture Center | @byconstellation

Florist and Event Planner: Ronit Snitman | @flower_tales

Invitation suite: Sealed with a Kiss Haddonfield

Bridal Boutique: Bridal Garden | @bridalgarden

Dress Designer: Calla Blanche | @callablanchedress

Florist and Event Planner: Ronit Snitman | @flower_tales

Furniture Rental: Lilac and Lace | @lilacandlaceco

DJ: DAmico Entertainment | @damicoentertainment

Ketubah Artist: OUR LOVELY BRIDE SARAH

I need to be honest, I planned on posting this days ago, but I couldn’t find the right words to describe how absolutely beautiful Robyn and Evan’s Renault Winery wedding truly was!

I am still in awe of how perfectly it all came together (thanks to Renee Rubenstein, Robyn, and the very talented Jamie of Lauren James Events).

When I spoke to Evan for the first time on the phone in March 2022, I knew I liked him right away. He was just so head over heals in love with Robyn. The way he spoke about her and their life together, I could tell they were the perfect match for one another.

From the moment I met Robyn, I felt a real connection with her. Her joy, warmth, love for her family and friends, and outlook on life made me immediately want to be friends with her.

On May 13, 2022, I was lucky enough to capture sweet Evan popping the question making Robyn the happiest bride – to – be and exactly a year later, I was HONORED to be the one to capture their wedding day. Robyn was not only stunning in every way but one of the happiest brides I have ever seen!

Their wedding day was everything…

It was a fairytale full of love, happiness, and tons of laughter. Robyn was glowing all day. Her smile alone could have lit up a room. Put Evan and Robyn together, and it was nothing short of pure magic.

Robyn and Evan’s vows left everyone swooning. Their first dance left everyone amazed, and the treat truck at the end of the wedding left everyone with bags of delicious candy. What could be better?

Robyn and Evan, MAZELS! I could not be happier for you two. I already know your life together will be full of happiness, love, and joy, and I personally can not wait to see it all!!!

Xos!


Event Planner: Lauran James Events | @ljevents
Venue: Renault Winery & Resort | @Renaultwineryresort
Florist: Robertson’s Flowers & Events | @robertsonsflowers
Dresser : Melissa McCourt | @weddingdressernj
Band : EBE Talent London | @ebetalent
Videographer: CinemaCake Filmmakers | @cinemacake
My Treat Truck : @mytreattrucknj
Make-up artist @juliekatemakeup

Imagine this: Boca Grande, Florida… some of the bluest water on the East Coast, Palm trees every where and the most beautiful bride and groom. Now, doesn’t this sound like a dream?

When Sarah first texted me over a year ago asking if I’d travel to Florida to photograph her wedding, I said yes without hesitation, but nothing could prepare me for this kind of magic.

It was such a beautiful day, I’m still not over it!

Even with some insane wind, nothing could stop us from trolleying around Boca Grande, hopping off and creating photos that felt like the perfect combination of love, laughter, and magic!

But above all the photo perfection that the island gave us, I am so grateful that I was the one to document this incredible union between two people who touch my heart on so many levels. From the very beginning, I knew that Sarah and Harrison were individually, two amazing people. Yut together, nothing can beat them!

Sarah and Harrison are IT! They are the couple you see and think, “Wow, what an amazing team.” They are each others biggest supporters, best friends and greatest adventure companion.

Now, THAT is the real dream!

Photographer: Yael Pachino Photography LLC | @yael_pachino
Venue: Boca Bay Pass Club | @bocabaypassclub 

Florist: Tom and Keri | @kamalunacollective 

DJ: Curate Entertainment | @curate_entertainment 

Videographer: Sublime Studios | @sublimestudiosphotography
Groom and Groomsmen Attire: Black Tux | @Blacktux
Invitation Suite: Truly Engaging | @truly.engaging 

Bridal Gown: Castle Couture NJ | @castlecouturebridal
Bridal Gown Designer: Jimmy Huang | @jimmehuangbridal

True Story… A few days before Steph and Lou’s wedding, We were on our “wedding week catch up” call and they told me that they were planning on having a gender reveal for baby #2 at their wedding. Of course I was SOOO down! But then, Steph asked me if I could be the one to check the envelope before the gender reveal and help set it up, I was floored in the best way. I have never felt that deeply touched on a “wedding week catch up” call before and I felt so blessed!

Fast forward to their wedding day, I was in the middle of capturing all of Steph’s amazing bridal details when she handed me the envelope with the gender of their baby in it. As she walked into the other room, I quickly took a peak. Smiled and thought to myself “I knew it! I was so excited for them! Words couldn’t even describe it!

About six hours later, thousands of photos later and hundreds of happy tears later, it was time for us to do the big gender reveal and god knows I was doubting myself, “UH OH!”

Am I remembering the gender correctly?

Did I misread it?

Am I going crazy?

I asked the maid of honor if I could read it again, of course we left the envelope in the hotel!

“You got this!” She smiled.

“I got this!” I said questionably

Lexi, my associate and I, had the entire bridal party close their eyes, we lit the color bombs and let them go, when they opened their eyes, we were all in tears. The sky was filled with a beautiful pink hue! They were dancing, hugging and everyone was screaming “We are having a girl!”

Trust me when I say, It hit me on a whole new level!

Steph and Lou, you are loved, you are cherished and you have created such a beautiful life together. You have surrounded yourselves with the best people, have the sweetest little boy and share a love that runs so deep and so strong that there should be at least dozens of loves songs written about you two!

I cannot wait to meet your baby girl! She is so lucky to have you two as parents!!

Steph and lou, being your wedding photographer was something I will cherish forever. You have welcomed me into your community and your family and I will forever be grateful! I became a photographer with the hopes of working with people like you, and it is truly a dream come true!

Cheers to you, your marriage, baby number 1 and baby number two!!

xos! Yael

The Creative Team

Venue: Bay Beach Club | @chesapeakebaybeachclub

Bridal Gown: Havasu Dress by Pronovias | @pronovias

Floral: Valley Forge Flowers | @valleyforgeflowers

Band: Gypsy Wisdom | @gypsy_wisdom

Voice Guestbook – After the Tone | @afterthetone.co

Videographer: Just Hitched Films | @justhitchedfilms

Bridesmaids Dresses: Jenny Yoo | @jennyyoonyc purchased at BHLDN | @bhldn

Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Jos A Bank Custom Suits | @josabank

Invitation Suite: Main Line Print Shop |

It was going to rain, they said.

“Bring all your clear umbrella” they requested.

We may have to move the ceremony inside” they warned…

2pm came and went, no rain.

4pm, no rain.

8pm, no rain…

It didn’t rain until the last hour of the reception!

And even more amazing, is that the sun came out for the ceremony! Valentina and Matt got their beautiful June wedding and it was nothing short of magical!

Let me just say, no one does a first look like Valentina and Matt. As Matt waited for Valentina, I couldn’t help but smile, his stance, his expression and his eyes said it all. He could not wait to marry Valentina!

As Valentina walked towards him, her smile grew bigger and bigger, She not only glowed, but it looked like she was floating towards him as if there was no where else she belonged besides by Matt’s side.

The second Matt turned around and their eyes met, you could feel their connection, see the love and cherish the excitement that just flowed between them. And if I am being totally honest with you, at this point, I was balling! I couldn’t keep it together. Their love for one another is so powerful, so beautiful that being a part of such a special moment, touched my heart in a way words cannot even begin to describe!

Don’t even get me started on their wedding vows. My heart, along with everyone else there, just melted. Valentina and Matt love each other with all of the hearts and soul and it is truly inspiring!

The Ringwood Manor looked absolutely beautiful thanks to the genius of Marquis florals by Kim and Jennifer Tolento of Jennifer Tolento Events. The floral chandelier alone was a thing of beauty. Pair that with the rest of the gorgeous decor and the incredible castle, you couldn’t have asked for a more stunning wedding. Every detail was perfectly executed. It was a photographers dream!

Valentina, Matt, thank you for giving me this honor! My wish for you is that the rain holds off, the sun always comes out and you never stop looking at each other the way you looked at one another during your wedding vows!

Mazels!!

Heres to 120 + years of happiness and health!

The Creative Team

Venue: Skyland Manor | @skylandsmanor

Bridal Gown Designer: Pnina Tornai | @pninatornai

Bridal Boutique: Kleinfeld’s Bridal |@kleinfeldbridal

Event Planner: Jennifer Tolento Events | @jennifertolentoevents

Make Up Artist & Hair Stylist: Pin it up and Pout | @pinitupandpout

Florist: Marquis Florals by Kim | @marquisfloralsbykim

Band: TI Fusion | @ti_fusion_band

Videographer: White Elm Films | @whiteelmfilms

Caterer: Frungillo Catering | @frungillohospitality

Bridesmaids Dresses: David’s Bridal | @davidsbridal

Groom and Groomsmen Attire: The Black Tux | @theblacktux

Invitations: Minted | @minted

“I knew he was the one by the way Jack took care of Billy (aka Meredith and Jack’s doodle).” Meredith said as she started blotting her eyes, not wanting to ruin her perfectly done make up. “When I had enough and couldn’t handle it any longer, he took care of Billy for me.” Meredith teared up despite her best effort.

She always had a sparkle in her eye when she gushed about Jack and a laughter in her voice when she spoke about Billy but nothing compared to her talking about Jack and Billy together.

As she continued to describe how incredible Jack was with Billy, how he was a better partner than she could have ever hoped for and just how excited she was to marry Jack, my heart swelled.

These two belonged together. They were already partners, clearly best friends and so ridiculously in love that there wasn’t guest not grinning ear to ear as Meredith and Jack made their vows.

The entire day felt magical! The rain held off until after the photos were taken. The Gables at Chadds Ford never looked more beautiful. Matlack florist turned the indoor ceremony location into what dreams are made of and Meredith and Jack never looked happier as they exchanged rings and promised to be each others biggest supporters through out it all!

Meredith, Jack and Billy, my wish for you is that you will never stop smiling, laughing and gushing over each other! Cheers to 120 + years of health and happiness!!

The Creative Team

Venue: The Gables at Chadds Ford | @thegablesatchaddsford

Florist: Matlack Florist | @matlackflorist

Bridal Boutique: Country Bride and Gent | @countrybrideandgent

DJ: BVT Live! | @bvtlive

Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie |@azazieofficial

Groomsmen Attire: Mens Wearhouse | @menswearhouse

It’s the story as old as time…

Boy meets girl.
Boy likes girl.
Boy waits for girl.
Boy wins girl over with his kindness, wit and humor.
Boy marries girl.

Josh never gave up on Alison. He knew that she was the one he wanted to be with and he was patient, he was honest and he was her friend above everything else. Isn’t that exactly what you want in a partner? Someone who understands your needs, respects where you are, acknowledges your pace and does anything to be there for you?

When Alison realized that she adored Josh, she knew that her life was changed forever!

And do you know what I love about every relationship that starts off as friendship… they are ALWAYS FUN!
Alison and Josh’s relationship is the perfect example of this!

A few weeks before their wedding, I got a message from Alison….
“Josh bought robes for his groomsmen” and I knew that this couple was awesome on a whole new level!

Over the past few years I have been amazed by these two, but nothing could have prepared me for the heartwarming, fun and beautiful wedding day. Everything about their day felt right, felt like them and I know that their journey through out life together is going to be nothing short of heartwarming, fun and beautiful!

Alison, Josh, my hope for you is that you never stop living the fun, silly and heartwarming way you two do so well. I couldn’t be happier for you!!

The Creative Team
Groomsmen Attire: Menswarehouse | @menswarehouse

Groom Attire:  Indochino | @indochino

Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie | @azazie

Caterer: Springfield Country Club | @ springfieldcountryclub

Venue: Springfield Country Club | @ springfieldcountryclub

DJ: John EBE Talent | @ebetalent

Florist: Carl Alan | @carlalanfloralltd

Bridal Gown Designer: Pronovias Gown |@pronovias

Bridal Gown Boutique:  LUV Bridal Denver Colorado | @luv_bridal