fbpx

Weddings

Category:

Read More

They were standing underneath the Magnolia trees. In the middle of a pandemic, Alex and Rafi stood underneath a beautiful sea of pink as they promised to love one another for the rest of time. With their families watching from their kitchen tables and living room coaches, Alex was holding a floral bouquet she arranged herself and Rafi was wearing one of his back-up ties that didn’t quite make the cut to be his actual wedding tie. In other words, their wedding plans completely changed, but it didn’t matter. During a time that felt so uncertain and so unbelievable, they were able to find the beauty in the world.

“We have been watching the trees for the last week and hoping they would be in bloom for our ceremony” Alex said as I met them at their apartment before the ceremony. They had hope, they had faith and they believed that they could find the magic in the world, and in the end they did.

The love that Alex and Rafi share is so deep and so strong that seeing them under the Magnolia trees, reading their vows, planting new life, reminded me of how much love can really overcome.

When two people love each other as much as Alex and Rafi, nothing stands in their way. From the moment I met them, I knew that they were sweet and good to the core, but seeing how they navigated this incredibly difficult time made it so abundantly clear, Alex and Rafi were meant to be and will be there, together, hand in hand through all of life’s obstacles.

PS. A BIG thank you to Rabbi Annie of BZBI for an incredible, beautiful and intimate ceremony!

Read More

I looked around at the crowd of guests standing with their beers and glasses of wines. Everyone was smiling. Grandparents rapped in warm, fuzzy blankets sitting up front with the others cuddled close behind them in their coats. Jordan stood under the arch way in his stylish blue suit. His bright big smile could warm up even the coldest places. Finally, for the moment we were all waiting for, Dillyn and her father started walking towards Jordan. The cheering and clapping began.

With their best friend, Melissa, running the ceremony and the sweetest expressions spread across their faces, Dillyn and Jordan stood in front of their closest family and friends and said “I do.” After eleven years of commitment, eleven years of growth and eleven years of love, these two incredible humans were officially married and let me just say, it was a moment that would be cherished forever by every one who witnessed it.

From the stunning cake that Dillyn baked and decorated herself, all the way to the pearl clutch she had that was a family heirloom, Dillyn and Jordan’s Parc Bistro wedding was the perfect combination of intimate, unique and classy; just like them. From the moment I met Dillyn and Jordan I knew they are something special. Their kindness pours out of them and never stops giving, their warmth makes everyone feel treasured and their love for one another is inspirational in every way.

Dillyn, Jordan, I wish you two a life full of intimate moments, delicious cakes and tons of laughter. Thank you for letting me be a part of such an incredible day. Leap days will never be the same!

Venue: Parc Bistro @theparcbistro | Calligraphy: Caitlin Jane Calligraphy @caitlinjanecalligraphy |Hair and Make Up Artist: Jordan at Beauti Marq @beautimarqsalon | Dress: Amy Kuschel BHLDN @bhldn |Florist: Risher Van Horn |DJ: Greg Colelli | Cake: THE BRIDE! Dillyn! @dillynduryea | Groom Attire: Indochino @indochino | Invitations: THE BRIDE! Dillyn! Again! @dillynduryea | Invitation Printer: Paper Meets Press @papermeetspress

Read More

David was standing there. The River was on one side, a beautiful stone wall covered in ivy on the other. His hands were in his pockets. His grey plaid suite looking perfect and his smile was soft and inviting as always. David was waiting. Waiting for his bride to walk down the stairs. Waiting to finally see her on their wedding day. Waiting to start their lives together as husband and wife. The second David heard Crysta’s voice behind him, his naturally warm expression turned into something deeper, something more meaningful; bliss and everlasting love. As she stepped closer, both of their smiles grew bigger and bigger. Crysta raised her hand to tap David on the shoulder, and her smile turn into a knowing grin. This was the love of her life. This was her rock, her best friend and she could not wait to be his wife! She tapped. He turned and they both looked at each other with such awe and admiration that my heart felt like it was singing.

Crysta and David stood before all of their friends and family (and their dog too) at the Artesano Gallery. As they read their vows, it felt like there was magic in the air. With every word, with every smile and with every expression there was a promise of a beautiful future. A future full of fun, greatness and endless love. A future full of friendship, kindness and complete gratitude.

Crysta and David have one of those relationships that inspire. They are the best of friends and the greatest of partners in everything they do. The way they show their love to their family, friends, furry babies and each other is tender in the most stunning way. Crysta, David, I wish nothing but the best. I wish you a life full of greatness, taco bell and as many furry babies as you want!

Venders: Venue: Artesano Gallery @artesanogallery | DJ: Bigg Romeo @biggromeo |Videographer: Gracey Steeles @grace__steel |Cake: Bredenbeck’s Bakery & Ice Cream Parlor @bredenbecks | Bridesmaids Dresses: Bill Levkoff Country Bridal and Gents @countrybrideandgent |Groom & Groomsmen attire: Charles Tyrwhitt @charlestyrwhitt | Invitations: Dillyn Duryea | Hair & Make Up: Something You On-Site @somethingyouonsite |Bridal Dress: Kleinfield Bridal @kleinfeldbridal | Florist: Carl Alan @carlalanfloralltd

Read More

“I do” Andrew said. Everyone laughed “Not yet!” said the officiant! Andrew and Tori broke out laughing. As Tori looked up at Andrew, she shot him an adoring look. Andrew gave her a knowing, yet innocent smile. He just couldn’t wait for her to be his wife. He couldn’t wait to start their lives together. That is just who they are. Happy. Madly in love and two of the kindest people I have ever met. As Andrew said his second I do’s of the day, the sun was shining, the birds were chirping and there was just the most subtle whisper of a wind that made it the perfect Saturday evening. What could be better than this?

The Carriage House was the perfect venue for these two. From the beautiful center pieces, to the stunning wedding cake all the way to the delicious soft pretzels, Tori and Andrew thought of it all! Every detail was immaculate. Every guest was grinning ear to ear and every moment was full of love, life and just the most incredible energy.

Tori and Andrew, my wish for you is that the light that you share, the pure happiness that is electric between you two will only become brighter and stronger. I wish nothing but the best! I cannot wait to see where life takes you!

Venders: Venue: The Carriage House |Salon: The Beato Salon | The Country Way Bridal Boutique | Florist: Betina’s at Parkview | DJ: Kevin Mellish | Videographer: Abominable Productions | Bridesmaids Dresses: Lulu’s |Groom and Groomsmen Attire: David Wilsons Men Shop | Invitations: Sealed with a Kiss |

Read More

As Max and McKayla ran onto the dance floor during Francine and Jonathan’s first dance, the entire room sighed. McKayla jumped into her dads arms as Francine picked up Max. The music played on as the four of them danced, laughed and whispered into each others ears. Family. This is what it’s all about. Once the song slowed and the melody faded out, the four of them cuddled into the most beautiful embrace. Tonight was a very special night. Tonight was all about them. All about the amazing family they created, the strong bond they have and the beautiful love that they share.

The Mendenhall Inn courtyard was the perfect location for Francine and Jonathans intimate, heart-warming ceremony. Every single person there smiled as McKayla read the sweetest poem for her mom and dad. You could tell that she had been waiting for this day. You could tell that this was a dream come true.

The entire night was filled with laughter, love and family. What more can you really ask for!

Francine, Jonathan, McKayla and Max, thank you so much for letting me be a part of your big day! I wish nothing but the best for you and your family!

Vender: Venue: Mendenhall Inn | Dress: Claire’s Fashion |Florist: Tunies Floral Expression | Videographer: Kroll Pedlow Visual Arts | DJ: DJ Discipline |Bridesmaids Dresses: David’s Bridal|Groom & Groomsmen attire: Iacobucci Formal Wear |Cigar Bar: The Cigar Bartender Casino Tables: Casino Night Live! |Photo Booth: Lacey Face Photos



Read More

There was a sparkle in Marla’s eye as she opened the envelope. The guests were arriving in just a few minutes, she was tucked away upstairs while Adam, her groom, was downstairs looking dashing in his white bowtie and matching suspenders. As she unfolded Adam’s letter, you could see her shoulders relax and a calmness spread all over her body. In that moment, it was crystal clear, Adam is her rock, her best friend. The one person she wants by her side through it all. The one person who will always feel like home. As she read, her smile faded into laughter and her laughter faded back into a smile. Marla was absolutely loving it. She soaked up every last word, grinned and looked up. It was time. It was time to go downstairs and marry her best friend.

Watching Marla and Adam together is nothing short of a luxury. Every time their eyes meet, they smile. Every time Marla hears Adam’s voice, she lights up. Every time Adam talks about Marla, he gets a twinkle in his eye that makes the world feel a little bit brighter. They share a love that is so beautiful and so pure that outsiders looking in can feel it’s warmth.

As Marla walked down the aisle to her Adam, every single guest was smiling back at her, but she didn’t even notice. The only person she saw was Adam. Although there were hundreds of people there, the Chuppah (ceremony) felt intimate and personal. Marla and Adam wouldn’t have it any other way. It is who they are; personable, happy, loving, loyal and kind to the core.

Marla, Adam, there are not enough words in the world to express how honored I was to be your wedding photographer. May your life together be filled with joy, happiness and tons and tons of grinning. I cannot wait to see where life takes you two. Mazel Tov in every way!

Venders: Dress: Betsy Robinson | Florist: Arnson Wedding Decor & Flowers | Venue: Valley Mansion | Band : Soulfarm | Caterer and wedding coordinator: Catering by Yaffa @catering_by_yaffa | Videographer: Reches Creations



Read More

“Do you want to hold the back of my dress as I go see Will?” Brittany asked Sadie, her flower girl. Sadie’s smile grew as she nodded. All three of us walked out onto the balcony and down the ramp to the beautiful bridge right outside of the Talamore Country Club. There he was. Brittany’s groom. Looking sharp in his white bowtie and light grey suite. Will was facing away from us but I could tell from his posture that he couldn’t wait to see his bride. As Brittany walked towards Will smiling, Sadie followed closely behind doing everything she could to make sure that Brittany’s dress didn’t touch the ground. Finally, Brittany and Sadie were right behind Will. Brittany lightly tapped her manicured finger on Will’s shoulder. He turned around. Saw his beautiful bride and adorable flower girl. His eyes widened and his hands immediately covered his mouth in complete awe. A tear fell down his cheek. 

It was the perfect moment. 

This is just who Brittany and Will are; big smiles, huge hearts and forever thinking of their friends and family. They are two of the most considerate people I have ever met and it was evident in every detail of their wedding day. From making the afternoon fun for the little humans, all the way to the beautiful roses that decorated the entire venue and right down to the ten year anniversary cake they had speciality ordered for two of Brittany’s cousins.They thought of it all. Brittany and Will are truly mindful, incredibly sweet and insanely generous to the core. I couldn’t be more inspired by the two of them.

Brittany and Will tied the knot under the family Chuppah in the beautiful Talamore Country Club Ballroom. With the officiant being one of Brittany’s cousin, their ceremony was full of laughter, tradition, connection and so much love. It was stunning in every way. As Will dipped his beautiful bride for their first kiss, the entire audience clapped and cheered. It was yet another perfect moment. 

Brittany and Will, I know your love can do it all. Your hearts are big and beautiful.. Your souls are kind and loving. And your relationship is unique and energizing. My wish for you, is that you continue creating a beautiful life together full of happiness, generosity, friends, family and hundreds and hundreds of more dip kisses and choreographed dances.

Venders: Venue: Talamore Country Club | DJ: East Coast Event Group | Videographer: East Coast Event Group |Cake: Ann’s Cake Pan |Caterer: Talamore Country Club |Bridesmaids Dress: David’s Bridal |Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse |Invitations: Kathleen Blass |Florist: Plaza Florists – Plaza Florists |Bridal Dress: Country Bride and Gent |Hair and Make up Artist: Daneene Jensen and Associates

Read More

There were three flags. One Brazilian, one Israeli and one Maryland flag. As dozens of Rachel and Binny’s friends stood behind the flag that best represented their connection with the newlyweds, I felt a rush of warmth and happiness flood through my body. “Ok everyone!” I said smiling as big as can be. “Look over here!” I waved and started clicking the shutter.

As soon as we finished taking the photos, the flags were whipped off to the dance floor. “BE MORE LIKE BALTIMORE, BE MORE LIKE BALTIMORE” was chanted as the Marylanders took turns dancing with the yellow and red flag we (Marylanders) are all so proud of. As Robert and I continued to smile and snap away, I couldn’t help but be amazed by the incredible community Rachel and Binny had created for themselves. It is pretty amazing to see. Friends from childhood, from the IDF and even school were all there. People flew in from thousands of miles away. One of Binny’s oldest friends even surprised him from America.

Seeing this community, these friends, celebrate as if it was their own wedding, speaks volumes.

Binny and Rachel are both incredible people. I have known Binny for way over a decade and I know for a fact that my life would be completely different without him. Binny has always had more charm in one finger than I have in all 5′ 0″ of me! Seeing him with the love of his life, the one woman who could make him this happy was a a huge honor. I could barely hold back sobs of joy as I watched them under the Chuppah looking over the water in Caesarea! As Binny made his promises to love and protect Rachel for the rest of their lives, my heart sighed.

The second the ceremony was over, everyone rushed to congratulate the bride and groom. There was so much love, so much joy and so much community that I know, Rachel and Binny will only have the best of lives together. I know that their future is going to be full of love, kindness and happiness!

Rachel and Binny’s wedding took place at the beautiful Caesar Yam in Caesarea, Israel. With the enchanting old stone all around us, the flowers from Queens Flowers every where and the delicious smell of Israeli food lingering as we danced the night away. It couldn’t have been a more loving and incredible night.

Thank you Binny and Rachel for including Robert and I in this magical day! We will forever have you in our hearts!

Read More

“There was something in the seriousness of Joel’s voice when he called me to tell me” The best man said as he pointed to the groom. ” I am going to ask Sam to marry me.” The room went completely silent. The best man looked at Joel. Joel looked at Sam. Sam smiled up at Joel and my heart melted entirely. Pure and unconditional love is the only way to describe it. The entire day was just filled with pure and unconditional love.

When I walked into the Maryland Science Center, the first thing I noticed was a veil on one of the dinosaurs in the lobby. Oh Sam, I thought as I smiled. The Science Center was the perfect venue for Sam and Joel to tie the knot. The rooftop tent ceremony was elegant and classic in every way. As Sam and her Dad, Ed, walked down the aisle, every guest was smiling their biggest smile. We laughed, cried and admired the view of the Baltimore Harbor while Sam and Joel shared their vows, made their promises and became husband and wife.

Sam and Joel are one hundred percent true to themselves in everything they do. It was evident in the way their friends and family spoke about them, the way they celebrated their commitment to one another and the way they loved each other with their entire hearts.

Sam and Joel are college sweethearts that matured together, grew together and adopted SOO many furry friends together. May 4, 2019 may have been the first day of their marriage, but they have been family from the very beginning. Sam and Joel have been best friends, and more importantly, partners through it all. It is obvious in every way that their life will continue to be fun, crazy and full of so much love.

Sam and Joel, my wish for you is to never stop loving each other in the fun, deep, pure and unconditional way you already do. Cheers!

Wedding Venders: Event Planner: Bella Momento | DJ: C & J Entertainment Agency | Venue and Caterer: Maryland Science Center | Brides Dress: Juliet’s Bridal | Bridesmaid Dresses: Jenny Yoo Julia Purchased at Nordstrom

Read More

“I don’t have shoes on and it’s freezing outside” one of the Rebecca’s Bridesmaid said as we walked over to the first-look.

“Do you want to go get some shoes?” I asked, concerned about her bare-feet…

“No!” she said, “I want to see this! I need to see this!”

And with that, the girl gang escorted Rebecca down the street to her first look. No complaining, not even a second thought. They just wanted to witness their beautiful bride see her handsome groom for the first time.

And that was just the way it was… all day : )

It was obvious from the minute I met Becca and Ben that they are deeply loved by everyone around them. Their wedding day was one for the books.  It was an incredible day to witness. The energy, love and excitement that was present in every moment of their wedding day at the Hilton, Philadelphia City Ave hotel made my heart smile on every level. The way the Wedding Party anticipated Becca and Ben’s every need assured me that they have one incredible chevra (group of friends).

Becca and Ben are the sweetest thing you can imagine and they fit together like milk and cookies. They just were meant to walk through life together hand in hand.  The way Becca and Ben smile at each other and the way they whisper back and forth to each other, makes me feel like they are in on this amazing secret, but it is only for the two of them.

Ben’s smile as he waited for Becca to tap him on the shoulder made my eyes water. The tears started falling down my face as soon as he turned around and saw his sweet, strong and stunning Becca. With the Wedding Party in the background cheering them on and the sun peaking through the clouds, it was the perfect moment.

Becca and Ben, you are two amazing individuals, your smiles light up the room, your laughter brings joy to everyone and your hearts are so full of love and kindness, you touch everyone around you. I wish for you to keep whispering to each other for the next 120 years! Your love is beautiful, don’t ever forget it!

          

 

Work With Yael

My mission is to not only craft images, but really celebrate the unique spirit of Jewish love. I'm here to honor our culture, capture the magic of your love, create family heirlooms for your future and do it all with a whole lot of heart and soul.