Planning a Jewish wedding in just six months might seem overwhelming, but with the right organization, it’s absolutely possible. Whether you’re incorporating Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, or modern Jewish traditions, this checklist will help you stay on track and ensure every important detail is covered. From choosing a rabbi to finalizing your ketubah, here’s your step-by-step guide to planning a meaningful and beautiful Jewish wedding in half a year.

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Month 1: Lay the Foundation

Set the Date and Secure Your Key Vendors

• Choose Your Wedding Date: Consider the days that are traditionally avoided for Jewish Weddings such as Shabbat, Jewish holidays, and other important dates (like the Omer for Orthodox Weddings).
• Book Your Venue: Make sure it accommodates Jewish customs such as kosher catering and a designated space for the chuppah, Tisch and Bedekin if you are planning on having all three.
• Hire a Rabbi or Officiant: Schedule a meeting to discuss ceremony details and any religious requirements.
• Secure Your Photographer and Videographer: Ensure they understand Jewish traditions and can capture all key moments.
• Book a Band or DJ: Confirm they can play traditional Jewish music for the hora and other important dances.
• Determine Your Budget: Outline costs and prioritize spending.
• Draft a Guest List: Start gathering addresses for invitations.

Begin Pre-Wedding Traditions

• Engagement Party: Plan a l’chaim or formal celebration if desired.
• Pre-Marital Counseling: Some rabbis require couples to attend sessions or Bride + Groom classes or Torah classes before the wedding.

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Month 2: Plan Your Ceremony & Attire

Finalize Jewish Wedding Rituals

• Select Your Ketubah: Choose a design and confirm the text with your officiant.
• Decide on Chuppah Design: Rent or create a meaningful canopy for your ceremony. If you are looking to include florals on your chuppah, your florist should already have the Chuppah foundation for you!
• Plan Your Bedeken & Tisch: If incorporating these traditions, coordinate with your rabbi and start discussing how you want your Tisch and Bedekin to come to life. Each couple has a different vision for this and no matter how you plan it, it will be extremely meaningful and special.
• Select Sheva Brachot Honorees: Choose loved ones to recite the seven blessings during the ceremony under the Chuppah and at the post-wedding sheva brachot. In some sects of Judaism, this is done by the Rabbi!
• Order Kippot: Personalize yarmulkes for guests if desired.

Choose and Order Wedding Attire

• Bride’s Dress and Accessories: Consider modesty preferences and if the Rabbi has any kind of restrictions, keep that in mind!
• Groom’s Attire: Ensure a well-fitted suit and consider a kittel if following Orthodox customs.
• Schedule Dress & Suit Fittings: Ensure plenty of time for alterations.

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Month 3: Invitations & Catering

Send Invitations & Manage RSVPs

• Design and Order Invitations: Include Hebrew text if desired.
• Create a Wedding Website: Share details about Jewish customs, schedule, and RSVP options.
• Book Hotel Blocks: Reserve accommodations for out-of-town guests.

Plan the Wedding Menu

• Choose Your Menu: Ensure they can provide the menu that works best for you and your wedding party.
• Plan the Bar: Select wine for the ceremony and celebratory drinks for the reception.
• Select the Wedding Cake and Desserts: Sometimes the best part of the meal!

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Month 4: Finalize Details

Confirm Vendors & Ceremony Plans

• Meet with Your Rabbi: Go over final ceremony details.
• Review Ketubah Text: Ensure accuracy and final approval from the officiant.
• Plan the Music List Coordinate with the band or DJ.
• Finalize Wedding Favors: Consider something that is unique and special to you as a couple.
• Schedule Hair & Makeup Trials: Find the perfect look for the big day.

Pre-Wedding Traditions

• Start considering the Mikvah Visit: Typically done a few days before the wedding but starting to research where and when is best for you and your personal experience is a good idea to consider a couple months before the wedding.
• Plan the Aufruf: If having an aliyah at synagogue, coordinate with the rabbi.

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Month 5: Final Preparations

Confirm Logistics

• Create a Wedding Day Timeline: Ensure everyone knows where they need to be.
• Assign Wedding Day Roles: Designate people for traditions like the Sheva Brachot (Seven Blessings), Ketubah signing and wearing your Jewelry when you are under the chuppah.
• Confirm Final Guest Count: Provide the number to your caterer and venue.

Get Ready for the Big Day

• Pack for Your Wedding Night & Honeymoon: If leaving right after the celebration.
• Pick Up Wedding Attire: Ensure all accessories and shoes are included. I always tell my couples to put all of your accessories and whatever details you want photographed at the beginning of the day in a box as you get them so you do not forget or misplace anything!
• Prepare a Wedding Day Emergency Kit: Include essentials like safety pins, tissues, and extra bobby pins.

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Month 6: Enjoy the Celebration

The Final Week

• Have Your Mikvah Visit: A significant spiritual preparation before marriage.
• Rehearse the Ceremony: Go over final details with your officiant and whomever else needs to know what is going on!
• Get Plenty of Rest: Enjoy this exciting and sacred moment in your life!

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A six-month timeline can be a little daunting at time, but with proper organization, you can create a beautiful and meaningful Jewish wedding. Focus on what matters most, celebrating your love and honoring Jewish traditions.A six-month timeline can be a little daunting at times, but with proper organization, you can create a beautiful and meaningful Jewish wedding. Focus on what matters most—celebrating your love, bringing together family and friends, and honoring Jewish traditions that have been passed down for generations. Every detail, from choosing the perfect chuppah to selecting who will recite the Sheva Brachot, contributes to making your wedding day a deeply personal and unforgettable experience.

Remember, while planning is important, the heart of a Jewish wedding is the sacred commitment you are making to each other. Embrace the process, and don’t stress over perfection—what truly matters is the joy, the love, and the memories you create together. Lean on your family, friends, and vendors who understand your vision and can help bring it to life.

If you’re looking for a photographer who not only captures the beauty of your wedding but also understands the significance of each Jewish tradition, I’d love to help. From the excitement of the Tisch to the emotional moment of the Bedeken, from the chuppah ceremony to the high-energy hora, I’ll be there to document it all with an eye for both artistry and authenticity. Let’s work together to create images that will tell the story of your wedding day for generations to come.

Need a photographer who understands Jewish wedding traditions? Let’s capture your special day! Contact me today to discuss your wedding photography needs.

Mazel tov and happy planning!

Being a Jewish photographer is more than just a profession for me, it is a calling, a privilege, and a deeply personal journey. Every time I witness a couple standing beneath the chuppah, a young child beaming with pride at their Bar or Bat Mitzvah, or a Jewish newborn cradled lovingly in their parents’ arms, I feel a profound connection to my heritage. These moments don’t just fill my camera with beautiful images; they fill my soul with pride, healing, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Why I Love Being a Jewish Photographer

Jewish traditions are rich with meaning, history, and emotion. From the ancient customs of our weddings to the powerful coming-of-age ceremonies of our children, every milestone is infused with something greater than just a celebration, it is a reaffirmation of our identity, resilience, and faith. To capture these moments as a Jewish photographer is not just about taking pictures; it is about preserving legacies, telling stories, and strengthening our collective memory.

When I photograph a Jewish wedding, I am not just capturing a union between two people, I am documenting centuries of tradition coming to life in a new way. The chuppah, a beautiful symbol of the home a couple will build together, holds so much weight in our culture. Every time I see a couple standing beneath it, surrounded by loved ones, I am reminded of the strength of Jewish families and the deep-rooted values that bind us together. The blessings, the breaking of the glass, and the joyous dancing that follows all reflect a love that is deeply intertwined with faith and history.

The Emotional Power of Jewish Milestones

It is not just weddings that make me proud to be a Jewish photographer, it is all of our meaningful milestones. Every time I photograph a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, I see the next generation stepping into their Jewish identity with pride. There is something incredibly moving about watching a 13-year-old stand before their family and friends, reading from the Torah, and embracing their place in our people’s story. I see the generations that came before them, the struggles and triumphs that brought them to this moment, and the bright future that lies ahead. Documenting these moments feels like an act of preservation, ensuring that their journey into Jewish adulthood is forever remembered.

And then there are moments like the birth of a Jewish child. The arrival of a newborn in our community is more than just the beginning of a new life; it is the continuation of a story that has endured for thousands of years. Photographing a baby’s bris or naming ceremony is one of the most profound experiences I have as a photographer. There is something so powerful, healing and hopeful about capturing a new generation, knowing that our traditions, faith, and identity will live on through them.

The Power of Family and Engagement Sessions

Family sessions and engagement sessions hold a special place in my heart as well. Whether it’s a young couple joyfully sharing their engagement story, or a family gathering together to celebrate their bond, these sessions give me the opportunity to photograph Jewish love in all its forms. There’s a beautiful intimacy in these moments—capturing the tenderness, laughter, and connection between family members or future spouses reminds me of the strength and beauty of our shared heritage.

Engagement sessions are a celebration of the future. It’s an honor to document a couple beginning their journey toward building their own family and future, with their Jewish faith and traditions at the center of that commitment. Similarly, family sessions are an opportunity to preserve the timeless connections between loved ones. From a family’s first celebration after the birth of a child to grandparents surrounded by grandchildren, these sessions remind me of how love, tradition, and faith continue to bind us all together.

How Photography Heals My Heart

As a Jewish photographer, every moment I capture is a small act of healing. We live in a world where being Jewish is sometimes met with challenges, where our traditions and identity can feel threatened, specially since October 7th. But every time I see a couple under the chuppah, every time I see a proud Bar or Bat Mitzvah standing tall, and every time I see a Jewish newborn cradled in love, it restores my faith in the beauty and resilience of our people. We are strong, we are hopeful, we never give up on our beliefs and ourselves. We support one another and even during some of the most painful moments, we are proud to be Jewish and we continue to hold on to the comfort and strength of our people.

Photography has the power to remind us who we are. It allows us to look back on the joyous moments and see the strength that carried us through. For me, every photo I capture is a celebration of Jewish life, love, and continuity. I take pride in knowing that my work is more than just images, it is a testament to the unbreakable spirit of our people.

The Importance of Preserving Jewish Stories

Our history is one of resilience, and every image I take is a way of ensuring that our customs and celebrations continue to be remembered and cherished. Weddings, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, newborn ceremonies, engagement sessions, and family portraits are not just personal milestones; they are communal victories, reminders that Jewish life continues to flourish despite any obstacles, despite all the hate and despite the hardships we go through as a people. There is a light beyond the hardship and it is all of us, continuing to honor and cherish our culture and community.

Being a Jewish photographer means that I am not just an observer, I am an active and proud participant in these sacred moments. I understand the weight of each tradition, the significance of every ritual, and the emotions behind each celebration. My goal is to capture not just what these moments look like but what they feel like, to preserve the warmth, the laughter, the tears of joy, and the overwhelming sense of belonging that comes with being part of the Jewish people.

Why I Am Proud to Be a Part of This Culture

At the heart of my work is immense gratitude. I am grateful to be a witness to so many powerful Jewish moments, to be entrusted with capturing them, and to be part of a community that values love, tradition, and connection. Every wedding, every Bar or Bat Mitzvah, every engagement, and every new life that I photograph strengthens my own Jewish identity. It reminds me that our traditions are not just relics of the past but living, breathing celebrations of who we are.

Photography is my way of giving back to my community. My goal is to ensure that the beauty of Jewish life is documented and cherished for future generations. Every time I pick up my camera, I do so with a deep sense of purpose, knowing that I am preserving not just memories, but the heart and soul of our people.

In a world that often challenges our identity, Jewish photography is my way of saying, “We are here. We are proud. And we will continue to celebrate our traditions, our milestones, and our love for generations to come.”

Mazel tov! You’re engaged! Now comes the fun (and sometimes overwhelming) part: planning your wedding. If you and your partner come from different Jewish backgrounds or are figuring out what kind of ceremony best represents your values, you might be wondering: What’s the difference between an Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Jewish wedding?

As a wedding photographer who has captured so many beautiful Jewish weddings, I’ve seen firsthand how these different traditions come to life. Whether you want a strictly traditional Orthodox ceremony, a meaningful balance of tradition and modernity in a Conservative wedding, or the personal, flexible approach of a Reform wedding, understanding the differences can help you plan a day that truly reflects your love story.

So, let’s break it down and find the right fit for you!

The Heart of a Jewish Wedding

Before we dive into the different traditions, let’s talk about what makes a Jewish wedding… well, Jewish!

No matter the denomination, Jewish weddings usually include:

• The Ketubah – The marriage contract outlining the couple’s commitments.
• The Chuppah – A wedding canopy symbolizing the couple’s new home.
• The Ring Exchange – The groom gives the bride a ring (and in some traditions, the bride gives one back).
• The Sheva Brachot (Seven Blessings) – Recited over wine, these blessings celebrate love, joy, and the creation of a new household.
• Breaking the Glass – A reminder of the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, ending the ceremony with a hearty “Mazel tov!”

While these elements remain consistent, how they are performed varies between Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform weddings.

Orthodox Weddings: Rooted in Tradition

If you’re having an Orthodox wedding, tradition is everything. Orthodox Jewish weddings are deeply connected to Halacha (Jewish law), which dictates how the ceremony is performed.

What Makes an Orthodox Wedding Unique?

1. It’s Not About the Venue

Contrary to what some might think, Orthodox weddings don’t have to be in a synagogue. Many couples opt for banquet halls, hotels, or even outdoor spaces—so long as the wedding follows Orthodox practices.

2. The Ketubah Signing (Where’s the Bride?)

Traditionally, the ketubah is signed by two witnesses before the ceremony at the groom’s tisch, while the bride is elsewhere. However, modern Orthodox couples are increasingly choosing to have the ketubah signed under the chuppah so that the bride can be part of the process.

3. The Sheva Brachot Are an Honor to Give

Unlike in some secular weddings where the couple recites vows to each other, the Sheva Brachot are not said by the couple themselves. Instead, different honored guests—often rabbis, family members, or close friends—recite these blessings.

5. Not Necessarily Officiated by a Rabbi

This surprises a lot of people, but an Orthodox wedding does not require a rabbi to officiate! As long as the ceremony follows Orthodox laws and customs, the wedding is valid.

6. The Hora? Of Course!

The reception is where things get wild. Expect high-energy dancing, a lively hora, and a truly joyous atmosphere as the couple is hoisted into the air on chairs, dancing in circles with their favorite people and sitting and laughing as friends and family do silly dances and share inside jokes with them during the shtick.

Conservative Weddings: Balancing Tradition and Modernity

If you’re looking for a wedding that honors Jewish tradition but allows for a little more flexibility, a Conservative ceremony might be your sweet spot. Conservative Judaism upholds Jewish law but allows for modern interpretations.

What Makes a Conservative Wedding Unique?

1. Mixed Seating Is Common

Unlike Orthodox weddings, men and women typically sit together during the ceremony and reception.

2. Ketubah Signing: Traditional, but Flexible

In many Conservative weddings, the ketubah signing still happens before the ceremony with both the bride and groom present, but some couples are embracing the trend of signing it under the chuppah!

3. The Bride’s Role Is More Involved in the Ceremony

The bride may take a more active role in speaking during the ceremony. Some Conservative weddings also include a mutual ring exchange, unlike in Orthodox ceremonies, where only the groom traditionally gives the ring.

4. Hebrew + English for Accessibility

Conservative weddings often use a mix of Hebrew and English, ensuring that all guests, regardless of their level of Jewish education, understand the prayers and blessings.

5. Music and Dancing? Absolutely!

Live music, a rocking hora, and lots of energy are still key elements of the celebration. Conservative weddings tend to be vibrant and joyful, with mixed dancing from the first song, until the last!

Reform Weddings: Personalized and Inclusive

If you’re looking for a ceremony that embraces Jewish heritage while allowing for personal touches and inclusivity, a Reform wedding might be the perfect fit. Reform Judaism emphasizes individual choice and modern interpretations of Jewish rituals.

What Makes a Reform Wedding Unique?

1. Equal Partnership in the Ceremony

In Reform weddings, both partners typically participate equally in the ceremony. The bride may say vows, exchange rings, and play an active role in every part of the ceremony.

2. A Ceremony That Reflects the Couple’s Values

Many Reform couples work with their rabbi to personalize their ceremony. Some include readings from poetry or literature, while others adapt the traditional blessings to make them more egalitarian.

3. The Venue? Anywhere Goes!

Reform weddings are the most flexible when it comes to location. Koshrut is not a concern here! From synagogues to beaches, gardens, and even art galleries, couples choose venues that reflect their personalities.

4. Breaking the Glass Together

While in traditional ceremonies, the groom is the one to break the glass, in Reform weddings, some couples choose to smash the glass together as a symbol of equality.

Which Jewish Wedding Is Right for You?

Choosing between an Orthodox, Conservative, or Reform wedding isn’t about “right” or “wrong”it’s about what resonates with you as a couple.

• If you want a deeply traditional experience rooted in Jewish law, Orthodox may be the way to go.
• If you’re looking for a balance between tradition and modernity, Conservative is a great middle ground.
• If you value inclusivity, flexibility, and personalization, Reform might be the best fit.

No matter which path you take, your wedding should be a beautiful, meaningful reflection of your love, your faith, and your future together.

Mazel tov on your engagement, and happy wedding planning!

A Jewish wedding is a day filled with beautiful traditions, heartfelt moments, and joyous celebrations. Capturing every aspect of this special occasion requires a well-structured timeline to ensure no moment is missed. Below is a detailed wedding photography timeline that helps keep everything organized while allowing time for the couple to be present with the people that matter the most.

Wedding Photography Timeline

11:30 – 12:15 | Bride’s Details & Final Touches

• Main Photographer Photographs Bride’s Details
  Make sure to have all your bridal details together in one spot (i.e. all three rings, shoes, invitation suite, jewelry, perfume, veil, etc.). These details set the tone for the day and are an important part of telling your wedding story.
• Associate Photographer Captures Final Touches of Hair & Makeup
  The final moments of hair and makeup application are perfect for capturing the bride’s anticipation and excitement as the day officially begins!

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12:15 – 1:00 | Bride & Groom Prep

• Main Photographer Photographs the Bride Getting Into Her Dress
  This is when it starts getting REAL. The emotions, the nerves, the excitement—it all comes together as the bride steps into her wedding gown.
• Associate Photographer Captures Groom Getting Ready
  Tying ties, buttoning jackets, and adjusting cufflinks—this is a great opportunity to capture candid and refined portraits of the groom and his groomsmen.

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1:00 – 1:15 | Bridal & Groom Solo Portraits

• Main Photographer Captures the Bride’s Solo Portraits
  These timeless images showcase the bride in all her beauty before she walks down the aisle.
• Associate Photographer Captures the Groom’s Solo Portraits
  Strong and dapper, these portraits highlight the groom’s excitement and confidence before seeing his bride.

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1:15 – 1:30 | Walk to the First Look

• A quiet moment before the couple sees each other for the first time. This short walk allows anticipation to build, making the first look even more special.

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1:30 – 1:45 | First Look

• One of my favorite moments of the day!! Such a beautiful and intimate moment, filled with such emotion as the couple sees each other for the first time.

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1:45 – 2:15 | Couple Portraits

• Romantic, joyful, and full of love—these portraits capture the couple’s excitement and happiness before the ceremony begins.

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2:15 – 2:30 | Bride with Bridesmaids

• These shots capture the bride with her closest friends and family, celebrating this once-in-a-lifetime moment.

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2:30 – 2:45 | Full Bridal Party Portraits

• Lively, elegant, and full of energy—this is where the entire bridal party comes together for fun and classic group shots.

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2:45 – 3:00 | Groom with Groomsmen

• These portraits highlight the friendship and joy of the groom with his best friends and family members.

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3:00 – 3:30 | Family Formals

• Capturing family members in various groupings ensures everyone gets their moment in front of the camera. These images will be cherished for generations to come.

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3:30 – 4:00 | Couple’s Break & Venue Details

• Bride & Groom Hide, Rest & Retouch
  A much-needed moment of calm before the ceremony.
• Main Photographer & Associate Capture Ceremony and Reception Decor
  The chuppah, floral arrangements, table settings, and personalized details deserve their moment in the spotlight too!

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4:00 – 5:00 | Tisch & Bedeken

• The Tisch (groom’s gathering) and Bedeken (veiling ceremony) are essential parts of a Jewish wedding. These emotional and meaningful traditions set the spiritual tone for the ceremony.

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5:00 – 5:45 | Wedding Ceremony

• The moment we’ve all been waiting for! The chuppah, vows, blessings, and the breaking of the glass—it all comes together in this sacred moment.

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5:45 – 6:05 | Yichud Room

• The couple’s first private moments together as husband and wife. A truly special time to capture love, joy, and excitement.

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6:15 – 6:30 | Grand Entrance

• The energy is high, and the celebration officially begins as the couple makes their way into the reception!

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6:30 – 8:00 | Reception & Dancing

• From the hora to heartfelt speeches, every moment is filled with emotion, love, and joy. Our goal is to capture all of the laughter, excitement, and energy as the celebration unfolds.

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8:00 – 8:10 | Sunset Portraits

• Golden hour is the perfect time for intimate husband-and-wife portraits. With the sun setting behind them, these images have a soft, romantic glow.

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8:10 – 10pm | Reception & Final Moments

• Dancing, cake cutting, and celebrating into the night—our team stays until we’ve captured every incredible moment of the evening.

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A well-planned timeline ensures that no special moment is missed and that the couple can truly enjoy their day without feeling rushed. Every Jewish wedding is unique, and this schedule can be adjusted to fit specific traditions and preferences. The key is to leave enough room for spontaneity and joy while still keeping the day structured and smooth.

At Yael Pachino Photography, we specialize in capturing the beauty and traditions of Jewish weddings, ensuring that every memory is preserved with love and artistry. If you’re planning your wedding, we’d love to be part of your day! Reach out to us to discuss your vision and how we can make it come to life through stunning photography.

Mazel tov and happy planning!

Planning a Jewish wedding can be one of the most meaningful experiences and also one of the most overwhelming places.

As someone who has captured countless Jewish weddings, I know how vital it is to find a photographer who truly understands your vision and the traditions that make your day unique.

Your photographer will be the one preserving your cherished rituals and heartfelt moments.

To help you find the perfect match, here are ten essential questions to guide your conversations with potential photographers

1. Do you have experience photographing Jewish weddings?

Jewish weddings have unique customs and traditions, so it’s important to work with someone familiar with them. From the breaking of the glass to the chuppah ceremony, experience ensures nothing gets missed.

Personally, I always make sure to talk to the officiant or Rabbi before the ceremony begins to make sure I know exactly what to expect.

Two questions I always ask: (1) Which direction will the bride and groom stand during the ceremony? and (2) where will the Rabbi place the glass on the floor before the smashing of the glass!

Both of those questions, change my game plan for how I photograph the ceremony!

2. Are you familiar with specific Jewish rituals and traditions, such as the chuppah, ketubah signing, Tisch + Bedekin, Shtick or horah?

These moments are central to your celebration. A photographer with knowledge of these rituals will know when and how to capture them with sensitivity and precision.

There are specific traditions you can explain to someone until they are blue in the face, but if they haven’t experienced it before, they won’t truly understand what to expect and how to photograph it!

3. Can you accommodate the timeline of a traditional Jewish wedding day?

Jewish weddings often involve extended celebrations, and more traditions and rituals than most secular weddings. Ensure your photographer is comfortable working with a more flexible and potentially longer timeline.

For most secular weddings, I suggest at least 8 hours of coverage, but for Jewish Weddings, I suggest at least 9 or 10 hours, depending on how many traditions the couple is planning on!

4. How do you ensure privacy and respect during religious moments?

Key religious moments, such as what happens under the chuppah and during the veiling of the bride, require a photographer who understands the importance of being unobtrusive while still capturing the beauty of the moment.

I always say, I will be under the chuppah for part of your ceremony with you, but I will be as quiet and as quick as a ninja so I can be the least disruptive as possible. I will never get in the way of the other people under the chuppah, but I will always be there to capture the special moments!

5. How do you handle unexpected challenges on the wedding day?

An experienced photographer is prepared for anything from sudden weather changes to tight timelines, ensuring your day goes smoothly and your photos turn out beautifully no matter the circumstances.

I always say that as a wedding photographer, you have to embrace the chaos and learn how to go with the flow… You can plan every moment to a T, but at the end of the day, 95% of wedding timelines run late or need to be adjusted in the moment and as the photographer you just got to roll with it, be confident and make sure your clients are as calm and as in the moment as possible!

6. Do you offer a second photographer?

I highly recommend two photographers for any Jewish wedding and even more so if you are planning on having a Tisch and Bedekin at your wedding!With so much happening simultaneously, having two photographers ensures every special moment is beautifully captured.

Many couples ask me if they should have three photographers, and I always say that if you are having less than 400 people at your wedding, two photographers is plenty! I find three photographers a little overwhelming for the couple, their family and their guests. We are there to enhance everyones experience and not overwhelm it!

7. How do you approach family portraits?

Jewish weddings often include large and extended families. Your photographer should have a clear plan to efficiently organize and capture these important portraits.

I believe there is really only one way to make sure my couples get all the family combinations they (and their parents) could possibly want… and it is being bossy in the nicest way possible!

I ask my clients to write out a list of all the different family combinations they want so I can print the list, call them out and check them off as we go.

My goal is to go as quickly and as painless as possible when it comes to the family photos.

8. What backup equipment and plans do you have?

A reliable photographer should have backup cameras, lenses, and a contingency plan to ensure no technical issues disrupt their ability to capture your day.

I always bring three cameras, just in case, and I make sure every single photo I capture are recorded to two memory cards, just in case one is defective.

9. Can you share examples of full wedding galleries?

While highlight reels and Instagram posts are great, seeing complete galleries will give you a better sense of their style, consistency, and how they capture an entire event.

Social media is full of the best of the best, galleries are full of every single moment of a wedding day captured. It is a completely different viewing experience and I personally, like the full gallery experience better! Makes it all more real!

10. How do you incorporate cultural or personal details into the photos?

Jewish weddings are rich in tradition and meaning. Ask your photographer how they’ll highlight these elements, from embroidered tallitot to family heirlooms.

As someone who has stood under the chuppah at her own wedding and is now a proud, Jewish mama, I understand the importance of our culture and rituals in a deep way that makes me photograph those details with so much love and honor.

Choosing the right photographer ensures the memories of your Jewish wedding are beautifully preserved. These questions will help you find someone who aligns with your vision, values, and the traditions that make your celebration unique. Take the time to have open conversations with potential photographers, and don’t be afraid to trust your instincts.

Mazel tov on this exciting chapter of your life! Your perfect photographer is out there, ready to capture every meaningful moment.

“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

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“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!