Who could use some extra Jewish joy right about now? We certainly could – and that’s why we’re bringing you the beautiful London Jewish wedding of Ella and Josh. The bride and groom, both business owners, brought SO much love and emotion to their big day, and we hope you’ll feel as inspired as we do by their ultra-moving photos by Robert Shack and video by Andrei Weddings.
The Biltmore in London was the perfect setting for Ella and Josh’s timeless and traditional Jewish wedding, and their classic décor, filled with white florals and abundant greenery, complemented the space so exquisitely – as did Ella’s gorgeous modern gown by Caroline Castigliano.
Music is such a big part of the atmosphere at a Jewish wedding, and Ella and Josh couldn’t be more thrilled with their choice of Smashing The Glass Recommended Vendor Matzoh Boys. In Ella’s words, “They were fantastic! The atmosphere was just the best – they really brought the London and Manchester crowd together. We loved their Israeli music sets especially and the chuppah was beautiful.”
Read on for all the details of this very special day in the bride’s own words…
How We Met
Ella, the bride: We met through mutual friends – I was living in Birmingham and Josh was in Manchester.
A Traditional British Wedding
We got married at The Biltmore – we chose this venue as we wanted a traditional British wedding and the location was perfect for that – I’m also from London, so thats why we had it there. It’s also a beautiful hotel and the staff were lovely.
Theme and Planner
We used Marc Sharer as a caterer and planner – he really helped to pull the day together and make it special. We didn’t have a particular theme – I just wanted quite a classic wedding with beautiful flowers and greenery, something that was timeless.
Hair + Makeup
The best of the best – Hair by Montre and Natasha de Cazalet
A Caroline Castigliano Dress
Caroline Castigliano was the designer – the fit and fabric was just beautiful. I felt the best version of myself in my dress and thats all I wanted. Never thought I would go for a fitted dress, but I’m so glad I did!
Ceremony & Chuppah
We had an amazing rabbi, who made the ceremony so personal to us. We have a close relationship with him anyway. We also had the chairs places around the chuppah which helped to make it more intimate. Our chuppah was designed by Liz at Funky Flowers.
Our music choice
We used the Matzoh Boys – they were fantastic! The atmosphere was just the best – they really brought the London and Manchester crowd together. We loved their Israeli music sets especially and the chuppah was beautiful.
Flowers
We used Liz from Funky Flowers – she was fabulous and really brought my vision to life. I wanted my flowers to be elegant and timeless and she really made it happen and I’m so pleased with the outcome.
Photographer and videographer
Robert Shack was our photographer and Andrei was our videographer. Both have a timeless way of capturing weddings and that’s why we chose them. Robert really understood my vision as a bride, just by seeing my dress, hair, makeup and flowers – I love my photos!
Advice to couples currently planning their wedding
I turned off my phone the night before – that was super helpful and helped me stay present on the day. I also would advise other brides to try not follow trends and stick to what suits you ad your taste – you want to feel like yourself on your wedding day.
ELLA & JOSH’S LITTLE WHITE BOOK
Photography – Robert Shack
Videography – Andrei
Chazan + Band – Matzoh Boys {offers 10% discount to all members of Smashing The Glass’s Brides Club}
Venue – The Biltmore
Planner – Katy Cresner Events
Toastmaster – JP Toastmaster
Bride’s dress – Caroline Castigliano
Hair + Makeup – Hair by Montre, Natasha de Cazalet
Flowers – Funky Flowers
Catering + Planning – Marc Sharer
Smash The Glass Pouch – Smashing The Glass Etsy Shop {or join Smashing The Glass’s Brides Club and get one for free!}
If you’re a Jewish or Jew-ish bride-to-be, you’ll want to join Smashing The Glass’ Brides Club. Guided by the world’s number 1 Jewish wedding expert, Karen Cinnamon, Brides Club is the private community for Jewish and Jew-ish brides that removes wedstress and indecision and gives you what you need to plan with confidence during these uncertain times. Join our Brides Club here.
