There’s no place like New York – and we love that today’s couple, Elizabeth, vice president at a bank, and Jordan, a commercial mortgage broker, made the most of the city when planning their fabulous big day.
Bride Elizabeth grew up in the city and wanted a quintessentially NYC wedding, brought out with fun details like Sex and the City-inspired signature cocktails. And then there’s the ceremony venue: Manhattan’s majestic Temple Emanu-El, which is not only a seriously stunning space but also has deep significance for Elizabeth and her family.
Elizabeth and Jordan turned to Smashing The Glass Recommended Vendor Sarah Merians for photography and videography, and, in their words, “She is the best of the best so we knew we were in great hands!” Have a look at their exquisite imagery and we’re pretty sure you’ll agree.
Now over to the bride, who looked so elegant in her Monique Lhuillier gown…
How We Met
Elizabeth, the bride: They met at a dinner on a cold winter night in NYC organized by Elizabeth’s college friend, who also happens to be Jordan’s cousin. They did not sit next to one another, although, Jordan noticed Elizabeth from the other side of the table and reached out to her after the dinner. Another group dinner was organized, until the two finally went on their first one on one date at Avra UES. At the dinner, Jordan, who was sitting across from Elizabeth asked if he could sit next to her, so mid dinner he moved his chair…the rest is history!
A Synagogue Wedding
Their ceremony was at Temple Emanu-El where Elizabeth’s parents got married, and where Elizabeth had her baby naming, bat-mitzvah, confirmation, etc. The reception was at a private club in Manhattan. Both venues have a sense of majesty, grandeur and beauty that felt fitting for such a special occasion.
Theme + Planner
The couple used Invision Events for their wedding planning and design. Growing up in NYC, the bride wanted a quintessential New York City wedding which was brought to life by the many different details of the wedding: the cigars, the sax, the signature drinks being SATC inspired Cosmos and Manhattans.
Invitation
Proper Notice did our invitations. We included the bet and hey on our envelope, which stands for B’ezrat Hashem. This phrase translates to “with the help of God” and suggests that God is approving of the marriage.
A Monique Lhuillier Dress
Elizabeth’s dress was from Monique Lhuillier and was a strapless, drop waist, ball gown. The dress was the perfect combination of dramatic, feminine and elegant.
Accessories
Simple veil. Prada heels. Pearls for the ceremony and diamond hanging earrings for the reception.
Bridesmaids
We had 13 bridesmaids who wore a mix of burgundys, reds, pinks.
Ceremony & Chuppah
The temple directed the couple with the chuppah design and brought in the temple florist. The whole ceremony was incredibly meaningful as Elizabeth and Jordan had been meeting regularly with their rabbi to learn about the significance of each part of the ceremony. At one point, the rabbi wrapped the couple in Jordan’s late grandfather’s tallit, which was a very special moment. The couple also crafted programs for the guests to follow along.
The couple ordered their ketubah from Israel, which was an intentional choice given they are both passionate Zionists and wanted to support a local artist especially post October 7th. The design was the Jerusalem Vineyards as both bride and groom have a deep connection to this holy city.
Our music choice
The couple used Hank Lane – Brooklyn Sound for the reception and hired a 12 person choir for the ceremony. Their first dance was ‘Can’t Help Falling In Love’ by Elvis Presley and their entrance song was ‘I wanna dance with somebody’ by Whitney Houston.
Flowers
Our event designer was Robert D’Alessandro of Invision Events who oversaw all floral arrangements.
Photographer and videographer
Sarah Merians oversaw all photography and videography. She is the best of the best so we knew we were in great hands!
Food and cake
Our venue did our catering and cake. The cake was 4 tiered with white butter cream on the outside and sugar flowers and the interior was dark chocolate with chocolate ganache filling. We had a fall wedding so served a pumpkin creme brulee for dessert as well!
Honeymoon
Mini moon: Turks and Caicos Honeymoon: South of France and Paris – still planning!
Advice to couples currently planning their wedding
Meet with your Rabbi throughout the process. Our conversations with our Rabbi, amidst stressful wedding planning, always brought us back down to earth and helped put things into perspective. It’s nice to remind yourself why you’re going through the whole process and makes the ceremony all the more meaningful and powerful.
ELIZABETH AND JORDAN’S LITTLE WHITE BOOK
Photography – Sarah Merians {offers 10% discount to all members of Smashing The Glass’s Brides Club}
Venue – Temple Emanu-El
Planner – Invision Events
Bride’s dress – Monique Lhuillier
Bride’s shoes – Prada
Hair + Makeup – Hair by Halli, Sandrine Van Slee
Flowers – Invision Events
Band – Hank Lane
Stationery/Invitation – Proper Notice
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.
