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A Galia Lahav Bride for a Magical Forest-Inspired Wedding at The Estate at Florentine Gardens, River Vale, New Jersey, USA

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Sydney-and-Chaim-The-Estate-at-Florentine-Gardens-River-Vale-New-Jersey-USA

When Sydney, a software engineer, and Chaim, a finance associate, began planning their dream wedding, they knew they wanted something magical, elegant, and undeniably “them.” The moment they stepped into The Estate at Florentine Gardens in River Vale, New Jersey, they were completely smitten. The ceremony space—with its high ceilings, grand windows, and stunning European-inspired architecture—was love at first sight.

Their color palette of lush greens and regal purples set the tone for a forest-inspired fairytale, brought to life with an abundance of greenery and whimsical florals. Their stunning chuppah was the epitome of woodland romance, featuring four majestic trees as its base, accented with pops of vibrant purple flowers.

Sydney absolutely wowed in a masterpiece from Israeli designer Galia Lahav—a gown that struck the perfect balance between timeless elegance and modern drama. From its intricate detailing to the striking drop-waist silhouette, it was everything she’d dreamed of and more.

The couple knew the importance of capturing every magical moment, so they turned to Smashing The Glass Recommended VendorAlex Knight Studio for photography. From the calming presence of the team on a busy day to their incredible attention to detail, every photo—candid and posed alike—turned out breathtaking.

This is one wedding you don’t want to miss—scroll on for all the stunning details, from the enchanting ceremony to the joy-filled reception!

 Sydney-and-Chaim-The-Estate-at-Florentine-Gardens-River-Vale-New-Jersey-USA Sydney-and-Chaim-The-Estate-at-Florentine-Gardens-River-Vale-New-Jersey-USASydney-and-Chaim-The-Estate-at-Florentine-Gardens-River-Vale-New-Jersey-USA Sydney-and-Chaim-The-Estate-at-Florentine-Gardens-River-Vale-New-Jersey-USA
How We Met

Sydney, the bride: We were set up through a mutual friend. One evening, my sister convinced me to join her and her friends for a night of bowling. A friend asked if I was looking to meet someone and if so what was I looking for. I said: tall, nice and family oriented. The friend said you must meet my roommate, Chaim: tall, nice and one of eight kids-how much more family oriented can you get! We met and a year and a half later, Chaim proposed in Paris.Continue ReadingContinue Reading

A Joyous Same-Sex Jewish Wedding at Shenley Cricket Club, Hertfordshire, UK

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Chris and Benji, Shenley Cricket Club, London, UK

The Jewish wedding of Benji, an agent for photographers and directors, and Chris, a creative director and writer, was  one for the books. Featuring an outdoor chuppah, soulful music by Smashing The Glass Recommended Vendor Shir, an “Outdo the Grooms” dress code, and even a drag queen, this was truly an epic celebration.

The chuppah was incredibly moving, and between hearing the couple’s rabbi speak about the significance of performing his first-ever same sex chuppah to the very special Sheva Brachot, all read in English translation by dear friends of the grooms who are also all gay Jewish men, there was hardly a dry eye in the house.

As a photography agent, Benji knew only the best of the best would do when it came to capturing the big day – and he and Chris ended up choosing Smashing The Glass Recommended Vendor Liam Smith for his candid shots and unique eye.

Read on for the full story in the grooms’ own words…

Chris and Benji, Shenley Cricket Club, London, UKChris and Benji, Shenley Cricket Club, London, UK Chris and Benji, Shenley Cricket Club, London, UKChris and Benji, Shenley Cricket Club, London, UK
How We Met

Chris and Benji, the grooms: We met on JSwipe! After Chris made the move from Cape Town, South Africa, to London in December 2020, he immediately opened JSwipe once his plane landed at Heathrow. Who was the very first Nice Jewish Boy in his feed that superliked him (You get one superlike free on JSwipe I think a year?)? Benji!

Chris swiped right and they began chatting while Chris waited out his isolation period (Covid romances… *sigh*). Their first date was during lockdown, so they walked around Little Venice in London and (24 000 steps later, according to Chris’ Apple Watch, in the early-January snow) the rest is history.Continue ReadingContinue Reading

Why Crystal Springs Resort Is the Perfect Spot for Your New York Metro Jewish Wedding Weekend

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Photo by Uri Arnson Wedding Photography 

If you’re dreaming of a New York-area wedding weekend that combines the charm of the countryside with all the luxury and sophistication you could ask for, we’ve got just the place for you: Crystal Springs Resort. Nestled in New Jersey’s Sussex County, just an hour from New York City, this incredible destination offers the ideal setting for a Jewish wedding weekend filled with unforgettable moments.

Photo by Fred Marcus Studio

The Resort offers a variety of different venues that can accommodate large parties, with spaces to suit the Jewish wedding of your dreams and accommodate each part of your special day.

Each season at Crystal Springs Resort has its own special attractions. In spring and summer, enjoy the rural landscape and relaxed pace that make a country escape enticing. If you love the bright colors of fall, get ready for a spectacular panorama as the mountains shimmer with gorgeous red and gold leaves. In winter, you and your guests can add some excitement to your stay with nearby skiing, snowboarding or snow tubing.

Photo by Tom Haas

Your Wedding Weekend, Your Way

Kick off the festivities with a welcome reception and set the tone for an amazing and unforgettable gathering, and spend a day before the wedding bonding with your nearest and dearest over rounds of golf, spa days, invigorating outdoor adventures, or simply enjoying the resort’s breathtaking mountain views.

Photo by Fred Marcus Studio

Then, celebrate your nuptials with breathtaking sunsets and mountain views, followed by an unparalleled cocktail hour and extraordinary reception.

Photo by Anthony Ziccardi Studios

Keep the celebration going with an over-the-top after party and exceptional brunch to round out your most memorable weekend ever. At Crystal Springs Resort, your celebration is more than a wedding—it’s a weekend-long love story, shared with those who matter most.

Photo by Custom by Nicole 

A Venue as Unique as Your Vision

Crystal Springs Resort boasts four exceptional properties, each with a variety of spaces to suit your specific style, guest count, and budget. Whether you envision a grand ballroom affair or a rustic outdoor celebration, you’ll find the perfect venue here.

Photo by Fred Marcus Studio

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A Classically Elegant Seaside Jewish Wedding at 5.91 in Netanya, Israel

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Hilit and Alon, 5.91, Netanya, Israel

We love an Israeli wedding, and Hilit and Alon’s does not disappoint! Israeli couple Hilit, a product manager, and Alon, a software engineer, had the most stunning celebration at 5.91 in Netanya, a gorgeous venue by the sea with breathtaking views and a dance floor big enough for their crowd of guests.

Planning a wedding with personal touches was a priority for Alon and Hilit, and they incorporated lots thoughtful details that made the day truly “them,” from owl-themed magnets (a nod to their army days when they first met) to creative guest activities like filling in cards with date ideas for the couple!

Mega-talented photographer and Smashing The Glass Recommended Vendor Jossef Si captured the wedding so perfectly. Each one of his images is a true work of art, and Hilit and Alon can’t stop raving about how comfortable Jossef made them feel – all while getting the kinds of glam shots that look like they came straight out of a movie!

Read on for the full story in Hilit’s own words…

Hilit and Alon, 5.91, Netanya, IsraelHilit and Alon, 5.91, Netanya, IsraelHilit and Alon, 5.91, Netanya, IsraelHilit and Alon, 5.91, Netanya, Israel
How We Met

Hilit, the bride: We met during our service in the military, Alon came to Hilit’s course for a training session, and later on we served in the same base. We were good friends at first until Hilit made the first move and Alon took it from there.Continue ReadingContinue Reading

Get Ready for London’s Dreamiest Hanukkah Pop-up

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This is a guest post by Danya Kay, founder of Contemporary Judaica – my very favourite source for stylish, modern Judaica in the UK. 

This year has whizzed by, and the recent cold spell has ensured the winter festivities of spreading joy and light feel more real now, and on top of that, because Hanukkah is so much later this year, the build-up is even more exciting.

Find Jonathan Adler at Contemporary Judaica 

It’s a cosy feeling of colour, family and smells of fried latkes, but also, we can’t help but think of those unable to enjoy it with us—we can’t forget and for that reason the importance of spreading even more joy and light at this time, is more significant than ever.

Find Chewdaica at Contemporary Judaica 

At Contemporary Judaica, we’re thrilled to do our part by reopening the doors of our Hanukkah pop-up this December 10—15 in the charming village of Hampstead. Nestled between Roni’s Bakery and Ottolenghi, and just moments from Hampstead Heath, our pop-up shop will once again showcase an exquisite selection of Judaica from talented artists around the globe.

Arch Chanukiah by Steven Bronstein

A Celebration of Style and Tradition

Our pop-up shop offers a unique opportunity to browse our curated collection of functional yet beautiful Judaica designed to be cherished all year round—not just during the holidays—featuring designers like Jonathan Adler, Michael Aram, Tchotchke, L’Objet, and more. 

Chai Necklace in Silver by Shlomit Ofir

This is our third year of popping up in Hampstead—times have changed and, from a personal standpoint, the way artists, customers, friends, and acquaintances have rallied together to stand up, support one another and connect with their Judaism more deeply than ever is the most wonderful and positive feeling to be had in 15 years of running Contemporary Judaica.

Rova Chanukiah by L’Objet

It feels more like being part of an extended family—making connections and spreading joy through the process of selecting beautiful Judaica and seeing the Jewish joy it brings.  Whether you’re treating yourself, selecting a meaningful gift for a loved one, or honoring a significant milestone—like choosing a tallit for your child or transforming a smashed chuppah glass into a treasured keepsake—each piece tells a story of joy and connection.

Heart Dreidal by Michael Aram

The unique experience of the pop-ups to date has been special–friends randomly meeting, people popping by and stories told.  Come and see for yourself!

‘Ripples’ Marbles Concrete Chanukiah by Logifaces

If you’re thinking of creating a bespoke online Judaica Wedding List [note from Karen: I highly recommend doing this to ensure the Judaica gifts you receive match your taste and style!], this is a great opportunity to pick your favourite pieces out in person!

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