• About
  • Find a Vendor
  • Submit
  • Advertise
  • Brides Club
  • Your Jewish Life
  • Contact

Smashing the Glass | Jewish Wedding Blog

Inspired Jewish Weddings

  • Real Jewish Weddings
    • City Chic
    • Fashion Forward
    • Outdoor
    • Destination
      • Israel
      • Italy
      • Spain
      • France
      • Beach Weddings
    • Super Luxe
    • Budget
    • DIY
    • Same Sex
  • Jew-ish Weddings
    • Real Jew-ish Weddings
    • Jewish-Catholic Weddings
    • Jewish-Chinese Weddings
    • Jewish-Christian Weddings
    • Jewish-Greek Weddings
    • Jewish-Hindu Weddings
    • Jewish-Humanist Weddings
    • Jewish-Irish Weddings
    • Jewish Japanese Weddings
    • Jewish-Muslim Weddings
    • Same Sex Jew-ish Weddings
  • Inspiration + Guidance
    • Engaged? Start Here
    • Ceremony
      • Chuppah ideas
      • Jewish ceremony music
      • Jewish wedding ceremony 101
      • Jewish ceremony traditions
      • Ketubah Ideas
      • Jewish wedding legalities
      • Jew-ish ceremony ideas
    • Reception
      • Music
      • Speeches
      • Entertainment
      • Venues
    • Food & Drink
      • Kosher catering
      • Wedding cakes
      • Drinks
    • Decor
      • Decorations
      • Favours
      • Floristry
      • Guestbooks
      • Stationery
    • Style
      • Brides dresses
      • Shoes & accessories
      • Grooms
      • Bridesmaids
    • Advice
      • Converting to Judaism
      • Real blogging brides
      • Dear Karen…
    • Honeymoons
    • STG Live
    • Five Minutes With
    • Wedding Must-Haves
    • Wedding Consultancy
  • Jewish Brides Club
  • Find a Wedding Vendor

5 of Our Favorites: Real Jewish Weddings Featuring the Most Stunning Galia Lahav Gowns

18/07/2025 by Karen Cinnamon

Daniella and Adam‘s Jewish Wedding | Photo by Paulo Santos

Welcome back to “5 of Our Favorites,” where we highlight five stunning Jewish weddings each week, all centered around a special theme. This week, we’re focusing on some of the most jaw-droppingly glamorous gowns ever to grace the pages of STG, all by beloved Israeli bridal designer and Smashing The Glass Recommended Vendor Galia Lahav.

Galia Lahav is a proudly female-founded brand with deep Jewish and Israeli roots, and they’re known for creating some of the most exquisite, fashion-forward wedding gowns out there. And we absolutely adore the fact that each and every one of their gowns is handcrafted in Israel. 

In this post, we’re showcasing real Jewish weddings featuring Galia Lahav brides who wore these masterpieces, ads. Get ready to be inspired by these gorgeous gowns and the unforgettable moments they helped create!

Daniella and Adam‘s Jewish Wedding | Photo by Paulo Santos

A Galia Lahav Bride for a Relaxed Jewish Wedding with Party Vibes at the Wallace Collection, London, UK

We love that when Daniella and Adam set out to plan their Jewish wedding, their top priority was for it to feel relaxed, like a big party. And with the help of their amazing wedding planner, Smashing The Glass Recommended Vendor Elegante by Michelle J, the couple were able to make their big day at London’s Wallace Collection feel like exactly that!

Daniella and Adam‘s Jewish Wedding | Photo by Paulo Santos

And did we mention Daniella’s Galia Lahav gown yet? In Daniella’s own words,

Planning on getting married in Israel I went straight to Galia Lahav in Tel Aviv back in Oct 2019 with my bridesmaids a few months after Adam and I got engaged, I had always loved her dresses and didn’t even consider going to look anywhere else first.  The dress I chose ended up being one I had actually picked out before my first appointment!  I loved the flower detailing on the body, the open back and the flowy sheer skirt.

Daniella and Adam‘s Jewish Wedding | Photo by Paulo Santos

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

Sydney and Chaim‘s Jewish Wedding | Photo by Alex Knight Studio 

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

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

Sydney and Chaim‘s Jewish Wedding | Photo by Alex Knight Studio 

Sydney absolutely wowed in a masterpiece from Israeli designer and Smashing The Glass Recommended Vendor 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. In the bride’s own words,

From the drop waist to the intricate pattern, everything about it felt so unique and special. I didn’t want to take it off when I tried it on, which was the moment I knew it was the one. It was just so beautifully crafted and had the perfect balance of elegance and drama—exactly what I was looking for! 

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

Sydney and Chaim‘s Jewish Wedding | Photo by Alex Knight Studio 

The couple knew the importance of capturing every magical moment, so they turned to Smashing The Glass Recommended Vendor Alex 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.

Continue ReadingContinue Reading

Share this post:

  • Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook
  • Share on X (Opens in new window) X
  • Share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit
  • Share on Threads (Opens in new window) Threads
  • Share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest

5 of Our Favorites: Chicago Jewish Weddings Guaranteed to Wow

11/07/2025 by Karen Cinnamon

Jewish-wedding-The-Shapiro-Ballroom-in-Chicago-IL-USA

Leah and Scott‘s Chicago Jewish Wedding | Photo by Jamie & Eric Photography

Welcome back to “5 of Our Favorites,” where we highlight five stunning Jewish weddings each week, all centered around a special theme. This week, we’re heading to the Windy City to showcase some seriously awesome Chicago Jewish weddings. 

Chicago is a city that effortlessly blends history, innovation, and style, making it the perfect backdrop for truly unforgettable Jewish weddings. From chic urban venues with stunning skyline views to elegant ballrooms and secluded gardens, Chicago offers endless possibilities for creating a truly smashing Jewish wedding.

We can’t wait to share these stunning Chicago celebrations with you and offer some fabulous ideas for your own big day!

Ranana-and-Binyamin-Chicago-History-Museum-Chicago-USA

Ranana and Binyamin‘s Chicago Jewish Wedding | Photo by Eliana Melmed Photography 

Ranana and Binyamin’s Egalitarian Orthodox Jewish Wedding Filled with Personal Touches at the Chicago History Museum, Chicago, Illinois

We just love it when a couple really makes their Jewish wedding their own – and that’s exactly what Chicagoans Ranana and Binyamin did.

Ranana-and-Binyamin-Chicago-History-Museum-Chicago-USA

Ranana and Binyamin‘s Chicago Jewish Wedding | Photo by Eliana Melmed Photography 

They chose the Chicago History Museum as their venue, in honor of their shared love of  art and history, and artistic bride Ranana designed the invitations herself – taking inspiration from the Frank Lloyd Wright window in the room where the chuppah took place. She also did her own ketubah art, featuring night and day water scenes inspired by Chicago’s Lake Michigan.

Ranana-and-Binyamin-Chicago-History-Museum-Chicago-USA

Ranana and Binyamin‘s Chicago Jewish Wedding | Photo by Eliana Melmed Photography 

The couple’s photographer, the spectacular Smashing The Glass Recommended Vendor Eliana Melmed Photography, captured the day so perfectly. In Ranana’s words,

We knew Eliana from our synagogue community and when we met with her about our wedding we knew we wanted to hire her because she was someone we could imagine spending hours with on the day of our wedding, having fun. Also we knew she would 100% understand what was going on in our very traditional, very feminist Jewish wedding, which was not something we could take for granted with our other (mostly non-Jewish) vendors. Not to mention her photography is beautiful – colorful, joyous, true to life. She was the best! (Ranana’s dad is still raving about how well she handled our big family during the torrential downpour that happened the day of our wedding.) 

 


Leah and Scott‘s Chicago Jewish Wedding | Photo by Jamie & Eric Photography

Leah and Scott’s Windy City-Themed Jewish Wedding at The Shapiro Ballroom, Chicago Illinois

The beautiful Jewish wedding of STG Brides Club member Leah to Scott might just feature the coolest venue story we’ve EVER heard.

Leah and Scott‘s Chicago Jewish Wedding | Photo by Jamie & Eric Photography

You see, back in the ‘60s, Leah’s grandfather owned a movie theater in Chicago, The Alvin – it’s such a big part of the bride’s family’s story that her father was even named Alvin in its honor! After many years of abandonment, just a few years ago the theater was finally renovated and turned into… wait for it… a wedding venue, The Shapiro Ballroom! What more perfect place for these two to wed – especially given that they themed their big day around their love for their home city of Chicago?

Leah and Scott‘s Chicago Jewish Wedding | Photo by Jamie & Eric Photography

Leah and Scott chose their favorite landmarks for photos, including The Chicago Theater, The Bean, & The Art Institute. All of their table numbers were different Chicago landmarks and their guest book was a Chicago Wooden Flag to hang in their home.

Continue ReadingContinue Reading

Share this post:

  • Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook
  • Share on X (Opens in new window) X
  • Share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit
  • Share on Threads (Opens in new window) Threads
  • Share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest

A Suzanne Neville Bride for a Timelessly Classic Jewish Wedding in Tuscany at Villa Oliva, Lucca, Italy

07/07/2025 by Karen Cinnamon

Katie and Jamie, Villa Oliva, Lucca, Italy

There’s nothing like a Tuscan wedding – between the gorgeous scenery, the brilliant sunshine, and, of course, the food, there’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular destination spots for STG couples. And Katie, who works in PR for interior and lifestyle brands, and Jamie, who works in sales, had a truly unforgettable Tuscan Jewish wedding.

We were so thrilled to hear that they found their wonderful venue, Villa Oliva, right here on Smashing The Glass – and it’s easy to see why they fell in love with the verdant grounds at first sight.

Katie and Jamie’s photographer, Smashing The Glass Recommended Vendor Alessandro Colle, and videographer, Alte Vedute, “went above and beyond, and they captured every single moment possible! We trusted them and were happy to follow their lead, and we’re thrilled with the results!”

Read on for all the details of this magical day in the bride’s own words…

 Professions / notes for Emily –

Jamie works in sales, whereas i work in PR for interior and lifestyle brands.

 Katie and Jamie, Villa Oliva, Lucca, Italy Katie and Jamie, Villa Oliva, Lucca, ItalyKatie and Jamie, Villa Oliva, Lucca, ItalyKatie and Jamie, Villa Oliva, Lucca, Italy

How We Met

Katie, the bride: We first met when we were 16 on an Israel tour! We became best friends, and over time, we ended up becoming boyfriend and girlfriend. 10 years later, Jamie proposed!

Continue ReadingContinue Reading

Share this post:

  • Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook
  • Share on X (Opens in new window) X
  • Share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit
  • Share on Threads (Opens in new window) Threads
  • Share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest

New to Smashing The Glass for June ‘25

04/07/2025 by Karen Cinnamon

Photo by Christian Gideon Photography 

Here at  Smashing The Glass, we’re constantly thrilled to bring together the best wedding professionals who understand the unique needs of Jewish and Jew-ish couples. This past month, we’ve had the pleasure of welcoming some incredible new Recommended Vendors to our community, and we can’t wait for you to get to know them! 


10 x 15 Structures | UK and Worldwide  

If you’re looking for a sophisticated and memorable backdrop for your wedding, we love Ten by Fifteen’s stretch tents. Providing a luxurious, adaptable space, they’re ideal for weddings with multiple elements and a dynamic flow. Their elegant architectural design create a seamless environment for ceremonies, receptions, and dancing, with the flexibility to tailor the layout to each moment of the celebration.

The structures work beautifully in any setting, offering an open, light-filled space in summer or a warm, enclosed atmosphere when needed, and the expert team delivers meticulous planning and flawless installation, ensuring every detail enhances the day.

0118 380 5580
team@10×15.com
https://www.10×15.com/
Instagram
Reading, UK: Creative House, Station Road, Theale, RG7 4PD
Available worldwide


The Couplers | Florence and Lecce, Italy

Italy is one of the most popular wedding destinations for STG couples, and it’s easy to see why. Italy isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. And The Couplers do the absolute best job distilling it all into one special day. 

Being Jewish himself, founder Sandro is perfectly positioned to help couples from abroad celebrate their love of Italy while honoring their Jewish identity, every step of the way. 

Based between Florence and Lecce, The Couplers plan destination weddings across Italy for couples from around the world. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic villa, a sunlit masseria, or a seaside ceremony, they’ll help you bring it to life—with intention, soul, and care. Sandro and his team work hand-in-hand with rabbis, kosher caterers, and trusted local partners to create weddings that are both meaningful and effortless.

+39 3420603081
wearethecouplers@gmail.com
https://thecouplers.com/
Instagram 
Based in Florence and Lecce, Italy 
 
Join our Members Club and save 10% on wedding planning with The Couplers

Continue ReadingContinue Reading

Share this post:

  • Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook
  • Share on X (Opens in new window) X
  • Share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit
  • Share on Threads (Opens in new window) Threads
  • Share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest

A Self Portrait Bride for a Jewish Wedding All about Chesed at Allerton Shul and Palm House Sefton Park, Liverpool, England

30/06/2025 by Karen Cinnamon

Danielle and Paul, Palm House Sefton Park, Liverpool, England

We’re in love with the theme Danielle, a vet, and Paul, an A+E consultant doctor, chose for their Jewish wedding. In the bride’s words, “The theme was chesed, loving kindness/thoughtfulness, as we wanted to throw a party to thank our friends and family for supporting us over the years as singles. We and they have waited a very long time for this day!” How beautiful is that?

And that’s just the start of the wonderful personal touches that made this wedding so special. Danielle and Paul chose not just one but two venues with serious significance: they had their chuppah at Allerton Shul, where the rabbi and rebbetzin who introduced them work, and for the reception they moved on to The Sefton Park Palm House, which Danielle’s father was instrumental in restoring – a glazier, he donated almost 4000 panes of glass for it!

When it came time to choose a photographer, Danielle and Paul went with Smashing The Glass Recommended Vendor Kate Swerdlow, and they can’t stop raving about how wonderful she was. In Danielle’s words,  “She took time to understand our situation, gave us some fantastic ideas, and pulled off all of our requests. We didn’t want photographers everywhere on the day, and somehow, although our guests barely noticed her, she captured thousands of incredibly beautiful moments alone. She is a truly talented professional, she knows a Jewish wedding inside and out, was a joy to work with, and our photos are completely stunning.”

Read on for the rest of the story in Danielle’s own words…

Danielle and Paul, Palm House Sefton Park, Liverpool, England Danielle and Paul, Palm House Sefton Park, Liverpool, EnglandDanielle and Paul, Palm House Sefton Park, Liverpool, EnglandDanielle and Paul, Palm House Sefton Park, Liverpool, England

How We Met

Danielle, the bride: We were introduced by our Rebbetzin.

Continue ReadingContinue Reading

Share this post:

  • Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook
  • Share on X (Opens in new window) X
  • Share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit
  • Share on Threads (Opens in new window) Threads
  • Share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest
  • « Previous Page
  • 1
  • …
  • 14
  • 15
  • 16
  • 17
  • 18
  • …
  • 402
  • Next Page »

Jewish Weddings by Country

Weddings by Colour

Awesome Jewish Gifts

Get posts directly into your inbox

Enter your email address below and get the latest posts delivered straight to your inbox.

Today’s Top Posts

  • A guide to the Jewish Wedding Ceremony and Order of Service under the chuppah
    A guide to the Jewish Wedding Ceremony and Order of Service under the chuppah
  • Jewish Wedding Traditions Explained - Breaking The Glass
    Jewish Wedding Traditions Explained - Breaking The Glass
  • How to Turn Your Smashed Glass Shards Into a Keepsake Souvenir of Your Jewish Wedding
    How to Turn Your Smashed Glass Shards Into a Keepsake Souvenir of Your Jewish Wedding
  • Dates in 2026, 2027 and 2028 to avoid for a Jewish wedding plus a 12 Month Wedding Planning Monthly Checklist
    Dates in 2026, 2027 and 2028 to avoid for a Jewish wedding plus a 12 Month Wedding Planning Monthly Checklist
  • The Chuppah – Jewish Wedding Traditions Explained #5
    The Chuppah – Jewish Wedding Traditions Explained #5

Subscribe by Email

Enter your email address below and get the latest posts delivered straight to your inbox.

Liberty London
Mr And Mrs Smith Honeymoons
Kate Spade UK Limited
Monica Vinader
closeJoin our members-only community for Jewish brides!

All content © Smashing The Glass 2026