Ryan and Rachell

My close friend, and groomsmen, Todd Katz just made the best decision of his life. Congratulations Todd on scoring such a beautiful bride. Jen, good luck.

The whole celebration was really amazing. It was my first Jewish wedding, and getting to see it all up close was quite a privilege. (sidenote… I’ve been to 50+ Bar/Bat Mitzvas… So it’s hard to believe this is my first wedding… What’s going on here?!)

The prayers and traditions were powerful and are worth a more in depth study. Todd and Jen, the words of your Ketubah are beautiful and powerful. Be sure not to just hang it up and never read it again. I’d encourage you to do the same with the prayers recited during the ceremony.

Todd and I have been getting into trouble since elementary school, so to see him in a tux on his wedding day was such a blessing. Thanks for forging new territory, Todd. I’m eager to follow your footsteps in just a few days!

(Take a look and learn more about Jewish Wedding Ceremonies and Customs)

My mother, with the help of a few friends, threw an unbelievable shower for Rachell and me last weekend. Mom sought to introduce Rachell to the years of my life before we met and filled our house with wonderful friends and family I’ve known for ages.

The guest list had been kept somewhat private so I didn’t even know who was going to join us. I loved opening the door to greet so many faces I hadn’t seen in a while.

Many, many thanks to those that helped make this evening such a blessing for Rachell and me. To Mom, Jill, Tom, Darryl, Sean, and Uncle Ken for the food. To Jill for the beautiful invitations. And to the many guests that brought so many smiles to our faces.

It was a perfect, California summer day and we took full advantage by celebrating our engagement with family and friends. Ryan’s Mom, Patty, flew out from Illinois to help host a great, backyard party. My Mom, Flora, spent the past three weeks redecorating her home and cooking furiously in order to host our growing community. I loved watching Patty mingle and chat with everyone so easily! Julie Vanloan, my soon-to-be bridesmaid and dear friend from grad school decorated the backyard with lanterns and tea lights.

Everyone there and all the effort put into the day made us feel incredibly blessed; Ryan and I continue to be humbled at the community we share. We are hopeful for the ways they will challenge and love and support us as a couple - we’ve never wanted to approach marriage as a solo mission. Thank you to all the friends and family that came out for wine and good food, and especially, to share in our excitement.

We are counting down the days…