Monica and Jason
Monica and Jason’s wedding was memorable for me in a few different ways. It was my first Jewish wedding. I learned a lot that day about their traditions and that made it fun. They were married on a beautiful day that you could only hope to plan for. Lastly, it was the first time a gnat flew in my eye while I was taking photos. Sadly, it wouldn’t be the last time.
Monica and Jason were married at the Woodard Sanctuary in Chevy Chase, MD. It was an amazing outdoor location that offered many beautiful views for photos and plenty of room to move around during the ceremony. Ease of mobility is always a nice feature for me about a location.
The first look went perfectly as Jason saw Monica in her dress for the first time. His look of love and admiration is something that every bride hopes to see. We gave the two of them a few minutes to talk before we set about taking photos. Bringing the wedding party together before the ceremony is always fun. Everyone has been at it for a few hours by that point, so they’re in great spirits and ready to have fun.
We were able to get shots in a few different locations on the grounds before heading inside to rest and to start the pre ceremony traditions. I set up what has become one of my favorite group shots inside, before Monica and Jason met their families and Rabbi to sign the Ketubah, which is essentially a marriage contract between the bride and groom. They are beautiful documents that are signed by the bride and groom, witnesses and their Rabbi.
It was time for the wedding ceremony and everyone headed outside. Monica and Jason met under the Chuppah, or ceremonial canopy, to become husband and wife. I learned that day that for safety reasons, a lot of Jewish men will break a light bulb under their foot instead of a wine glass, because the stem of the glass has been known to stab the groom in the foot. I also learned that the breaking of the glass symbolizes a happy marriage for the couple. The more pieces it shatters into, the longer the marriage.
The reception started with a cocktail hour where Monica and Jason mingled with their guests and relaxed. Soon, the first dance followed and you could see the love that Monica and Jason have for each other. It was a really fun day for me to be a part of.
