Adas Israel summer wedding Washington, DC

Lauren +Lara’s traditional Jewish summer wedding at Adas Israel in Washington, DC was filled with warm and emotion.

Their midday wedding began with Lauren got into her wedding dress at the Wardmann Park Marriott while Lara attended early services and then entertained guests at her tish. A tish is where their friends gathered to drink and snack and tell stories before the brides saw each other for the first time. Lauren arrived at the synagogue and the two shared the sweetest first look in the library. The look on each of their faces was just pure joy! The couple then held their bedecken in front of all their guests–this is the part of the ceremony where the couple confirms that it is indeed the person they want to marry. The sequence of photos as they inspected each other are some of my favorites from the day!

The guests then took their seats as both women were escorted by their parents down the aisle. Special touches for the day included the heirloom talit that provided the cover of the chuppah and the beautiful glass balls the couple broke at the end of the ceremony that were made by the bride’s stepmother. The shattered glass will be repurposed into artwork for the couple after the wedding. The ceremony had many traditional aspects–the circling of the couple and the exchange of rings on the first finger but they had a lovely addition to the day but having many of their friends come up and take part in the ceremony. A quick ring drop (that made for a fun moment) and the smashing of the glass and it was off to the party.

Check out part two which includes the brides’ portraits and the super fun luncheon reception!!