There’s something truly magical about witnessing traditions that have been celebrated for generations come alive with fresh energy and genuine joy. Shoshana and Menachem’s Orthodox Jewish wedding at The Terrace in Toronto was exactly that—a beautiful blend of sacred traditions and unbridled celebration that filled every moment with meaning.

Their day began with separate but joyful preparations, with both Shoshana and Menachem surrounded by their families. Unlike more private getting-ready scenes at other weddings, these morning preparations had the atmosphere of pre-celebrations, with multiple generations offering support, advice, and excitement. Shoshana had her dedicated shomeret by her side throughout the morning, while Menachem was accompanied by his shomer – following the beautiful tradition where the bride and groom are considered royalty on their wedding day, deserving of special attendants who ensure their needs are met and spirits remain high. Watching these extended family circles support the bride and groom, helping with last-minute details and sharing in their anticipation, created photographs rich with familial connections and genuine emotion.

These parallel morning experiences, with both families fully involved in the preparations, created a beautiful rhythm of anticipation that built throughout the day. The energy in both spaces perfectly balanced spiritual preparation with celebratory excitement, setting the tone for the meaningful day ahead.

One of the most emotionally charged moments came during the Bedeken ceremony. As Menachem approached Shoshana for the first time that day, surrounded by dancing and singing friends, the room crackled with excitement. When their eyes met, time seemed to pause briefly before he gently lowered her veil. This tradition, rooted in the biblical story of Jacob, carries such beautiful symbolism—the moment of recognition and the groom’s active choice of his bride. The joy on both their faces during this moment was absolutely radiant, creating photographs that capture not just how the moment looked, but how it felt to everyone present.

The ceremony took place under a stunning chuppah at The Terrace, with its clean lines and natural light creating the perfect setting for this sacred moment. Their chuppah was thoughtfully designed with elements that represented both their families, creating a meaningful canopy under which they would begin their married life. As Shoshana circled Menachem seven times beneath the chuppah, the symbolism of creating their new family circle was palpable.

What struck me most about Shoshana and Menachem was how they brought such authentic joy and energy to each ritual. During the Sheva B’rachot (seven blessings), they listened with such present attention as family members and friends offered blessings in both Hebrew and English. These ancient words, spoken by loved ones, connected their marriage to thousands of years of tradition while feeling completely fresh and personal.

The breaking of the glass—perhaps the most recognized Jewish wedding tradition—was met with an enthusiastic “Mazel Tov!” that seemed to shake the very walls of The Terrace. This moment, symbolizing both the fragility of relationships and the breaking down of barriers between people, transitioned perfectly into the celebration that followed.

And what a celebration it was! If there’s one thing that defines Shoshana and Menachem’s wedding, it’s the incredible energy they brought to every moment, particularly during the reception. The hora was absolutely spectacular—I’ve photographed many, but theirs stands among the most joyful and spirited. As they were lifted high on chairs above the dance floor, their expressions shifted between exhilaration and happy amazement at the sea of celebrating loved ones below them. The concentric circles of dancers, spanning generations and relationships, created dynamic images filled with movement and life.

Following Jewish tradition, men and women danced separately for much of the celebration, creating two distinct dance floors pulsing with energy. This tradition, rather than feeling restrictive, seemed to amplify the joy—with both groups playfully trying to outdo each other in their celebrations. The infectious energy made for photographs bursting with authentic joy and movement.

The Terrace provided the perfect backdrop for their Orthodox wedding, with spaces that accommodated the various traditions while allowing their personal style to shine through. The venue’s elegant simplicity complemented the meaningful rituals, never competing with the emotional significance of each moment.

Shoshana and Menachem, thank you for inviting me to document your wedding day at The Terrace. Your celebration was a beautiful reminder that traditions remain vibrant and meaningful when embraced with authentic joy. The energy and happiness you brought to each ritual and celebration created photographs filled with genuine emotion and connection—images that capture not just the traditions themselves, but the unique spirit you brought to them.

For couples planning their own Orthodox Jewish wedding in Toronto, The Terrace offers a beautiful setting where ancient traditions and contemporary celebrations can unfold with equal beauty. As Shoshana and Menachem demonstrated so beautifully, these sacred rituals gain their greatest power when filled with personal meaning and shared joy.