“May these vows and this marriage be blessed.
May it be sweet milk,
this marriage, like wine and halvah.
May this marriage offer fruit and shade
like the date palm.
May this marriage be full of laughter,
our every day a day in paradise.
May this marriage be a sign of compassion,
a seal of happiness here and hereafter.
May this marriage have a fair face and a good name,
an omen as welcomes the moon in a clear blue sky.
I am out of words to describe
how spirit mingles in this marriage.”
by Rumi
Directly on Broad Street, the primary road that stretches North to South through Philadelphia, is Congregation Rodeph Shalom. The synagogue is spilling with history, with it being the oldest Ashkenazic synagogue in the Western Hemisphere, dating back to 1795. With that rich heritage, it was bound to be a special ceremony that took place within the walls on June 11, 2017.
The weather did not speak of June but rather the deep days of summer, with temperatures reaching nearly 100 degrees. But the heat had nothing on Andrew and Sheri. The morning had a quiet peace about it. Sheri and her sister, with future sister in law, had their makeup and hair set in a room drenched with natural light. The historic building had upgrades done in the last couple of years, and it now creates the perfect mix of modern and historic. The boys tied their ties and laced their shoes. What followed was a sweet first look, where Andrew held back tears at the sight of his wife-to-be.
The ceremony venue was breathtaking, with its sweeping ceilings and stretching stain glass windows. Andrew and Sheri said their I Do’s in the exact same location as Sheri’s parents 33 years prior. The words from the Rabbi were sweet yet true to the sacrament of marriage. Just minutes before they walked down the aisle, the sacred tradition of signing the ketubah took place where the family shared in this integral tradition that marks a Jewish marriage.
There is something so lovely about history and culture blended together to honor a new marriage. Such a solid foundation, modeled by both sets of parents and supported by so many friends that have arrived through all the seasons of both Andrew and Sheri’s lives.
After several sentimental toasts from the parents, a poem from the maid of honor and a lighthearted speech from the best man, the party began. You wouldn’t have thought it was a mid afternoon on a Sunday, as EBE brought the energy and the dance floor remained packed.
We stole Andrew and Sheri away for an additional mini couple session. At one point, Andrew looked over at Sheri in mid photos, and in the most genuine tone I have ever heard from a groom exclaimed, “Isn’t she gorgeous, how did I get so lucky?”
This is truly a special couple, not only do they compliment each other with their interests, but their values and integrity go far beyond the surface. Their marriage is surely to be one marked with compassion, virtue and honesty. Praying a crazy amount of blessings on your new marriage! We were so honored to be a part of your day.
Mazel Tov!
– T
Second Photographer: Haley Adair
Engagement Session: Andrew & Sheri {Engaged}
VENDORS:
Ceremony & Reception Venue: Congregation Rodeph Shalom
Wedding Dress: BHLDN
Groom’s Attire: Indochino
Groomsmen Attire: The Black Tux
Florist: Robertsons
Entertainment Service: EBE Sydney
Cake & Catering: Feast Your Eyes
Hair: Arielle with Arielle Katrina Hair
Makeup: Shimmer and Spice
