Jaxon’s Bar Mitzvah: October 18, 2026
I love photographing a Mitzvah in my own neighbourhood, and this one was about as local as it gets. Wychwood Barns and Free Times Café, both pretty much walking distance from my house. How convenient is that? I met Jaxson and his family at Barns on Christie, a lovely neighbourhood hangout that sports a delightful market on Saturday mornings. But today was Sunday, and we had other plans. Family photos. We couldn’t have asked for better weather. That beautiful late afternoon golden light was upon us, and the lighting was about as spectacular as it gets. We wandered around with a whole bunch of people, having a whole bunch of fun. Some walking, some chatting, a little mixing and matching, and plenty of laughs along the way. Jaxson was in great spirits; carrying on and generally making my job pretty easy. With the family photos in the bag, we headed down to Free Times Café for an intimate and delightful ceremony. Musician extraordinaire Josh Engel was holding down the officiant duties, so we knew right from the start that the musical stylings were going to be stellar, nobody was disappointed! Free Times Café has been serving up its famous Sunday Jewish brunch for years, and this was not to be missed. You really can’t get much more Jewish than this. Traditional klezmer music filled the air, bagels, lox and cream cheese filled the plates, and a whole lot of happy people filled the room. Great music, delicious food, a wonderful family and a terrific young man celebrating his Bar Mitzvah. All just a stone’s throw from home. What’s not to love? Way to go, Jaxson! Mazel tov, guys!
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The Story of Jaxon’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos: HERE
All the Photos: HERE
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See more of my Toronto Bar and Bat Mitzvah photography in the portfolio.