Holden’s Bar Mitzvah: June 13, 2026
Holden’s Bar Mitzvah rehearsal and party were a fantastic throwback to my camp days. The rehearsal took place at Holy Blossom, one of my favourite synagogues in the city to photograph. Everything came together effortlessly. Everyone was good to go, the light was beautiful, and the whole photo-session had an easy rhythm to it. After the rehearsal, we headed over to Cedarvale Park where greenery abounds. It is one of my favourite spots for family photos and, as usual, it did not disappoint. We wandered through the park, found some great light, and captured a wonderful selection of family portraits before calling it a day. Fast forward past the Bar Mitzvah itself and we arrived at Longboat Hall for the evening celebration. Welcome to Camp Holden. Holden and I slipped outside for a quick walk around the neighbourhood. Queen Street and Dovercourt provided the backdrop, giving us plenty of urban texture, streetcars, cars, pedestrians, and all the city energy you could ask for. I soon invited the family to join us and together we absolutely nailed the outdoor portraits. Extended family jumped in as well before we wrapped up outside and headed indoors. Inside, Dave Monaco from Magen Boys was on the microphone and preparing to take the party “downtown”. (Although, coincidentally, the party was already downtown.) The camp theme was everywhere. Camp T shirts, camp signs, camp activities, barbecue inspired food, and all the little details that transformed Longboat Hall into a summer camp for the evening. A spirited hora got everyone moving, the speeches were heartfelt, the dance floor stayed busy, and the energy never let up. Mazel tov, guys. What a spectacular night and a wonderful way to celebrate Holden.
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The Story of Holden’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos: HERE
All the Photos: HERE