Lucy’s ZOOM Mitzvah: March 6, 2021 This was such a lovely and warm simcha, family of four, myself with the lens, and Mitch running the ZOOM. Tucked away in the living room of their beautiful home, we all made some magic happen.  We started the morning a little chilly, walking around outside before the weather really had it’s way with us.  So inside we did go, and up against the gorgeous blue wall we did pose.  Mel Koenigsberg arrived to handle mitzvah duties, with levity and warmth as usual.  What else… delightful speeches, web delivered torah portions, candy tossed with accuracy, and we were done.  Mazel tov guys, way to go Lucy.   The Story of Lucy’s ZOOM Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Clothing (Mitzvah): Rebecca Minkoff •Shoes (Mitzvah): Puma    •Clothing (Mom): Argent Election Suit •Clothing (Dad): Biella (Montréal)   •Jewels: Monica Vinader •Photographer: Jonni Super •Videographer: Mitch Belman •Specialty Food: cookies handmade by Two Girls and an Oven; masks handmade by soft-masks.ca •Rabbi: Mel Koenigsberg •Ceremony Music: Mickey Lewin on guitar
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Hayden’s Bar Mitzvah: February 20, 2021 Hayden’s bar mitzvah was held at the family home in Forest Hill.  This was my second time around with these guys, a family I’ve known for a while now. It was truly a beautiful day, we were outside for photos of the kids and the family before February sent us back into the house, vis-à-vis it started lightly snowing.  Hayden looked pretty cool and collected, way more grown-up than he did a few years ago at his sister’s bat mitzvah.  This gorgeous house full of artwork then served as a perfect backdrop for family photos. Moshe Saadon from the Beach Shul officiated ceremonies, and as always is warm and inclusive.  The small group of family were in attendance and we were up and running. Hayden did a fantastic job; reading from the torah and ‘leading’ the service, way to go. Mazel Tov, guys.   The Story of Hayden’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Audio visual: Mitch Belman •Balloons: Ana Karina •Photography: Jonni Super •Food: Jonathan Preskow •Cantor: Moshe Saadon
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Maddie & Jacob’s B’nei Mitzvah: February 20, 2021 Well this Saturday morning started out a little frantic but ended up fantastic. The morning service was at Habonim Congregation Synagogue, just the immediate family, me, and the ZOOM guy. It was truly a beautiful b’nei mitzvah, a little bit of nerves of course but that was quickly dealt with as we headed into the program with everyone attending online. By everyone, I mean the rabbi Noam Katz, cantor Aviva Rajksy, and wonderful music online by Tom Belman. These kids were fantastic, back and forth, they were at it like a Wimbledon finals tennis match. Habonim is such a pleasure to photograph, it is bright and spacious, and the new front entrance to the building just embraces the natural light.  Guys, way to go. Mazel Tov.   The Story of the B’nei Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Clothing (Mitzvah): Jacob: North Boys •Shoes (Mitzvah): Jacob: Sportchek – Nike Mamba Fury •Clothing (Mitzvah): Maddie: Un Deux Trois   •Shoes (Mitzvah): Maddie: Little Burgundy – Nike Air Force 1 •Clothing (Mom): Dress: Neiman Marcus; Jacket: Nordstrom •Clothing (Dad): Harry Rosen •Invitations: Greenvelope.com •Jewels: Classic Creations (Maddie) •Makeup: Orly Waldman •Hair: Luis – […]
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Adam’s Bar Mitzvah: February 13, 2021 It was a pleasure to hang out with this family for a little home ZOOMitzvah.  Adam was lookin’ sharp and we walked around outside.  A little cold, being the middle of Feb in Toronto, but fun nonetheless.  After some family pictures, we all headed inside to warm up and start the ceremonies.  The ceremony was brought together by David Cooper, always warm and inviting.  The ubiquitous home-grown hora followed by a smash cake, and this mitzvah was DONE!! Mazel Tov, guys.   The Story of Adam’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Cake: The Sweet Sweets      •Photographer: Jonni Super •Videographer: Mitch Belman – Loco Chico Productions      •Venue: Home – Zoom Mitzvah    •Rabbi: David Cooper  •Advice for Future Mitzvahs: “Making a simcha on Zoom during a pandemic lockdown, make the best of the situation and be thankful for what you have.”
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Michael’s Bar Mitzvah: January 30, 2021 I met up with Michael’s family after the Havdalah service at the Beach Shul.  Small and COVID friendly, it was just two intimate families gathering for the simcha.  We took some photos of the cousins before settling in for some pictures with the Torah, and then Michael alone.  Nice to see these guys again after a few years.  Mazel Tov!!   The Story of Michael’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Rebecca’s Bat Mitzvah Rehearsal: January 9, 2021 Rebecca’s bat mitzvah rehearsal was at a synagogue I have never been to, the Narayever Synagogue is holding court in the Leo Baeck Day School for the time being while their renovations are underway.  I met Rebecca and her family one evening for the rehearsal.  Rebecca was fantastic, she looked great, spoke beautifully, and recited her parsha with ease.  We shot some photos out in the hallway before calling it a night.  I met up at the family home a few days later after the mitzvah service.  Rebecca and I walked the alley for some creative photography before adding in the rest of the gang.  Too cold for the grandparents to venture out, we set up inside to capture the big family.  Mazel Tov, guys.   The Story of Rebecca’s Bat Mitzvah Rehearsal: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Cake: The Artsy Baker •Clothing (Mitzvah): Intermixonline; Nordstrom; vassi.ca •Shoes (Mitzvah): Nordstrom •Clothing (Mom): Hangar9 •Clothing (Dad): Vassi •Invitations: Zazzle •Jewels: Mark Lash •Makeup: Hassan Haque  •Hair: Breshna •Photographer: Jonni Super Photography       •Specialty Food: George Restaurant George on Queen  •Rabbi: Rabbi Elkin  
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Kaleb’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: January 18, 2021 Kaleb’s Bar Mitzvah was held on a Saturday, so our opportunity for photos was Thursday rehearsal and Saturday afternoon back at the house.  We met up at Beth Sholom for some torah photos and photos of the family one cold January day.  Love Toronto winter… Kaleb was great, he pulled off that blue suit with ease and style.  Once rehearsal was done, he was set for the Saturday service.  We then met up at the family home for some post mitzvah photos and some photos with the grandparents.  Mazel Tov guys, much fun!!!   The Story of Kaleb’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Cake: Booyah     •Clothing (Mitzvah): North Boys    •Shoes (Mitzvah): HBC     •Clothing (Mom): Sense of Independence        •Florist: Garrett Florist        •Photographer: Jonni Super      •Specialty Food: BooYah •Caterer: Sonny Langer    •Rabbi: Aaron Flanzraich     •Advice for Future Mitzvahs:  “Be flexible, be open to the possibilities – this year has been challenging for many and for planning a Barmitzvah there has been lots of changes along the way.  In the end all the matters is to be present in the moment with your children as they are called to the torah.  We […]
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Jack’s Bar Mitzvah: December 17, 2020 Meeting up with this family at Beth Tikvah, this was to be my LAST bar mitzvah of the year, 2020… and such a lovely simcha this was to be.  Jack was ready to go, albeit a bit cold this December morning, but game for some photos.  We stayed outside for a while before taking cover in the synagogue.  After warming up a bit, we headed into the sanctuary where Jack would be holding down ‘centre court’.  He was good to go, performed flawlessly, and made everyone proud.  We wrapped up with some family photos in the larger sanctuary before heading out into the cold once more… and then the 2020 mitzvah season was over.  Mazel Tov, guys, a fantastic way to end the year.   The Story of Jack’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE  
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Evan & Samarah’s B’nei Mitzvah: December 12, 2020 It was such a joy to head up to the Richmond Hill Country Club, it has been many a month (Re: COVID) since I have been up in this neck of the woods, and on this day, a special b’nei mitzvah for the niece and nephew of my good photographer friend, Ben.  These kids were ready to go; well rehearsed, willing, up for the task at hand. We photographed outside for bit until it became too cold… so inside we did go, and wrapped up some portraits in the hall.  Ok, ceremony awaits, and we were off.  Torah, speeches, aunts & uncles, candy, lunch, the usual mitzvah celebration. Much fun guys, mazel tov!!!   The Story of the B’nei Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Audio-Visual: Mitch Bellman       •Cake: Cakes by Robert      •Makeup: Rachel Renna (rachelrenna.com)     •Hair: Rachel Renna       •Photographer: Jonni Super    •Videographer: Mitch Bellman         •Venue: Richmond Hill Country Club      •Caterer: Richmond Hill Country Club       •Rabbi: David Cooper  
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Chloe’s Bat Mitzvah Rehearsal: November 30, 2020 I met Chloe and her family at the spacious Beth Emeth synagogue as winter was upon us.  Inside however, it was all sunshine and rainbows.  Chloe was fantastic, in fact both girls were in fine form this evening, ready to have some mitzvah fun, (I know these two have a good time together at home).  So, off we did go, some photos of Chloe, add one cute sister, mix in some parents, and we have the whole mishpochah, ready and able.  The silhouettes at this synagogue are especially vibrant, and they did not disappoint.  Guys, I’m sure the Saturday was amazing, Mazel Tov.   The Story of Chloe’s Mitzvah Rehearsal: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE  
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Jolie’s Bat Mitzvah Rehearsal: December 3, 2020 I met Jolie’s family at Temple Sinai for a bat mitzvah rehearsal photo-shoot. Quite a chilly day, I might add, but we managed ourselves nonetheless. Jolie and I got some photos outside before darkness fell, and then headed into the chapel for some Torah photos.  Once that was done, we wrapped things up in the foyer of Temple Sinai with some family photography. Guys, a fun way to spend the afternoon, Mazel tov!!.   The Story of Jolie’s Mitzvah Rehearsal: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   Tallit: Women of the Wall Custom Kippahs: Israeli source Rabbi: Michael Dolgin, and the amazing clergy team at Temple Sinai Invitations: Ladybug Designs Photography: Jonni Super Location: Our dining room, celebrated on zoom during lockdown in April Lunch: Cafe Landwer takeaway for 4 Drive by: included family and friends Balloon lawn sculpture: TWSS Balloons Hair and makeup: Mom Dress (Mitzvah): Marla’s Fashions Shoes: Adidas superstar slip ons Mom: Carolina Herrera Dad: Hugo Boss Bro: JCrew
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Ethan’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: November 26, 2020 I met up with Ethan’s family at Beth Tzedec just as the sun was going down on a chilly Thursday at the end of November. The days are dark this time of year when we shoot some rehearsals, but all was sunshine and brightness inside. Beth Tzedec is one of the big synagogues, with space in abundance.  Ethan was fantastic, zipping through his portion and dealing with my photographic needs to capture the fun. Some family photos inside and out, and he was ready for the big day. Mazel Tov, guys, fun times.   The Story of Ethan’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Cake: Lollicakes •Clothing (Mitzvah): North Boys •Shoes (Mitzvah): North Boys •Clothing (Mom): Nordstrom •Clothing (Dad): Hugo Boss  •Photographer: Jonni Super    •Venue: Beth Tzedec
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Riley’s ZOOM Mitzvah: November 28, 2020 Riley’s bat mitzvah was super special. We met at the family home on a very crisp fall morning for some family photos before heading inside to start the celebration. Mel Koenigsberg was on hand to officiate the ceremony for the select group of very special people who were in attendance. Riley was fantastic, she spoke beautifully and carried herself with charm and grace.  Everyone on ZOOM could not have been disappointed. We wrapped up the day with some more family photos outside, and I was done when her friends came to celebrate.  Mazel Tov, guys.   The Story of Riley’s ZOOM Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE  
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Ruby’s Bat Mitzvah Rehearsal & Drop-In: November 26/28, 2020 I don’t think anyone would disagree with me if I was to say that Ruby is one precocious young woman, all fun and games.  Those who know her know that she aims high, referring not only to her tae kwon do, and this photoshoot was no exception.  We met at Holy Blossom for a rehearsal, and might I remind you, the foyer to this synagogue has been transformed into a modern architectural masterpiece; just stunning. Ruby loved the camera, I mean she’s been practicing 13 years for this day, (practicing for the photo shoot, not only the bat mitzvah). I loved how she gravitated so well to being be the centre of attention. We laughed, we cried, we rehearsed flawlessly.  Fast-forward a few days, we met up at Ruby’s grandmother’s house overlooking the city for some drop-in time by family and friends. This was fun for me as I got to see some previous clients while sipping on delicious hot chocolate (ala dad).  We made the most of the outdoor fence studio, and took some great photos of everyone. Ruby, that was a stellar weekend, Mazel Tov!!   The Story of […]
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Jett’s Bar Mitzvah: November 20, 2020 I loved photographing these guys, we were in MY neighbourhood.  We met at my studio, and walked around to the back alley behind my studio.  I have such a rich and vibrant neighbourhood in which to photograph, I love when I can take advantage of it.  Jett was great, looked pretty sharp.  I heard the scarf was his dads idea, whatever, it looked good.  We all had a great time before wrapping up and waiting for the big day… and it came a week later.  Jett’s ceremony was at the family home, also around the corner from my house (love that). We walked around and photographed before heading inside with the extended family who were in attendance.   My videographer Mitch had the the whole ZOOM thing down, and we were off to the races.  Jett was great; spoke eloquently, read well, delivered a speech with confidence, ducked the candy with ease, and generally had an amazing ZOOMitzvah.  Mazel Tov, guys!!   BEFORE Jett’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE The Story of Jett’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Clothing (Mitzvah): Nordstrom •Shoes (Mitzvah): Geox  •Clothing (Mom): All Saints dress + Stuart […]
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Leya’s Bat Mitzvah: November 14, 2020 Leya’s bat mitzvah was such a joy.  We had a little family photoshoot the week before in Cedarvale Park, and as usual, autumn in the park did not disappoint.  Sunset, leaves, fun, a couple of crazy kids… and the mitzvah girl… and the brothers; everyone was well represented.  We played and laughed and danced and jumped and captured it all on film.  Then, as if that was not enough, the ceremony was still to be had.  A few days later, back at Leya’s home, we got busy.  Some photos outside before the sun went down, and then is was all on.  My trusted videographer, Mitch had the ZOOM thing down, and we were off to the races.  Leya was fantastic, spoke eloquently and was the star.  The boys pitched in when appropriate, and we all had a great time.  Mazel Tov, Leya!   BEFORE Leya’s Bat Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE The Story of Leya’s Bat Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Audio-Visual: Mitch Berman •Cake: Sweet Sushi •DJ Entertainment: Pure Entertainment •Photographer: Jonni Super   •Venue: Home, Sweet Home!! •Rabbi: Rabbi Morrison
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Kaija’s Bat Mitzvah: November 14, 2020 Kaija’s bat mitzvah was held at the new and fantastic Congregation Habonim.  This room is big and bright, and makes for the most wonderful wide ceremony pictures. We started out in the little courtyard outside before the ceremony got underway.  Kaija was just spectacular; graceful and poised while presenting her mitzvah portion, she really brought the house down.  Once that was over, we headed out into the crisp fall weather for some park photos in Cedarvale.  You guys were great, mazel too, guys.   The Story of Kaija’s Bat Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Clothing (Mitzvah): Madeline’s on Avenue Rd. •Clothing (Mom): Ted Baker (Nordstrom) •Clothing (Dad): Isaac Eli custom   •Florist: Heavenly Creations  •Makeup: Leah from Orly Waldman  •Hair: Kayla   •Photographer: Jonni Super     •Rabbi: Noam Katz 
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Max’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: November 7, 2020 Max’s rehearsal started out in Cedarvale Park on a beautiful fall afternoon.  We started out on the bridge before heading down to the ravine.  The last of the leaves were making quite a statement, giving us the perfect backdrop for portraits.  We then headed up to Beth Sholom for some torah photos ahead of the ceremony a few days later.  Max was great, had the mitzvah part down, and went with it.  Mazel Tov guys!!   The Story of Max’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Lucas’ Bar Mitzvah: November 5, 2020 Lucas was ready to go when I showed up one Thursday morning at his grandmother’s home around the corner from Beth Tikvah Synagogue.  The day was perfect; warm and sunny.  We did a little stroll around looking for cool and interesting places to shoot.  Finally, the family made an appearance, and we wrapped up the portrait session.  Off to the synagogue we did go… and I did like this house of worship.  Stunning stained glass windows, a charming bimah, these guys have a good ZOOM thing going too.  Lucas was fantastic, Mazel Tov!!   The Story of Lucas’ Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Koby’s Post Mitzvah Family Photoshoot: October 30, 2020 Well, some time has passed, and a pandemic has been upon us, but it was finally time to for Koby’s post-post-mitzvah photoshoot.  We started off at Beth Sholom with the ubiquitous torah / family photos before seeking out some silhouettes in the corridor.  Once we were done at the synagogue, we headed out to my fav, Cedarvale Park Bridge where we wandered, laughed, chatted, and chilled… literally, it was getting cold this time of year.  So, a year after the bar mitzvah, we can finally put it to rest.  Mazel Tov, guys.   The Story of Koby’s Post Mitzvah Rehearsal: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Bobby’s Mitzvah Family Photoshoot: October 25, 2020 I met Bobby and the family in Cedarvale Park for a stunning Fall photoshoot.  We walked and talked, and just had a great time together.  The colours were spectacular, even though the weather was crisp!!!  Fun times, guys.  Mazel Tov!!   The Story of Bobby’s Family Photoshoot: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Josh & Amanda’s Graduation Well with school finally over, it was apropeau to shoot some graduation photos.  We had some fun in my alley and my studio, before heading over to Christie Pits.  A beautiful Fall day, what’s not to love about the light and love.  Mazel Tov, guys.   Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Jordan’s Bar Mitzvah: October 29, 2020 Jordan was ready to go, this fine crisp morning at Beth David.  We started off just chillin’ outside before heading into the park across the street for some family photos.  The grandparents and cousins met us outside before the ceremony began.  I love this synagogue, it is HUGE, bright, spacious, and just lends itself to taking fantastic photos. Jordan was so up for this day, and he did not disappoint.  Great time, guys.  Mazel tov!!!   The Story of Jordan’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Rachel’s Post Mitzvah Photoshoot: November 7, 2020 A fantastic post mitzvah photoshoot with Rachel and her family in Cedarvale.  Nothing like playing in the leaves in the fall. Fun guys, looking forward to the next one.   The Story of the Day: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Jeremy’s Family Mitzvah Photoshoot: October 25, 2020 I spent a lovely afternoon up north with Jeremy and the fam.  You really can’t go wrong on a spectacular fall day walking around the neighbourhood before heading to the local park.  Everyone was in such a good mood; we laughed, we cried, it was better than CATS.  Mazel Tov, guys.   The Story of Jeremy’s Mitzvah Family Photoshoot: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Brody’s ZOOM Mitzvah: October 24, 2020 Well my nephew Brody became a man a few weeks back, right there in his dining room, I tell ya’, yes sir!!!  A lovely, warm ZOOM mitzvah, just the family, videographer Mitch running the ZOOM, and little ol’ me behind the lens.  I have, of course, known Brody since birth; we have spent many a day basking on the cottage dock, many a run at Alpine Ski Club, and many and 13 New Years craziness together, so it was special for this to be another fun family memory.  Brody was ready to go, awake quite early on a Saturday, I might add.  Some outside photos in the ‘hood before the sibs joined in.  Once the parents were ready, it was ZOOM ON!!!  Cozy and spirited, perfect for the COVID era of mitzvahs.  Mazel Tov, guys… see you soon on the hills!!   The Story of Brody’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Aviva’s Bat Mitzvah: October 24, 2020 Aviva’s Bat Mitzvah took place on a beautiful autumn morning.  We started out at on the Cedarvale Bridge before heading to the amazing new Habonim Congregation synagogue.  Aviva was fantastic, could not stop smiling.  She was such a wonderful photography kid, we had a great time.  The service at Habonim is always special, and this was no exception. Always music and singing, warm and inviting. Everyone masked but totally on board.  Mazel Tov Aviva, you were amazing.   The Story of Aviva’s Bat Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE    
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Brett’s Bar Mitzvah: October 17, 2020 Brett’s Bar Mitzvah took place at the beautiful Four Seasons Hotel in Toronto.  It was a stunning yet crisp day, as I met up with the family at the hotel. Brett and I wandered downstairs for some spectacular photos outside; the statue outside the Four Seasons is pretty unique. Once done, we headed upstairs and took over the huge banquet hall for the morning. Family photos out of the way, the ceremony began. Officiated over by Rabbi David Cooper, this was an easy space to photograph. A huge ZOOM screen held everyone’s attention for the most part. Brett was great, he sailed through his portion easily and was so well received by his family and friends. What a fantastic morning, guys, Mazel Tov.   The Story of Brett’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE  
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Eitan’s Pre-Mitzvah Photoshoot: October 23, 2020 Eitan’s family and I met in High Park on a beautiful October afternoon a few days before his bar mitzvah for some pre-mitzvah family photos.  The park was spectacular, in full autumn colours. We walked, we talked, we laughed, we cried, it was better than CATS.  Everyone was in fine form, relaxed and carefree.  A wonderful way to spend a perfect afternoon. Mazel too, guys!!!   The Story of Eitan’s Pre Mitzvah Day: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Aviva’s Bat Mitzvah Rehearsal: October 14, 2020 This is a family I have known for a number or years, so it was such a pleasure to meet up with them at Beth Sholom synagogue for Aviva’s bat mitzvah rehearsal.  We started out with torah photos inside the sanctuary before shooting some beautiful silhouettes in the alcove.  We wrapped that up and then headed out into the city.  At the back of my studio is a spectacular alley, and we took full advantage of the dimming light.  We wrapped it up in my studio with some classic family fooling around.  Great spending time with you guys, Mazel Tov!!   The Story of Aviva’s Bat Mitzvah Rehearsal: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Cake: Euro desserts  •Makeup: Hagar Bar   •Hair: Kozeta Salon •Photographer: Jonni Super     •Specialty Food: Sugar Mommy Chocolates & Grodzinski Bakery •Rabbi: Aaron Flanzraich , Cantor Eric Moses  •Advice for Future Mitzvahs: If it falls during a pandemic, just go with the flow 🙂 
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