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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Joseph’s Bar Mitzvah: October 15, 2020 Joseph’s bar mitzvah was a drive for me… up north from downtown… early in the morning, up to the Chabad Lubavitch of Aurora.  It was fantastic, the autumn colors were in full wane and were beckoning us to photograph them. Jojo and I went for a walk in the forest, we reeled in his brother for some brother pics, and finally the rest of the family. Once that was done, we all headed in, masked of course, to a wonderful warm ZOOM ceremony. Delicious snacks followed, and this day was put away. Fast forward to Saturday night at The Showroom, and we were luckily one of the last events to be held in Toronto before the 2nd COVID lock down. Party Crew we’re on hand to deliver a fantastic evening for Jojo and his guests. The masks that were provided we’re clear plastic which were a pleasure to photograph. Amazing speeches, warm thoughts and feelings, people ZOOMing from really far away, and it all came together spectacularly.  Mazel Tov, guys.  Can’t wait for the next one.   The Story of Joseph’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Audio-Visual: Santa Festa Events, […]
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Melissa & Rachel’s B’nei Mitzvah Rehearsal: October 15, 2020 It was a dark and stormy night… outside… but inside the Beth Radom Synagogue, Cantor Jeremy was in full control. We all converged for a quick run through of the b’nei mitzvah service a few days before the main event on Saturday.  The girls were great, sailing through their portions with ease and expertise.  We had to look for some interesting places to photograph at the family, so downstairs we did venture.  I’m sure Saturday went flawlessly, Mazel Tov, guys!!   The Story of Melissa & Rachel’s B’nei Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Clothing (Mitzvah): Rachel (Blink Blank at Promenade), Melissa (Avenue Girl)   •Clothing (Mom): Laura     •Makeup: Orly Waldman •Hair: Rikki Zucker      •Videographer: Mitch Belman •Photography:  Jonni Super •Cantor:  Jeremy Burko      •Kippahs: Israeli Source  •Advice for Future Mitzvahs:  Plan early and be flexible with changes (you never know what can happen!)
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Seth’s Bar Mitzvah: October 18, 2020 Seth’s bar mitzvah and rehearsal took place at Holy Blossom on two crisp autumn mornings.  Seth looked sharp in that blue suit, ready to go, and up for the challenge.  We started outside in the garden and the street before heading in for the ubiquitous torah photos.  Holy Blossom is pretty cool inside which makes for some interesting shots. The ZOOM ceremony a few days later closed the deal. Seth was great, reading eloquently and ‘becoming a man’.  Beautiful Cedarvale Park beckoned us for some grandparent and family pictures, and then it was all over.  Mazel Tav, guys.   The Story of Seth’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Noah’s Bar Mitzvah: October 12, 2020 Photographed by: Justine Apple Noah’s Bar Mitzvah took place on a crisp autumn morning. We started off with family photos at his home in the back yard.  Noah was a pleasure to work with, patient, considerate, and open to direction. We drove over to the Family Shul to take photos with the Torah, and some extended family pictures.  Rabbi Gansberg made a warm, welcoming introduction to the guests, and the morning service proceeded smoothly. Noah did an excellent job reading his parsha before his parents spoke so lovingly about their first born. We finished up, stepped outside to take a few more extended family shots, and called it a day. Mazal Tov, Noah!     The Story of Noah’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE  
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Max’s Bar Mitzvah: October 8, 2020 I love photographing at Beth David, it is SOOO bright and spacious, and today was no exception.  We started outside as the Fall slowly takes over the city, the park across the road offered some green before heading inside to the sanctuary.  Max was awesome, part Sukkot service / part Mitzvah service this morning.  Everyone had a great time.  Mazel Tov, guys!!!   The Story of Max’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE  
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Mason’s Bar Mitzvah: Oct 18, 2020 Photographed by: Ben Mason’s bar mitzvah took place on a crisp Sunday in October at the fabulous Marlowe Restaurant & Wine Bar north of Toronto.  Mason and family was on hand to serve up some great mitzvah fun.  Moshe Saadan held down cantor duties for the ceremony, while only close relatives were in attendance [COVID rules apply].  The service went by without a hitch, and on to the delicious lunch everyone did go.  Mazel Tov guys.   The Story of Mason’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE    
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Nate’s Bar Mitzvah: October 1, 2020 A beautiful morning at Beth Torah is how it started, Nate was ready to go.  Sunshine prevailed of course, and we were all in great spirits.  After some outdoor photo-fare, we headed inside for the ceremony.  Small in size, but big in heart, Nate was all over it.  Presided over by the affable Yossi Sapirman, the service was warm and heartfelt.  Mazel Tovs all around, some grandparent photos to wrap it up, and we were done.  Great job Nate, so pleased I could join you.   The Story of Nate’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE    
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Livia’s Bat Mitzvah: Oct 11, 2020 – Ottawa I was in Ottawa this past weekend for my nieces ZOOM mitzvah. This was a very intimate affair, just her family and my family, very distanced.  Livia was amazing, so nice to be able to join her and the family.  We did our social distancing of course, so a lot of time spent outdoors walking around downtown Ottawa… which is AMAZING for photography.  So many textures and courtyards… way more European than Toronto.  Overall, it was a wonderful weekend for all of us, celebrating a special simcha.  Way to go, Liv!!! We love you.   The Story of Livia’s Bat Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE  
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Etai’s Bar Mitzvah: September 26, 2020 This was a two day, three location affair. One very early morning tefillin service at the Village Shul on Eglinton, before heading off to Cedarvale Park for some family photos.  Fast forward a week or so to the backyard tent party for the kids, with appropriate games and general teen boy stuff.  Etai was very easy to work with, so considerate and patient (for a 13 year old), and took my photography direction well.  He performed amazingly at the synagogue and enjoyed a good time with his friends in the tent.  Mazel too guys, it was so nice to meet you all.   The Story of Etai’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Cake: Electric Bake Shop •Clothing (Mitzvah): Tom’s Place  •Shoes (Mitzvah): Steve Madden •Clothing (Mom): Christian Boutique •Clothing (Dad): Tom’s place •Decor: BB Eventz Moroccan themed parties  •DJ Entertainment: Hart Entertainment  •Invitations: Green Envelope •Hair: Etai’s hair was cut by dad, moms hair by Koko and Co. •Event Planner: Mom •Photographer: Jonni Super •Venue: Backyard Tent Party •Caterer: Menchens  •Rabbi: Tsvi Sytner    
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Ari’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: September 10, 2020 I met up with the family in the garden of Temple Har Zion, and I love photographing here. It’s green, spacious, and offers much variety.  This was an easy photoshoot, (just look at Ari’s smile) how could I go wrong. We walked around, we chatted, we discussed, we took some photos, we chatted more, we added his sister, (doesn’t she look gorgeous), we added parents and grandparents, and then we were done. Inside Har Zion, we got to work on some torah photos before the actual rehearsal began. Ari was great to work with, so chilled.  What a special way to spend the afternoon. Mazel Tov.   The Story of Ari’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE  
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Kyla’s Bat Mitzvah Sept 5, 2020 Kyla’s bat mitzvah was a fantastic zoom ceremony at home. We started off at the Sugarbush Heritage Park just as the sun was going down. I love photographing here, the perfect balance between end-of-day light and interesting architecture. Once finished with family photos, we headed back to the house in time for the grandparents. Then all the attention was focused on Kayla. Mel Koenigsberg presided over the wonderful zoom ceremony, everyone in attendance were all respectful, and things moved along super smoothly thanks to Mitch Belman manning the zoom helm from three angles. Kayla was awesome, and hit this one out of the park. Mazel Tov!!!   The Story of Kyla’s Bat Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Decor – TWSS Balloons •Make up – Stephanie Anderson @ The Studio •Hair – Adam Nix @ The Studio •Videographer / Zoom – Mitch Belman •Photography – Jonni Super •Dessert – Double Chocolate Fountain and Lollipots •Masks – Natalie Lederman S & H Design Co •Rabbi – Mel Koenigsberg  
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Hannah, Rachel, & Maxim Tri-Mitzvah: August 31, 2020 Well these don’t come by too often, a tri-mitzvah.  Take three first cousins, socially distance some family and friends, place everyone in a beautiful garden.  Sprinkle generously with sunshine, add delicious food by Dani, and stir in a cup of warm accolades and loving speeches. Finally, throw candy at the mitzvah-kids, and relax while cantor Mel Koenigsberg serves up a wonderful simcha. Fantastic morning for everyone in COVID land where we all celebrated as one.  Mazel tov, guys!!!   The Story of the Tri-Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Decor: TWSS Balloons •Photographer: Jonni Super •Videographer: Mitch Belman •Venue: The Backyard •Caterer: DANI Catering •Rabbi: Mel Koenigsberg •Other Stuff: Tent Rental, Tables, Linens, plates/glasses and utensils – All from Sunshine Party & Tent Rentals •Advice for Future Mitzvahs:  ‘Enjoy the day, it is over so fast!’
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Lily & Max’s B’nei Mitzvah: August 22, 2020 This was a spectacular August day, perfect for a b’nei mitzvah.  Lily and Max were all rearing to go, some butterflies maybe, but who could tell.  We did a little photo walk around the hood which put everyone at ease before gathering for some family photos.  Ceremony was amazing, Arlene Moshe holding down the ZOOM duties.  The kids were great, never missed a beat.  An amazing intimate and special mitzvah during these interesting days.  Mazel Tov!!   The Story of Lily & Max’s B’nei Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE  
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Myles’ Bar Mitzvah: August 20, 2020 This is one dad I have known for years, we play music together… so it was special for me to join in the COVID celebration for his son, Myles’ bar mitzvah.  We met at the Family Shul to celebrate one of the last mitzvah’s before the new building takes over.  Myles was good to go, looking pretty sharp in that blue suit.  We hung out for a bit before going in for the main attraction.  All went well, masks and all.  The Bayview Golf & Country Club made for the best lunch.  Mazel Tov, guys.   The Story of Myles’ Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE  
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Cole’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: July 15, 2020 Cole’s rehearsal took place at the synagogue of my youth, Chabad of Markham.  Such a lovely shul to photograph in, bright and spacious. We started with the actual rehearsal before some family photos on the bimah and outside.  Family fun was part of the day, and the dog was not excluded. Cole was good to go for the main event the following morning.  Mazel tov, guys.   The Story of Cole’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Audio-Visual: EJ Entertainment      •Clothing (Mitzvah): Custom     •Shoes (Mitzvah): Browns   •Clothing (Mom): Nordstrom   •Clothing (Dad): Custom  •Invitations: Paperless Post    •Hair: Apostrophe Hair   •Photographer: Jonni Super  •Videographer: EJ Entertainment   •Specialty Food: Grodzinski Bakery     •Venue: Chabad Markham •Caterer: Grodzinski Bakery     •Rabbi: Avrahem Plotkin
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Jay’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: July 14, 2020 My 3rd and final trip around the block with these guys, and Jay was on deck.  Back to The Family Shul we did go, albeit the old building steeped in history.  Torah photos out of the way, we headed back to the family home for a little backyardigan action.  Of course some family fun was in order with these guys.  Just nice to be back in the game again during COVID.  Mazel Tov, guys!!!   The Story of Jay’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE  
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Lucas’ ZOOM Mitzvah: June 20, 2020 My second time around with this family was quite unlike the first, as we are in a ZOOM world, so we have to “Adapt, Darwin, I Ching. Whatever man, we gotta roll with it…” (obscure quote but a good one for the times)… and so we did, adapt, that is. Everything was set up in Lucas’ grandmother’s house, and ready to roll for a Friday evening family photoshoot and rehearsal, and then the Saturday morning ZOOM.  Lucas and I headed out into the ‘hood, me in my mask, Lucas in the coolest of threads. The Friday was pretty casual; boys, grandparents, parents, everyone in shorts and button-downs.  Saturday was the big ticket, and big it was; people tuning in, sending love and good wishes, all the fun without the nerves and anxiety of a live crowd.  Lucas was fantastic, reciting his torah portion effortlessly.  Heartfelt speeches by family, some ZOOM cheers, and then it was over. A fine morning had by all. Mazel tov!!   The Story of Lucas’ Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Cake: Sam’s Sweet Creations •Clothing (Mitzvah): Marc by Marc Jacobs NY •Shoes (Mitzvah): Florsheim    •Clothing (Dad): […]
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Cole’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: June 19, 2020 Well finally I got back into a synagogue last week during COVID, and it was…pretty much like usual except for the mask wearing, but that’s what long lenses are for, right?  Cole was fantastic, sailed through his portion with ease. We got some torah photos as is customary before heading outside.  This was at the Chabad of Markham, my old stomping grounds where I grew up, and always a pleasure to return.  Being summer, we had to find a garden for some photos, and of course a grandmother will always come through.  Cole, Mazel Tov, great job.   The Story of Cole’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Clothing (Mitzvah): Custom •Shoes (Mitzvah): Browns •Clothing (Mom): Madeline’s Boutique •Makeup: HB Face •Hair: Dina Barone •Photographer: Jonni Super •Specialty Food: Perfect Palate Too  •Venue: Chabad of Markham •Caterer: Perfect Palate Too •Rabbi: Avrahem Plotkin  
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Brandon’s Bar Mitzvah: March 7, 2020 This was my second time around with this family, and it was wonderful to be reunited. Brandon’s rehearsal took place at the City Shul, the very end of winter snow prevented us from shooting outside but we managed to capture amazing photos in the sanctuary. After some family and solo Brandon, we packed up and headed down to the Friday night dinner at the Beach. Delicious food, fun company, and warm family hugs, it was a special night.  I’m sure the Saturday ceremony was effortless. Mazel Tov, guys!!   The Story of Brandon’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Clothing (Mitzvah): Crawford Boys •Shoes (Mitzvah): Runners from Shoe Company •Clothing (Mom): Tommy Hilfiger •Clothing (Dad): Harry Rosen •Florist: Yang’s Flower Market at Ave/Dav •Invitations: Evite •Hair: Bar Mitzvah boy & dad: House of Miami Fades/Daughter hair: Hair Play on St. Clair •Photographer: Jonni Super •Caterer: The Art of Food  •Rabbi: Elyse Goldstein    •Advice for Future Mitzvahs: “Offer your child a trip or a party and pray for a trip. We spent an amazing MONTH in Australia this past Dec/Jan!”
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Ben’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: February 6, 2020 We all arrived at Beth Radom on a cold day in February.  Toronto got it’s snow already, and it was cold… but not inside the sanctuary.  This is a warm loving family, which got everyone into the mood.  This was my second time around with these guys, same synagogue, same extended family, everyone just a few years older.  Ben has grown up, I dare say, now he’s almost a man.  Got some great photos at the torah before adding in a whole lot of family members for group shots. Lovely night.  Mazel too, guys.   The Story of Ben’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Justin’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: January 16, 2020 Justin’s rehearsal took place at Beth Tzedec in January, before the weather turned cold… but it was still too cold to photograph anything outside.  My second time around with this family, we had another fantastic Photo shoot.  Justin looks taller since the first time around by the way. Once torah pictures were done, we just had some fun in the synagogue and headed home. I’m sure the ceremony was spectacular. Mazel Tov!!!   The Story of Justin’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE      
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Marlee’s Bat Mitzvah: January 11, 2020 First mitzvah of the new year, Marlee and her family at the Maple Downs Golf & Country Club.  A very rainy Saturday evening presented itself, and our expectation of some outside photos was not to be. Marlee and I walked around, found some interesting spaces, and snapped away. Once family photos were done, we were ready for the ceremony. Marlee was fantastic, graceful and confident throughout. The ceremony was officiated by Moshe Saadon, always delightful and inclusive. The Megan Boys were on hand to drive this simcha home. Warm speeches, loving friends and family, and generally a fantastic time.  Mazel tov!!   The Story of Marlee’s Bat Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Cake: Baked with Joy •Decor: S&H Design Co. •DJ Entertainment: Magen Boys Entertainment •Invitations: S&H Design Co.  •Makeup: Orly Waldman •Photographer: Jonni Super •Videographer: Mitch Belman •Venue: Maple Downs Golf and Country Club •Caterer: The Food Dudes •Cantor: Moshe Saadon •Photo booth: FunPhoto  
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Joshua’s Bar Mitzvah, December 14, 2019 Joshua’s bar mitzvah took place at the e-Zone on Saturday night. The e-Zone for those of you who do not know is basically a huge game fest for the kids. The WhirlyBall, laser tag, dance, golf, pool tables, table tennis, basketball, just every kind kid or teen activity that comes to mind. And these guys took full advantage of this. Not to mention that Jay from Bounce Entertainment was on hand for the hora and dance portion of this party, that was only half the fun. The games were, as usual, just a blast. But the most amazing thing about this bar mitzvah I’m sure everyone would agree, it is the video entrance for Joshua that was made before the party. Props to Dell Video who did such an amazing job. The theme for the evening was Marvel, superheroes and the like. The video if you can get your hands on a, involves Josh, his mom, and sister, and all are made up as superheroes with superpowers. Definitely worth watching again. Guys, this is a great evening. Mazel Tov, Guys!! have a great holiday.   The Story of Joshua’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE […]
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David’s Bar Mitzvah: September 15, 2019 Photographed by Ben Gaum Finally…….they’re done.  3 bar mitzvahs in 3 years…..and they’re finally done!!  We were back where it all began at the Sephardic synagogue on Bathurst, always a wonderful venue in which to celebrate.  Having had the pleasure of not only shooting the bar mitzvahs of all 3 sons in the family, but literally watching them grow up since the day they were born has been such a blessing and an honor.  Hopefully they give me enough time to get my cameras ready before the wedding 😉  Mazel tov!!   The Story of David’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Zachary’s Tefillin Ceremony: December 9, 2019 Zachary’s tefillin service Took place very early on a Monday morning at the Village Shul in Forest Hill. This early bird definitely caught the worm this morning, 7 AM ready to go with little more than a minyan but everyone so excited for the mitzvah boy to be in da house. Zachary was great, judging by his performance Monday, I’m sure the Saturday service was perfect. He just did a fantastic job before we all headed out to start the day.  Mazel Tov, Guys!! have a great holiday.   The Story of Zachary’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE  
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Trevor’s Bar Mitzvah: November 17, 2019 I met trevor quite a few months ago when he came to my studio to photograph some pictures for the table centrepieces.  That was the beginning of this adventure, and it has now come to a close.  Rehearsal was held at Beth Emeth Synagogue on a chilly Fall evening, and then the party (to end all parties) was at the Avenue Banquet Hall on Steeles.  I love photographing in both venues, the synagogue is spacious and bright, and the Avenue just rocks, so easy to capture everything.  Trevor was great, shouldering his 6 string Fender Strat to entertain.  This was offset by the gorgeous jazz stylings of Tessah Dunn during the quieter moments of the party.  Bounce Entertainment was on hand for the more upbeat dance party, Aaron showing this bunch of teens just how to party.  Esther Marcus, event planner extraordinaire, tied this event up very nicely. All in all, great food, warm speeches, amazing music, and a fun evening had by all.  Mazel Tov, guys!!!   The Story of Trevor’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos HERE All the Photos: HERE   •Cake: Lollicakes •Clothing (Mitzvah): Crawford Boys •Shoes (Mitzvah): Sketchers •Clothing (Mom): Melanie Lynne •Clothing (Dad): […]
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