Camille and Jake’s history is rooted in college and dance. Naturally, they decided to host their big day at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet, a venue that’s perfect for big reception parties. Here’s how their New England Jewish wedding went.
The Vendor Team
- Venue: Rhodes on the Pawtuxet (Cranston, Rhode Island)
- Hair and Makeup Stylist: Dylan Elizabeth Beauty
- Florist: Sarah’s Garden
- Caterer: A Perfect Taste
- Jewelers: Aardvark Jewelry and Brilliant Earth
- Bridal Dress Boutique: Alexandra’s Boutique
- Transportation: Viking Tours of Newport
- Ketubah Artist: Anna Abramzon Studio
- Photo Booth: Mercury Photo Lounge
- Second Photographer: Jessica Hosey Imagery
This New England Jewish Wedding Story
Long before I took their wedding photos, Camille and Jake found me via a Google search while trying to find wedding venues in Rhode Island. Jake complimented me on my website’s homepage…awesome!
Our first conversation still sticks with me: these two met in college at Brandeis University. Both Jewish and big dance lovers, one of the key indications that they’d eventually get married was their shared love for Israeli dancing.
Residents of Greater Boston, that’s where they wanted to have their engagement session. I was all for it, as paying my couples a visit where they spend much of their time is always a great idea and full of fun moments to create.
Now for their wedding day (and yes, these two opted to skip a wedding planner, which is definitely not for everybody but worked really well for them).
Getting Ready in Omni Providence
Camille chose the Omni Hotel in Providence to get ready for her wedding day. She, along with her bridal party, met up with Dylan Elizabeth Beauty in a room.
I’ve photographed enough weddings to realize that getting ready photos are great. You just never know what kind of great memories you and your wedding party (or partner, if you get ready together) will create before setting foot on the ceremony site.
By the way, Omni Providence, like Graduate Providence / The Biltmore (located right down the street), is great for getting ready on your wedding day.
Arrival at the Venue
I headed to the venue shortly before Camille and company departed. There, my second photographer was tending to the groom, Jake, as he and his side of the wedding party got ready.
Shortly after Camille arrived, I joined her upstairs before she got into her dress. Her wedding flowers, by Sarah’s Garden, were awaiting her and her bridesmaids. (Yes, the vendors at this wedding were on point.)
First Look and Portraits
It was time for the first look. I had already picked out a great spot on the property for this moment.
Because I love creative wedding photography, I’m always thrilled to photograph that moment when a couple first sees each other on their wedding day (first look or not). For Camille and Jake, it was extra special because their I knew their dancer roots would really come out during their couple’s portraits.
And of course, what’s a Jewish wedding celebration without friends? The wedding party was in full force with their support for these two.
Tisch, Badeken, and Ketubah Signing
As a Connecticut wedding photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of photographing several Jewish weddings. This was my first chance, however, to witness a Tisch.
During cocktail hour, Camille and Jake were separated. He started out alone (well, I was with him) and then eventually, a large contingent of guests made their way to him to honor this Jewish wedding tradition.
Eventually, Camille and Jake’s mothers broke a plate together, signifying the commitment their children were making to each other in marriage. These shots were definitely on my wedding photography bucket list.
Next, we headed downstairs for the Badeken. This was a cool moment as Camille sat in the middle of the room while hundreds of guests danced around her, the Rabbi read passages, and then Jake paraded in.
Lastly before their ceremony, Camille and Jake headed back upstairs with their guests to sign their Ketubah, expertly designed by Anna Abramzon Studio.
Wedding Ceremony
Naturally, it was eventually time for the big show. This couple’s New England Jewish wedding ceremony was beautiful. Sarah’s florals adorned the Chuppah.
Friends and family were fully engaged in this festive part of the wedding day. Camille and Jake were finally married.
Traditional Yichud and Jewish Wedding Reception
After the ceremony, it was time for me to photograph another first: a Yichud. The couple retreated to a private room while friends stood guard.
It was about 85 degrees on this wedding day. Naturally, Camille and Jake took some extended time alone together to hydrate and rest before their reception.
It was at this moment that I realized how similar Camille and Jake’s friends were to them: rather than stand around and mingle, they danced for about 30 minutes straight until the couple made their stunning entrance into the ballroom.
As a black wedding photographer, one of the things I loved about this wedding was its diversity. Camille and Jake’s people are from all walks of life: different countries, straight and LGBTQ, different races, and a range of ages.
What happened next during this New England Jewish wedding? Well, pictures are worth a thousands words. But I’ll sum it up in one: fun.
Learn More
For more photos and info, head over to my Rhodes on the Pawtuxet venue feature post. And use the links below for more about my photography.
