A Bar Mitzvah is a true epoch in a Jewish Boy's life. Not only does it mark the beginning of adulthood, but it is also a great excuse to have an amazing party. Nathan's Bar Mitzvah was a lot of each....
On a sunny Thursday morning, Nathan's Bar Mitzvah started off with a traditional Tallit & Tefillin Ceremony at Steven S Wise Temple in Los Angeles, Ca. At the Tallit & Tefillin ceremony Nathan received his own Tallit, or prayer shawl, from his father, and was instructed on the intricate donning of the Tefillin, both of which he wore while chanting from the Torah for the first time. Steven S Wise Temple is great because they let us unobtrusive and professional photographers shoot pictures during their services, albeit from the back where we won't disturb people praying, but I was able to get a lot of great images of Nathan and his proud family.
The following Saturday Nathan had is Bar Mitzvah Service at Steven S Wise Temple. I was able to capture so great shots of him during the service, leading the service, carrying the Torah, chanting from the Torah, and doing a truly great chanting of his Haftorah. The service was lovely, and was followed by an amazing and perfect party at his family home in Bel Aire put on by the inimitable Nicole Hirsty of Cobalt Events. Flowers were provided by Cesar Haro Custom Floral Designs.
The Reception at their house came together great! Bella Vista Designs provided lighting, and there was a giant gobo shining into the pool with "Nathan" glowing brightly, insane florals everywhere, a sushi bar, Bellini's for the guests as they arrived, a photo booth set up by LA Photo Party, DJ Mahyar Mrok pumping the music and awesome percussion accompanying the music by Nissim Malul. Everyone danced, ate and drank, and the party was quickly off the hook!! Guests danced and lounged on the dance floor and furniture provided by Royal Events, and ate fine food provided by Olympic Collection Catering. Video was done by the always amazing Envision Productions crew.
Mid party Nathan had a candle lighting ceremony- everyone present was given a candle, Nathan thanked his parents, grand parents, brother and sister, speeches were made, tears were shed, people laughed, and it was really magical. I shot it all by the light of the candles. The dance floor was soon covered in wax!!
More celebrating followed, everyone danced, everyone had a great time... There were more impromptu horas, and it was Nathan's Birthday as well, so the evening ended with a nice Birthday cake....
To view Nathan's Bar Mitzvah in its entirety click HERE.