Celebrations Spring 2023

A SPECiAL EDiTiON OF JSTYLE WEDDiNGS AND BAR•BAT MiTZVAH | SPRING 2023

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Our team is passionate about creating truly personalized wedding experiences. From cultural menus and breathtaking spaces to attentive service and unexpected elements that speak directly to you and your families, InterContinental Cleveland listens and delivers your storybook wedding.

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Left and right photos © Dennis Crider Photography Center photo © Genevieve Nisly Photography

On the cover

Celebrations is here for your questions

Lisa and Niklas Bauer, center, celebrate their wedding on Sept. 3, 2022 at the Glendale Lyceum in Cincinnati. Celebrations Editor Amanda Koehn, left, and Denise Koehn, Amanda and Lisa’s mother, pose with them for one of many family photos.

This past Labor Day weekend marked my rst experience in a wedding party. My sister, Lisa, and Niklas Bauer got married on Sept. 3, 2022 at the Glendale Lyceum in Cincinnati, his hometown.

As maid of honor, I learned things about planning a major life celebration that you only really nd out through experience. The day brought out so much love, excitement and fun, and the days leading up to it were lled with guring out things along the way.

such a learning experience. Many of us have never been part of hosting a major lifecycle event like a wedding or b’nai mitzvah until we are in the weeds of it. Questions arise, and in this issue of Celebrations, there are a couple new features that try to answer some of them.

Photo / Sarah Elizabeth Studio

A CELEBRATIONS GUIDE OF WHAT TO ASK EVENT PROS

By Amanda Koehn

You’ve just started planning your wedding or child’s b’nai mitzvah. Choosing a venue and important vendors like a photographer, caterer and entertainment likely top your list for establishing the look and feel of the big day. But how do you decide who to hire? You’ll have to consider things like budget and location, and ask the right questions to determine who is best to partner with to bring to life the vision for your event. For that reason, Celebrations interviewed local professionals about the right questions to ask and what to expect in the process.

VENUE AND CATERING

When selecting a venue and catering – typically the rst aspects of an event to be decided – it’s important to establish the atmosphere you wish to create and how the food may complement that vision.

Joan Rosenthal is the founder and CEO of Tenk West Bank, a converted warehouse event venue along the West Bank of the Flats in Cleveland, and Marigold Catering + Events, a catering and design company that serves Tenk and several other venues – including being the exclusive caterer for the Cleveland Botanical Garden. She says interested clients usually reach out online. They then are connected to an event planner who takes them from “start to nish” – from visiting venues and choosing a menu to the big day, Rosenthal says.

Early in the venue selection process, it’s important for the client and planner to decide what kind of space ts their vision, Rosenthal explains.

“For example, Tenk is a very industrial look and so (we have) to gauge their interest in the style of the venue,” she says.

Similarly, at Park Synagogue, which recently

Photo / Tenk West Bank / One Red Door Photo & Cinema

opened its newly constructed community hall in its Pepper Pike building, the process typically starts with nding a date that works for everyone and then guring out the budget, says Stuart Deicher, Park Synagogue’s executive director.

“It’s really just a matter of sitting down and having a conversation of what someone is looking for and what their expectations are,” he says.

For the catering aspect, those conversations also involve determining whether there will be a sit-down meal or food stations. At Park Synagogue, it’s also important to decide between a meat or dairy meal, Deicher explains. For children celebrating b’nai mitzvahs, there may be additional questions about kid-friendly food options.

“It always comes down to the same questions: what is it going to cost me, and what am I going to get?” he says.

For Marigold’s catering, Rosenthal says clients select from a “large platform of menus” and then schedule a tasting.

“Budget is the most important question,” she says. “For example, we are one of the more expensive caterers, and so we have to make sure the client can t within the budget parameters that we have.”

Overall, the client’s questions guide the whole process, Rosenthal says, so it’s important to come prepared to envision your event.

“You go into a venue and it’s empty,” she says of the initial visit. “It’s very di cult to create the vision. So, we’ve got 10 di erent (photo) books that show di erent parties, we introduce them to production companies and bands and orists. ... We kind of guide the whole process.”

And the question-and-answer process is a two-way street, Deicher says. He and his team will guide celebrants if they don’t know what to ask.

“It really becomes a dialogue,” he says. “It becomes a give and take, or back and forth.”

Key questions to ask yourself:

• What atmosphere am I looking to create with the space, and what kind of food should go with it?

Key questions to ask a potential venue/caterer:

• Does the venue’s capacity align with my intended guest list?

• Are kitchens on site?

• What types of menu options are there?

• Is the food prepared fresh?

• What is the process for food tasting ahead of the event?

• What is the total cost, and, are there any unexpected or hidden costs to anticipate?

• Is there parking on site?

• What kind of transportation options are there to and from the venue for guests?

• What nearby hotels do you recommend?

• Can you share photos of di erent style events in your space?

• What hours would we have the space(s) for?

• If I’m planning to use a venue’s outdoor spaces, is there a backup location for inclement weather?

• What kind of kid-friendly food options are there?

Above: Park Synagogue’s new, expanded space. Photo / Cleveland Jewish News / Courtney Byrnes. Below: Photo / Tenk West Bank / One Red Door Photo & Cinema

PHOTOGRAPHY

When determining which photographer to hire, the key is selecting someone whose work you love and who you enjoy being around, says Lindsey Beckwith, owner of Lindsey Beckwith Photography, which serves the Cleveland area. Her rst step is meeting interested clients in person.

“There are plenty photographers, you will nd one that speaks to you,” she says. “... So, do you love the work and then, do you vibe with them personally? Because the more comfortable you are with your photographer, the more personal and authentic the photos will be.”

She recommends asking questions that get at what it is like to work with the

photographer – their style of photography, how hands-on they are, their experience with di erent and dark lighting, and how they handle family portraits. Perhaps, you could ask them to walk you through how they envision being part of the day from the start to nish.

“The photographer kind of keeps things on track almost behind the scenes,” she says. “I feel like it’s my job to keep people on time without them realizing it.”

The photographer has to keep the timeline of the day top of mind, while also being someone with whom you feel comfortable sharing intimate moments. They may be nearby while you are getting dressed and will manage your family during

Key questions to ask yourself:

• What style of photography am I looking for?

the family portrait portion.

“You have to think you are hiring a person to be around you all day,” she says. “... What kind of experience are you going to have with that person?”

And, interviews go both ways between photographers and potential clients, she explains.

“At this point in my career, I’m interested in nding clients who can let me do my best work,” she says. “I love it when they ask questions because it lets me see what they’re thinking, it gives me insight into what type of photography is going to be good for them.”

• Does the photographer I’m meeting with have a personality that vibes with me? Do I feel comfortable and excited about them being such a big part of my special day?

Key questions to ask a potential photographer:

• Walk me through what it is like to work with you on a wedding or b’nai mitzvah. How do you envision being part of the day?

• On a scale from working behind the scenes to being very hands on, where do you think you t?

• What is the total cost, and, are there any unexpected or hidden costs to anticipate?

• What do I get for this cost, and when can I expect to receive it?

• Do you have experience with o -camera ash or shooting in dark spaces (or any other speci c setting)? Can you provide examples?

• How do you handle family portraits?

• Tip: If there’s anything speci c or unusual you want documented in a certain way, ask for examples from their past work that may be similar.

Photos / Lindsey Beckwith Photography

ENTERTAINMENT

When seeking entertainers for an event, it’s important that who you hire ts the musical styles and energy level you envision.

Eric Smith, vice president of sales and talent specialist at Cleveland Music Group, says as a DJ, he encourages clients to share speci c genres or artists they would like played during certain portions of the event. That allows him to build creative playlists speci c to each party – be it a b’nai mitzvah, wedding or other event.

People should incorporate music they typically enjoy into their party, rather than playing whatever might be the norm for such events but is not their style, he explains. “If you don’t listen to Frank Sinatra in your daily life, why would you listen to him on your wedding day?” The same is true for an 80’s or 90’s artist for a b’nai mitzvah, unless it was a well-known party-type song.

Cleveland Music Group represents and organizes booking for a range of live bands, DJs/ emcees, jazz ensembles, ceremony musicians, specialty acts and more. Smith and his team will often talk with potential clients via email, phone or video chat to determine what acts t their vision and are available for their date. Once the client chooses the entertainer, they will work with that speci c group throughout the planning process, Smith says.

One important question to ask is whether the band knows or can learn speci c songs you want played – you can always ask, even if your song isn’t on their list, he notes.

For wedding bands, Smith notes two varieties: a party band, which usually does shorter performances with a focus on the party and newer music; and a classic band, which often has more members and does a longer performance with more classic and

slower songs, even during the dinner portion. Moreover, for bands, you’ll want to nd out whether a prospect is an actual band that regularly plays together, or whether they are individual musicians grouped together by a company for your event only – perhaps practicing together only for a minimal amount of time before. Cleveland Music Group represents actual bands, he speci es.

“That’s something we are trying to educate people on a lot in the last couple years because (companies placing random musicians together) is growing unfortunately in popularity, and they have really good marketing,” he says.

He recommends asking questions such as how long the band has played together and when its most recent personnel change took place.

For DJs, there are also two general types: club style DJs and classic wedding DJs, he explains. His company encourages interviewing DJs prior to hiring them to ensure it’s a personality match. The DJ will be

Key questions to ask yourself:

• What kind of music, band, DJ or entertainment do I envision?

“running the event once the reception starts,” and them being creative and having fun will make for a more fun party, he says. They can even get innovative during weddings’ cocktail and dinner portions.

“A lot of times, brides and grooms listen to music that isn’t necessarily going to get played during dancing, but they still want to hear that music,” Smith says. “I’ve had some awesome cocktail playlists. One couple wanted ‘80s ballads and another wanted only ‘90s one-hit wonders.”

He also notes that while some may want to micromanage the evening’s timeline, a good DJ or emcee will make sure it goes smoothly without having to rush around or people getting bored, which is important for keeping wedding and b’nai mitzvah guests entertained throughout the event.

“They are giving me the tools I need to make it the best night for them, but the biggest part of that is just trusting that I’m going to do that,” he says.

Key questions to ask potential entertainment providers:

• How long has the band played together? When was the last personnel change within the band?

• Ask to view their current song list and about speci c songs you may want played for a formal dance.

• Have you played at my venue before?

• What is the total cost, and, are there any unexpected or hidden costs to anticipate? What do I get for this cost?

• What are your backup plans in case any issues come up?

• Do you have insurance?

• Do you take requests?

• Do you allow a do-not-play list?

• How do you handle cocktail and dinner music versus dancing music? Do you allow clients to select speci c genres or artists to play for those portions?

Photo / DJ Scott Jones / Cleveland Music Group / Dennis Crider Photography

Photo courtesy: Mariana Edelman Photography

Photo courtesy: Brooklyn

Photo courtesy: Mariana Edelman Photography

SPOTLIGHT

SYDNEY DAVIS & AARON LEVITAN

WEDDING DAY

NOV. 5, 2022

CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF ART | CLEVELAND TODAY

AGES: 30 & 38

RESIDENCE: CHICAGO

SYNAGOGUE: PARK SYNAGOGUE

Lauren Gabrielle Photography

HOW DID YOU MEET?

We were set up by a mutual connection. I (Sydney) was getting co ee with a friend’s coworker to talk about the ad tech industry and she asked if I wanted to be set up. She and Aaron were acquaintances and she had just met me that day, so it’s pretty lucky she made such a good match.

DO YOU HAVE ANY INTERESTING STORIES TO SHARE ABOUT GETTING TO KNOW ONE ANOTHER?

We have a pretty classic COVID love story. Our rst date was March 7, 2020 and COVID didn’t even come up on our rst date. The next week, I (Sydney) went to Cleveland for what I thought was the weekend and ended up staying for almost six weeks. Aaron and I started texting every day, then talking on the phone, then FaceTiming until it was obvious that this was something special and I knew I had to go back to Chicago. Shout out to my brother Taylor and my dad Je for driving me there in the heat of the pandemic!

HOW LONG DID YOU KNOW EACH OTHER BEFORE YOU GOT MARRIED?

About 2 1 2 years.

WHEN DID YOU KNOW YOU WANTED TO MARRY YOUR PARTNER?

Sydney: The July after we met, about four months in, we drove about 14 hours to Denver (there was still a bit of a stigma around ying) to visit Aaron’s sister for a week. It was our rst trip and our rst time spending a long period of time together, and it was an adventure. We went on several hikes, rode bikes and explored the city. One day we went on a long bike ride on a trail and got caught in the rain. We found shelter and were waiting out the rain together, wrapped up in all the layers we had. In that moment, I not only knew I loved Aaron, but that he was my person and that we were going to end up together.

Aaron: It was during our trip to Denver in July 2020. In that one week, we experienced many ups, downs, challenges and triumphs –very much like a marriage! Since it was one of the best weeks of my life, I was pretty sure I wanted to marry Sydney after that.

WHAT WAS THE BEST PART OF WEDDING PLANNING?

The cake and food tastings, of course.

WAS THERE ANY SPOT-ON ADVICE YOU RECEIVED PRIOR TO THE WEDDING?

All the recommendations everyone gave us for vendors were amazing. We were thrilled with all our choices and could not have asked for a better team.

Separately, I (Sydney) was also glad that I bought a second look dress, just in case. It was so freeing to be able to change into a mini dress!

WERE THERE ANY CONFLICTS BETWEEN THE TWO OF YOU OR YOUR FAMILIES IN THE PLANNING PROCESS? DID EITHER OF YOU HAVE TO MAKE ANY SACRIFICES?

Not really! I’d say we were super aligned. The only tough part was narrowing down our list, which I think is a struggle for everyone.

WHAT WAS THE MOST FUN OR INTERESTING JEWISH ASPECT OF YOUR WEDDING/PARTNERSHIP?

We loved the energy of our ceremony. Rabbi (Joshua) Sko and Gadi (Galili) did an amazing job in leading with Jewish traditions while tying in modern, joyful elements to make it feel personal to us.

We also had an extremely high-energy hora! Aaron’s dad even fell o the chair. Don’t worry, he was OK and attributed his toughness to the fact he regularly does yoga.

PLANNING

Engagement: Nov. 24, 2021

O ciant: Rabbi Joshua Sko , and Gadi Galili also played a signi cant part

Wedding colors: Beige, brown, green, pale pinks – lots of neutrals

Dress: Mira Zwillinger custom Andi gown, purchased at Ultimate Bride Chicago. Pink mini dress (second look) was STAUD.

Wedding rings: Wedding bands from Alson Jewelers. Engagement ring was from Gottlieb & Sons.

Jewelry: My mother’s (Marti Davis) emerald earrings

Veil: Mira Zwillinger with custom clip to match gown, also from Ultimate Bride

Shoes: Loe er Randall

Hair: Suzanne McGinnis, Urbane Society/Preveil Bridal

Makeup: Makeup by Merideth

Bridesmaids dresses: Various (they picked their own)

Groom’s formalwear: Custom tux by BLVDier Chicago, shoes from Tom Ford, watch from Cartier

Groomsmen: Various (they wore their own or rented)

Bouquet/ owers/chuppah: Blooms by Plantscaping (Arne Klein)

Ketubah: Ketubah.com

Photographer: Lauren Gabrielle Photography

Videographer: Making the Moment

Planner/consultant: Stephanie Anter of Kirkbrides

Reception: Cleveland Museum of Art

Cake/sweets: K2 Cakes

Catering: Bon Appétit Management Company (menu concept by chef Doug Katz)

Rehearsal dinner: Flour restaurant in Moreland Hills

Invitations/stationery: Twinkle & Toast

Music/entertainment: Rendezvous

Rentals: Event Source

Accommodations: InterContinental Cleveland

Registries: Crate & Barrel, Williams Sonoma, Bloomingdale’s

Honeymoon: Hawaii (Maui and Kauai)

“Immediately after the ceremony, we had 20 or so minutes to ourselves where we could read our vows to each other privately. It was an intimate and special moment we will never forget. Then, of course, everyone hit the dance floor immediately after the cocktail hour and the energy was unbeatable!”

-Sydney and Aaron

Welcome to Cleveland, Welcome to jHUB!

We are the place for interfaith couples and families to explore, discover, and personalize their Jewish culture and values.

There’s something for everyone!

• Support and resources for lifecycle events

• Workshops for interfaith couples, grandparents, parents and more

• Family, young adult, women specific, and community wide programming

Travel to Israel

Explore Jewish culture with other couples from Cleveland on the next Honeymoon Israel trip February 29–March 10, 2024!

What is Honeymoon Israel?

jHUB is the local partner for Honeymoon Israel. Honeymoon Israel is geared toward couples with at least one Jewish partner, between the ages of 25 and 40, and who are within the first five years of marriage or early in their lifelong committed partnership.

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Applications opening this summer –sign up to be notified at honeymoonisrael.org/apply

‘AS THE WORLD WEDS’

Kent State museum exhibit explores global wedding traditions – including Jewish ceremony, fashion

By Amanda Koehn

Visitors to the Kent State University Museum this spring and summer can explore weddings from around the world through fashion and accessories in a new exhibition. Items and traditions from a Jewish wedding are included in the exhibit, thanks to a connection made through National Council of Jewish Women/Cleveland.

The exhibit, “As The World Weds: Global Wedding Traditions,” is on view through Aug. 27 at the museum. It o ers insight into di erent wedding traditions through families’ kept garments and other mementos, sharing their sentimental value and cross-cultural customs. It draws from the museum’s rich holdings of wedding dresses and associated items as well as personal collections of treasured pieces, according to a news release.

Jewish wedding traditions and fashion are

represented in the exhibit through items belonging to Jen Boro , who is NCJW/Cleveland’s director of communications.

Boro tells Celebrations she was rst contacted by Leslie Resnik, a board member for both the museum and NCJW, about featuring her items. Boro ’s dress, ketubah, accessories and her husband’s grandfather’s tallit draped over their chuppah are among the items on display.

Boro , who married Robert Boro at the Ritz-Carlton in downtown Cleveland on June 30, 2012, says her love of weddings and interest in sharing Jewish culture with those who may know little about it inspired her to take part in the exhibit.

“What I love most about Jewish weddings is the culture and traditions,” says Boro , an Orange Village resident. “And items, like my husband’s grandfather’s tallit and our ketubah, are bringing those family traditions to the forefront. We loved integrating that into our ceremony.”

Sara Hume, the museum’s curator and a professor at Kent State, tells Celebrations the idea for the exhibition originated from knowing the museum has a robust collection of wedding dresses, as people will o er the museum dresses passed down through their family – heirlooms that are special, but they don’t necessarily have a use for at home. The museum wanted to explore wedding attire within larger cultural traditions, where visitors will see a traditional American white wedding dress next to other cultures’ choice items, such as a sari or Chinese robe.

Kent State University Museum’s “As The World Weds: Global Wedding Traditions” exhibition highlights, at center, Jen Boro ’s wedding dress, chuppah and other items, representing a Jewish wedding. Photo / Bob Christy

Boro Hume

Photo credit: Steve Steinhardt Photography

“The way fashion is usually presented, there’s sort of this dichotomy between western fashion and non-western ‘traditional dress,’” Hume says. “I see weddings as this way that fashion, across cultures, is traditional. There are all these rules and these practices that each culture develops and has these dresses that sort of defy what we think of as fashion. So, it’s a way of ... looking across cultures and seeing these commonalities by looking at the ways each di erent culture has developed traditions.”

It was important to include a Jewish wedding, in part because of the many traditions involving beautiful items like the chuppah, the glass to break and beyond, Hume explains. The chuppah and other items incorporate textiles and heirlooms into the ceremony beyond clothing, she says.

“When we think of American (weddings), it doesn’t mean everyone’s exactly (the same),” she says. “There are lots of cultural di erences among people, and (Jewish people are) an important group to represent.”

Hume says it has been interesting to see visitors’ responses to the exhibit. They relate stories from their own cultures, or personal experiences attending weddings from other cultures, to what they are seeing in the museum.

“You have people who identify with certain things, and they sort of feel represented by having something from their culture there,” she says. “I’ve had students come forward and tell me about Jewish traditions they are familiar with and the di erences between Reform or Orthodox, and how they would interpret things di erently.”

Boro adds that NCJW/Cleveland o ered a bus trip to Kent to view the exhibit and she received many kind words from community members about her items on view.

“It was really fun to see our wedding come to life more than 10 years later through this exhibit,” she says.

The Kent State University Museum is at 515 Hilltop Drive in Kent. For more information and photos of the exhibit, visit astheworldweds.wordpress.com.

Robert and Jen Boro are married under their chuppah with Robert’s grandfather’s tallit draped over it at the Ritz-Carlton in downtown Cleveland on June 30, 2012. Photo / RAD Photographer

Left

Right photo © Dennis Crider Photography

A IDEN B LUMENTHAL

BAR MITZVAH: NOV. 12, 2022

SYNAGOGUE: SOLON CHABAD

CELEBRATION: SOLON COMMUNITY CENTER

OFFICIANT: RABBI ZUSHE GREENBERG

AGE: 13

HOMETOWN: SOLON

SCHOOL: SOLON MIDDLE SCHOOL

David Lowry

WHAT WAS THE BEST PART OF THE DAY?

Aiden: Celebrating with my friends and family. (And) seeing my vision of a roller coaster-themed bar mitzvah come to life. Elana and Adam Blumenthal, parents: Watching all of Aiden’s hard work payo , especially his incredible speech! Also, we loved seeing Aiden having a blast celebrating and dancing with his friends. The roller coaster car photobooth was a huge hit as well.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER YOUNG ADULTS PREPARING FOR THEIR B’NAI MITZVAHS?

Aiden: To be consistent with practicing and don’t get too stressed.

Etiquette, UPDATED

By Becky Raspe

Event planners answer your questions for celebrations in 2023

Whether you are the celebrant or a guest at a wedding or b’nai mitzvah, it’s likely at least one burning question will come to mind in regard to etiquette. After all, while some things largely stay the same, others change over time and at some point, you’ll probably be in a situation you’ve never faced before.

If you don’t know who to ask or even where to start in searching for the answer to best t your situation, Celebrations can help. We sought questions from our readers and friends about what they’d most like to know as another busy wedding season approaches. We then asked local professionals in the planning industry for

their takes on how to best approach a few tough situations that inevitably arise during the planning and execution of the big event.

Gina Jokilehto-Schigel, owner and principal of Shi Shi Events, and Kim Singerman, founder of Noteworthy Events, both in Cleveland, share their opinions on common etiquette questions and what they

as seasoned planners – both with about 20 years of experience in the industry – would advise clients to do. Their responses have been edited for brevity and clarity.

What is an appropriate wedding gift? Does it depend upon how well I know the couple and how far I need to travel for the event?

Jokilehto-Schigel: Traditional etiquette is that your gift, generally speaking, should be based on the estimated cost of what the couple is spending to host you at the event. If they’re spending, say $150 to $300 per person, etiquette says that amount is appropriate. The problem is, that is just for one person. If you’re going with a guest, you might average that out and say we’ll spend $150 or $200 each.

There is also the caveat of how much you’re spending to attend the event. Is it local? Do you have to travel far? If you’re traveling far, that might make the gift you give less expensive. You should also take into consideration your relationship and closeness to the couple.

Singerman: It’s generally based on two things – relationship with the couple and what you can comfortably a ord. If it’s a relative or close friend, that is going to be di erent than a coworker or old classmate.

As a member of the wedding party, do I have to give a gift to the couple? I’ve already spent so much money.

Jokilehto-Schigel: It is an honor to be part of someone’s bridal party, and yes, there are a lot of expenses that come with that. But, yes, you should still give a gift. You should consider how much you’ve already spent and your closeness, though that is assumed since you’re in their wedding party. Maybe give them a lovely card and write a note that when they return from their honeymoon that you want to take them out, or cook them a meal and host them at your home. That way,

Mary Dougherty Photography / Shi Shi Events

you give yourself time to replenish your funds. Something that is still thoughtful and lovely.

Singerman: In my opinion, they are still expected to give a gift. You spent a lot more, but that does come with the territory. When you accept to be a member of the wedding party, you’re also accepting bigger expenses. You’re expected to purchase appropriate attire, attend a wedding shower in some cases, pay for trips and even give a gift. It de nitely comes with more nancial responsibility.

How should I handle someone being upset they weren’t invited to my family’s event?

Jokilehto-Schigel: I am a big proponent of editing guest lists. It is something that allows you to be more lavish with the guests who are attending. I always encourage editing guest lists down as far as you can. Generally, we advise our couples to talk with those who might bring it up and say they understand their disappointment. In editing that list down, you have to assume there will be people who feel hurt. But, don’t wait for those people to come to you. Make that call and be honest about it.

Singerman: It is important to explain there are limitations with the invite list. Certainly, if the bride’s family is giving the wedding and this is someone on the groom’s side, you’re going to be limited with the number. It is important to explain that and be upfront. I had a client with an out-oftown wedding, so there were limited invites for Clevelanders. So, they held a separate party for their Cleveland friends. It can get sticky, but I think preemptively approaching that is key instead of ignoring it.

Is there ever a situation where you should invite an ex to your wedding? And if you are the ex, should you go?

Jokilehto-Schigel: The spectrum is broad here in terms of relationships with exes. If this is a second marriage and you have an ex you have children with and you’re on friendly terms with and they’re part of your day-to day-life, I think that situation is where it would be appropriate

to include that person. Ex-boyfriends, exgirlfriends – that feels like a big stretch to me unless there is a situation where that person has become completely platonic. It would have to be such a rare circumstance.

Singerman: Let’s say a couple has a blood relative that is an uncle and he gets a divorce to their aunt, but they still have a close relationship with the couple – that aunt should still be invited. But if it is an ex of the couple, that could be a very uncomfortable situation. If it isn’t an ex that is already married or in a serious relationship, that could be weird for your future spouse.

If a guest tells me they’re bringing a di erent plus one than originally invited, what should I do?

Jokilehto-Schigel: If you invited someone with a plus-one designation and that couple breaks up or that plus one is unable to attend for some reason and they decide to bring someone they’re not dating to the wedding,

you can’t say they can’t bring them. There is an exception where if their adult plus one got sick and they decide to bring a child, but the event isn’t hosting children. If the new guest is another adult, you can’t back pedal on the invite – even if the person they bring isn’t your rst choice. These circumstances tend to happen very close to the wedding date, but it’s not the end of the world and people can be accommodated.

Singerman: If they were invited without a guest, I would politely remind them that the invitation was just for them. My rule of thumb with plus ones is they either need to be engaged, living together or in a longterm relationship. It is not someone you’d casually ask that you barely know to attend this event. I do think it goes back to your relationship with the couple.

Publisher’s note: Kim Singerman is married to Paul J. Singerman, board chair of the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company, publisher of Celebrations.

Kristin Leanne Photography / Noteworthy Events

Jokilehto-Schigel Singerman

SPOTLIGHT

EMMA ROSE & MAX SHULMAN

WEDDING DAY

NOV. 13, 2022

THE MADISON | CLEVELAND TODAY

AGES: BOTH 26

HOMETOWN: SOLON

SYNAGOGUE: CHABAD LUBAVITCH (SOLON & BEACHWOOD)

Haley Aldean Photography

HOW DID YOU MEET?

We have a mutual friend who has been trying to set us up with di erent people since high school. Nothing worked out in the past, but this friend suddenly thought to herself, “Hey, I know two Jewish people!” And the rest is history.

DO YOU HAVE ANY INTERESTING STORIES TO SHARE ABOUT GETTING TO KNOW ONE ANOTHER?

Back in 2016, when Max went to Miami University, I (Emma) was visiting my friend (the very one who introduced us) there. At a party, this friend took a video of the both of us. The video resurfaced on our social media memories just weeks before Max and I met. The video, though neither of us remember it clearly, is the beginning of a very beautiful love story.

HOW LONG DID YOU KNOW EACH OTHER BEFORE YOU GOT MARRIED?

For exactly one year.

WHEN DID YOU KNOW YOU WANTED TO MARRY YOUR PARTNER?

Emma: I knew I wanted to marry Max when we went on our rst date together. Since Max was living in Seattle at the time, we only met in person about a month after our rst FaceTime date. Our rst in-person date solidi ed everything for me.

Max: Emma took o work (and) drove me all the way downtown to get my COVID vaccine when I was feeling nervous about after e ects. For some reason that is when I really knew I loved her. She showed me sel essness and humility that day.

WHAT WAS THE BEST PART OF WEDDING PLANNING?

Wedding planning can be stressful, but with the help of our families and our coordinators, it made it much easier. The best part was knowing that we’d be marrying each other.

HOW DID THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AFFECT YOUR WEDDING PLAN AND WEDDING DAY?

Thankfully it did not. My (Emma’s) grandparents (ages 94 and 86) got really sick with COVID a few months before the wedding, and we were all really nervous that they would have to miss it. But they came and had a great time along with everyone else!

WAS THERE ANY SPOT-ON ADVICE YOU RECEIVED PRIOR TO THE BIG DAY, EITHER IN TERMS OF THE WEDDING OR LASTING RELATIONSHIP?

The best advice we got was to really soak up the day and take it all in. Something common that people say about their wedding day is that it was a blur, and neither of us wanted that. We wanted to enjoy our day and every moment possible together.

WERE THERE ANY CONFLICTS BETWEEN THE TWO OF YOU OR YOUR FAMILIES IN THE PLANNING PROCESS? DID EITHER OF YOU HAVE TO MAKE ANY SACRIFICES?

The biggest argument we got in was about the food. One of us wanted an all kosher wedding, and the other wanted half and half. We decided to do all kosher. The best part was that the food was the talk of the town at the wedding.

WHAT WAS THE MOST FUN OR INTERESTING JEWISH ASPECT OF YOUR WEDDING/PARTNERSHIP?

We are from very similar backgrounds, but we have taken very di erent paths to get where we are now. I (Emma) am the rst child/ grandchild to have a formal chuppah in three generations after the Holocaust. Max is the second in his family, but we have very di erent views on Judaism. What we have found to make work for us is having a common value system, and passing our values down to our future children.

PLANNING

Engagement: March 12, 2022

O ciant: Rabbi Moshe Gancz

Wedding colors: White and neutral

Wedding rings: Diamonds Direct

Veil: Radiant Bride

Shoes: Chanel

Hair: Nora

Makeup: Monica Cambareri

Bridesmaids dresses: ASOS

Groom’s formalwear: Psycho Bunny

Groomsmen: We just told them to get all black suits. They did pretty well!

Bouquet/ owers/chuppah: Willows and Sage Flowers & Events (Anna Bolman)

Ketubah: Cynthia Kaufman Rose

Photographer: Haley Aldean

Planners/consultants: Anna Bolman and EVER HAUS

Reception: The Madison in Cleveland

Cake/sweets/catering: Davis Kosher Caterers

Invitations/stationery: BP Print Group (invitations) and Empire Press (benchers and kippahs)

Music/entertainment: AY Nakdimen

Rentals: L’Nique (linens) and POMP (furniture)

Registries: The Knot

Honeymoon: We have not gone yet.

“After a whole week of not seeing one another, and being surrounded by family and friends, seeing each other at the bedeken was the most amazing part of the day. We were both filled with excitement and emotion.”

-Emma and Max

Viva Magenta

By Jessica Simon

Viva Magenta, the 2023 Pantone Color of the Year, is vibrant, playful and the perfect accent color for any celebration. The options are endless for this beautiful hue. Whether it is in jewelry, lighting or orals, you are sure to nd the perfect way to incorporate Viva Magenta into the big day.

Morganite and diamond ring set in 14kt rose gold from Robert & Gabriel Jewelers in Lyndhurst.

Genevieve Nisly Photography

Photo / Ninety Three Creative. Wedding planning and design by A Charming Fete.

White specializes in sophisticated, effortless and wedding gowns in a personal atmosphere.

Something White specializes in sophisticated, effortless and classic wedding gowns in a relaxed and personal atmosphere.

Something White specializes in sophisticated, effortless and classic wedding gowns in a relaxed and personal atmosphere.

Something White specializes in sophisticated, effortless and classic wedding gowns in a relaxed and personal atmosphere.

| Amsale | Atelier Pronovias | Kelly

Atelier Pronovias | Kelly

Legends by Romona Keveza | Pronovias | Suzanne Neville |

| Amsale | Atelier Pronovias | Kelly

| Amsale | Atelier Pronovias | Kelly

Faetanini | Legends by Romona Keveza | Lela Rose | Pronovias | Suzanne Neville |

Faetanini | Legends by Romona Keveza | Lela Rose | Pronovias | Suzanne Neville |

Faetanini | Legends by Romona Keveza | Lela Rose | Pronovias | Suzanne Neville |

|

Photo / Lauren Gabrielle Photography. Wedding planning and design by A Charming Fete.

Above: A deep magenta raspberry sapphire set in 14kt white gold, surrounded by a diamond halo, on a diamond shank from Robert & Gabriel Jewelers.

Right: Navy tuxedo by Giorgio Fiorelli, Viva Magenta silk geometric patterned tie by VIV and a white tuxedo shirt by Christopher Lena, all from Ticknors Men’s Clothier in Beachwood.

Natural Views

By Jessica Simon

Beauty in nature can be the perfect backdrop for a wedding. In Northeast Ohio, there are many such options from the Cleveland Metroparks to Cuyahoga Valley National Park to wineries and vineyards in the area. Incorporate greens into wedding attire to help bring the atmosphere full circle. Light and airy gowns are perfect for brides, along with delicate jewelry to complete the look.

Above: A trio of 14kt white gold, fun shaped, stackable diamond wedding bands from Robert & Gabriel Jewelers in Lyndhurst. Left: Lillian West 66188 gown from Luxe Redux Bridal in Orange.

Jessica Vidmar Photography

A 14kt rose gold wedding band made up of rose colored “leaves,” each accented with two round brilliant cut diamonds from Robert & Gabriel Jewelers.

NATURAL VIEWS

Above: Green three-piece suit by Statement, green wool knit tie by Bruno Marchesi, a white Trend modern- t dress shirt by F/X Fusion and a oral pocket square, all from Ticknors Men’s Clothier. Below: Luna gown by Evie Young from Luxe Redux Bridal.

Above: Amore gown by White One from Luxe Redux Bridal in Orange.

Below: Taupe premium wool suit by Mantoni, green wool knit tie by Bruno Marchesi and a white tuxedo shirt by Christopher Lena, all from Ticknors Men’s Clothier in Beachwood.

Photo by Genevieve Nisly Photography

SPOTLIGHT

D YLAN G ARFINKEL

BAR MITZVAH: MAY 7, 2022

SYNAGOGUE: PARK SYNAGOGUE

CELEBRATION: BEECHMONT COUNTRY CLUB

OFFICIANT: RABBI JOSHUA SKOFF; RITUAL DIRECTOR WAS GADI GALILI

AGE: 14

HOMETOWN: SOLON

SCHOOL: JOSEPH AND FLORENCE MANDEL JEWISH DAY SCHOOL

Linda Ford / Linda’s Lenses

WHAT WAS THE BEST PART OF THE DAY?

Dylan: Everything about the morning service and evening celebration was exciting. I enjoyed sharing my special day with family and friends, and being able to show everyone the hard work that I put into the service from my Torah portion to my d’var Torah.

Stephanie Elk and Gregg Gar nkel, parents: It is one of those moments where we paused and looked around in awe of the beauty of life. We looked at Dylan, our family and the community and felt so much love and gratitude for sharing Dylan’s special day with us.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER YOUNG ADULTS PREPARING FOR THEIR B’NAI MITZVAHS?

Dylan: My advice is not to wait until the last minute to begin studying. Enjoy the day and take time to look around and see everyone that came out to celebrate. You should de nitely enjoy the moment.

SPECTACULAR SPOTS

Northeast Ohio boasts a wealth of picturesque event

venues with expansive accommodations

By Courtney Byrnes

Many details and decisions go into planning big life celebrations, and nding a great space for your party can o er the perfect backdrop to a special moment.

Some venues also make the process easier by o ering assistance with regard to planning and vendors who help bring a b’nai mitzvah or wedding to life. For that reason, Terri Kufel, director of sales and catering at InterContinental Cleveland in Cleveland; Makenna Delgado, wedding and special event coordinator at Walden in Aurora; and Jaime Nosse, director of event sales at the Glidden House in Cleveland, share with Celebrations what makes an event at each venue so special.

INTERCONTINENTAL CLEVELAND

Hotels are often prime venues for celebratory events, o ering convenient lodging for out-of-town guests. But an event at InterContinental Cleveland has more to o er in terms of quality service, food and sta as a Four Diamond Luxury property designated by AAA, Kufel says.

With synchronized table service o ering a restaurant feel and experienced sta who give a personal touch from booking to the day of, the hotel strives to earn its high ratings, she explains. Additionally, The Knot awarded InterContinental Cleveland with its Best of Weddings award in 2022 and 2023.

For weddings, InterContinental Cleveland has two wedding specialists, senior catering

sales manager Melissa Fleming and catering manager Melissa Leone, who are there from start to nish.

“The level of expertise I think that they o er is insurmountable, as well as the fact that they sell and plan it, and they’re there that day,” Kufel says, adding that there can sometimes be a disconnect when working with di erent people for booking, planning and the day-of activities.

“We often nd that the person books with that person because they connect with them and they trust them, so they’re there the whole way – including the day of the wedding,” she says.

In terms of venue options, InterContinental Cleveland has three

Photo / InterContinental Cleveland / Genevieve Nisly Photography

choose from, Plus, they offer every room in

of cordless operating systems to choose from, shades are the choice for children. Plus, they offer fabrics and affordable prices, making every room in even more enjoyable.

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rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 7/2/16–9/12/16 from participating dealers in the receive a rebate. If you purchase fewer units than the required multiple you will not be entitled to mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim receipt. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, thereafter. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. their respective owners.

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qualifying purchases made 7/2/16–9/12/16 from participating dealers in the purchase fewer units than the required multiple you will not be entitled to of rebate claim receipt. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. wners.

From the Gothic exterior with its opulent design details to the sophisticated rooms within, the Glidden House is an ideal setting for your ceremony as well as your reception. Luxurious rooms, our stunning gardens and gazebo, ensure your wedding will involve an intimate ambiance within our picturesque surroundings. Our experienced staff works tirelessly to make sure every detail of each wedding is handled with the utmost care and precision.

cordless operating systems to choose from, the choice for children. Plus, they offer affordable prices, making every room in enjoyable.

spaces accommodating di erent numbers of guests. For a large party, the Founders Ballroom can accommodate 450 people with space for a dance oor, a band and cake table; the space can also be divided in half to hold a ceremony on one side and open up for the reception. A thirdoor gallery and the Six Continents junior ballroom o er a more intimate setting, accommodating up to 175 and 80 people, respectively.

For weddings, the hotel can o er rooms to get ready in and a ketubah signing room, as well as a complimentary suite for the couple on their wedding night. The cake and valet parking are also included in the wedding packages.

InterContinental can also o er accommodations before and beyond the day-of festivities as the hotel o ers a 10% discount to add an additional event, such as a rehearsal dinner, and a “Honeymoon on Us” program which o ers points based on the amount of money spent on food and beverage.

Looking to popular trends, other accommodations can include uplighting, Chiavari chairs or cold sparklers. Celebrants can also bring in outside vendors for the cake or for kosher catering.

“If they want to set up the room, we can set up many di erent ways,” Kufel says. “... What we found has really been a trend lately is to have a couple really long tables on the side of the dance oor, and with those suspending owers from the ceiling above you or a special decor look has become very popular.”

WALDEN

If you ever hosted or attended an event at Walden, you can expect any future celebrations there to look a little di erent as the inn’s former Cafe space is undergoing a renovation, expanding and doubling the maximum capacity to accommodate 225 guests.

“It’s making it possible for us to host larger weddings, and just events in general without having to do a tented reception,” Delgado says. “In the past, a lot of people with larger parties would do a tented reception because they loved Walden and they wanted to be here. So, they did whatever they had to do to be on Walden property.”

The updated space is expected to be completed in June, with its rst wedding scheduled for June 17. It is being expanded by removing the second oor loft and pushing out one wall, and will have updates to lighting xtures, oors and the bar to keep up with current trends.

While the former Cafe space is the most popular wedding space at Walden, there are plenty of other options for events at its Inn and the Club to t the size and style of a party.

Delgado describes the Jodhpurs Lounge at the Inn as “a very Ralph Lauren-inspired room” with a replace, private patio, copper-topped bar and view of the indoor

horseback riding arena. The room can hold about 72 people formally seated, allowing for over 100 if used for a cocktail party. The Inn also has its Pyramid Room which is often used for meetings, but can hold up to 40 people banquet style for an intimate party.

Over at the Club, the Main Dining Room can host 150 people or be rented with the Bogey Bar & Deck to allow for additional

Photo / Walden

BRING

Lizzie’s Bakery is the only peanut and tree nut free bakery in Northeast Ohio. We offer classic baked goods made in a peanut and tree-nut free-facility.

Lizzie’s Bakery offerings include decorated sugar cookies, gourmet cookies, cupcakes, cakes and breakfast treats. We also accommodate custom orders, including corporate logo cookies! You can find our products at local farmers markets, at the Corner in the Van Aken District.

space and private bar service. The bar can hold 30 people banquet style or 50 people for a cocktail party.

Walden is also updating its garden and lawn spaces, such as Club Arbor, often used for outdoor ceremonies, cocktail hours and parties with upgraded hardscape, landscape and bar.

When it comes to planning an event, Walden o ers many accommodations. As an inn, Walden can o er lodging in its newly upgraded suites. Linens, candles, tables and chairs are all included with event room rentals, with upgrades available to t a party’s style. For anything not included such as oral arrangements or centerpieces, hosts have access to Walden’s preferred vendor lists.

“We don’t want people to stress about party planning,” Delgado says. “We want them to come to Walden, feel relaxed, talk to me, talk to anybody who can throw their party, and then we basically help plan the entire party from our end because we are the venue, we’re the food and we’re the bar.”

GLIDDEN HOUSE

With the backdrop of lush green landscaping and a historic 1910 French gothic mansion, the Glidden House o ers a beautiful location to host events, Nosse says. And its space allows it to host just one event at a time – a bene t for the celebrants.

“You’re not competing with other events like at other larger venues,” she says. “... So, we’re able to just solely focus on your special day.”

With a manicured lawn ideal for an outdoor ceremony and cocktail hour and its indoor dining rooms, the Glidden House can comfortably accommodate a party of 150 people. The Juniper room o ers space for dining and dancing with room for a dance oor and

a band or DJ.

The attached Magnolia room is ideal for serving meals, dessert or adding a photo booth or photo wall.

“It’s a great way to be announced into the room,” Nosse adds. “Usually, we’ll hold the wedding party back there to announce everybody in.”

In case of inclement weather or to nd a quiet moment away from the crowd, other rooms in the mansion such as the dining room, library and loggia are open to o er an extension of the cocktail party on the patio.

For serving food, the Glidden House helps with the design and layout of tables and chairs, provides linens and bar service, and works with the hosts’ vendors. It o ers a list of preferred exclusive caterers to bring the day to life.

“We’ll work with them and then any of the vendors that the (celebrant) has selected, as far as like the orist or entertainment, to provide what their needs are for that day,” Nosse says. “We work together as a team of vendors to make the day go really smoothly.”

Not only can celebrants host all their festivities at the Glidden House, but the mansion has 60 guest rooms for lodging – including the eight suites where the Glidden family previously resided. The other 52 traditional guest rooms are undergoing a renovation to be completed this spring, upgrading to more modern technology and an elevated design. The new rooms will have workstations, platform beds, mini refrigerators and custom cabinetry. Hotel guests receive a complimentary breakfast available daily and on-site parking.

“Nobody has to travel to the ceremony and then back here for the reception,” Nosse says. “So, it’s nice to have everybody in one spot.”

Photo / Glidden House

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SPOTLIGHT

CARLY SCHLESSINGER & ALEC STERN

WEDDING DAY

MAY 29, 2022

SAPPHIRE CREEK WINERY & GARDENS | CHAGRIN FALLS TODAY

AGES: 28 & 29

HOMETOWN: LYNDHURST

SYNAGOGUE: B’NAI JESHURUN CONGREGATION

Lauren Gabrielle Photography

WHERE DID YOU GO ON YOUR FIRST DATE?

Alec invited me (Carly) on a date in Chagrin Falls. We got dinner and walked around for most of the night. Little did we know, we’d be married in the same city we met four years later.

DO YOU HAVE ANY INTERESTING STORIES TO SHARE ABOUT GETTING TO KNOW ONE ANOTHER?

We started dating while I (Carly) was in grad school in Philadelphia. I made plans to come home often, but we also met a number of times halfway in Bedford, Pa. We spent our time exploring the Omni Bedford Springs Resort. While getting to know each other, we quickly learned about all of the connections that we had with each other. Our grandparents lived near each other, graduated together and our parents attended the same temple.

HOW LONG DID YOU KNOW EACH OTHER BEFORE YOU GOT MARRIED?

Before the wedding, we had known each other for almost exactly four years. We met around Memorial Day in 2018 in Chagrin Falls and four years later, we were married in the same city.

WHEN DID YOU KNOW YOU WANTED TO MARRY YOUR PARTNER?

Carly: I knew I wanted to marry Alec pretty early on. I realized that we had so many overlapping values and interests. The more we got to know each other, the more clear it became.

Alec: I knew I wanted to marry Carly when I realized I could talk to her for hours without getting bored. After conquering long distance and moving in together, it wasn’t long before I decided to propose.

WHAT WAS THE BEST PART OF WEDDING PLANNING?

Cake tasting! Alec’s aunt and uncle own Eston’s Bakery in Toledo and we originally hoped that they would be able to make us our wedding

cake. After discussing logistics, we didn’t think it would be an option so we tried cakes from bakeries all over the Cleveland area. In the end, Eston’s found a way to bring our cake the day of the wedding from Toledo. We were so grateful that we were able to celebrate with them and enjoy their cake on the day of.

WHAT WAS THE MOST FUN OR INTERESTING JEWISH ASPECT OF YOUR WEDDING?

During our wedding ceremony, we chose to be wrapped in two tallises. One tallit belonged to my (Carly’s) grandfather and one belonged to (Alec’s) grandfather. We chose to use both because it was a way to honor members of both of our families.

PLANNING

Engagement: Nov. 26, 2020

O ciant: Rabbi Hal Rudin-Luria

Wedding colors: Neutrals – beige and white

Dress: Lea-Ann Belter from Brides by the Falls

Wedding rings: Alson Jewelers

Veil: Toni Federici

Shoes: Loe er Randall

Hair: Janine Lydic

Makeup: Lindsay London

Bridesmaids dresses: Show Me Your Mumu

Groom/groomsmens formalwear: Jos. A. Bank

Bouquet/ owers/chuppah: The Budding Tree

Ketubah: Ketubah.com

Photographer: Lauren Gabrielle Photography

Videographer: Just Hitched

Planner/consultant: Kirkbrides

Reception: Sapphire Creek Winery & Gardens

Cake: Eston’s Bakery

Rehearsal dinner: Pinstripes in Orange

Invitations/stationery: Rose Gold Studio

Music/entertainment: The Avenue

Registries: Crate & Barrel, Bloomingdale’s, Amazon

Honeymoon: Italy and Greece

Extras: East Coast Custard truck for late night snack

“The best part of our wedding was the ketubah signing in the wine cellar. We were surrounded by our family and close friends. Rabbi Hal made the process fun and meaningful as we were blessed by our parents. This was the moment that signified the start of our lives together as husband and wife and the rest of the evening that followed was nothing short of perfect.”

-Carly and Alec

A Bite Worth a Thousand Words

Taste testing tips for choosing catering, desserts

By Amy Richards

Whether you are throwing a b’nai mitzvah party or a wedding reception, food plays an important part in any Jewish celebration. It doesn’t matter if you are planning a huge bash or an intimate one, a casual reception or a black-tie a air, a daytime party or an evening event, food sets the tone and can make or break a celebration.

For many parties, it is important to taste test what you will serve to your guests. But how should you approach planning a taste test for catering or desserts? Three local professionals tell Celebrations how to get the most out of your tasting experience.

BON APPÉTIT

Bon Appétit Management Company is the exclusive caterer for the Cleveland Museum of Art.

“We o er full-service, on-site catering and have a full on-site culinary team,” says Rachel Rosen, director of catering sales for Bon Appétit at CMA. “Our tastings operate a bit di erently as couples are trying the items that they will be serving at their wedding, rather than narrowing down options, as we do not o er tastings prior to booking.”

Tastings at the museum, located in Cleveland’s University Circle district, usually take place four to 12 weeks prior to the event to take advantage of seasonal o erings.

“We want what they taste to be as close as it can be to what they will receive the day of the wedding,” Rosen says. “For example, squash in July will taste much di erent from squash in September.”

The venue o ers full-course tastings for weddings – starting with “a sparkling toast, as it’s a wonderful way to start a fun tasting,” Rosen says.

“This is followed by the passed hors d’oeuvres,” she says. “We then move into the salad course and wine selections, followed by the three entrées that will be o ered. We nish with our mini pastries and co ee. Our catering and pastry chefs come out and speak with the group, answer questions and give recommendations.”

While Bon Appétit has standard catering menus and packages, customization is also an option, Rosen says.

Although Bon Appétit at CMA mainly caters weddings, “If someone were to host a bar or bat mitzvah, a tasting would be available to them with a similar format,” Rosen adds.

DAVIS BAKERY

For catering that highlights an assortment of deli meats, sh, cheeses and handcrafted baked goods, look no further than Davis Bakery and Delicatessen in Warrensville Heights and Woodmere.

To taste those items, just wander in and have a nosh, says Jayson Davis, one of Davis Bakery’s owners. Davis Bakery also bake cakes for all special occasions and will arrange a special tasting, especially for wedding couples.

“Our hope is to simplify the process,” Davis says. “Selecting the cake is one of the facets of a wedding that is supposed to be fun, not an arduous task. We set up a time to meet, ask the couple their desired avors to taste, and procure the samples.”

Davis says the bakery listens to the customers’ ideas and he

Bon Appétit Management Company / Lauren Gabrielle Photography

suggests they bring photos of what they envision along for the taste test. “Then, we do our best to make their vision a reality,” he says.

A mainstay in the Northeast Ohio Jewish community since 1939, the bakery’s motto is “The taste tells the story,” Davis relays.

“Our hope is that the food will leave a lasting impression on the event’s attendees,” he says. “It all starts with the bride and groom during that tasting. We want to hear them say, ‘Wow, that’s delicious.’”

Davis also encourages customers to consider practicality as well as budget when deciding what they want to taste and eventually serve.

“If you’re planning an outdoor event in the middle of July, you may want to avoid a whipped cream cake,” Davis adds. “Do you want a formal meal for guests to eat at a table, or hand-held items that can easily be consumed while mingling? Also, expenditures add up, so make sure that your desires are in alignment with your pocketbook.”

LUNA BAKERY & CAFE

Along with its popular cakes for weddings and other formal events, Luna Bakery & Cafe o ers a full selection of mini pastries. Those are popular options for parties with kids, says Brynn Keefe, cake shop manager at Luna, which has locations in Cleveland Heights, Moreland Hills and is opening a new shop in downtown Cleveland this spring.

The hits for events tend to be mini cupcakes, custom sugar cookies and bars.

“We also have a selection of breakfast pastries, full size and minis, which are great for a busy morning with house guests or family and friends gathering before the celebration,” Keefe says. “They are available for purchase in our cafe for you to taste.”

For Luna’s specialty cakes for any celebration, including b’nai mitzvahs and weddings, there is a process for taste testing where customers can sample avors and share what designs they like.

“We have a cake tasting box available to order for individuals

looking to sample cake,” Keefe says. “They pick a day and time that works best for them. Once they sample the box, they pass along the avors they enjoyed most, along with their design ideas. From there, we provide a quote and design sketch.”

Luna Bakery

Davis Bakery

HORA

Stacey Hoffman & Matthew Klayman

Stacey Ho man and Matthew Klayman dance the hora at their wedding on May 29, 2022 at Gordon Green in Cleveland’s Gordon Square Arts District. Their ceremony was o ciated by Rabbi Joshua Sko of Park Synagogue. Stacey, 32, grew up in May eld Village and attended Hawken School, while Matthew, 33, grew up in South Brunswick, N.J. Today, Stacey and Matthew live in Brooklyn, N.Y.

“The hora was one of the highlights of our wedding. Our families led the charge in getting everyone on the dance oor, and it was an amazing experience to be lifted up by so many of our friends and relatives. It seemed like everyone was having a blast. There were so many smiles across the whole dance oor.”

Kristin Leanne Photography

-Stacey and Matthew