A Creative Jewish Wedding by the Sea: Danielle and Alex's Destination Celebration at Caesar Yam

Meet Danielle, an artist and dress designer, and Alex, who works in marketing. This New York couple found love during their gap year in Israel and chose to celebrate their Jewish wedding there, a country of deep significance for them. They discovered the breathtaking venue, Caesar Yam, featured in Smashing The Glass, and immediately fell for its warm ambiance and stunning Mediterranean backdrop.

The couple's chuppah, thoughtfully designed by Danielle, took place as the sun set over the ocean, providing a magical setting captured beautifully by photographer Haim Afriat and videographer Avichai Wechsler.

How They Met

Danielle recalls that she and Alex met in 2013 through the Young Judaea Year Course gap year program in Israel. They started dating while living in Jerusalem, and even with a month left before they returned home, their connection was unmistakable. They continued their love story through college in New York City and have been inseparable since.

Choosing the Venue

When searching for wedding venues in Israel, Danielle and Alex found Caesar Yam through a Smashing The Glass article. On a subsequent trip to Israel, after viewing several spots, they stepped into Caesar Yam and knew instantly it was the one. The venue’s stunning ocean view, historical stone architecture, and overall ambience felt dreamlike.

During their visit, they also had a food tasting, which overwhelmed them with delightful flavors and diverse gluten-free options that catered to Danielle's needs. The Caesar Yam team, including Avichai, Avi, and Eli, turned their vision into reality, handling everything expertly, which made the couple confident they didn’t need a separate wedding planner.

For getting ready, the couple rented the magnificent Hatira (the Castle), an 11th-century site about 20 minutes away. This stunning location provided a picturesque backdrop for pre-wedding photos and a perfect spot for their first look.

The Wedding Theme

As artists, Danielle and Alex had a distinct aesthetic vision. Danielle curated a comprehensive visual document detailing everything from flower types, color palettes, to furniture selections. They opted for a navy color scheme symbolizing the ocean with vibrant floral arrangements featuring white, pink, blue, and hints of lavender.

Alex's command of Hebrew was beneficial in communicating with vendors, although they could easily navigate in English. Eli from Caesar Yam managed the day-of operations, ensuring everything flowed seamlessly.

Invitations

The wedding invitations were a classy champagne hue adorned with embossed flowers. The couple expressed how much they loved them the moment they saw the designs after sifting through countless samples.

Hair and Makeup

In a unique departure, Danielle took charge of her own hair and makeup, showcasing her talent and comfort on a day filled with excitement.

Bridal Attire

Danielle wore the Gea gown by Nicole Milano, the second dress she tried on and immediately fell in love with. With dreams of a fairy tale wedding, this gown was the embodiment of that vision.

Groom's Attire

Alex's tuxedo was from SuitSupply, complemented by Black Lincoln Penny Loafers crafted by Thursday Boot Company, the brand he represents. A sentimental touch came from his grandfather’s watch, which allowed him to carry a piece of family history on his big day.

Wedding Party

Danielle’s maid of honor, Taylor, wore a navy blue dress, adding a harmonious touch to the wedding theme, which also extended to the mothers of both the bride and groom.

Ceremony & Chuppah

The couple's chuppah was breathtaking, positioned steps away from the ocean. Haim, the photographer, suggested timing their ceremony just before sunset, maximizing the scenic blue tones that transformed as daylight faded. Every detail of the chuppah, including a white stage and a flower-lined aisle, came together beautifully through Danielle's vision.

Elements of the day were rich with meaning: the couple's favorite song, "Mazal," was performed live as Danielle walked down the aisle, enriching the ceremony’s emotional impact. Their officiant, Rabbi Naomi Efrat, became an integral part of their journey, and they enjoyed months of connection leading to the wedding.

The Ketubah

The couple chose a light blue ketubah with a hint of green, resonating with the Mediterranean waters. The elegant design echoed the ketubah of Alex’s parents, deepening the emotional significance. Danielle's maid of honor and one of Alex’s close friends signed the document, beautifully integrating family and friendship.

Designed by KetubaLove, the finished piece now resides in their home as a lovely reminder of their special day.

Music and Entertainment

The couple hired DJ Shimi from Mayo Music, praised for his talent and communication skills. He infused the event with energy that kept guests dancing throughout. Shimi also coordinated a talented singer and musicians, including a violinist and saxophonist.

Floral Arrangements

With a specific vision for floral design, Danielle collaborated with Hoana Events. Florist Shira brought her vision to life, delivering exquisite arrangements that enhanced the decor and ambiance of the wedding day.

Photography and Videography

For capturing the essence of their wedding, they chose Haim Afriat for photography and Avichai Wechsler for videography. Haim's meticulous approach ensured all moments and details were documented beautifully, turning memories into art.

Catering and Cake

The food catered by Caesar Yam received rave reviews, and the couple emphasized how exceptional it was. They were especially thrilled with the stunning wedding cake designed by Mariana of Mariana Cakes Designer. This gluten-free cake was not only visually striking with its white layers but also came with flavors like rich chocolate and pistachio that delighted every guest.

Registry Tips

Using The Knot, Danielle and Alex set up their wedding registry. They focused on Bloomingdale's, where they could benefit from discounts on unpurchased items within six months, making it both practical and economical.

Honeymoon

After a week in Israel leading up to the wedding, the couple extended their travels to Italy, spending a week in both Puglia and Sicily. While they enjoyed Italy, they felt an undeniable pull back to Israel shortly after they left.

Advice for Future Couples

Danielle and Alex share valuable advice: take moments to truly soak in the day, as it passes rapidly. They also recommend ensuring to sample the food, as it turned out to be one of the best meals they’ve ever enjoyed.

Danielle & Alex’s Little White Book

Photography – Haim Afriat
Videography – Avichai Wechsler
Rabbi – Rabbi Naomi Efrat
Ketubah – KetubaLove
Venue – Caesar Yam
Getting Ready Venue – Hatira (the Castle)
Bride’s Dress – Nicole Milano
Groom's Attire – SuitSupply and Thursday Boot Company
Flowers – Hoana Events
DJ – Mayo Music
Cake – Mariana Cakes Designer
Wedding List/Registry – The Knot