Captured & submitted by J&J Studios, LLC
On the afternoon of August 8th, J&J Studios had the pleasure of photographing a beautiful wedding that took place at the Crystal Tea Room in Philadelphia. We had never photographed a Lebanese wedding, but we were excited for this new opportunity. Below, I will tell you about the wedding, the amazing couple, the chosen vendors, and show you photos of this fun-filled day.
THE BEGINNING OF THE WEDDING DAY
Elsie and Patrick began getting ready at two different houses in New Jersey. The groom presented his groomsmen with special team socks to wear, and the bride presented her bridesmaids with fancy robes to wear while getting ready. So many tears, laughs, and memories were shared while preparing for the big day. Elsie and Patrick were both ready to start this adventure together with their loved ones by their sides. They were excited, anxious, and nervous but could not wait to see each other. Our team at J&J Studios could instantly feel the bond between the bride and groom and their friends who were supporting on them this day. Everyone described them as more than ready for this big step in their lives.
ON THE WAY TO THE WEDDING
After everyone was ready, it was time for more pictures. The groom and his dog shared a special moment together. Then, the parents joined into the photographs. At the other house, the bride and her bridesmaids began getting their photos taken together, and her parents jumped into the photographs as well. Everyone shared some jokes, chuckles, and words of advice. Finally, the moment we have all been waiting for was here. It was time to head to the wedding location. A fancy limousine picked everyone up and off they went!
PATRICK AND ELSIE’S LEBANESE WEDDING
Lebanese weddings are known for their entertaining traditions. It was our first time photographing a Lebanese wedding, but hopefully it was not our last. We had a wonderful time celebrating with the newly married couple and look forward to capturing many more Lebanese weddings in the future. Before attending a Lebanese wedding, it is important to do research and learn a few of the traditions. This will help you prepare and know what to expect. However, if you are invited to a Lebanese wedding and do not have time to do research, the most important thing to remember is to just let loose, have fun, and be ready to celebrate with the couple all day long. It is an important day for them, and the celebrations last from sun up to sun down.
LEBANESE TRADITIONS
The following are a few of the Lebanese traditions that you should know about:
1. Zaffe: The zaffe is a term from the Middle East. It was first used in the 14th century and is a tradition of where the bride and groom are escorted from each of their family’s houses to the wedding location. Music, dancing, and instruments are common parts of the zaffe tradition.
2. Cutting of The Cake: In any type of wedding, the cutting of the cake is a special part. However, it is extra special during a Lebanese wedding. The old tradition used to be breaking a slice of cake made of wheat or barley over the bride’s head. However, that is not typically practiced in Lebanese weddings anymore. Instead, it has been replaced by cutting the cake. The couples put their hands together, which is a sign of unity, and cut the cake together. It is believed that the wheat inside the cake is a symbol of fertility, and the sweetness in the cake is a sign of how sweet the couple’s new life will be. Some couples will even use a sword to cut the cake.
3. Fireworks: Fireworks are a big part of Lebanese weddings. They represent a celebration and are fun for everyone to watch and enjoy at the end of the day.
4. Dancing: Dancing is one of the most important parts of a Lebanese wedding. Everyone joins in and dances until they can’t anymore. Sometimes, there will also be belly dancing, instrument playing, and loud-pitch singing. This is a moment where the bride and groom and all their guests come together to dance the night away.
5. Seeing the Last Guest Off: Although it is common for the guests to watch the newly married couple leave for their honeymoon after the wedding, Lebanese weddings usually entail the bride and groom waiting until the very last guest leaves before they can leave. It is believed to be inconsiderate, disrespectful, and impolite for the married couple to leave before everyone else has left.
PATRICK AND ELSIE
It was amazing watching Patrick and Elsie exchange rings and commit to spending their lives together. Our photographers could see the happiness and glow in both of their eyes. They have been together for quite some time and we wish them nothing but the absolute best. We believe that this couple will go far in their future endeavors and cannot wait to celebrate every milestone with them. Congratulations Patrick and Elsie; you both were an absolute joy to photograph, and we could not have asked for anyone better to spend our day with than you two and your loved ones. Your wedding will go down in our history of one of the most fun and vibrant weddings. Good luck!
THE WEDDING DETAILS AT THE CRYSTAL TEA ROOM
It is crucial to splurge and focus on the details of your wedding and reception. The details are what stand out to your guests, give your special day some personalization, and make your big day yours. By the end of the day, your wedding guests will be talking about all the details and hard work you put into ensuring that your wedding day represents you and your spouse. The goal is for people to walk in and realize every detail or item used represents you in some way. These are the things that you and everyone who attended will remember for years to come.
Ceremony Location:St. Maron Maronite Catholic Church//Floral Designer: Fabufloras Design//DJ: Wakim Music//Jewelry: Natale Jeweler//Makeup Artist: George Du Liban Hair and Beauty Salon//Caterer: Finley Catering//Shoes: Bella Belle Shoes//Invitation Designer:Minted//Dress Designer:STELLA YORK//Dress Store: The Wedding Factor//Favors and Gifts:St. Jude Children’s Hospital//Makeup Artist: Makeup by Emily Dimant//Apparel:The Men’s Wearhouse//Bakery:Termini Bros Bakery//Location:Crystal Tea Room//Photographer: J&J Studios, LLC//
