The first #MitzvahMonday of 2016 is here and I have been waiting for a momentous day to share such a fabulous event - India's Bat Mitzvah! 

We celebrated in early September on what was definitely one of the hottest weekends of the summer! Although in my nine years of photography I've encountered many, many warm days of shooting, none was ever as delightful as India's big weekend. Maybe it was the British accents of her parents and family, maybe it was India's sweet demeanor, maybe it was the literal sweetness of the candy at the party on Saturday night or the speeches at Saturday evening dinner ... or perhaps, it was every single moment I captured through my lens that combined, created this beautiful story I've been itching to share! 

I had not yet photographed at Shir Tikvah Congregation in South Mpls before this weekend, but it's definitely one of my favorite synagogues (who am I kidding? I love them all!). The spirit and freedom of the congregants was so refreshing ... as was the air conditioning! The portraits with India's family were filled with emotion and moments on Friday evening and Saturday morning. The service was bright, filled with song and dance and just as joyous as I had hoped. 

Saturday night was a party like none other ... with an intimate dinner beforehand at the family home on Cedar Lake with their closest family and friends from near and far. The speeches were meaningful and so warm with emotion. I myself alternated between tears of joy and laughter! Following the dinner was the party and everyone was on the black and white dance floor the entire night - it was amazing!! AList Entertainment kept the night moving under a white tent and lights by Apre. D'amico Catering was fabulous at each turn, from the passed snacks to the buffet and the Traveling Photo Booth offered some fun options for portraits. 

Thanks to these vendors who made it a weekend celebration to remember!
Videography: Princess Bride / Sarah Anderson
Floral: Wisteria Design Studio
Graphic Design / Invitations: Gretchen Berry Designs

Endless thanks to the Lacey family for including me in this event. Your spirit of fun and emotion was right up my alley and I loved every second we spent together! I am so grateful for your belief in me to capture these life moments that you'll treasure forever. XOXO!