Jewish Wedding Ceremony

Ian and I returned to Cleveland on Friday; and we are still adjusting to the travel time.  I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for creating such a fairytale wedding for my wonderful husband (I get to call him that!) and I.  Let me first say that the two women ( our onsite coordinators) were just amazing, kind, generous, intelligent and wonderful to be around. The time that was spent with them was so special.  To answer your questions….

Italy is truly a magical and romantic spot to have a wedding.  Ian and I were very lucky to have three weeks of enjoying the various places, people, history, food, culture, etc. 

I do have to admit that my favorite area was and is Florence.  The city itself is breathtaking.  It is full of love and life and I feel that any couple that chooses to marry in Florence will take with them a real life fairytale.  I was so happy to be with the synagogue and their congregation. The Rabbi, his wife, Maya, and their staff welcomed us with open hearts and we felt an instant bond.

Maya surprised Ian and I with one of the best presents a couple could receive.  With school in session, the sanctuary was filled with children.  They presented us with flowers and pictures.  It was very hard to keep composed, because of the kindness and generosity of such young people.  They danced and sang Jewish songs in celebration of our wedding.  We also had surprised guests.  Various congregation members and tourist filled the rows and cheered when the Rabbi pronounced us and wife.    

The carriage ride was so special.  The streets were filled with people from around the world and they were chanting in their own languages congratulations.  The Italians were hailing and clapping Auguri, the French were singing, the Japanese and many others were waiving us on as we were taking our celebratory ride throughout the streets of Florence.  Cameras were snapping and Ian and I felt that the world shares a common bond when it comes to love.  We laughed because we realized that the pictures that these people were taking of us will be a part of their history and holiday.  We will be in their homes…throughout the world.  WOW!  I do not know how many individuals could say that their wedding pictures included the Statue of David. 

In regards to the planning, thank you.  I cannot tell more that your company was so important to us because, the assistance made the processes move very quickly and smooth.  I cannot express the importance of having the support.  The bureaucracy can be very painful and Ian and I never experienced and stress or panic. I felt more panic when planning this event, because of not knowing the various concerns and I know that you did everything possible to make that go smooth.  Thank you.  The spa, hairdresser, and make-up artist were wonderful.  I suggest that all couples should have a spa day prior to the wedding to relieve any anxiety or nervousness.  Your itinerary was perfect to the day, place and time.  Thank you.    Please feel free to use us as a reference.   If I can think of anything more I will be sure to contact you. 

By the way, when do we receive our marriage civil certificate?  I know that we should be receiving the photos and DVD in the next couple of weeks.  Let me know and take care.  Thank you for your time and consideration. 

Hillary M. Stone