This was the second event I’ve captured for this wonderful family, and I had a blast working with them both times. They are just so genuine and easy going, always full of warmth and laughs. For this one, I got to capture Emma’s big day as she entered the world as a beautiful bat mitzvah. These moments are so precious for parents. Since I’ve made two bat mitzvahs for my own daughters, I definitely understand why moms and dads want to go all out for mitzvah celebrations (though my husband may disagree as he watches the bank account, but I digress). Time goes so quickly, and all of a sudden, our babies transform into these amazing young men and women! We want to show them how proud we are of who they have become, how hard they’ve worked, and what their futures hold.

Emma’s Bat Mitzvah – Gold, Glittery, & Gorgeous

I often have to coax some smiles out of teens—it’s not unusual to be shy around the camera or slightly uncomfortable—but Emma was a natural. She worked the camera the entire day. Her custom-made dress (by @custom_by_zoe) was beyond spectacular. What a showstopper with the fun black, white, and gold design and flowing tulle! Emma is pure sunshine. Behind that glowing smile is a kind heart and a wonderful friend. It was easy to see that everyone who came was so excited to celebrate this special, one-of-a-kind girl.

For this bat mitzvah celebration, Emma celebrated with her parents and her two brothers, Ian and Aiden, by her side. The siblings danced all night with their friends and family at Glow in Waldwick, NJ. The ballroom was decorated so beautifully by Element Food Art—classy yet fun, with sparkly gold details and her ‘EmmaNation’ logo incorporated throughout. I highly recommend Element Food Art – the food was delicious and presented creatively and beautifully!

I had so much fun celebrating with you, Emma! Wishing you the very best! I know you’ll leave a little bit of sunshine wherever you go. 😉 And Hanauer family, thank you. I adore you. And I’ll see you in Hawaii for Aidan’s bar mitzvah!

About to host your child’s mitzvah? I’d love to help you capture all of those once-in-a-lifetime moments! Reach out to me [here]