A Jewish wedding is a beautiful spectacle, with some amazing traditions, and for Jess and Simon Notley Abbey provided the perfect back drop for their special day. This Notley Abbey Jewish Wedding is a must see!

As i type this the evenings are dropping down to sub-zero temperatures and the cold rain is beating against the studio windows so I wanted to transport ourselves back to Spring, sunshine and new life. In Spring the tree-lined driveway at Notley Abbey with its tall poplar trees is a sight to behold and I always love taking couples there for some portraits during the day.

The venue notley abbey

Taking place on a Sunday, Jess and Simon were married in a marquee at Notley Abbey before a reception in the Monks refectory, a grand stone barn which has been lovingly restored.

Jess wore an elegant A line number by Suzanne Neville, which she found at Ellie Sanderson Bridal Boutique. Whilst the groom rocked a navy three-piece suit with maroon velvet bow tie! Simon had some amazing cufflinks made, with his initials in gold.

The traditions

The wedding commenced in true Jewish style, with the men of the family joining with the Rabbi for the Tisch, a male gathering (with whiskey!), where the marriage contract, The Ketubah, is read and signed.

Following this, one of my favourite of the traditions takes place, the Badeken. Often an emotional element of the day, in a quite side room with only close family and friends present the bride and groom see each other for the first time, and the groom places the bride’s veil in place for the ceremony. Then the bride and groom are all set! The couple were married under a beautiful flower laden canopy, the Cuppah, before Simon of course broke the glass – Mazal Tov! I must thank Jessica Jager who was the second photographer on this wedding, she helped to capture all these amazing traditions in their fully glory!

Notley Abbey’s tree lined avenue provided an incredible scene to capture some couple of shots, especially with the bright spring foliage looking so fresh.

The party

Celebrations continued into the night, with fabulous food and a traditional first dance with the band, and some rather raucous and incredibly fun Israeli dancing!

Its not often i have the need to use second photographers but special thanks go to the very talented Jessica Jager who was my second shooter on the day and captured a couple of the images here, not only a very talented photographer but a lovely person too, check her out at Jessica Jager Photography

Notley Abbey Jewish Wedding Photos