Westport Wedding: Helen & Jake

Every single couple we work with has a special and unique wedding, but Jake & Helen’s was especially close to our hearts.  Our founder Sarah grew up in the same community as Jake, and their mothers were business partners at one point. Sarah’s parents actually attended Helen & Jake’s beautiful wedding, which took place at Jake’s parents’ home in Westport, Mass.

All of the beautiful details of the day are shared below in photos from Olivia Gird Photography.

In addition to Jake’s parents’ home, the couple used the house door on the dead end street to have more space to spread out. Helen got ready there and had her hair done by Allison Barbera and makeup by Sherri Caissie. The ladies were styled to perfection while the gentleman got dressed, and then they all met up for a “first look” photo outdoors.  The bridal party and parents looked on as Jake and Helen saw each other for the first time on their wedding day; it was so romantic!

After some group photos, it was time to head inside for the traditional Ketubah signing. The Ketubah was designed and printed by Jennifer Raichman. Officiant Rabbi Jaffe led the short remarks and the couple and their witnesses signed the Jewish marriage document.  While this was happening, all of the guests were gathering outside at dusk, ready for the ceremony to start. The Jewish chuppah at the altar was hand built by Jake and his mother and under it was a ceremonial bottle of wine and cups to drink from. 

The officiant and the couple's grandparents made their way down the aisle first, followed by the groom with his parents and the bridesmaids, and then the bride herself with one parent on each arm.  The ceremony was thoughtful and so personal, since the officiant has known Jake since he was a boy.  After a kiss and a big MAZEL TOV! the couple headed straight to the house for a private moment together as husband and wife.  All of the guests and family members headed to cocktail hour in the yard area.

Snacks were ready to go from the caterer, Smoke & Pickles, and drinks from bartending service Garnish & Drink.  Guests didn’t have to go far for the portable restroom trailers, provided by Elegant Restrooms.

Guests could grab their favors as they mingled at cocktail hour. The couple put together small jars of honey with the escort tags attached. The sign said “Find your honey – then find your seat.” So cute!
 
Finally it was reception time, under the huge tent provided by Chase Canopy.  Guests were seated at tables/chairs through the rental company, Rentals Unlimited.  The flowers and centerpieces were from florist Eva's Garden – they looked awesome!

And DJ Keith from Each Production took center stage, getting guests excited for the reception about to start. Each set of parents and the whole bridal party was introduced into the tent before it was finally Jake & Helen’s turn.  They shared a first dance to the classic Otis Redding song “That’s How Strong My Love Is” followed by a rousing Hora that got everyone onto their feet while the caterer set up the buffet for dinner.

Before dinner was served, a sweet parent dance was shared, with Jake dancing with his mom while Helen was joined by her dad. Then, Jake’s parents made a toast to welcome all of the guests and Jake's grandfather said the traditional blessing over the wine and bread.  After dinner, we heard a few more toasts from the Maid of Honor, the Best Man, and Helen’s mother. Each one was sweet and personal and brought the crowd to laughter and tears.   Dessert was perfect for the early fall evening: apple crisp! Guests crowded the dance floor after Helen tossed her bouquet and then the whole party danced the night away.

​Congratulations Helen & Jake! You two are just perfect together and it was so much fun to see the wedding come together from conception through execution.  You did it!