Wedding planner for an outdoor wedding

Ok. so you do need hebrew for this one... it's the israeli version of a wedding planner. he's kinda like a contractor, only for weddings. and he seems great. His name is Elazar, and you can find info here. he can show you photos, and he has connections with caterers, florists, and anything else you could want at your wedding... so check him out. His company is called Pashut Bateva (Simply in Nature). he specializes in pulling off outdoor weddings in all sorts of places. he's really professional and seemed like he'd be great to work with. 

Brit Ahuvim and other ideas...

If you're looking for something that isn't the traditional kiddushin, but rather an alternative Jewish ceremony, Rachel Adler suggests a brilliant solution that she calls Brit Ahuvim (Lover's Covenant). You can take a look at chapter 5 in her book Engendering Judaism to learn more about it. Rachel Adler is very knowledgeable in Jewish tradition, and is very committed to it, but she brings to it an amazing creativity and openness. i'd say it's worth a read even if you aren't getting married...

Also, Danya Ruttenberg has put together a rather comprehensive overview of many different ceremony options (including Rachel Adler's Brit Ahuvim) on a website. You can find them here. 

The point is, there are options out there if the traditional kinyan, the acquisition of the woman in the traditional ceremony, makes you uneasy...

If you're planning to marry in israel, and are dealing with issues concerning the Rabbanut, there are some organizations that might be of interest to you. There's one organization called Mishpacha Chadasha (New Family) that is working for gender equality under Israeli law in relation to marriage, among some other things. They get as close as is currently possible to a civil marriage in Israel. 

The other one that might be worth checking out is Tzohar. Tzohar works with the Rabbanut, but they try to create a traditional ceremony that is also a spiritual and enriching experience for the couple and their families. Both websites have most of their info in Hebrew. but they're way worth checking out.

Bags...

These are definitely not for a little old lady. though they'd look classy on her too...

whether you're looking for something for everyday fun, or to pack important carryon items for the honeymoon... these bags are great. there are other varieties too, just go take a look.

Reception ideas

Just an idea for an outdoor wedding setup. very simple, with white tablecloths and wooden chairs. and there's an alternative seating set up on the side. i think the key here is good, flattering lighting... (These photo is courtesy of Ein Hemed, an event venue just outside of Jerusalem).

Still looking for wedding rings?

If you're looking for an interesting, out of the ordinary wedding band, Sundance Catalog has some lovely options... here are a few of my picks:

Ah, dresses...

Not sure what the occasion would be for this dress, but i think it's really cute... maybe a rehearsal dinner?

And i thought these two would be great as bridesmaid dresses.

All three i found at Nordstrom, from BCBG Max Azaria.

Wedding ring

looking for wedding bands? here are a couple by Anne Sportun. She's a Canadian artist, and she has a store in toronto, among other places.

I think her stuff is great. a little off the beaten track, but still very classy. she's also got other jewelry, not just rings. check her out.