Arielle & Ethan | Northern Valley Affairs | Closter, NJ

“An Unforgettable Evening”

Ethan and I met six years ago for drinks. Our first date was at a local sports bar in the city. When the night was over, we realized we lived directly across the street from each other. It was a funny coincidence because we had never met before but did have some mutual friends.

After four and half years of dating, Ethan proposed at one our favorite restaurants in Bridgehampton NY. We had gone out for the long weekend and were celebrating his birthday. When dessert came out, instead of a birthday candle there were sparklers and cake with “Will You Marry Me” written out in chocolate on the plate. I was completely surprised and of course said yes!

We chose to have our wedding at Northern Valley Affairs at Temple Emanu-El. Getting married at a temple felt timeless and sentimental to me. Both of our parents, whom are each married for 40-plus years, were also married at temples. The synagogue at Northern Valley itself is breathtaking with its beautiful stained glass and dome.

While planning the wedding, Les Friedman, the owner, and Marty Maged, the general manager, couldn’t have been better to work with. From helping us choose our date to supplying vendor recommendations they truly were the experts in creating a wonderful evening that was unforgettable. They helped us with everything big and small, like personalizing our napkins, kippahs, and treat bags for the guests on their way out. They helped curate our menu and our wide selection of alcohol.

Our ceremony was very special to us as our rabbi also bar-mitzvahed Ethan and has known him since he was in pre-school. Our chuppah was beyond beautiful. It was a combination of all white flowers from orchids to lilies and hydrangeas. The aisle was lined with white rose petals and candles to make for a beautiful ceremony.

During cocktail hour there was no shortage of food for our guests to enjoy. We had everything from caviar to duck cigars, a slider station, and sushi. We had carving stations with pastrami and corned beef, short ribs, and tons of passed hors d’oueves like knishes, mini spanakopita, lamb chops, and salmon poke cones. The food was delicious and plentiful.

The ballroom was truly transformed into everything and more. Our centerpieces by Stefans were insanely gorgeous with a mix of white hydrangeas, white roses, and calla lilies. We also had votives across the tables to showcase the gorgeous arrangements. For the band, we had Frank Simmons from Hank Lane Music, and they kept the energy going all night! They were amazing and never skipped a beat.

Guests were provided a three-piece starter dish with poached pears, a tri-color salad, and stuffed portobello mushrooms. For the main course, there were four choices of entrées: roast prime rib of beef, French cut chicken breast, grilled branzino, or cauliflower steak.

When it was finally time for dessert, we had a gorgeous four-tiered cake that was funfetti. Guests also dined on passed desserts like homemade gelato, cake pops, pb & j martinis, chocolate mousse, key lime pie, and so much more!

The night couldn’t have gone any better than it did. It was the most amazing ceremony and reception that represented us and we couldn’t have done it without Les and Marty. We of course want to thank our parents who were supportive the entire way through and all our fantastic vendors who went above and beyond to make our wedding day the best night ever!

Northern Valley Affairs, Closter, NJ, 201.750.0333, northernvalleyaffairs.com