EVENTS &

CELEBRATIONS
A SUPPLEMENT TO THE JEWISH STANDARD SPRING 2015

 Photographed by Abbey Photographers

Spectacular
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2014
READERS
CHOICE

Now Offering Off-Premise Catering

The great outdoors

Choosing a venue with space under the stars or sun broadens options
Heidi Mae BraTT

remember a woman I know who was

thinking of making a birthday party
for her husband. Her plans were not
quite set, but she wanted to make it
a dramatic, splashy and memorable one
because, she said cryptically, Its a big
birthday.
Among the many venues she was
fielding, was one major field. A very
major field, as in, a major baseball field.
The woman was toying with the idea of
having the birthday party at Yankee Stadium. I assumed he was a fan.
Choosing a venue is often the first
stop in the big shop that takes place
when putting together an event or celebration, whether it is a wedding, bar
or bat mitzvah or any other big bash to
mark a milestone or another occasion.
When the weather turns warm and
the heat turns up on the wedding season, namely during the summer, it is
great to be able to be outside to take
advantage of the pleasant, coat-free
temperatures, and to experience an
outdoor chuppah in the late afternoon

watching the bride come down the aisle

as the sun cools, or listening to music
and dancing at night under the stars.

There are many local venues that

are able to give celebrants the option
of being in, or being out. They boast

outdoor space courtyards, terraces

and the like with natural views or
with a landscaped aesthetic that help
maximize their spaces in order to bring
revelers a maximum experience both
inside and outside.
Les Friedman, owner of Northern
Valley Affairs at Temple Emanu-El in
Closter is preparing to host a flipped
wedding in which cocktails will be
inside the building, and the dinner
will be enjoyed in the 6,000 square foot
courtyard outside.
If its nice, said Mr. Friedman,
who co-partners with manager, Marty
Magged, well put out a dance floor
where guests will sashay and boogie
away under the open sky.
People really like the outdoor
space, said Mr. Friedman. They like to
go out and get fresh air. For us, it creates
a wider atmosphere. They can be inside
for the air conditioning or the heat, and
then they can come out for fresh air.
Northern Valley Affairs takes full
advantage of its outdoor grounds year-

S-4 Jewish Standard

SPRING 2015

EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS

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Catering outdoors by Smokey Joes Tex-Mex Barbeque of Teaneck.

round. For autumn weddings, for example, the facility uses a dozen heat lamps
that raise temperatures 25 degrees. So
even in the 50-degree autumnal air,
guests feel a comfortable 75 degrees.
Additionally, LED lights illuminate the
courtyard designed with blue Israeli
stone. And while its sanctuary with its
90-year-old stained glass dome originally from the Brooklyn Jewish Center is
a selling point, the bride and groom can
opt to get married outside where the
chuppah takes center stage.
The Estate at Florentine Gardens,
located in a Georgian-style mansion on
four acres in River Vale, boasts breathtaking and very romantic outdoor space
for summertime weddings, said Maria
Daidone, who works with her father
Thomas Daidone and sister Amanda in
the family business.
We are located in upper Bergen
County, in a hidden area and we have
lots of space, a big beautiful garden
with lots of green, beautiful flowers, and
character. It is classic and elegant, said
Ms. Daidone.
Additionally, Ms. Daidone said,
there are two outdoor gazebos that can
be used for private picture taking, or if
guests choose, to have the ceremony.
The Pearl River Hilton in Pearl
River, N.Y., a family-owned and operated hotel for three decades, recently had
its first outdoor wedding of the season,
said owner and general manager William Maloney III.
The setting of our property and
the unique and memorable design of
the building itself serves as terrific backdrop for outdoor ceremonies, cocktail
receptions, and luncheons as well, he
said. Most of these functions are held
on our back patio and back lawn, which
overlooks the rolling fairways of Blue
Hill Golf Course. It seems that no wedding photo shoot is complete without
a picture of the wedding couple on our
bridge in our back yard as well as family pictures around our fountain, which,

at this time of year is surrounded by

blooming and fragrant wisteria.
Mr. Maloney also pointed to wooded acres alongside the hotel that are
home to an adventure challenge course.
Its popular for corporate team building events, he said.
Anthonys Pier 9 in New Windsor, N.Y., one of the areas premier glatt
kosher catering halls since 1996, has
two lavish outdoor gardens designed
with stone, waterfalls, backdrops of
mountain views, uplighting and more
for a delightful outdoor experience,
said Joseph Chip Olszewski, general
manager. For larger weddings, a cocktail
hour is set up in the lush gardens and
for the ceremony, an indoor garden,
designed with enormous tropical plants
and with an open sky light, can fit up to
600 people.
The Palisadium in Cliffside Park
takes full advantage of its location, said
Yossi Abadi, owner. We have the most
awesome view of the New York City skyline right on the Hudson River. Nothing
beats that, said Mr. Abadi. The courtyard can accommodate 400 people and
with gardens and gazebo, it is grand for
an outdoor ceremony.
The Hudson Water Club in West
Haverstraw, N.Y., sits within a beautiful waterside setting, against sweeping views of the Hudson River. Inside,
snazzy terrazzo tile, vaulted ceilings,
and floor to ceiling windows make for
tremendous use of the natural views of
the river.
Joseph Godin, owner of Smokey Joes
Barbecue in Teaneck, has turned many
spaces, including sprawling estates,
into beautiful catered events in which
he creates everything from soup to nuts
or rather cornbread to BBQ ribs in
his distinct way. A caterer for 25 years,
Mr. Godin, who boasts the worlds first
authentic slow-cooked, wood-fired pitsmoked barbecue, said he would bring
the party to any outdoor space.

S-5 Jewish Standard

SPRING 2015

EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS

S-6 Jewish Standard

SPRING 2015

EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS

The Best Laid Plans

When to forego and when to go with a pro in preparing a wedding

Teresa Cortes

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physical remnants of the love felt that day, so it's vital

that they be done correctly.
Perhaps one of the most nerve-wracking questions any bride may ask herself is, What if no one
dances? When you hire a DJ to take care of your
music, you are hiring not only someone to hit the
play button but also someone to help set the tone
of the soundtrack of your wedding day. You are also
investing in someone who is experienced in entertaining a roomful of guests. Most DJs act as master of
ceremonies, as well, and work to keep guests excited
and interested in the various wedding events. Though
it may seem as if an iPod can suffice, its important
to keep in mind how difficult it may be to gather a
group of nervous guests onto a dance floor without
the encouragement from a proper emcee. Therefore,
it may prove worth the price to hire a professional DJ
when it comes to the enjoyment of your guests and
your stress level.
For the creative and economy-minded brides,
there are a few areas in your wedding that you can
tackle yourself. Nearly anyone can become ordained
to officiate a wedding. Having a close friend or family

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Doing your own flowers may work if you are super organized and
have a willing bridal party.

he champagne has been toasted. The ring fits.

And the excitement of your recent engagement
has subsided just long enough for you to think
about the vast work that lies before you. Its time
to get down to the business of planning a wedding.
One concern you may have repeatedly throughout this
process is what you can get away with doing yourself
and which jobs warrant hiring a professional.
Your wedding budget will more than likely take
one of its biggest hits from hiring a photographer, so
much so that it may feel quite alluring to want to hire
a friend who claims he is handy with a camera instead.
However, more than any other expense of your wedding, this is perhaps the one place where it certainly
pays to hire a professional. Wedding photographers
are trained and skilled in how to capture the most picturesque of moments: the first kiss, the bouquet toss
and the giving away of the bride, among others. Professionals understand best how to manipulate light,
as well as work with shadows and varying weather
conditions, to provide the clearest and most beautiful
depictions of your special moments. When all is said
and done, these photographs will be one of the only

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SPRING 2015

EVeNTS & CeLeBraTiONS

EXPECT A MITZVAH CELEBRATION

S-7 Jewish Standard

YOUR FAMILY AND GUESTS WILL NEVER FORGET.

member officiate your wedding is a wonderful opportunity to not only save you money but also add a personal touch to your ceremony. Yes, you will have a few
more tasks to wrangle than you would if you hired a
professional wedding officiant, but many people say
its worth it. First, becoming ordained to officiate a
wedding can be done both easily and cheaply online
through various organizations, many of which are
nondenominational and some of which are attributed to specific religions. Its important to look into
any further legalities of your place of residence, or
where you choose to get married, to ensure that the
marriage is done legally. Offbeat Bride makes a great

Having a close friend

or family member
officiate the wedding
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to add a personal
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point regarding this vital part of the officiating process: If you are doing research online regarding marriage law, only trust sources that are the legitimate
website of the government in question. You will also
be responsible for writing the ceremony. However,
this does give you the ability to make the tone of your
ceremony much more personalized. Lastly, you will
need to make sure to work with your DJ to provide
appropriate amplification for the officiant. With a bit
more legwork, the payoff can be enormous, with a
customized ceremony that reflects who you and your
spouse are, at a fraction of the cost that comes with
hiring a professional.
Many brides dream about the beautiful flowers
that will adorn their wedding day, that is, until the reality of the costly prices of peonies actually hits them.
Hiring a florist to arrange your wedding flowers or create your bouquets certainly makes the process even
costlier. If you are organized enough and have a very
willing bridal party, doing your own flowers may work.
But its important to think ahead. Focus on flowers that
will be in bloom during the season in which your wedding will take place. Its also helpful to do a dry run of
any bouquets and centerpieces that you will be doing
yourself so that the real deal is not so overwhelming.
DIY Network also has several suggestions for keeping
prices low, such as mixing expensive and inexpensive
flowers and utilizing less costly greens in bouquets and
centerpieces. There are many creative and affordable
options that are available when it comes to your wedding flowers, certainly making it a doable option for
most brides.

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S-8 Jewish Standard

SPRING 2015

EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS

The Summer Soiree

Tips to help host an unforgettable and stress-free bash

hen the weather turns warm, there is much

to celebrate and summer parties are in full
swing.
As you plan to entertain this season,
Stephen Cardino, vice president and fashion director
for Home at Macys, has some helpful tips to host an
unforgettable bash that is both stress-free and fun for
everyone.

Set the scene

To start, here are some ideas for setting the scene, by
infusing the seasons trends and the best that summer
has to offer.
Blue is a hot hue this year and there are many
ways to apply the color of the sea to your summer
tablescape. For a subtle look, try soft blue dinnerware layered with neutral table linens and flatware. To
achieve a bolder statement, choose plates and serve
ware in indigo or with patterns of dots and stripes.
Glassware in a variety of blues and greens can also
enhance your table.
Surface texture is just as important as pattern.
Choose a table runner and napkins made of linen, a
popular material right now, to serve as the foundation
of your space. Add charm and interest with textured
glassware, such as ones with etching, facets or bubbling.

Whether dining al fresco or indoors to beat the

heat, fresh flowers are a must for the summer season.
For a colorful option, set single flowers in a suite of
glass bottles a little goes a long way. Full flowers, like
peonies and dahlias, are great for this, or try a variety
of white flowers placed in low, white ceramic urns for a
monochromatic pairing.
For easy refreshments, use glass beverage servers,
since it allows guests to help themselves. Fill one with
water and citrus slices, another with lemonade or iced
tea, and the last with sangria or punch. Be sure to set
out a large bucket of ice and glasses with your beverage servers.

Serve sensational sips

If youre looking for cocktail ideas to kick off summer
celebrations, Macys Culinary Council Chef Johnny
Iuzzini has tips for easy refreshments that are perfect
for summer and sure to satisfy.
To enhance your cocktails, use fresh summer produce really ripe fruits and vegetables. Buy peaches,
strawberries, rhubarb and other fruits to make an
amazing punch, which is always a crowd pleaser.
The night before your party, use the largest container you have and fill it with water to make a giant
ice cube. On the day of, make a concoction of herbs,
fruits and vegetables with gin, or something light and

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Blue is the hot hue this year. Using tableware in a variety of blues
and greens can enhance the table.
Macys

botanical. Place the ice cube in a bowl and pour the

punch mixture around it. The large ice cube will not
melt down and dilute the punch, but will keep it cold
and refreshing. It also serves as an eye-catching centerpiece that everyone at the party will talk about.
With leftover fruit, such as peaches or pineapple,
throw on the grill for a light summer dessert perfect
after a heavy meal.
Family Features

S-9 Jewish Standard

SPRING 2015

EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS

S-10 Jewish Standard

SPRING 2015

EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS

Colored stones are engagement ring choice for older or second-time brides
Heidi Mae Bratt

aybe a diamond isnt always every girl's best

friend.
Brides of a certain age or a certain level
of experience (that is, perhaps bride again)
are choosing non-traditional engagement rings over
the standard white diamond solitaire that has adorned
womens left hands for so long.
Jewelers across the country say they have seen
increasing interest in couples looking for alternative
such as colored diamonds or other gemstones, such
as sapphires or rubies, to use in their betrothal jewelry
that will be a symbol of their commitment.
People want something that is unique and specific to them, said jewelry designer Anna Sheffield.

Randi Shinske, owner of Red Velvet Luxe in Ridgewood, said she sees the gemstone engagement ring
play out big, especially with older brides or brides who
are getting married for the second or more time.
They want something different because theyve
already had the diamond, said Ms. Shinske. For the
younger set, women in their 20s, they are still looking
for the diamond solitaire as an engagement ring.
Ms. Shinske said that the color gemstone diamond
ring trend plays into the overall trend toward colored
gemstones sweeping the jewelry industry. Because,
she says, its all about color now.
Sapphires in particular, the most durable nondiamond gemstone, get big play in engagement rings,

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Colored gemstone rings from Red Velvet Luxe in Ridgewood, left,

and Devon Fine Jewelry in Wykoff.

as do rubies and emeralds. Many women also request

that their colored birthstone be made into engagement rings.
And lets not forget, what happens across the
pond, especially when it involves celebrity or rather
royalty, reverberates all over the globe. When it came
to gemstone engagement rings, first there was Princess Di and her diamond-halo sapphire stunner. Then
there was Kate Middleton who was given that ring by
Dis son, Prince William. That iconic piece of jewelry
helped reignite the colored gemstone trend.
Ms. Shinske said that she has created an 8-carat
gemstone ring as an engagement ring. The large-colored
stones make the piece look almost like a cocktail ring.
Lets face it, youre getting more bang for your
buck with a colored gemstone than with a traditional
diamond, said Ms. Shinske.
Its well agreed in the trade that a sapphire engagement ring will cost about half of what a comparable
diamond would cost. Diamond prices could remain
high, especially as the number of diamond mines
declines. Higher prices could further ignite the trend of
substitutions as the star of engagement rings.
Furthermore, people have also been more drawn
to other precious stones to avoid conflict diamonds.
There is no gemological way to prove where a diamond came from based on its characteristics, but with
a gem such as a sapphire, it is possible to determine
where it came from.
From the vantage point of Nancy Schuring, owner
of Devon Fine Jewelry in Wykoff, traditional diamonds
still do reign as the rings of choice for an engagement. While much more rare than white diamonds, if a
woman does want a colored stone, she will sometimes
opt for a colored diamond, such as a yellow diamond,
said Ms. Schuring.
Kristin Chase, a 25-year-old gemologist who works
with Ms. Schuring at the jewelry store, happens to
wear a non-diamond engagement ring, a 1 1/2 carat
cushion-cut sapphire with diamonds surrounding.
She got engaged in another city, before she started to pursue gemology or work at the Wykoff jewelry.
I went to art school and I always liked color, said
Ms. Chase, who graduated from the University of the
Arts in Philadelphia. So when I got an engagement
ring, I wanted something different.
Jewelers say that when couples come in inquiring
about non-diamond rings, they try to educate them on
their options. Sapphires are second in durability to the
diamond, but other options arent as tough.
Most colored stones dont have the durability that
will allow them to be worn in the manner engagement
rings are without sustaining significant wear and damage over a long period of time.
Also important to consider: an engagement ring is
not the place to make a fashion statement. You don't
want to look at your ring in a year or two and think,
hey, What was I thinking?

n
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t
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n
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S-11 Jewish Standard

SPRING 2015

EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS

S-12 Jewish Standard

SPRING 2015

EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS

Yes, In My Backyard
Transform your outside space into a party oasis

reating a perfect outdoor oasis

the first step toward a summer
filled with carefree entertaining requires careful planning
for the entire space. While the arrival of
spring is the perfect time to start thinking about landscape elements, dont
overlook the finer details, such as the
furniture and accessories, which truly
bring an outdoor space to life.
Whether youre looking to create a
family-friendly space for entertaining, a
serene poolside retreat or a secret garden that showcases your green thumb,
begin by defining your vision. Having
a clear idea of how your finished space
will look and feel will help you make the
best decisions as you begin designing
the retreat of your dreams.

Furniture that fits

Although tastes and trends may change
from one season to the next, selecting
the right furniture pieces from the start
will let you bring fresh new looks to

T H AT

your outdoor space in other ways.

Sectional seating is an attractive
option because it allows you to redefine
your space in minutes. Hosting a party?
Strategically placed sectional seating
can open up your space and encourage
an evening of mingling. Prefer a more
intimate arrangement for poolside conversations or a date-night in? The sectional can be rearranged into a closer
configuration.
Look for a versatile collection in
neutral colors. A sectional, for instance,
can be arranged in more than 20 different ways, allowing you to arrange and
rearrange to your hearts content.
To round out your furniture, consider the highly functional but often
underrated garden stool. Place one in a
quiet corner for meditative moments,
pair them to create a one-of-a-kind coffee table, or pull one up when you need
an extra seat. As an added bonus, when
cooler weather returns, you can pull
your garden stool indoors for a sweet
reminder of summer.

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Besides looking and feeling good, investing in the right pieces of furniture for your outdoor oasis will
save you time and money in the long run.

Investing in the right pieces will

save you time and money in the long
run. When youre ready for a new look,
you can easily change the feel of your
patio with accessories or a new brightly
colored accent piece, such as a tiled bistro table or outdoor Papasan chair.

Accent your style

Once your furniture is in place, youve
got a blank slate to play with and most
importantly, to accessorize. Accessorizing is where the decorating happens
and your personal style shines through.
Add pillows, cushions, umbrellas,

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S-13 Jewish Standard

SPRING 2015

outdoor rugs and even outdoor curtains to your space,

and what started as a dull patio will begin to transform
into an extension of your home. To mix patterns like a
pro, choose pillows and rugs in the same color family,
vary the scale of your patterns and introduce textures
to ensure that they dont compete with each other.
Be sure to layer in treasures that are uniquely you
lanterns, wall decor, statues and wind chimes to
establish a space bursting with personality.
Remember, small changes can make a big impact.
Refresh last years patterns with the new trends, or
simply add a few new accessories into your existing
decor for a budget-friendly way to satisfy your urge to
update.
Family Features

Making the Space Party Perfect

Once your beautiful outdoor space is complete,
youll undoubtedly be eager to showcase your hard
work. Make entertaining a breeze with these tips.
Highlight your partys main attraction the
food.
If youre hosting the whole family for a cookout,
make memories during a sit-down meal around
your outdoor dining table. Freshen up the meal with
dinnerware thats as eye-catching as it is durable.
Easy-care melamine and fresh-hued acrylic stemware pieces let your guests enjoy without fear of
shattering glasses or the festive mood.
A less conventional approach that is perfect for
drinks and small bites serving carts. They bring
action to the party, whether thats on the patio, in
the garden or poolside.

Create a one-of-a-kind tablescape.

Dishware that is practical and easy to care for like colorful

melamine and fresh-hued acrylic stemware pieces lets guests
enjoy without worry about breakage.

EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS

Combine your favorite accessories, such as handcrafted trays, detailed lanterns and a colorful bouquet, to create a cheerful centerpiece that instantly
feels like summer.
Give your party buffet a personal touch with an
eclectic mix of your favorite serving dishes. Think
multi-use beverage tubs, cheery cake stands and
bold chip and dip trays.

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Think about the light, both day and night.

For a daytime pool party, protect guests from sunburn and the heat by investing in colorful umbrellas
to provide a little shade and the perfect place to
sip a cold drink.
When the sun sets, opt for a more romantic
glow that lights up the night. Strategically placed
lanterns in a variety of styles, shapes and colors will
be the light of your party.
For mood lighting at the touch of a button, outdoor LED candles resemble their melted wax counterparts but offer a bit of added magic.

Gifts of Summer
If summer finds you doing more party-going than
party-throwing, show your gratitude by bringing
along a little something that recognizes all the work
that goes into hosting a perfect party.
Think about items that can be used at the party,
such as wine charms or a citronella candle with a
lantern for a practical, yet fun gift.
If youre attending a potluck, bring your famous
dessert on a serving dish that you know the host will
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S-14 Jewish Standard

SPRING 2015

EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS

The Crafty Grad

Do-it-yourself fun favors and gifts for the graduation party

Homemade color-coordinated graduation cakes add a sweet touch to the

Wilton
congratulations party. 

raduation marks a major

milestone in any students
life, and the event calls for
a celebration to remember.
Whether youre planning a party
in honor of the graduate or commemorating the accomplishment
from afar, consider these fun DIY
party projects.
Borrow an idea from Kelly
Mindell, author of the Studio
DIY blog, and look to the yearbook committee for inspiration
to make your party decor ultra
personal. Graduation Balloon
Superlatives features colorful
floating balloons, which bring fun
and whimsy to any occasion. The
project uses pictures of guests to
give each one a special or funny
recognition such as Best Hair
or Most Likely to be President.
Get creative to recognize all your
guests, and have fun watching
everyone discover their very own
piece of the party.
The best part is this colorful

craft can be created anywhere.

With a portable helium tank, you
can inflate balloons in all sorts of
color combinations for creative
uses at home, schools, parks or
anywhere you want to celebrate.
When you cant attend the
festivities but want to honor
a deserving student's accomplishment, surprise them with a
Money Confetti Popper instead.
This easy-to-assemble popper,
also created by Mindell, is filled
with money and confetti, which
creates an instant celebration
when the graduate covers himself
with confetti in order to retrieve
the goods inside.

DIY Graduation
Balloon Superlatives
Supplies:
Photos of guests
Printer
Thin cardstock (optional)
Marker (optional)
11-inch (or larger) latex balloons

Balloon Time Helium Tank

Twine or other string
Tape
Instructions:
Drop photos from your computer
into a text-editing program and
crop/resize them to same or similar sizes. Leave a large white border (at least 1/4 inch on sides and
top, and about an inch on bottom) around each photo. Below
each photo, type the superlative
then print photos. (Or print photos first and trim, leaving same
white border. Then handwrite
superlatives with a marker.)
If your photos are already
printed, cut them down to same
size and tape to cardstock. Cut
out, leaving the same white border above and write superlatives.
Inflate balloons with a helium tank and tie with twine or
other string. Attach superlatives
to twine using tape.
Let balloons float on ceiling if

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S-15 Jewish Standard

youre indoors, or attach weight to bottom of string, behind superlative, and

display around party.
Tip: If you want superlatives to be
visible from all sides, make two copies
of each photo and tape them back-toback when attaching to twine. Use a
thinner cardstock or paper if you want
balloons to float on ceiling. Latex balloons will typically float for 5 to 7 hours.
Temperature, humidity and altitude
may affect float time.

diY SurPriSe MoneY

ConFeTTi PoPPerS
Supplies:
Confetti Poppers
Confetti
Money

SPRING 2015

EVeNTS & CeLeBraTiONS

Instructions:
You can create your own confetti poppers by picking up some clear cake
push-pops at the grocery store and filling them with confetti.
If you have pre-filled poppers,
empty them. Then put a thin layer of
confetti on the bottom, drop in the
cash (not too much or it wont be able
to pop!). You can always give multiple poppers. Then cover completely
with confetti. Close them up and youre
ready to go.
Family Features

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BOWLLUCKYSTRIKE.COM
*RESTRICTIONS MAY APPLY
Graduation Balloon Superlatives feature colorful floating balloons, which bring fun and whimsy to any
occasion.
Balloon tiME

S-16 Jewish Standard

SPRING 2015

Celebrating With a Meal

Celebrity makeup artist Lu Meshulam wants

to bring you the red carpet experience
for all your special occasions.
Bat/Bar Mitzvah Weddings PrOMs
Birthdays graduatiOn hOLidays

Theres an open seat at the table at area restaurants

Heidi Mae Bratt

or learn how to do your makeup with

her amazing techniques and products.
Check out website www.lumesh.com
Special
trial
offer

100

EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS

1st time clients only.

Reg $250.00
Coupon only valid in
Edgewater salon location.

Book your appt now at

lu@lumesh.com or call 212-486-8153

www.jstandard.com

hat is a graduation, milestone

birthday, anniversary or any
other event without a great
meal to underscore the happy

occasion?
Celebrating at the many area restaurants is a time-honored tradition.
And happily, the choices are so wide in
terms of food, ambience and value, that
there is something for everyone.
But the occasion is not only fun for
the celebrants.
It could also be fun for the restaurateur.
Yamin Dayan, owner of Estihana,
a kosher Asian-inspired steak house
in Teaneck, marveled at his recent
celebrating customers. Three weeks
ago, one woman was celebrating her
100-year-birthday at the restaurant.
That was followed by another woman,
who turned 90 (a mere!), and then by a
couple who marked their 60-year-wedding anniversary.
Longevity in Bergen County lives!
Seriously, Mr. Dayan said he tries to
give his customers a great dining experience though a good atmosphere and
good food with a menu that includes 10
kinds of steak from Thai Steak, a house
specialty, to hanger steak, and more
served for parties family-style, buffet or
plated.
Another kosher novelty cuisine is
offered at Smokey Joes Tex-Mex Barbeque, also in Teaneck. Owner Joseph
Godin, who worked in catering for 25
years, boasts that his is the worlds first
authentic, slow-cooked, wood fired pit
smoked kosher barbecue. The secret to
his success, Mr. Godin said, is the rub
and the barbecue sauce, both of which
are secrets.
An in-house chef s table party
menu at Smokey Joes includes starters
such as corn bread and beef carnitas,
and entrees that include ribeye steak,
rack of ribs, smoked barbecue chicken
and more.
For a bit of sports celebrity, a New
York City hotspot, Clyde Fraziers Wine
& Dine is a spot that can take a party
of many. It spans an entire New York
City block and measures about 10,000
square feet. The restaurant, named
for its former Knicks basketball player
owner, Walt Clyde Frazier, has a half
of a basketball court and 40 television
screens.
The menu is American fare with

a Latin twist. One treat, which occurs

often, is visits by Clyde himself, who
comes in about once a week when in
town to meet and greet the guests in
his restaurant. For special occasions, he
can make a special appearance for a fee.
Also in Manhattan, Slate, a very
versatile venue that often hosts bar bat
mitzvahs, and other events. The restaurant has more than 16,000 square feet of
space and can accommodate a variety
of party sizes from the grand-scale featuring celebrity entertainment, themed
spaces, to intimate family gatherings.
Slate has tremendous versatility, said
Sam Boudloche, events director for the
Laurel Group.
In Fair Lawn at Oceanos culinary
tradition and contemporary design
merge to create a unique seafood bistro
and an unparalleled dining experience. The sleek, sophisticated dining
room and bar present a mood that is
both exciting and soothing, with natural
materials and a chocolate brown, slate
blue and ivory color scheme that makes
the rooms elegant and timeless.
To create the menu, the restaurants
owners, the Panteleakis family, have
drawn on their Mediterranean heritage
for cuisine that is centered on the sea.
Top-quality ingredients are treated to
time-honored cooking techniques, yet
presentations are modern and flavors
are fresh and light. Fish is hand-selected
each morning at the market, the olives
and olive oil are from the family's own
groves in Greece and the wonderfully
rustic bread is baked fresh each day in
the restaurants kitchen. Most importantly, the welcoming and light-hearted spirit that characterizes Oceanos
extends from the greeting at the door to
the gracious and friendly dining room
and bartending staff.
In Elmwood Park, its sister restaurant, The Taverna Mykonos, emphasizes
Hellenic cuisine, a melting of Greek and
Mediterranean influences, with healthy,
seasonal fare such as fresh fish, the
highest quality meat, and sun-loving
fruits and vegetables. Greek products
such as fish, cheese, olive oil, oregano
and thyme-scented honey have a starring role on the menu.
The concept focuses on one of a
kind design, which translates everywhere from the ambience to the delicious food that is creatively presented to
the guest.

S-17 Jewish Standard

SPRING 2015

Giving is Getting
Charitable gift wedding favor where everyone wins

amper your wedding guests with

a special keepsake they can treasure. After all, you want to thank
each and every one of them for
sharing in your special moment. Its also
a fun way for them to remember the
celebration long after the wedding day
is over.
Here are a few ideas to spoil your
guests:
Place a small silver bell at each place
setting, and then observe the tradition
of kissing your new spouse each time
one rings.
Fill favor boxes or organza bags with a
sweet treat, such as Jordan almonds or
pillow mints.
Small silver frames can do doubleduty as wedding favors and place card
holders.
Greet guests at an outdoor wedding
with ornate fans to keep them cool.
Encourage your guests to kick up (or

off) their heels by providing a basket of

cute flip-flops for dancing.
Another memorable gift is to honor
your guests with a donation to a charity
that is special to you and your fiance.
Announce your gift on a handcrafted
tag attached to a beautiful candle. The
decorative candles can be clustered
around the centerpieces at the reception or simply used as the centerpiece
itself.
Crafting time: 1-2 hours
Supplies and tools:
Pillar candle
Cork roll
Cardstock, green & brown
Kraft paper or brown paper grocery bag
Green ribbon
Jute cord
Small wood beads
Flower punches in a variety
of shapes & sizes

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EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS

Upholstery tack
Adhesive dots, large
Straight pins
Scallop-edge shears
Scissors
Mini hole punch
Recycled papers, such as old books,
sheet music, newspapers, postcards,
memorabilia
1. Punch 5 flowers using flower punches in different shapes and sizes. Use a
variety of recycled papers for a vintage
appearance. With an upholstery tack,
pierce all layers of flowers; set aside.
2. Cut green cardstock strip 3-inch wide
and 1/2-inch longer than circumference of candle. Cut both long edges and
one short end with scallop-edge shears.
Punch mini holes in each scallop. Wrap
around candle, overlap and secure with
adhesive dots.
3. Cut a strip of cork 1-3/4-inch wide
and the same length as green cardstock.
Cut one end of cork strip with scalloped
edge shears; attach to candle with 3
straight pins, at the scalloped end.
4. Print the donation message on brown

cardstock. Cut out in a tag shape and

mount on a slightly larger green cardstock tag. Scallop the green cardstock
end; punch a hole at the narrow end of
the tag and on each of the scallops. Tie
ribbon once around cork and knot at
the front. Tie cord around cork several
times, string on the tag and tie in a knot.
Press layered flower with upholstery
tack into cork, over knots.
5. Tie 2 more lengths of jute around
flower and knot. String a few small
wood beads over the ends of some of
the cords, and tie love knots to secure.
6.Trace a 5-inch circle on the back of
green cardstock. Cut a petaled flower, using the circle shape as a guide.
Using the green flower as a template,
cut two more 5-inch flowers from recycled paper. Attach these to each other
with adhesive dots, ruffling, wrinkling
and distressing the edges. Cut a smaller
green flower, slightly larger than the circumference of the candle. Cut the edges
with scallop-edge shears and attach to
the top of the stack of flowers, with the
candle centered in the middle.
Family Features

S-18 Jewish Standard

SPRING 2015

EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS

Honor him with a

Faraway Wedding Destinations

Song Written Just For Him

Mexican retreat and San Francisco resort for new nuptials

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Why not make it a music video?

Everything is possible.

he wedding and honeymoon destinations El

Dorado Casitas Royale, on the Yucatans Riviera
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Casitas has seven high-quality restaurants,

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including elegant Italian, Pan-Asian and American.

The latest dining options at Generations Riviera Maya,
which allows children, boast stunning decor, water
views and gourmet offerings at five distinctly themed
restaurants.
The Casitas spa expanded an already large menu
of body, facial and beauty treatments to encompass
therapies inspired by ancient customs. Temazcal, an
intense multi-hour detox for the body and soul, is
conducted by a Mayan shaman in honor of the fertility
goddess Ixchel and within the confines of an igloo-like
sweat lodge.
For the wedding day, Generations new spa
installed an entire floor devoted to bridal services. Private bridal chambers with multiple rooms and salon
facilities allow beauty services, food, drink and whatever else the bride wants to come to her.
During their stay, couples can venture on oneday excursions to many Mayan ruins, local villages,
lovely beaches and the famous archeological site of
Chichen Itza all of which can be arranged on the
resort grounds.
Many hotels dot the Riviera Maya shores. El Dorado Casitas Royale distinguishes itself with strong dining and a focus on memorable weddings and romance
at a good value.

Postcard pretty resort for the wedding destination or the honeymoon begins a journey into matrimony.

Cavallo Point
Cavallo Point embodies the Northern California sensibility around luxury and romantic inspiration. The air,
moist from its immediate proximity to San Francisco
Bay, is fragrant with eucalyptus, bay laurel, rosemary
and other greenery populating the hilly grounds. The
hotel's location affords an up-close view of the Golden Gate Bridge unavailable anywhere else. The hotel
restored the original military buildings and built its
new facilities to harmonize with the natural environment, rendering the entire resort LEED-certified.
The restaurant, Murray Circle, retained its original
tin ceiling and other architectural details to create an
atmosphere of casual refinement. A wide veranda,
outfitted with comfy chairs and settees, invites visitors
outside to linger over brunch or drinks while taking in
the view. The cuisine fashions mostly local, sustainable
food sources into inventive creations for example,
juniper-cured local black cod and Sausalito dungeness
crab croquette.
The wedding menus, supervised by the same chef
as the restaurant, also tap into local resources and
purveyors. Receptions as large as 180 people can start
with cocktails around the fire pit, move indoors into
historic rooms or take place on the hillside Mission
Blue Lawn, with the tree-framed Golden Gate view.
The turn-of-the-20th-century chapel, with its indoor
balcony for musicians and overhead photography,
provides backup in case of inclement weather.
The spa, housed in its own new building, revolves
around a large, airy lounge with fireplaces and a large,
warm outdoor meditation pool fringed by trees. Its
offerings range from classic massage and beauty services to hypnotherapy and energy work.
Offsite, the neighboring seaside community of
Sausalito, the cultural vitality of San Francisco and
the hiking trails of the surrounding Marin Headlands
and nearby Mount Tamalpais are less than 20 minutes
away.
Cavallo Point has few rival resorts in Northern
California until you head south to Big Sur or north to
Napa. Even then, no other destination nails so much of
what is specific to San Francisco and Marin.
Creators.com

S-19 Jewish Standard

SPRING 2015

Picture Perfect
The photo booth gets a makeover
Sharon Naylor

edding guests love the photo booth, with all

of its fun props such as hats, fake mustaches,
Mardi Gras beads and silly sunglasses. This
interactive element adds a sense of play to
your wedding reception, and the photos that result
from it show just how festive your wedding day was, as
well as the personalities of all of your loved ones enjoying each others company.
Photo booths will continue to be a big trend in
weddings this year, and theyre getting some unique
new features to offer guests all the fun theyve come to
know from photo booths, but with a little something
different.
Here are some new features of photo booths:
Video booth. Rather than getting still photos
taken of them, guests can record a video message,
sing a song and just interact for a video thats taken of
them. In the new high-tech video booth, video is highdefinition for the best quality imaging. Having a video

Sharon Naylor is the author of The Brides Guide to Freebies

and three dozen additional wedding books.

booth for your wedding adds a new dimension of

fun, aside from guests striking silly poses. Your guests
can also record video messages, captured right in the
moment of their celebration, which lets you see and
hear just how much of a great time theyre having. And
since you will likely step into the booth, you can also
capture your own real-time excitement. Neal Zipser of
ShutterBooth says that some booths have both photo
and video options, so that guests can choose what
theyd like to do.
Artistic backdrops. Old-style photo booths often
had a solid-colored curtain as the backdrop, but now,
you can get backdrops showing scenery or a pattern
like a brocade wallpaper looking like a Victorian-era
sitting room. You can also arrange for a 3-D effect,
such as a trellis with greenery and flowers, designed by
your floral expert.
Open-air photo booths. In this evolution of the
traditional box photo booth that some couples find to
be too boardwalk attraction for their wedding style,
now you can get an open-air photo area that may be
set up like a celebrity-style red carpet against a personalized branded backdrop. Guests feel like VIPs when
their photos are taken at this type of photo area, and
more people can fit into the shot than in a crowded,
smaller traditional booth.
Live viewing. Photo booth photos are displayed
on a screen, visible to guests standing outside the
photo booth, for instant enjoyment. (A live-viewing
option often prevents any drunk or disorderly guests

EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS

The photo booth is a great way for guests to have fun and to take
home a little souvenir.

from taking off-color photos, as well.)

Photo access online. Guests will certainly get
that expected photo strip of printed photos, but now
they can also sign up on a laptop outside the photo
booth to get an email notification that their photos are
available online to view and share.
New types of props. If you will have a traditional
photo booth, but still want some novelty to thrill your
guests, look to evolving past the usual photo booth
props that guests have seen at many other weddings.
Go to Etsy and search photo booth prop to find
See picture perfect page 21

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0003574344-01_000357434
S-20 Jewish Standard

SPRING 2015

EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS

A Rose By Any Other Name

Trend in wedding flowers are lighter in look and in cost
Sharon Naylor

The full and light peony is among the top romantic flowers used in
many wedding floral arrangements these days.

ook at a wedding photo taken back in the 1980s.

Youll probably notice that the flowers (and the
hair!) look out-of-date. Theyre huge and bulky
and heavy, a more-is-more design that seems
so wrong these days. Luckily, todays wedding flowers
are light and airy, even when lush and full with blooms
and greenery. And floral designers say the floral trends
of 2015 are full of timeless appeal that will still look
fresh many years from now.
For that delicate floral look, wedding couples
are getting more for their money, and spending less.
According to Shane McMurray, owner of the wedding
survey website The Wedding Report, wedding couples
spent an average of $148 on the brides bouquet in
2014, and they will spend a bit less in 2015: $140. Its
not much of a drop, but the expense will continue to
go down in 2016 at $137.
So are brides bouquets getting smaller, to account
for less money spent? Not entirely. The drop in spending comes from the choices of flowers. For that, we can

GRA

thank the trend of English garden flowers.

Following the trend for vintage weddings, the top
flowers used in these elegant and romantic pieces are
garden roses, sweet peas and hydrangea, all inexpensive blooms. Pricy orchids dont fit with the look, so
theyre not pushing up the budget. A few gardenias
and calla lilies do make their way into those hand-tied,
just-picked-from-the-garden style bouquets, as a burst
of bridal white adding style to the bouquet mostly
made up of tiny blooms. Other top flowers are peonies,
ranunculus, hydrangea, sweet peas and tulips, with
peonies being a leading choice for all-one-flower bouquets.
Were also seeing a trend in cascade bouquets.
Georgianne Vinicombe of Monday Flowers and Design
says that the cascade is subtle, compared to those larger, draping cascading bouquets of the 1980s, and are
again inspired by the English garden look, a style seen
on Downton Abbey. Cascade bouquets are designed
to look like a waterfall of flowers hanging down in front

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TEL. 201-796-0546 Visit our website
Restaurant
Menu & Website
at: www.imperialdynastynj.com
INFO@OCEANOSRESTAURANT.COM

2-27 SADDLE RIVER ROAD

FAIR LAWN, NJ
WWW.OCEANOSRESTAURANT.COM

3 Franklin Turnpike, Mahwah

201.529.8288
Order online at:
www.imperialdynastynj.com

S-21 Jewish Standard

SPRING 2015

EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS

Picture perfect
from page 19

of the bride. When the bride wears a simpler dress,

they create all the drama.
White bouquets are still in, but theyre spending
equal time on popularity lists with pastel-shaded flowers in pinks and light greens, again the garden look.
And then there are the bouquets and centerpiece
flowers in bright colors. For spring and summer, think
ocean blues and turquoise, coral, bright yellow, bright
orange. For fall and winter, think cranberry, as well as
jewel tones like sapphire and deep purples. Flower colors will be influenced by the Pantone color of the year,
Marsala, a berry-hued reddish color thats expected to
be very popular in 2015.
As far as bouquet design, well see less exposed
stems at the bottom of the bouquet and more lacewrapped stems, with jeweled accent in subtle style.
Centerpieces are larger than in years past, with
more voluminous floral collections and greenery.
Bringing the outside inside is a huge trend, with the
look of a sea of flowers greeting guests as they walk
into the reception ballroom. The days of low-set
bunches in small bowls are over, as more wedding

couples want eye-catching centerpieces.

And floral garlands will be very popular in 2015,
either as bloom-filled draping lengths, or in pure
greenery. Consider covering staircase railings with garlands bursting with many flowers. Alternatively, a floral
wall, a vertical display of all flowers or greenery that
may be set behind the wedding cake or the sweetheart
table, embraces this trend, as well.
There is also a big shift in using symbolic flowers,
such as the wedding couples birth month flowers,
or the same types of flowers the couples parents or
grandparents used in their own wedding designs if the
couple may wish to bring some of their relatives good
marriage luck into their own celebrations.
Talk with your wedding florist about the design
you desire, and bring in plenty of photos that you find
on Pinterest, bridal magazines or other sources to give
your floral designer a better idea of your personal style.
Sharon Naylor is the author of The Brides Guide to Freebies
and three dozen additional wedding books.
Creators.com

unique wearables such as hats, floral pins, vests,

apron-style tie-ons with images on them and more.
Chalkboards are still a popular item for the photo
booth, with chalkboard pens with a wide tip so that
the guests wording and drawings can be seen in
photos and video. Its a common mistake to offer
regular chalk, which may not show up as well as a
broader stroke.
A personalized DVD. While not new, as this
has been a feature of some photo booths in the
past few years, more wedding couples are opting to
purchase this option.
4-by-6-inch photos. Not the glorified bookmark, as the experts at Beyond The Booth call the
traditional strip of tiny images. When those strip
images are so small, you cant see much detail.
A larger photo lets all of the prop work and the
guests messages or sign wording stand out, clear
to see.
With new and better access to your photo
booth photos, you might choose one of your fun
couple photos as an image for your thank you
notes, as well as for posting on your personal wedding website after your big day. With so many ways
to share and enjoy your photos now, youll get even
more value out of your photo booth investment.
Creators.com


DINING CATERING PARTY ROOMS

Mesn
Madrid

TAVERNA

FORT LEE SUBURBANITE

MAY 4, 2012

NEW
PATIO
NOW
OPEN

Meson Madrid in Palisades Park is well

OFF
& Dinner
validfrom
known
forLunch
its authentic
cuisine
The Next Well10%
known for its authentic cuisine from Spain,
Monday-Thursday
for
May.
only the freshest seafood as serving only the freshest lobsters and seafood
Best Thing to Spain,Mustserving
bring ad in. Valid for table check of $50 for dinner or
for large
lunch. Discount
for cash
payment only, tapas
not valid and as well as its large menu selections, tapas and
well as$30its
menu
selections,
with credit cards. Offer is only one per table and
Dining in Spain
daily specials.
Considered by many to be a staple in Bergen
Eastern
County, it remains aMiddle
landmark for
being one Restaurant
of the areas finest Spanish restaurants and the
only one in New Jersey to have received
4 Stars from the New York Times.
Some of the famous dishes served are:
Steak Meson a 3lb original, Twin 1 lb.
lobsters, Shrimp Plancha as well as many
other delicious entrees.

343 Bergen Blvd., PalisadesMesn

Park, NJ Madrid
201.947.1038
www.MesonMadrid.com
is the

Going to New York City (VISIT OUR SISTER RESTAURANT

LUNCH & DINNERMESON
perfect
for hosting
SEVILLA
IN N YC place
www.mesonsevilla.com
212-262-5890)

0003284569-01

Authentic
Greek
Cuisine

daily specials
cant beincluding
used with otherSteak
offers. Mesn.

Open for Lunch & Dinner

Located 1/2 Mile from GW Bridge
Large Private Parking Lot
We have Private Party Rooms (25-150 guests)
Corporate catering
delivered offering a
variety of menus to
host your event

Private Party Room

Up to 70 people
Antonia's
Introducing
Available for
201-703-9200
Italian - Iberian Restaurant
Serving Bergen County from more
than 30 years Science
Happy
Antipasti - Rt. 4 East
All Special Occasions
238$5
Broadway
Open for Lunch & Dinner M
You must love beyond the
ON
large and small events
with private rooms that will
accommodate
25-150 guests.
By
The Park

Tapas Bar
Daily
Specials
Elmwood Park, NJ
07407

DAYTHURSDAY
SPECIAL

Serving Brick Oven Pizza Complimentary

WWW.TAVERNAMYKONOS.COM
Live Entertainment Friday glawitssh ofevewinry e
entree
and Saturday
Happy Hour 3:00pm-7:00pm

343 Bergen Blvd.

Palisades difference
Park, NJ of all religions,
178 Piermont Road Cresskill, NJ
all nations, and all races. (201) 816-7343 Fax: (201) 816-0254
201.947.1038
Master Ryuho Okawa
www.MesonMadrid.com
You are originally one. www.samdanrestaurant.com
WIFI

3263869

Private Party Room for all occasions

9011 Palisade Ave., North Bergen
201-868-0750 www.antoniasbythepark.com

Founder & leader, multiple #1

bestselling author with over 100
Every Sat. & Sun. 11am/Thurs. 6:30pm million books sold, 800 books
published, & given 1,600+
201.313.0127 / nj@happy-science.org
725 River Rd. #200, Edgewater, NJ 07020 lectures to audiences of 50,000+

Free Meditation Classes:

Complimentary Appetizers (at bar only)

(Edgewater Plaza building)

a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization

@ ontheforks.co

Your guests will be amazed!

S-22 Jewish Standard

SPRING 2015

EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS

Yes, it will get warm again.

The cooking here is very assured with a fine
Why
plan the
perfect
back yard
party
sense
ofnot
balance
and
admirable
restraint.
catered
by our
award-winning
William
Grimes,
New york chef?
Times
The cooking here is very assured with a fine
sense of
balance and admirable restraint.
The cooking here is very assured with a fine
sense
William
Grimes,
New york
Times
of balance
and admirable
restraint.

ast

William Grimes, New york Times

Brunch - The Backyard at Sole East

Now
hes
Now
hes available
available
Continental
- The
Backyard
at Sole
Continental
Cuisine
- The
Backyard
atEast
Sole
for
your
next
affair.
forCuisine
your
next
affair.

Executive Chef
Best Of
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Best 2011
Larry

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info @ ontheforks.com
info @ ontheforks.com

Sole East

info @ ontheforks.com

Quilted Giraffe Sign of the Dove

Bolivar Tapas Lounge Eros
Casa
La Femme Camino Sur
Quilted Giraffe Sign of the Dove
Kenneys
Commune
and Commissary
Bolivar
Tapas
Lounge
Eros
Quilted
Giraffe

Sign
of
the Dove
Casa La Femme Camino Sur
Bolivar
Commune
Tapas Lounge
Eros
KenneysExecutive
and
Commissary
Chef
Best
TheKoLar
Best
2011Sur
Larry
Casa
La Of
Femme
Chef
Camino
Executive
Best
Of
The
Best
2011
Larry
KoLar
has
worked
at
them
all...
Kenneys
Commune
and
Commissary
Brunch - The
Backyard
at
Sole
East
has worked at them all...
East

has worked at them all...

Brunch - The Backyard at Sole East
Now hes available
Continental Cuisine
- The
Backyard
for your
next
affair. at Sole East

o
o

ot

Meri-Ellen Pollock
646.389.1099

rsk

f
e
o
h
rk
t
n
s
Meri-Ellen Pollock
646-389-1099
646.389.1099

INFO@ONTHEFORKS.COM

ON THE FORKS CATERING

Meri-Ellen Pollock

S-2 Jewish Standard

WINTER 2015

Contact: Nicole Calabria

Tel: (212) 217-9110
ncalabria@arkrestaurants.com

BAR/BAT MiTZVAH