Pittsburgh Wedding Photographer | Christina Montemurro

I was so thrilled to be back at Rodef Shalom for Anna’s bat mitzvah this past weekend. What a gorgeous day for this momentous occasion!

If you’ve ever driven down Fifth Avenue in Oakland, you’ve probably noticed Rodef Shalom. It’s the one with the arched stained glass windows in the front. While walking around the side I admired this ivy climbing up and up.The bimah was decorated with this amazing sukkah for Sukkot. Amazing!As there’s no flash permitted during the ceremony, and photographers are instructed to stay in the back or the balcony, the rehearsal is a great time for photos. Here’s Anna, just before her rehearsal began. She didn’t seem nervous at all.Practicing an Aliyah with her parents, Janet and Matthew.Ready to go!And then the actual ceremony… Anna did so well, very confident and deliberate with her speech.After the ceremony, Anna’s family and friends celebrated in Rodef Shalom’s Freehof Hall. The garden of Eden-themed centerpieces were designed and created by Hepatica.About 40 young ladies sat at this long table. I loved the long row of small arrangements here.Leading Anna’s party was Scottro of Studio-E Entertainment. Scottro and his team were amazing – they knew just how to get everyone involved and having a great time. Hora time!Anna and her sister, Maevis.Scottro, hard at work.Shutterbooth was also in attendance. Guests took their turn in the photo booth, then signed a guestbook alongside their photo.These amazing people are Anna’s grandparents. Elaine and Carol traveled from Savannah – no small trip – and Won and Kay came all the way from South Korea to attend!Mazel tov Anna! Best of luck to you!

Mazel tov to twins Bert and Harrison, who together celebrated their b’nai mitzvah on Saturday. The day’s events took place at the exquisite Rodef Shalom in Oakland. I’d driven past many times and knew it was gorgeous on the outside, and was delighted to find it’s just as lovely on the inside.

The synagogue has a beautiful arched stained glass window that overlooks Fifth Avenue, and such intricate carved details.

And I love the detail on these pillars.Bert and his dad admire their cuff links.The boys had quite a few friends in attendance. I caught one of the girls shushing some of the boys.One of my favorites of the day. Bert and Harrison had completed the portion of the service where they read from the Torah – and Bert, who had thanked his mom for “staying calm under all this pressure,” was very, very happy. I think it’s still sinking in for Harrison.A lunch followed the service. Maggie, the twins’ mom, designed these fabulous table cards.

Harrison hopes for a lucky roll during a game led by DJ Dan.Younger sister Eliza, who Bert thanked for “not bothering me too much.”Another favorite moment: the hora!

Thanks so much to the whole family for allowing me to be a part of the celebration. I had a great time!

Mazel tov, Bert and Harrison!

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Rodef Shalom
4905 5th Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15213

DJ: Dan Koch, 5th Ace

Balloon centerpieces and decorations: Laurie Lieb, Festivities