I love celebrations...don't you? A gathering to celebrate a life event...When we make a list of friends and family that we hold  close to our hearts but time and distance don't always allow us to physically "hold" and spend time with. When I spoke with Ben, the young man being Mitvahed, he said he was most excited to be with his family he does not get to see much. He was certain to have his photo taken with all of them...to me this was a certain sign of the amazing young man Ben is...which is much the focus of this ceremony.

I had the honor this year to witness and capture a Bar Mitzvah. I had never been to one before but had a vague idea of what they were. For those of you who do not know, it is a major milestone in the life of a young man who follows the Jewish faith. It is a milestone so big that the celebration is often as important and marked by events similar to weddings...just without any bridezillas! Ha.

I LOVED my day with Ben and his family...and even the time leading up to and meeting to prepare for this day. I heard all about their family traveling from so far away, the traditions that would be taking place, and the long history of the beautiful temple in my own city I had never known about.

Then I got to meet everyone and capture the great fun they all had after a very sacred right of passage. I always enjoy watching families and friends reconnect at celebrations like this....and I got to learn more about the Jewish faith...win,win for me!!! Special mention must go to the DJ the family hired...Jerry Reid...of Catalog Entertainment. He kept the night flowing and moving is masterful style! Thanks for the great leadership, Jerry.

Check out the slideshow below!!!!