summer 2020 Summer
STYLE Jewish Atlanta’ Atlanta ’ s Stylish Simchas and Celebrations
luxury living
TO R E FL ECT YOU R U N I QU E ST Y L E Have you been stuck inside a home you’ve realized is no longer where you want to be? Experience two of the largest condominiums currently available, each with floor-to-ceiling windows, spectacular city views and world-class amenities. Discover your next extraordinary lifestyle today.
Available
in Aqua Midtown 20 10th street nw, no. 1703 • atlanta • 30309
3 B E D R O O M S | 3 B AT H R O O M S | F M L S 6 7 2 0 4 8 5
offered for $1,125,000
Dianne Harnell Cohen c. 404.313.7300 o. 404.237.5000 dharnellcohen@atlantafinehomes.com
Available
in The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Buckhead 3630 peachtree road ne, no. 2107 • atlanta • 30326 2 B E D R O O M S | 2 . 5 B AT H R O O M S | F M L S 6 6 9 3 8 2 1
offered for $1,185,000
Stephanie Divjak c. 404.247.9999 o. 404.237.5000 stephaniedivjak@atlantafinehomes.com
Atlanta Fine Homes, LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each franchise is independently owned and operated. Vector design from Freepik.
Celebrating Life’s Greatest Moments Celebrating Life’s Greatest Moments Nestled within the Global Forum, a European-styled architectural plaza, Nestled within the Global Forum, a Spring Hall is a boutique event European-styled architectural plaza, venue that offers versatility and style Spring Hall is a boutique event paired with exceptional service. venue that offers versatility and style Elegant and sophisticated décor paired with exceptional service. with a unique neutral color palette, Elegant and sophisticated décor Spring Hall can accommodate any with a unique neutral color palette, type of event and help you create Spring Hall can accommodate any the special memories which will last type of event and help you create a lifetime. the special memories which will last a lifetime. Weddings
Bar/Bat Mitzvahs Weddings Bris Ceremony Bar/Bat Mitzvahs Baby Naming Bris Ceremony Anniversaries Baby Naming Corporate Events Anniversaries Private Parties Corporate Events
Kosher Parties Kitchen Private
7130 Buford Hwy NE, Suite A-100 Georgia 7130 Atlanta, Buford Hwy NE, 30340 Suite A-100 Atlanta, Georgia 30340 770.613.9973
770.613.9973 www.SpringHallAtl.com
www.SpringHallAtl.com
@springhallatl @springhallatl
Atlanta’s Finest Persian Cuisine
Outside Patio Full Bar
Outside Patio ! Full Bar Catering For Large And Small Events Book Your Next Holiday Party
Catering For Large And Small Events Book Your Next Special/Corporate Event! Atlanta’s Finest Persian Cuisine
WEEKDAY LUNCH SPECIALS
SufisAtlanta.com I 1814 Peachtree St NW I Atlanta, GA 30309 I 404-‐888-‐9699
SufisAtlanta.com I 404-888-9699 1814 Peachtree St NW I Atlanta, GA 30309
Alluring
cosmetic & Family Dentistry
COSMETIC, IMPLANT & GENERAL DENTISTRY FOR THE FAMILY.
An international leader in cosmetic, implant and general dentistry for more than three decades, Dr. David Mastro’s patients travel world-wide for his Atlanta cosmetic dentistry and report that he is one of the country’s top cosmetic and general dentists.
NOT YOUR ORDINARY DENTIST, NOT YOUR ORDINARY DENTAL OFFICE.
DR. DAVID MASTRO 80 Mansell Road Roswell. Georgia 30076 770.642.9900 1.888.SeeMySmile alluringcosmeticdentistry.com
Dr. Mastro is a unique dentist with his artistic expression developed through years of hand crafting crowns, veneers and bridges. Today, with the aid of the most advanced technology available, Dr. Mastro can care for patients’ complete dental needs from oral surgery and implants to fillings and general cleanings. Dr. Mastro is legendary for quality dentistry and for transforming smiles for people from all walks of life.
Celebrate in Sandy Springs Life is filled with moments that become lasting memories, and there’s no better place for a memorable simcha than Sandy Springs. Let us be the full service connection between you and your event. With 20 hotels and 2800 rooms, we can provide customized and complimentary assistance to make sure you find the perfect hotel for your guests, as well as recommendations for venues, catering and more.
Contact us today to start planning! 770-206-1447 hospitality@sandyspringsga.org
VisitSandySprings.org © 2020 Sandy Springs Hospitality and Tourism. All Rights Reserved.
Thank Q Atlanta Jewish Times readers for our SMOKIN’ success!!!
ON-SITE EVENT CATERING • Brisket • Chicken • Beef Ribs
• Lamb • Beef • So Much More!
BEST OF JEWISH ATLANTA
Contact Keith Marks for booking information: 404-250-1BBQ (1227) | keith.kcbbq@gmail.com
www.keithscornerbbq.com
Get screened before you start or grow your family. JScreen Get screened before you start or grow your family. JScreen offers confidential, affordable, at-home genetic testing for offers confidential, affordable, at-home genetic testing for Tay-Sachs, Gaucher and over 200 other diseases common Tay-Sachs, Gaucher and over 200 other diseases common in Jewish and non-Jewish populations. in Jewish and non-Jewish populations. Know someone who’s planning a family? Know someone who’s planning a family? Purchase a JGift certificate for someone you love. Purchase a JGift certificate for someone you love.
Support JScreen at JScreen.org/donate Support JScreen at JScreen.org/donate
404-778-8640 404-778-8640 info@jscreen.org info@jscreen.org
Editor’s Letter
Can’t Rain on Your Parade
In our second edition of our STYLE magazine, we bring you stories about perseverance and innovation in the face of an epic health crisis. From masks and boxed dinners to tailgating and yard displays, Jewish Atlanta could not be deterred by a global pandemic from celebrating their simchas. We share creative alternatives to traditional party planning to celebrate lifecycle events at this time, from the brit milah to the wedding canopy, along with b’nai mitzvah and even birthday parties. Learn from party planners how to cancel, postpone, and re-envision your simcha and what to expect when celebrating during COVID, and read perspectives from others who refused to let health and safety restrictions cancel their plans. To help, we introduce you to caterers and decorators and share dining and venue options. Zoom is not the only avenue for families to ensure the show goes on. STYLE spotlights imagination inspired and inventive events that combined tailgating, outdoor celebrations, individually packaged edibles and social distancing. Here we strive to offer vignettes from a variety of celebrations. There’s the man who survived a hospital stay and lifesaving measures following a severe bout with COVID-19 to celebrate his 45th birthday and a YouTube video created for an 82-year-old’s birthday in South Africa that included interviews about COVID-19 with her three children, who are doctors. And you’ll surely be entertained by the couple who literally made lemonade from lemons as the theme of their intended wedding weekend, complete with Corona beer as the signature drink. Another COVID-compliant wedding took place in Congregation Etz Chaim’s newly remodeled sanctuary, otherwise closed to the public. Instead of a veil, the bride – and everyone else attending at a social distance, for that matter – wore a mask. Read how Classic Tents & Events repurposed its main product for COVID-19 testing sites. We have reports on restaurants open for business and catering options, popular floral arrangements and how you can still be part of the biannual Bridal Extravaganza of Atlanta, albeit virtually. From Zoom brit milah to the birthday of a 104-year-old, displays of persistence within these pages prove that Atlanta’s Jewish families refused to let the health crisis get in the way of celebrating life’s milestone moments. ì
Kaylene Ladinsky Kaylene Ladinsky Editor & Managing Publisher
9 • STYLE MAGAZINE
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
STYLE PUBLISHER
Cover Photo: COVID masks can’t stop love, or a wedding proposal, as Jordyn Aronowitz and Blake Simon discovered recently when Blake creatively asked for Aronowitz’s hand in marriage.
MICHAEL A. MORRIS michael@atljewishtimes.com
EDITOR & MANAGING PUBLISHER
KAYLENE LADINSKY kaylene@atljewishtimes.com Executive Assistant
JODI DANIS
jodi@atljewishtimes.com
EDITORIAL Associate Editor
RONI ROBBINS roni@atljewishtimes.com Staff Writer
STYLE Magazine
Jewish Atlanta’s Stylish Simchas and Celebrations
PAULA BAROFF eddie@atljewishtimes.com
Contributor & Proofreader
LEAH R. HARRISON leah@atljewishtimes.com
Contributors This Week BOB BAHR FLORA ROSEFSKY LORA SOMMER MARCIA CALLER JAFFE ROBYN SPIZMAN GERSON ADVERTISING
Senior Account Manager
BRENDA GELFAND brenda@atljewishtimes.com Senior Account Manager
summer 2020 Summer
STYLE Simchas and Celebra tions Jewish Atlanta ’ s Stylish
MICHAL BONELL michal@atljewishtimes.com
CREATIVE & MEDIA Creative & Media Designer
LILLI JENNISON lilli@atljewishtimes.com
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Community Relations Director
JEN EVANS
jen@atljewishtimes.com
Community Events & PR Manager
AMY SEIDNER amy@atljewishtimes.com Intern
ELIANA WEISS
Don’t Miss Out on Upcoming Issues: Fall 2020
Winter 2020 Spring 2021
GENERAL OFFICE
404.883.2130
The Atlanta Jewish Times is printed in Georgia and is an equal opportunity employer. The opinions expressed in the Atlanta Jewish Times do not necessarily reflect those of the newspaper. Periodicals postage paid at Atlanta, Ga. POSTMASTER send address changes to Atlanta Jewish Times 270 Carpenter Drive Suite 320, Atlanta Ga 30328. Established 1925 as The Southern Israelite www.atlantajewishtimes.com ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES (ISSN# 0892-33451) IS PUBLISHED BY SOUTHERN ISRAELITE, LLC © 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES Printed by Walton Press Inc. MEMBER Conexx: America Israel Business Connector American Jewish Press Association Sandy Springs/Perimeter Chamber of Commerce Please send all photos, stories and editorial content to: submissions@atljewishtimes.com
SPECIAL SECTIONS
12 COVID-19
22 WEDDING
30 SIMCHA
38 DINING
CONTENTS
12 COVID Can’t Stop the Celebration 18 Pandemic Party Planning 20 Entrepreneurial Eisenstein Pitches Tents 22 Wedding Pros Pivot to Engage Brides 26 A ‘Touch’ of Creativity Blooms Once More 28 Down the Aisle With Mask and Love 30 Zack’s Zoomitzvah
32 Reworked ’Legendary’ Simchas 34 On the Eighth Day, G-d Commanded 36 Flowers Bring Cheer in a Stressful Time 38 Le Bilboquet is Bit Tonier than Classic Bistro 40 Restaurant Rebound 42 Advertisers Directory 46 Marketplace
11 • STYLE MAGAZINE
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
COVID--19 COVID
COVID Can’t Stop the Celebration Jordyn Aronowitz and Blake Simon celebrate their engagement mask to mask.
By Robyn Spizman Gerson
Despite COVID-19, the world is getting creative as celebrations and simchas carry on. From weddings to birthdays, anniversaries to baby namings and more, parties with a purpose are redefining the celebratory landscape. Lavish events and huge gatherings are cautiously on hold, but the joy of a happy occasion filled with loving intentions continues. Families and friends are gathering in innovative ways. Here are some heartfelt standouts worthy of sharing. A party once striving to be fun, festive and fabulous now is measured by its memorable, magical and meaningful moments.
L'Chaim Gains Deeper Meaning ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
STYLE MAGAZINE • 12
Let me start with a personal and powerful cause for celebration in my own family. Jeff Gerson, the oldest son of my husband Ed, grew up in Atlanta, attended The Epstein School and now lives and works in New York City. He contracted the virus and had a fight-for-his-life ordeal. In mid-March, Jeff checked into NYU Langone Hospital with a fever and cough and was admitted and diagnosed with COVID-19. He spent weeks in the intensive care unit on a ventilator with sedation, eventually requiring lifesaving measures. It was a touchand-go critical situation. Thanks to dozens of hardworking doctors, nurses and consultations skillfully monitored by Jeff’s brother Dr. Lee Gerson, on the front line as a surgeon at Loyola University Medical Center in Chicago, the family received daily updates from Lee via WhatsApp. Jeff’s ordeal ended with a miraculous recovery in rehab. He is now at home and to everyone’s amaze-
ment, is doing fantastic. On May 23, Jeff proudly read the Torah portion streaming online during a Saturday Shabbat service for his Park Avenue Synagogue in Manhattan. It was Jeff’s 45th birthday, and to celebrate the lifesaving efforts of his medical team and mark the occasion, Jeff invited friends and family to view as he received an aliyah, read Torah and recited Birkat Hagomel, the traditional prayer offered after recovering from illness. Jeff noted in his email inviting us to join the livestream that The Rabbinical Assembly had recently blessed the use of technology to facilitate worship during the crisis based on a widely discussed scholarly policy statement written by Rabbi Joshua Heller, senior rabbi at Congregation B’nai Torah in Sandy Springs. The livestream allowed friends and family from as far away as Australia to participate in a simcha they otherwise might not have had the chance to attend
in person. Along with our friends and family, there were more than 750 other screens tuned in, reflecting a larger crowd than that which attends in-person services, all seeking connection and spiritual fulfillment during the crisis. Our hearts swelled with pride listening to Jeff recite the prayers as the rabbi blessed him and he celebrated his gratitude for life.
Lemonade From Lemons Shabbat Dinner Erica Halpern’s dream wedding to Dr. Ryan Chaliff was to be the Memorial Day weekend of May 24. They had booked the first-ever event to be held at Savanna Hall, the gorgeous new venue at Zoo Atlanta, surrounded by glass windows overlooking the spectacular giraffes
1
1 Blake Simon popped the question and Jordyn Aronowitz said “Yes!”
2 A livestreaming celebration of life as Jeff Gerson reads the Torah portion and the Park Avenue Synagogue cantor sings.
2
3 Married couple--to-be Erica Halpern and Ryan Chaliff celebrate a lemonade Shabbat dinner.
and elephants. With Proof of the Pudding on board, invitations were addressed, ready to be mailed, and details were in place. COVID hit, everything was on hold, and the wedding was postponed until a future fall date. But as the wedding weekend approached, parents Kirk and Lori Halpern wanted to ensure it would be memorable. They planned a weekend for Erica and Ryan with immediate-family-only small gatherings beginning with an intimate Friday night dinner. When the wedding was rescheduled, Erica bought a dress covered with lemons. Mother of the bride Lori saw it and took it to the next level, deeming the theme Shabbat dinner “turning lemons into lemonade.” She found a lemon-covered tablecloth and other lemon-inspired decor and created a feast marinated in lemons, of course. Given that Kirk owns Farmers & Fishermen Purveyors, he was able to ensure the bride and groom and his future mishpacha a beautiful dinner of lemon-butter Scottish salmon and plenty of other lemon-flavored inspired dishes including lemon sorbet and lemon pound cake for dessert. The at-home Lemonade Shabbat Dinner May 22 was also the perfect kickoff of Erica and
Ryan celebrating their “original” wedding date weekend surrounded by love, best wishes, and even a few surprises from family and friends.
Never Postpone Love and Joy Erica and Ryan grew up in Sandy Springs, attending the same high school. Their love story began in New York City at Columbia University where Ryan attended dental school and Erica was working on her master’s in occupational therapy. Engaged on March 29, 2019, the couple returned home for a few days the weekend that would have been the wedding. Thanks to father of the bride Kirk Halpern’s quick thinking, he considered, “How can we do something incredibly special to still commemorate the wedding date?” To him, the answer was apparent. He and wife Lori spoke with the groom’s parents, Marla and Michael Chaliff, and the families embraced the original wedding date, orchestrating an intimate dinner May 24 at the original wedding site at Zoo Atlanta. With the help of the venue’s
3
13 • STYLE MAGAZINE
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
Martha Jo Katz and Reed Harris Turry celebrate his law school graduation with a home-style feast.
Photo by Jack Parada // Erica Halpern and Ryan Chaliff at Savanna Hall of
Zoo Atlanta.
caterer Proof of the Pudding, Erica and Ryan were about to embrace their wedding day in a preview, sneak-peek sort of way. To accomplish this celebratory dinner for a party of 10 with social distancing measures in place, endless details were implemented at lightning speed. “Like many events previously scheduled to take place in Savanna Hall, the Halpern-Chaliff wedding was postponed until fall. However, the families still had an emotional tie to the original wedding date,” said Hannah Baber, the caterer’s senior sales manager, “We were honored and excited to be part of the evening’s outpouring of love for this bride and groom.” To set the evening, the gorgeous estate table where the family dined was placed where the chuppah will stand at the actual wedding. The family had cocktails on the terrace overlooking a few zoo animals, including giraffes and African elephants. Ensuring government and CDC standards were impeccably followed, the caterer included a hand sanitation station, propped open doors and provided gloves to break the challah bread. Guests embraced these and other subtle differences, which made ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
STYLE MAGAZINE • 14
everyone feel more comfortable from beginning to end. Working closely with Proof of the Pudding, the Halperns again provided the proteins for the dinner through the family business. Devoted to helping community causes, the bride’s parents also made a meaningful donation in the couple’s honor to Meals on Wheels Atlanta as the evening was such a blessing, and they wanted to share their gratitude while making a difference. COVID-19 could not stop this bride and groom and their dedicated families from launching this wedding celebration. To help keep other corona brides smiling, this entrepreneurial couple even chose their original wedding day to also launch their Bride Brite at-home smile brightening kit. Seems apropos as they certainly have a lot to smile about. While the wedding date change can be quite a setback for any family, Erica concluded, “Ryan and I will forever celebrate May 24 as a day of all things lemon, celebrating the sweetness of our love, our family’s coming together, the smiles we all shared and a reminder of what’s really important in life.”
Gourmet Grad Feast Martha Jo Katz’s mama Annette Harris Felson taught her to celebrate life. “Mama always said you only go around once, and you must take advantage of every day,” Katz recalled. “Life is one obstacle after another and it’s a matter of how you get through it that counts.” Instilled in Katz to seize the day, it was no surprise how she orchestrated an epicurean celebration for her grandson Reed Harris Turry. May 16, 2020, was to be the day the Turry and Katz families had looked forward to. Reed’s parents Joel and Roben Turry and grandparents Jerry and Martha Jo Katz had all attended the University of Georgia, and along with grandmother Elaine Turry, were looking forward to visiting Athens for Reed’s law school graduation. COVID-19 changed everything and traditional graduations would not happen in 2020. An alternate celebration was put into place following Reed selfquarantining and testing to ensure he was safe. Friday, May 15, he returned to Atlanta to the home of his grandparents (aka Gogo and Big Jerr Katz), with cap and gown in hand. He was greeted with a homebaked Shabbat dinner. In addition
to her grandmother Harris’ sweet and sour meatballs, Gogo served matzah ball soup, blintzes accompanied by baked cinnamon and sugar apples, and cold strawberries and blueberries set on a table with hand-picked red roses from her garden. The next morning, she kicked into high gear to plan the gourmet celebration. Reed set up viewing his virtual graduation and wore his graduation cap. Big Jerr asked Google to play the University of Georgia fight song, “Hail to Georgia” to set the mood for this double dawg! Gogo dressed in red and black and at 10 a.m. sharp, Reed clicked on the link to his YouTube graduation. As the dean of the law school spoke, Reed looked at his Gogo and asked “Are you crying?” She replied, “My heart is so proud to be with you on such an important occasion, I have tears of joy to be able to share this special day!” Reed’s name and photo came up, read by one of his professors, which made it even more meaningful. Additional family recipes were included to sweeten the taste of Reed’s graduation feast. Gogo made a family favorite, which was an Ocilla Georgia Pound Cake. While this was not the graduation experience the family had expected, it was a memorable one that they will never forget.
The South Georgia “Ocilla” Pound Cake 2 sticks butter (room temperature) 2 cups sugar 6 eggs 2 cups flour 1/3 cup sour cream 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 tablespoons bourbon (optional)
Preheat oven to 300 F. Cream butter and sugar together until smooth. Add eggs one at a time to butter and sugar. Add flour and sour cream alternately to butter, sugar and egg mixture. When mixed well, add vanilla and bourbon. Put into greased large loaf pan (16-inch) or tube pan that has been greased with Crisco, then cut a piece of wax paper to fit the bottom of the pan. Bake 1 hour at 300 F, then turn oven up to 350 F. Bake 15 more minutes. Cool in pan and run knife around outside before removing from pan. Freezes great. Enjoy!
She Said Yes! Blake Simon had the perfect plan to ask Jordyn Aronowitz to marry him April 3, 2020. Everything was set. Their families had booked their flights from around the country and friends were on notice of the surprise. However, as everyone retreated into quarantine, Blake and Jordyn fled New York for Jordyn’s hometown in Plantation, Fla. Determined to still pop the question, Blake made the best of a challenging situation. After a long Saturday drive around the neighborhood, Jordyn returned to her house and was met with a large surprise in the backyard: a big sign that said, “Marry Me,” and out popped bottles of champagne and cheers from the viewers. Family and friends Zoomed in on cue, cheered the newly engaged couple, and the moment was magical, masks and all.
Double the Blessings Germaine and Bruce Weinstein had a double-header to celebrate. Having two granddaughters born within eight days of each other in May was thrilling, yet they could attend neither in person. Son and daughter-in-law Michael and Gail Weinstein had baby Grace Lorraine on May 6 in Atlanta, and daughter and son-inlaw Brooke and Matt Berger had Savannah Rose on May 14 in New Orleans. Since the grandparents could not be there in person with either, they FaceTimed all the way up to delivery. Besides sending flowers, balloons and yard signs, their celebration included sharing these simchas with over 100 friends and relatives all over the country. Grandmother Germaine shared, “We toasted with wine after each birth and sent catered meals to the kid’s houses so they wouldn’t have to worry about
cooking. Brooke is doing a Zoom baby naming next month in Nola that we’ll all be invited to participate in.” Grandpa Bruce added, “During these times, there have not been many things to celebrate. We were hoping our bundles of joy and this blessed news brought a little joy into everyone’s lives. The outpouring of love has sustained us as we share our grandchildren’s blessed arrivals.”
Locked Down with Love Libby Sherman turned 104 May 29. Quarantined to her assisted living apartment, for health and safety reasons, this momentous occasion was not going to pass without the family making sure she was celebrated. Libby’s caregivers brought her down to the front of the building and daughter Barbara Mendel socially distanced with the family singing “Happy Birthday.”
Libby Sherman turned 104 during the pandemic lockdown. Here she is at her 103rd birthday last year.
To acknowledge her special day, Mendel put together a wonderful video of their family sending birthday wishes from near and far. Then, with the help of the staff at her residence, they threw an outdoor surprise party – at a social distance, of course. They greeted Libby with posters, signs, balloons and a tiara. “This celebration was a rainbow on an otherwise dreary day, and the smile on her face was some much-needed sunshine,” Mendel said. In addition to the festivities, they coordinated a few family Zoom calls with her grandchildren and great-grands. Plus, her caregivers Lillie and Rita had a few surprises too. Mendel’s home-baked chocolate cupcakes made from scratch with love put a smile on her mom’s face and sweetened the day.
Barbara Mendel’s Choco-licious Cupcakes 15-ounce box Devil’s Food cake mix 3.9 ounces instant chocolate pudding 1 1/4 cups chocolate chips 4 eggs 1/2 cup oil 1/2 cup warm water 1/2 cup rum of your choice 8 ounces sour cream
Preheat oven to 325 F. Place cupcake liners in 2 muffin pans. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix and chocolate pudding. Add chocolate chips. Next, mix in the eggs, oil, water and rum. Then stir in the sour cream. Pour cupcake mixture into the liners (about 3/4 full). Bake for 15 -20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Do not overcook. Remove from oven and allow to cool on cooling rack. Wait to frost until cooled completely. Frost with your favorite frosting and watch them disappear! 15 • STYLE MAGAZINE
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
1
4 1 Nadia Bilchik and siblings last year at a birthday gathering for her mom who lives in South Africa. 2 Eli Goldberg follows the clues at his 7th Game of Games birthday. 3 Poppy celebrates her first birthday surrounded by special friends.
4 Poppy’s first birthday, by Zoom, included painting cookies with edible paint with her cousins.
Poppy’s First Birthday
2 3
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
STYLE MAGAZINE • 16
My daughter Ali was eager and ready to celebrate her remission following six months of chemotherapy for a rare form of cancer. When COVID-19 hit, the planned celebrations had to be cancelled with so many unknowns as the pandemic unfolded. Ali, one to embrace what is truly important in life, refocused her attention on her daughter Poppy, who was about to turn 1. Ali reminded me how on her first birthday I orchestrated my beloved grandmother Pauline Blonder’s big 80th birthday and Ali’s first birthday in our backyard at home. This treasured memory was precious. Grandma Pauline’s Big Birthday and Ali’s Little Birthday timelessly tied together. Trying to continue the pattern of making memorable moments, Ali and her husband Marc turned Poppy’s party that they had to cancel from a pizza party with family and friends to a kitchen table party with Poppy’s closest friends, luckily available for a last-minute invitation. Poppy’s guest list included all of her stuffed animals, some even quite famous, like Elmo. To top off the celebration of Pop-
py’s first pizza party, Ali baked a homemade smash cake and set up a Zoom viewing party. Poppy’s cousins Dani and Bella Spizman and Avery and Lyla Einstein were included, receiving in the mail in time for the party unicorn and butterfly cookies ready to be painted with an edible paint palette designed and baked by Johns Creek Mom Michelle Debowsky. Poppy had just mastered the art of clapping, loved every minute and her cousins had a sweet treat to eat. Poppy’s first birthday will be one to remember. In case you were wondering, Poppy’s guests left stuffed and were on their best behavior!
Birthday Scavenger Hunt Eli Goldberg’s seventh scavenger birthday hunt was lovingly orchestrated by his creative parents Marissa and Evan. “For Eli’s 7th birthday we did a cross between a scavenger hunt and a carnival game challenge,” Marissa said. “We called it ‘Eli’s Game of Games’ after the television show, ‘Ellen’s Game of Games.’ He was presented a rhyming riddle on a
children’s success. Seeing all four of her children together on her computer screen in their professional capacities turned out to be such a wonderful gift. We hope next year we can celebrate with her in person, but for now, we are not letting distance keep us apart, especially during this challenging time.”
Play it again Richard!
Richard Siegel, entertaining piano man, makes Facebook appearances.
piece of paper and would have to solve the riddle to find the location of his first challenge. He would have to go to the location and complete the challenge as we instructed him to toss plastic rings onto mini orange cones, make a certain number of baskets in a basketball hoop) to receive his present along with the paper containing his next riddle to solve. We did about six riddles and challenges in total and he had a blast.” According to Eli, it was the best birthday ever and a ton of fun.
Across the Miles Nadia Bilchik, media powerhouse, speaker and communications expert, shared memories of a celebration that spanned the United States to South Africa. Nadia’s 82-year-old mother lives in Johannesburg, South Africa, and all four of her children, including Nadia, live in the United States. “Celebrating our Mom’s April birthday has always been a challenge, and two years ago my siblings and I and our family traveled to South Africa and wished her a happy 80th at a magnifi-
cent game farm. This year, I had booked my ticket to be with her in Johannesburg and had planned a surprise tea party. Along came COVID-19 and flights and the trip were cancelled. So, how then do you celebrate your mother in a different continent, country, and an opposite side of the world? Since our mother could access YouTube on her computer, we taped a Zoom interview of my siblings on my YouTube channel with my sister and brothers who are all doctors and sent her warmest wishes and our love at the end. It was an interview of a lifetime as I spoke for the first time in a webinar with my siblings Dr. Tanya Bilchik (neurologist in New Haven), Dr. Anton Bilchik (cancer surgeon in Los Angeles) and Dr. Brian Bilchik (cardiologist in Boston) as they shared an informative interview on their personal experiences of COVID-19. At the end of the interview, we spoke warmly about our amazing mom, who we credited for our success in life. “The result was astonishing and inspired celebratory wishes from friends, family members and people all over the world who saw the interview. Our mother in South Africa received numerous calls congratulating her on her
Native Atlantan and talented piano man Richard Siegel is well known for his accompaniment of sing-alongs and background music for parties. He can now be found sharing a tune every other day on Facebook. Aware of how music lifts our spirits, Richard’s carefully chosen selections accompanied with his colorful outfits, matching bowties and props, have included “Pomp and Circumstance” for graduates, Broadway tunes for cocktail at-home dinners and “Hatikvah” for Israel Independence Day.
For the past three years, Richard has generously volunteered and accompanied Bob’s Broadway Chorus playing for senior residences. When the entire spring set was canceled due to COVID, Richard kept the music going and often joined in singing along in his upbeat video posts. “Because my voice is so awful, it really shocks me that people think I can sing. However, this has been a wonderful way to spend time and I have had the best time doing this.” As I end this article on a high note, a silver lining prevails. Even small bits of joy and happiness are meant to continue. Party on! Socially distanced of course. ì Robyn Spizman is a party loving, award-winning New York Times best-selling author and media personality. She has appeared as a lifestyle expert on local and national television for over three decades. Her latest book, “Loving Out Loud: The Power of a Kind Word,” was released last year, www.robynspizman.com.
First Time Ever On the Market 1370 IN D IAN T RAIL • SAN DY S P RIN G S • 30327
6 bedrooms • 7 bathrooms • 2 half bathrooms • offered for $2,750,000
2.4± acres • pool • lighted tennis court • gated entrance
EYDIE KOONIN “A name friends recommend” c. 404.697.8215 o. 404.237.5000 eydiekoonin@atlantafinehomes.com atlantafinehomes.com | sir.com Atlanta Fine Homes, LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each franchise is independently owned and operated.
17 • STYLE MAGAZINE
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
By Paula Baroff
Pandemic Party Planning
With the events industry on hold, Atlanta’s Jewish event planners worked closely with each other to plan for the next era of lifecycle, corporate and social events. Melissa Miller of MMEvents Atlanta said most of her social events – weddings, b’nai mitzvah, and other types of parties – have been postponed, while every corporate event has been canceled. “Important milestone events people are always going to want to have,” she said. She said rescheduling soon would be difficult because synagogues remain closed. This has caused families to become creative in planning their events. She said there are a number of options available. “Some of my clients are doing their ‘Zoom Mitzvahs’ and postponing their parties. Some of my clients are doing Zoom weddings and then postponing their big party. Some of them are getting married twice,” Miller said. “I had a client who did a Zoom wedding last week and they’re doing the whole thing over again in a year. Some clients are doing the
Zoom Mitzvah and doing a really small party. A planner can help make these parties really great with some creativity. An open house in a backyard for example is great for social distancing.” Large events, like weddings and b’nai mitzvah, require a lot of details and planning to keep in mind when postponing. It is not uncommon to book vendors and venues a year or even several years in advance, which means people will need to call each vendor to reschedule around their calendars. “I will tell you this: the vendors have all been really accommodating in helping people postpone their parties,” Miller said. For those who choose to go ahead with their events on the scheduled date, they won’t won’t look the same as they would during normal times. Still, it is possible to work within CDC guidelines, she said. Guests may need to wear masks, or have their temperatures taken. Miller described a bar mitzvah she planned in March where guests socially distanced. They only seated around 4-6 people per table, and mostly by family. At an earlier event she did that serves as a blueprint for cre-
ative socially distant events, only four people were seated at a table. “Reconfiguring the typical banquet tables might look different now,” she said. EB Catering Co. recently served an outdoor wedding with acrylic walls in front of the food to keep both guests and workers protected. “It was actually my creation and my idea,” said owner Eli Brafman. He worked with a famous company called Eastern Tabletop. “They basically make high-end, innovative systems for caterers. I got them to build me a 6-foot-by-6-foot acrylic partition.” He had chef attendant stations set up with the acrylic wall in the front, with a cut-out to pass a plate of food through the partition to guests. Even with the possibility of holding a small event with safety precautions, most people have chosen to reschedule for a later date. Though the situation is fluid, as of now, Governor Brian Kemp has loosened state regulations limiting the size of events. “My heart breaks for them, a bride who wants to have all of her 300 friends come to her wedding, friends and family that maybe
can’t travel from other countries,” Miller said. Event planner Terry Saxe, who runs Terry Saxe Events, LLC, also said most of her clients have postponed, not canceled. She said it’s difficult because clients aren’t usually open to adjusting how their weddings look. “Every bride wants to go down the aisle with her family and with all 200 people watching her,” she said. “They want to just have the party next year.” Rebooking has been a challenge, since people don’t really know when it will be safe to hold a large wedding again, she said. This has upended the events industry. “For us as planners, our whole industry I think was hit the hardest. … We just had to kind of shut down and then try to repivot ourselves.” Saxe said the guidelines for the hospitality industry have been unclear, so they’ve worked hard to adapt recommendations to fit their needs. “We’re taking some of the restaurant guidelines and trying to adapt them to our own and put a lot of our own security measures in place so we aren’t liable and aren’t doing anything that’s
This intimate destination wedding for 30 guests planned by Saxe could serve as a blueprint for smaller events in the next year.
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
STYLE MAGAZINE • 18
2
3
1 EB Catering Co. served a wedding with an innovative buffet system to keep guests and workers safe.
2 Photo by Laura Stone // Events, like this wedding planned by Saxe, could follow social distancing regulations.
1 unsafe,” she said. “We’re going to be as safe as possible.” Venues are going to have specific guidelines families will have to adhere to, and food service is going to look different, Saxe said. Instead of passing appetizers on a single plate, they’ll serve them to individual guests. Instead of selfserve buffets, clients will be able to have stations protected by plexiglass with attendants handing out the plates of food. “A plated dinner is the most sensible,” Saxe said. The one thing planners haven’t worked out yet is the dance floor. Even without clear state guidelines Atlanta-area event planners have been able to come together and work through the ambiguities of safety guidelines and their own unemployment processes. “We’ve got a really good support system amongst each other,” Saxe said. “We’ve created a Facebook group where we can all share what our experiences have been and how to get around certain things, which has been super helpful.”
Saxe walked through the postponing process, which is complex in fluid circumstances. “I had to get in touch with every single vendor and get to the venue and find out what dates they have available in these months.” She said that after you ask the venue to hold the rescheduled date, you need to next go to every individual vendor and ask if they’re available then. She said that some of her weddings have actually been postponed twice already. “The May wedding went to August first, and now she’s going to August next year. I’m going through that same process again. ...Inevitably there’s always one vendor that’s not available because everybody’s doing the same thing,” Saxe added. Saxe and Miller agree that people can try to work through the process themselves, but it’s much more difficult to navigate rescheduling and coronavirus safety guidelines without an event planner to walk you through the steps. Saxe
3 Photo by Laura Stone// Beautiful events could be held with intimate seating arrangements, Terry Saxe said.
mentioned that event planners, for the most part, have collectively decided not to charge clients double for postponing events. Even with the uncertainty and the sadness over changing event plans, people have options to hold beautiful and meaningful events, the planners said. “I think there is a trend – and I find now I’m starting to work with some people that are super excited about what I’m trying to roll out a little bit– is the smaller wedding where you have 20 to 30 people in your backyard,” Saxe said. “You can have the most overthe-top wedding. If you want to bring in a chandelier from Italy, you can do that, because it’ll still cost you less.” Miller said she’s seen beautiful Zoom b’nai mitzvah and weddings. “One client said she thought it was more meaningful than it would have been otherwise because she put so much effort in it to make it special,” Miller said. She found this to be the case in
her own life, for her sons’ college graduation. Instead of sitting in the sun for hours during a mass ceremony and going out to dinner, she planned an elaborate graduation day that ended with a surprise family Zoom call where all the extended family wore special graduation shirts. “People are getting very, very creative, and every single person I’ve talked to has mourned. And they have every right to mourn their wedding they’ve been dreaming about all their lives and is being postponed. But I think that people are really being courageous and rising to the occasion,” Miller said. “We’re all going to figure it out. There’s so many great things to be able to do now.” She said there are local Facebook groups for Jewish lifecycle events and other parties where people can share information and ideas. Miller emphasized how helpful and kind the synagogues and rabbis have been. “I just feel like it’s brought out the best in people.” ì 19 • STYLE MAGAZINE
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
1 2
3 1 Eisenstein bought the company 10 years ago and increased revenue eightfold. 2 Drive-through COVID-19 testing tent by Classic.
3 Eisenstein paired with air-conditioning companies to get a jump on tent testing setups. 4 To diversify, entrepreneurial Eisenstein bought an $87,000 washing machine to wash other companies’ large items.
Entrepreneurial Eisenstein Pitches Tents
By Marcia Caller Jaffe
Steven Eisenstein grew up in the restaurant business, starting when he was 11 as a dishwasher in his father’s pizza and later Mexican restaurants. After college, he pursued a career in hospitality: hotels, catering and food beverage management, even working for two years for ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
STYLE MAGAZINE • 20
Wolfgang Puck. Now president of Classic Tents & Events, Eisenstein said, “When I had young children, I didn’t want the type of work schedule that required all hours. I studied the market. Luckily, more recently, film production landed in Atlanta which really gave us a boost.” In 2010, Eisenstein bought
4
the tent events company. Since taking over the helm, he has increased its revenue eight times. Having just celebrated its 20th anniversary, Classic is located in Norcross on 44,000 square feet versus the 12,000 square feet it occupied when he took it over 10 years ago. In early March, approaching the pandemic, Eisenstein be-
gan assessing hospital and health care needs and decided to team up with three air conditioning companies to rent generators and refrigeration, to partner with municipalities such as the Fulton County Board of Health, urgent care centers, and facilities in Duluth, Gwinnett and Sandy Springs to rent out tents for COVID-19 testing locations.
“At least through June, we have these tents from 10 feet by 20 feet to 30 feet to 75 feet. Twelve at this point are operational.” Another entrepreneurial move by Eisenstein to diversify was investing in a huge industrial washing machine for $87,000. “We are washing other companies’ tents and performing work on air conditioning (among other) duct work to keep our staff busy. And, yes, this has been profitable.” Eisenstein has his eye on this summer and fall. “I am keeping my mindset flexible and moving. We keep in constant contact with our customers on their rescheduled event dates.” The Peachtree Road Race, Food that Rocks, and City of Decatur had events that contracted with Classic services but have been postponed from their original dates. The Peachtree Road Race notably is now on for Thanksgiving versus the date it’s been held since its inception, July 4. One especially bright light for Eisenstein is the recent announcement that Tyler Perry Studios will go back into movie production locally. Eisenstein said, “Pre-pandemic our movie business was major. We rented out tents that were used for base camp, ground control, catering, hair and makeup. We even rent hair and makeup mirrors, maybe a unique feature to Classic. Also chairs, flooring, tables, lighting and staging.” With Eisenstein’s family mindset, Classic rents out games such as foosball and cornhole, and cotton candy machines. “Think about other things related to crowd control. We rent stanchions, barricades, picket fences, ways to close off streets and banners, plus carpet, heating and cooling. The only thing we don’t rent out is glass and china!” Thinking ahead to how theater attendance might be formatted, Eisenstein proposed to Kenny Blank, executive director of the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, an outof-the box idea of having outdoor “tented” movies as a new experience for the festival. “Let’s say ‘he’s thinking about it.’ We will continue to spread our wings to look for more diversification in this new reality. I am cautiously optimistic that activities will resume.” Meanwhile, Eisenstein’s business model is on solid ground, drawing from the biblical mishkan mentioned in Exodus 33:7-11, where the tabernacle was a meeting and dwelling place known as “the tent of the congregation” and “the tent of meeting.” The tent was also a portable dwelling used by the children of Israel during the Exodus. It was described as having side curtains with poles and stakes, much as we envision a tent today being made from linen. ì
Wedding
Wedding Pros Pivot to Engage Brides
By Lora Sommer
In March, when Gov. Brian Kemp issued an executive order declaring a public health state of emergency and banning gatherings of more than 10 people, brides and grooms across the metro area had to hit pause on their plans. To date, nearly 20,000 weddings in Georgia, scheduled to take place March through June of this year, have been postponed, according to data compiled by The Wedding Report Inc. “Our last simcha before the shutdown was Saturday, March 14. It was a scramble to make it happen,” said event planner Amy Ackerman of JDV Occasions. The event venue had closed abruptly due to COVID-19, so she rerouted a full team of vendors to an alternate location.
Guests canceled last minute, hand sanitizer stations had to be worked into décor plans and a fire marshal had to approve use of an outdoor area to keep guests adequately spaced. Ackerman even created an almost identical menu to the original one planned with a different catering team less than 24 hours before the celebration started. They still did a hora with guests circling the dance floor, she explained, but they clapped their hands instead of holding each other’s. Still, the event unfolded beautifully, Ackerman said. Then came Monday, when the shelter-in-place orders took effect. Ackerman’s phone began ringing off the hook. “We started getting calls from couples who had spring and early summer dates who needed to postpone,” she said. “The challenge was in
finding dates that had their venue available as well as their vendor team. For most weddings, we’re bringing in 10 to 12 vendors. Think of all the florists, photographers, DJs, caterers and decorators!” Most of these vendors are small businesses, and this hit in a major way, Ackerman explained. “These businesses lose revenue by not being able to take an additional client on a future date. But they want to be there for their couples! They’re bending over backwards to make it work.” At the same time, engagements are on the rise. Quarantining couples are making it official in large numbers, according to a recent article in The Wall Street Journal about the rise in online engagement ring sales. Newly engaged brides are eager to visit
Images provided by Bridal Extravaganza of Atlanta, Photos by Bre Sessions Photography and Made You Look Photography & Film // Impression Bridal, a sponsor of the Bridal Extravaganza of Atlanta Online, displays multiple wedding gowns.
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
STYLE MAGAZINE • 22
venues, try on dresses and taste party foods, but the coronavirus presents a huge roadblock to those experiences. Shelly Danz, founder and Chief Party Officer of Atlanta Party Connection, produces the Atlanta Bar & Bat Mitzvah Expo and the biannual Bridal Extravaganza of Atlanta, a bridal show known for creative vendor displays and a distinct VIP bride experience that includes early entry, a take-home planning guide, a VIP lounge and bride and groom gifts. The BEA traditionally attracts more than 1,000 guests per show. They come to see their favorite bridal magazine images come to life and select their vendor team at a venue decorated from floor to ceiling. Brides-tobe frequently attend with their partners, parents, or bridal par-
A model on the runway of the Bridal Extravaganza of Atlanta fashion show last year.
An elegant wedding cake display in gold and ivory tones.
ties to make it a festive occasion. Although the next BEA is scheduled for August, Danz is unsure it can take place at that time. But she refuses to leave Atlanta brides dangling, unsure of next steps. “We don’t see people gathering by the hundreds at expos or big shows any time soon, so I decided to move forward with an online experience in July,” Danz said. The show will take place July 19-24 via the BEA website. Brides and grooms can purchase tickets to meet top wedding vendors through interactive video chats; register for ultimate wedding and honeymoon giveaways; receive door prizes from all vendors; and upgrade to the VIP ticket level for curbside pickups of such items as cake tastings, flowers and vendor gifts to sample from home. “I know how stressful the wedding planning process can be under normal circumstances and now it’s even tougher,” Danz said. “We’re offering this unique resource to help alleviate some uncertainty for both engaged couples and Atlanta’s wedding vendors. The goal of the online show is to highlight talented wedding professionals and their creativity while helping brides and grooms celebrate their engagement and plan their wedding from home.”
A vibrant place setting showcases personalized menus and seating cards in tabletop décor.
Danz began working with a web designer in May to create a site for the show that will allow for more exploration with virtual booths and media (photos, video), just like when attendees come to an in-person show and plan their own experiences, moving from booth to booth. She noted that feedback from vendors about moving to the online format has been positive. They express that they’re ready to share new offerings with engaged couples. “Many vendors have used this event downtime to expand their services and develop unique ways to meet the needs of what our new normal will be,” Danz said. “They’re excited to share [the new services] with brides and help them realize their vision.” Joel Miller of Button It Up said, “Our green screen backgrounds have always been popular, but we’ve invested in updating them and now have more than 500 new options covering destinations, sports, patterns and even decades.” While receptions may start to take place in coming months, many out-of-town or older and at-risk guests will likely not attend larger gatherings due to health and safety concerns. With this in mind, the photo entertainment company will debut a vir-
tual cameo feature at the Bridal Extravaganza of Atlanta Online. It will allow invited guests to take selfies from their own screens
Lavish floral arrangements top tablescapes.
that can be imported into green screen photos for in-person or digital events. “We’re preparing for combinations of in-person
Let us bring your party to life! Call us today to book your entertainment at 404.931.5779. The hottest DJ’s, dancers, & MC’s Available for your special event!
• Bar & Bat Mitzvahs • Corporate Events • School Events • Weddings • Dance Parties • So Much More!
23 • STYLE MAGAZINE
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
Shelly Danz, producer of the Bridal Extravaganza of Atlanta, poses with bride and groom models following a successful fashion show at the Southern Exchange Ballrooms in January.
and virtual attendees at celebrations going forward and are making sure that all guests feel part of the fun,” Miller said. While it may seem odd to long-married couples to meet the people you’ll entrust with your wedding day via computer, many vendors are embracing this approach, since it’s far more effective than phone calls. Ackerman noted that she was just hired by a bride via Zoom call, and she is starting to connect her with other vendors using the same technology. “We just had a photographer meeting, and the photographer shared her screen with us to view work samples and styles. It’s definitely a shift to use technology to connect in this way, but it’s working well. A bridal show online feels like a natural next step.” Atlanta bride Hayley Langholtz recalled her experience. “I got engaged at the beginning of the year and had hardly started researching vendors when the
pandemic shut everything down. I’ve had trouble interviewing potential vendors, and I really wanted the experience of going to a bridal show to see a lot of resources at one time. I am very excited to have a virtual experience that’s more than a directory. It feels like a really good way to start planning now.” Ackerman added, “Being able to move forward with clients online right now is everything. I’m so excited that Bridal Extravaganza will happen in this way because we can still provide that one-stop shopping wedding planning experience and create the excitement for these couples that they deserve.” She also cited the curbside pick-up of wedding vendor samples as an element that creates a well-rounded experience for brides. “A wedding is an emotional experience. Giving people the chance to not only see what we can do for them, but also touch, taste and feel Shelly Danz walks the floor of the Bridal Extrava- is so important,” ganza of Atlanta in January to greet vendors before Ackerman said. the show opens to nearly 1,000 attendees. Since March, the Georgia wedding professional industry has seen a loss of $360 million in revenues, according to The Wedding Report. Danz hopes the online event will help to jumpstart vendor-bride connections and reATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
STYLE MAGAZINE • 24
Live entertainment is a highlight of the Bridal Extravaganza of Atlanta. Performers are available for wedding gigs.
sult in contracts for future weddings. “This event will take place over a week, and we’re going to showcase all kinds of wedding goods and services, and make it very entertaining for brides,” Danz said. “We want the brides to feel special and like we’re throwing them a party!” Nightly entertainment will include ceremony and celebration musicians. Virtual booths will showcase vendor work through photo and video displays. A bartender company is creating signature cocktails for each night and sharing the recipes for couples to enjoy at home. And door prizes and discounts will be given out every day. Upgrading to the VIP level will allow brides to enjoy curbside pickup of fabulous vendor gifts to sample at their leisure. But it won’t be an ordinary pickup, like those that have become the norm at retail, restaurants or grocery stores. It will take place July 19 at The Hotel at Avalon in Alpharetta. Live musicians will welcome the brides as they pick up gifts valued at over $60. Danz said that she is still adding more ways to make VIP
brides feel catered to and celebrated when they come for their take-home packages. VIP level tickets will also include access to a special virtual lounge within the show, where brides can find exclusive deals on vendor services and items. As Georgia’s gathering parameters change, wedding vendors hope to start seeing green lights in the coming months for receptions of larger groups. In the meantime, brides can Zoom through the start of wedding planning with vendors who are prepared to guide them to “I do.” “I can’t wait for this show,” Langholtz said. “My fiancé and I are excited that we’re going to get some inspiration to start planning. We’re hoping to learn about what’ll be new for receptions next year and we might find vendors we’ll hire. The best part is that we don’t even have to leave the house!” ì
Bridal Extravaganza of Atlanta Online will be held daily, July 19-24. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit atlantaweddingconnection.com.
Be Inspired…
Enjoy a boutique experience as we share Design Ideas & Expert Planning Advice for all your Wedding Décor needs.
Situated directly between Buckhead and Midtown, The Carlyle boasts a sophisticated, in-town location for your next celebration. Featuring a pre-function area with an outdoor courtyard, two large ballrooms, two private suites, and a permanent bar, The Carlyle offers many amenities to enhance and personalize your special event. Accommodates 100 - 600 guests.
404- 462-4787 • Jim@jimwhitedesigns.com
TO SCHEDULE YOUR TOUR, EMAIL HELLO@THECARLYLEVENUE.COM
1919 PIEDMONT RD NE THECARLYLEVENUE.COM
PHOTOS BY LISA LARSON PHOTO, KIYAH C PHOTOGRAPHY, HEIDI HARRIS
Photos courtesy of Mollie & Corey Friedman, and Decisive Moment Photojournalism, Event Planning Francee Craig Events, Catering: Added Touch Catering, Venue: Atlanta History Center
25 • STYLE MAGAZINE
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
By Marcia Caller Jaffe
A ‘Touch’ of Creativity Blooms Once More
Celebrating in a pandemic has created yet another layer in our “new” reality. Wedding postponements or rescheduling have been especially prevalent. Alex and Leslie Fischbach planned their nuptials for 180 people in St. Louis a year in advance and were committed to sticking with the original May date. Aunt Michele Fischbach stepped in to reengineer a micro-wedding in her Sandy Springs front yard on the wayside of large gatherings in times of COVID. Also on short notice, Added Touch Catering rose to the occasion, going quickly to work to make the day special for Alex and Leslie among a myriad of new safety regulations. Erin Lis, vice president of sales, said, “Events might be
smaller, but it doesn’t mean they have to be any less fabulous! Added Touch recently had the honor of being a part of two May 2020 weddings. We feel like we haven’t heard good news like this in a while.”
The Wedding Backdrop Aunt and Uncle Michele and Bobby Fischbach played a key role by volunteering to host this micro-wedding in a scaleddown version at their home. Michele said, “Sadly, both the bride and groom had lost their mothers. Leslie’s passed away since the wedding was planned. That was the chief reason that she wanted to stay with the original date. She felt that
was the one thing that she could control, that could not be taken away from her. By default, I stepped in.” Involved from the start, Michele cautioned Leslie in March to not send out the invitations. The ketubah, or marriage contract, was inscripted for May 23, so May 23 it was. “We waited a bit, then sent out do-it-yourself evites for 28 guests,” Michele said. Rabbi Samantha Shabman Trief of Temple Sinai came in at the last minute. “She was warm and wonderful; but to be cautious of handling [money], she was the only rabbi I have ever Venmoed,” Michele said. “We took every possible precaution to keep guests safe, starting with measuring the yard and dividing by the number of people to mark standing points. We gave out gloves and masks and
had an outdoor handwashing station. Some guests chose to sit in their cars, and our friendly neighbors allowed others to park in their driveways. Another emotional element is that the chuppah was the trellis in front of the Fischbach home. “This is the exact trellis that Bobby and I were married under,” Michele said. “So here we were a second time.”
The Added Touch “Having dined on appetizers and a fully stocked bar, replete with a variety of craft canned cocktails, guests were invited for the ceremony, which was followed by champagne toasts and speeches,” Lis said. “To allow guests who wanted
Photos by Bare Feet Photography // Bride and groom, Leslie and Alex Fischbach, center, and from left, Aunt and Uncle Michele and Bobby Fischbach; cousins Eric
Strange; Drew Fischbach, Nina, Max and Devon Fischbach; Scott, Jaime and Olivia Fischbach; Evan, Catherine, Robert and Maggie Strange.
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
STYLE MAGAZINE • 26
2 3 4 1 1 Since so few guests can attend in person, the event on Zoom is enjoyed by many. 2 The hand sanitizer station included cleaners for cell phones. 3 Appetizers were passed, but only in closed containers.
4 The couple exchanged vows while Rabbi Samantha Trief blessed them. 5 Guests enjoyed gourmet take-home meals featuring Mediterranean chicken breasts with artichoke lemon caper sauce.
to maintain their distance and keep their attendance short, the bride and groom cut the cake, and guests were offered a delicious boxed, branded Added Touch dinner to take home.” The Fischbachs’ guests box was Mediterranean chicken breasts with artichoke lemon caper sauce, blended Israeli couscous, chopped Israeli salad, mini grilled vegetable stacks with balsamic reduction and basil chiffonade, and fresh pita with hummus. Added Touch’s guide for safely hosting micro events: • Keep it Outdoors: For now, events at home are the way to go. Backyard, front yard, or even driveway. Keep the tables spread out and fresh air flowing. • Hand Wash Station: Greet guests with a hand wash station with wipes to sanitize phones. • Packaged passed apps are served in closed containers to keep the germs away. • End with healthy
swag bag gift bags packed with COVID-fighting goodies: Take it further and order branded facemasks or personalized hand sanitizers with event monogram or logo. While overflowing openair buffets are the way of the past, Added Touch stations will now be behind a plexiglass screen (think sneeze guard on steroids). There is the option of a classic, seated, plated served meal covered with a silver dome to keep it ultra fresh and hot. “People are searching for the peace of mind to have a good time,” said Added Touch Owner Sandra Bank. “Safety is the new luxury, and you can still have a delicious micro-event but make it a macro experience. Many couples or bar/bat mitzvahs are upgrading with ‘added touches’ that larger events might not have afforded. From salmon to sea bass, burgers to lamb chops, hydrangeas to peonies, folks now more than ever want to find a way connect and find joy in creative ways.” ì
5
27 • STYLE MAGAZINE
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
Down the Aisle With Mask and Love
By Roni Robbins
Like other synagogues, Congregation Etz Chaim is still deciding when and how to reopen its sanctuaries to the public for services, simchas and other social gatherings after shuttering for COVID-19. It has postponed many b’nai mitzvah during the world health crisis. Meanwhile, the Marietta synagogue opened its newly renovated sanctuary to its first wedding May 24. And it wasn’t just the only such simcha in the new facility with a yet-to-be-opened social hall next door still under wraps, but the first wedding and
simcha during the pandemic. And in traditional COVID-19 style, it was a simcha that adhered to strict social distancing, and instead of gown and tux, veil and bowtie, the bride and groom, along with a handful of family in attendance, dressed up and sported the latest in COVID designs – masks. Stephanie Lievense and Andrew Cohn had planned a May 24 wedding for 200 guests at The Biltmore Hotel in downtown Atlanta officiated by Rabbi Daniel Dorsch of Etz Chaim. The couple had sent out invitations, which resulted in a steady stream of positive re-
1 Stephanie Lievense and Andrew Cohn seal their union with a kiss. 2 The couple, in masks, exchange rings.
1
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
STYLE MAGAZINE • 28
sponses until the health crisis began affecting daily life. Devastated, the couple realized they had to change course, and approached Rabbi Dorsch about the possibility of having their ceremony on the same date at the synagogue in which Cohn attended Hebrew School and became a bar mitzvah. “We asked Rabbi Dorsch if it was just the two of us,” Lievense recalled. The number grew to both sets of parents (Lievense’s drove about 10 hours from Fort Myers, Fla.) and Andrew’s sister and boyfriend, an unrelated witness to sign the ketubah – nine people, including the rabbi.
2
The plan was to have a traditional ceremony at a later date that included a larger crowd, Lievense said. “However, with the unknown of when that would actually happen, we decided to have our parents come for the real marriage ceremony.” Plans still call for a standard photo shoot and dress-up reception when it’s safe to do so, she said. “It was generous of Rabbi Dorsch,” Cohn said of being able to use the sanctuary for the ceremony. “We are so thankful he was able to do that for us.” Learning that they were the first wedding in the renovated sanc-
Rabbi Daniel Dorsch signs the ketubah in his office.
tuary and the only simcha during COVID-19, he added, “We are definitely honored.” Rabbi Dorsch said the wedding worked because all in attendance had adhered to strict quarantining. “I was not afraid because I knew they were taking necessary precautions as was I,” he said. “I was happy to do this [wedding] in such an unusual way that made sure everyone was safe and everyone was comfortable.” Most of the party, the Cohn family, sheltered at least two weeks in advance of the wedding in their Marietta home. The bride and groom, in masks, stood under the chuppah on the bimah holding their own wine glasses and the rabbi stood at least 6 feet from them. Lievense’s parents sat on one side of the sanctuary and the Cohn family, the other. One ritual that held special meaning at a wedding during a pandemic was the breaking of the glass, Rabbi Dorsch said. It’s a metaphor for putting the
broken pieces of the world back together again, he said. “I challenged them to go out and do that. It’s easy to see the world as a broken place” right now. He stressed that the wedding at Etz Chaim proves that “Jewish life endures even in times of hardship. As I reminded them under the chuppah, love is stronger than a virus. I remain proud of the way they have continued to persevere.” For the couple, it may not have been their dream wedding, but they try to keep an open mind and larger perspective on life, Cohn said. “We still love each other. … We see the bigger picture and that’s what marriage is about.” That despite having to cancel both their bachelor and bachelorette parties, and a honeymoon in Aruba. The wedding photos, complete with wedding gown, hair and makeup, big reception, caterer, decorator, all postponed with credits for future use. “We still are excited to celebrate with family and friends at a safer date,” Lievense said. ì
WEDDINGS REHERSAL DINNERS
•BABY NAMINGS•
SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS
•BAR/BAT•
MITZVAHS CORPORATE
AND NON-PROFIT
•EVENTS• Joan Rubenstein Flower Design By Joan www.flowerdesignbyjoan.com | 404-518-2021 29 • STYLE MAGAZINE
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
Simcha
SRD [Steve Dewberry] Photography // Friends had signs made for Zack’s backyard bimah.
By Marcia Caller Jaffe
Zack’s Zoomitzvah
May 16, 2020, was supposed to be a traditional bar mitzvah for Zack Siegel, as it had been for his sister Zoey three years ago. Terminal West and Added Touch caterer were on point as RSVPs were rolling in. Dad Philip said, “In March and even April, I couldn’t admit that Zack’s bar mitzvah might be rescheduled. I thought, ‘No way this is going to change.’ Friends were calling me naïve.” Mom Debra said, “Phil finally canceled kicking and screaming. I was more light-hearted about it.” As April 30 rolled around, Rabbi Laurence Rosenthal, Ahavath Achim’s senior rabbi, offered three options: keep date ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
STYLE MAGAZINE • 30
and Zoom, tentatively select an August date, or put it off until 2021. Debra and Phil thought of Zoom factors: Can he read from a Torah or his practice papers? Will there be standard blessings? If we postpone, will he have to relearn a new maftir [last Torah reading]? Ever the practical accountant, Phil made a decision to look for the silver lining. He recalled, “I got on Facebook, super proud to share with the world and not just those on the original invitation list, to sign in on the original date and Zoom. Also, on the positive side, this allowed many of our parents’ friends who would not have been included to tune in. Many of them had not ever
Zoomed before.” On Saturday morning, 197 Zoom monitors joined, representing about 500 viewers. Some were in spirited groups, like a tailgate of families set up at Chastain Park. “Yes, there was grieving when the original plan was ended,” Debra said. “We feared a ceremony of loneliness. Would 10 people Zoom in? Would we lose the feeling of connection?” Phil countered, “The opposite occurred. It was the furthest thing from that. The birds were chirping in our yard, the weather was magnificent, and the participants were all in sending private chats. Our community showed up for us!” He added that joy came through the screen, “This
was more intimate and dynamic that I had ever imagined.” In the Siegel yard were both sets of grandparents who, in lieu of the traditional l’dor v’dor Torah passing, recited their own custom-written presentations. “I wore a dress from Amazon and Phil wore jeans,” Debra said. “Some Zoomers were in their PJs sipping coffee. We were all present, unrehearsed, and in the moment.” Zack, a student at The Epstein School, waited until the Wednesday prior to write his d’var Torah speech. The avid baseball and basketball player admitted that he was sad initially when faced with the cancellation, but noted that in retrospect, he shouldn’t have
been. A segment from his remarks: “We had a lot of uncertainty these last two months and didn’t know if we were going to go forward this morning with my bar mitzvah service. I neglected my d’var Torah. Not only have I learned a lesson in procrastination, but I now recognize that a relationship with G-d is not a last-minute attempt. Many of us, including myself, find ourselves praying to G-d or seeking help when we want something or want to apologize. Having a relationship with G-d should be a regular event if we plan to reach out in a time of trouble or desire, or celebration.” Debra summed up the experience. “We all knew that it was not about getting lost in a fancy party or flowers. We will remember this bar mitzvah for many years to come. By Zooming, we could see everyone’s face. Not like looking out into pews. We were indeed super-connected. Zack became a bar mitzvah and everything else is icing on the cake.” The vendors have agreed to move everything forward and the celebration is planned for Dec 5. “Zoom services have created a bridge between public spirituality and the spiritually intimate that hasn’t been done before,” Rosenthal said. “For our b’nai mitzvah, there has been a very special project that families have been able to partake in – the creation of a sacred prayer space. “In rabbinic terms, this a macom kavuah (set space) or a macom kadosh, (holy space), both of which are important for prayer. Being ‘Zoomed’ into people’s homes has encouraged our families to create a mizba’akh, a special prayer altar where they conducted services. … For many years, these families will see their front foyer, living room or poolside as the holy place their children celebrated their b’nai mitzvah. This is a special practice, which has the potential for future sacred creation.” ì
1 Stuart and Helen Siegel, Zoe, Debra, Zack, Phil, Susan and Stuart Schlansky. 2 To be represented, camp friends sent a display to the yard.
3 Zack on Zoom with 500 participants, flanked by Mom Debra and Dad Philip. 4 A family of Michigan fan-friends delivered an arrangement in school colors.
5 Friends set up a Zoom tailgating station with socially appropriate distancing at Chastain Park to cheer Zack on.
1
2 3
4 5
31 • STYLE MAGAZINE
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
Reworked ‘Legendary’ Simchas
By Marcia Caller Jaffe
Legendary Events was founded in 1997 and proceeded to take Atlanta’s social scene by storm. Founder CEO Tony Conway was touted as the entertainment master for the stars, and then, the pandemic halted large gatherings, squashing best intended plans. Due to COVID-19, since mid-March Legendary Events has had more than 90 events canceled or postponed. In a well-thought-out rebound in early June, Legendary introduced Simply Legendary Weddings. Four beautifully designed ceremony spaces offer couples the opportunity to say “I Do” in an exclusive setting. Couples can get married in an intimate ceremony and have the large celebration when friends and family are able to come together for a larger party.
“So many couples haven’t been able to have the larger weddings they have planned for this summer,” said Michele Lend, Legendary Events senior sales manager. “But that doesn’t mean they have to cancel or settle for a civil ceremony at the courthouse.” Simply Legendary brides and grooms can have an intimate ceremony under a chuppah with full access to the property, offering options for photos, ketubah signing and the ceremony, she said. “The $2,500 price includes exclusive use of the entire venue, ceremony décor, a cake for cutting and photos, cupcakes for guests to enjoy, and a champagne toast.” Legendary president Dave Lishness said, “When we were not able to have events, we continued to work with clients plan-
ning their upcoming events or helping reimagine celebrations postponed. Our team is working to establish best practices for the event industry in this new normal to help Governor [Brian] Kemp create guidelines for weddings, special events and celebrations in the State.” Conway framed it this way, “While this has truly been a difficult time for Legendary Events and our industry, we are thankful that our clients, guests and team are safe and we look forward to having events again, now that the reopening has begun here in Georgia. We have used this pause to plan and make changes and that will allow us to celebrate safely.” Both of Legendary’s Buckhead event venues, The Estate and Flourish, have now reopened. The Estate (circa 1797), behind stately wrought
iron gates on three hidden acres on Piedmont Road, is a Southern multi-level brick house moved piece by piece from Wilkes County. Across the street, Flourish has been home to numerous Jewish community events. It has a ballroom with no columns for up to 800 (in normal times). Guests now will continue to be greeted in the drive-up porte cochere, the large open-air courtyard. There are also interior black and white pavers, 50 glamorous ballroom chandeliers, and an interior sconce wall. Lend continued, “While the last few months have been difficult, we have gotten through it. Instead of large events, we were able to offer our award-winning event design and floral services to smaller weddings and graduation celebrations in smaller venues, hotels and private homes.
Photo by Laura Stone // Legendary Events is now offering simple exclusive wedding packages for $2,500.
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
STYLE MAGAZINE • 32
1 2 1 3
Photo by Bill Broer // The Estate on Piedmont Road in Buckhead is hidden behind iron gates on three acres and is now open for events.
2 Flourish is across from The Estate and has several choices of venues within the facility, including a non-columned ballroom.
Photo courtesy of Legendary Events // One of Legendary’s two prime venues, Flourish, is open for special occasion events with a full menu, though food will be served differently.
Looking ahead, Simply Legendary weddings are allowing families to come together now to celebrate new unions. Summer bookings are happening and events for the fall of this year and 2021 are booking very well now.” Deep cleaning and special sanitizing, now routine, happen before and after all events. High-touch surfaces and restrooms are cleaned and sanitized throughout the event. Floor plans have changed to assure guests can follow current recommended guidelines for physical distancing. Food and beverage service have changed too. Menu offerings are the same, but may be served differently. Seated din-
ners, food stations and buffets all work, but staff members will offer menu items to each guest. Butler-passed hors d’oeuvres are presented in covered, individual containers. The extensive menu is led by executive chef Diana Watkins with choices such as fried Springer Mountain Farms chicken, barbecue braised beef brisket on a fluffy biscuit, smoked gouda macaroni and cheese, and kale salad with fresh blueberries. Kosher catering is also available in conjunction with A Kosher Touch. Conway concluded, “There has never been a better time to have a simcha, and after all of this time apart, it should be Legendary.” ì
3
33 • STYLE MAGAZINE
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
By Flora Rosefsky
On the Eighth Day, G-d Commanded
Fran Redisch began planning in January for the birth of her grandchild. “Since my daughter Allison and husband Oren did not want to know the baby’s sex, plans included having a ceremony on the eighth day after the birth, either a brit milah [ritual circumcision] if a boy, or simchat bat if a girl,” said Redisch, a member of Congregation B’nai Torah. At that point, she hadn’t made airline reservations to Washington, D.C., where her daughter lives, because the due date wasn’t until mid-May. When COVID raised its head in mid-March, Redisch and family members were making sure their Zoom and livestreaming devices were in good working order. Besides altering travel plans, how would a brit milah, or bris, in Yiddish, be changed for Redisch, metro Atlanta and beyond?
house in D.C. A mohel trained in ritual circumcision conducted the procedure. Only the parents, baby and mohel were present. Redisch told the AJT that one of their goals was to do things as if the bris were in person. “We used a naming ceremony that friends and family had used for naming their children that included several songs, quotes from the Talmud, and traditional readings.” Announcing the newborn’s name, Johan Emanuel – named after three grandfathers — brought tears and shouts from those watching. The baby’s aunts, uncles and grandparents read blessings. Cousins in California and Minnesota led the singing. Had it not been during COVID, Oren’s father and the baby’s grandfather Daniel Hirsch would have been the sandek, honored godfather. Allison’s sister, Lisa Redisch also lives in the D.C. area. Lisa brought over her own home-
Change of Plans Redisch’s daughter gave birth to a baby boy May 17. With husband Oren Hirsch, Allison began making the brit milah arrangements, inviting hundreds of guests to join them on Zoom on the eighth day. Over 150 people signed on, spanning 22 states, the District of Columbia, and five countries. Cities included Mumbai, Jerusalem, Haifa, London, Cincinnati, Houston, Atlanta, St. Paul, New Haven, San Francisco, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. Rabbi Elizabeth Richman officiated the ceremony from her ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
STYLE MAGAZINE • 34
Rabbi Abi Nadoff believes being the father’s agent as a mohel at the bris is a great privilege.
made bagels while Oren’s parents provided lox, leaving care packages at the baby’s new home so that after the ceremony, the new parents could enjoy a traditional meal. The emailed invite for the bris indicated “folks should BYOB – bring your own bagels!” Some did in their own homes after the Zoom event.
COVID and the Commandment Weddings and b’nai mitzvah can be postponed or rescheduled to a future month or another year. But a brit milah is a Torah commandment mentioned in Genesis 17:9-14, stating that a Jewish boy’s ritual circumcision take place on the eighth day after his birth. When the son of Julie and Perry Bern was born recently, the eighth day fell on April 13, in the middle of Passover. At that point, B’nai Torah members Caryn and Eric Bern and Fred and Debra Wener, members of Temple Sinai, joined other family members and friends to view the bris of their grandson Eli Mason Bern through Zoom. It was a traditional bris at the Bern’s Dunwoody home. Rabbi Ariel Asa, the mohel, conducted the ceremony and performed the procedure. Rabbi Abi Nadoff, another Atlanta mohel, explains that “the word ‘bris’ means covenant, and the mitzvah of bris milah represents the eternal covenant G-d has made with the Jewish people.” He said COVID-19 presents numerous challenges to a normative brit milah ceremony and its accompanying celebration. “If the
baby is healthy, and a mohel is accessible, the bris must be performed on the eighth day. Guidance from medical professionals determines how many people should be present. Social distancing and PPE protocol can and should be followed by anyone participating in the bris,” he said. Nadoff notes that with planning and consultation with a pediatrician, a proper bris can usually be held on the eighth day. While many customs surrounding a bris add to the joy of the occasion, Nadoff said they are not essential components to fulfilling the biblical ritual. Due to COVID’s social distancing norms, the celebratory meal normally following the bris has largely been suspended. Rabbi Brad Levenberg of Temple Sinai calls the Torah a living text with lots of interpretations. He told the AJT that because of the Jewish concept of pikuach nefesh, saving a life, a value that has been interpreted
Temple Sinai’s Rabbi Brad Levenberg calls Torah a living text.
1
2 1 A family screenshot is taken after the bris.
2 Rabbi Ariel Asa conducts a traditional bris for Julia and Perry Bern’s infant son Eli at their home.
3 to include suspending religious obligations for health-related reasons, there is a long-standing precedent, accepted among all denominations, for delaying a brit milah if it would harm the infant, such as when born prematurely. “Some within rabbinic circles, including myself, have adapted the halacha (Jewish law) concept during the time of COVID to include having a circumcision in a hospital room upon the birth of a boy and doing a naming ceremony on the eighth day.” He admits that while not ideal, “those of us who have adopted this perspective do so with the understanding that we don’t
really know enough about COVID and how it impacts children, making a surgical procedure uncomfortable for some.” Atlanta OB-GYN Arthur Gumer is also a mohel with over 24 years of experience in conducting hundreds of brit milah. Dr. Gumer belongs to the National Organization of American Mohalim, under the umbrella of the Brit Milah Board of Reform Judaism. If there is no underlying health issue for the baby, Dr. Gumer believes that a “bris needs to be done on the eighth day, as is the normal tradition, because the home, following CDC guidelines,
3 Allison Redisch and husband Oren Hirsch walk their infant son into their living room where the bris took place.
is still a safe environment for the baby.” He said that since the pandemic began, it is typical that only the parents, baby and a few family members who had been sheltering in place with them are present. Everyone attending wears a mask, and an attempt is made to keep social distancing whenever possible. Other guests can attend through Zoom, where a rabbi or others have the opportunity to offer prayers. Allison Redisch concluded, “When it is safe, we hope to host an in-person celebration in the future, and it will definitely include bagels!” ì
To learn more about the bris ceremony: Allison Redisch and Oren Hirsch share the script of their brit milah ceremony, https://bit. ly/2B7dHcK
Other resources: reformjudaism.org/brit-milahcircumcision-ritual faculty.haas.berkeley.edu/ AROSE/Bris.htm www.simplecircumcision.com/ www.mohelatlanta.com/ 35 • STYLE MAGAZINE
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
Flowers Bring Cheer in a Stressful Time A bouquet of purple stock, blue delphinium, lavender liatris (tall spiked flower), roses and hydrangea.
By Paula Baroff
Even with simchas being postponed because of COVID-19, event florist Joan Rubenstein of Flower Design by Joan still manages to have her hands full arranging flowers. Rubenstein, the sister-inlaw of Balloons Over Atlanta’s Gail Rubenstein, decided to focus on home deliveries during the pandemic. “What I’ve done is decided I would be doing individual arrangements for birthdays and parties at home, ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
STYLE MAGAZINE • 36
baby namings, Mother’s Day – whatever’s going to be happy,” the florist said. “Because flowers bring joy to everybody. Just to have a bowl of flowers in the house cheering you up, especially at a time like this, I think is delightful. But of course, I’m prejudiced!” Rubenstein advertised a bit for Mother’s Day arrangements, and it was a big hit, she said. She had many orders and was able to get the flower arrangements to clients by either delivering to their homes – with safety pre-
cautions including wearing a mask and using hand sanitizer – or people came to her door and picked up the flowers. “That was the one really big change,” she said. For all her arrangements, Rubenstein said she uses premium flowers bought directly from specific wholesalers. “I know that when I do that, they’re absolutely fresh,” she said. “They come from all over the world, the flowers. … It’s a very interesting market.” Flower arranging includes
artistry, and Rubenstein loves choosing flowers that convey different feelings and colors. “Sunflowers are very, very popular, because they just smile at you,” she said. “Hydrangeas are loved by everybody.” Peonies are another popular flower. “People love peonies. But they only flower now, like May and a little bit in June,” she said. “It’s really the queen of flowers.” Rubenstein also talked up a lesser-known flower, called stock, that she enjoys adding to arrangements to complete the
2 1
3 4 look. “It’s a lovely flower, stock, and it’s got quite a strong fragrance, and the colors are lovely. Lavender, purple, pale pink.” While she loves roses, not all customers are fans. Sometimes people will specifically ask for no roses in their arrangements. Carnations are another controversial flower, Rubenstein said, but she enjoys them, as they come in many colors that are more difficult to find, such as deep burgundies and purples. Alstroemeria is another useful flower, she said. They “are wonderful. They come in a lot of colors and they can be used together with a bowl of flowers just to finish them off. And they last for a very long time.
“Daisies are delightful,” she added. Rubenstein normally teaches flower arranging classes and demonstrations, which have been on pause since the pandemic began. Though it is still early to make a decision, she is thinking about how to start them up again, albeit with some modifications for safety. “I can only do that if people are prepared to get together,” she said. Zoom is an option, but she decided she really didn’t want to teach over the internet, as she feels it takes away from the class. “I might be limited to, I would say, I could do five people without a problem. It’s a one-on-one class and it’s fun.” ì
5 1 This centerpiece is made of roses, gerbera daisies, mini green hydrangea and greenery.
2 Sunflowers are always popular for their brightness, Rubenstein said. This centerpiece is made of birds of paradise, green Fuji mums and pincushion protea.
3 This yellow and purple arrangement includes sunflowers and stock. 4 A wedding centerpiece at the Georgia Aquarium with snapdragon, roses, lilies, stock, and amaranthus (hanging greens). 5 Joan Rubenstein runs Flower Design by Joan.
37 • STYLE MAGAZINE
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
Dining
1
2 3 1 The butternut squash soup was velvety and plentiful.
2 Endives au Roquefort salade was a table favorite. 3 The tuna tartare appetizer had sesame dressing, true to its FrancoJapanese origin. 4 The Duarade poisson entree over cauliflower purée was accented by almonds and capers over crunchy rapini.
Le Bilboquet is Bit Tonier than Classic Bistro 4
By Marcia Caller-Jaffe
No one will be disappointed at Le Bilboquet, as it’s a fun staycation under the starry (étoilé) glass ceiling where diners get a chance to show off their broken college French and feel like it’s a special occasion night. Le Bilboquet bills itself as classic French, but we thought it was happily more nouvelle, accenting the fresh and light, green vegetables and reduced cook time. ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
STYLE MAGAZINE • 38
Small details lead to inquiring about what really is a “bilboquet.” The secret is out as a traditional child’s toy with a ball connected to a string implying “playful.” Those with long memories may recall head chef Cyrille Holata, who served under French chef Joel Antunes in the eponymous Joel Brasserie on Northside Parkway, and more recently Davio’s in Phipps Plaza. The ambiance is a cool vibe punctuated with a Kate Moss
Chanel poster and terrariumlike exposed glass with twinkling exterior lights. The TV could be distracting where bar meets bistro. Well-placed other mixed media art is chic. The floor is a snazzy European deco terrazzo. The cuisine was authentic without being heavy handed, and not overly sauced. It was a modern take on French food with attention to detail. The menu is appetizer loaded with 15 hors d’oeuvres: the red and gold beet
salad with oranges and goat cheese (La Salade de Betteraves et Chevre, $16) was a work of art. The beets were thinly shaved instead of chunks. The scallion topping was a nice touch. The tuna tartare ($21) with sesame dressing added Japanese flair. Interesting to note that tuna tartare originated in Nagasaka as a Franco-Japanese creation. One diner at our table boasted that her best dish was the velvety butternut squash
Host Your MitzvaH or Wedding at the Wyndham Atlanta Galleria
Salade de Betteraves et Chèvre contrasted the multi-colored beets and the pristine goat cheese.
soup ($10), which was a “Large portion with savory pecans and a touch of parsley.” Although I am not traditionally a Roquefort fan, the endive salad ($14) was shareable and the tastiest ever. That’s the first thing I would order on the next visit. The dressing was tossed just right enough to tease and tang. Do not get this dressing on the side. Live large. Each page of the menu restates a $2 spilt fee. One wonders how cumbersome that could that be at these price points. Our fish entrees (les poissons) were the dorade over cauliflower puree and seared Atlantic salmon filet with English peas à la Francaise on a bed of lentils. A standout on the dorade presentation was the firm, bright green rapini, broccoli rabe with all the edible buds and stems, but without the head of the broccoli. It’s known for being slightly bitter and is often paired with Mediterranean entrees. Dorade is a bream fish found in Mediterranean waters of Greece, France, Turkey and even Eilat, on the Red Sea in Israel. Research later showed that dorade is not a kosher fish despite the white meat akin to pompano and red snapper. Branzino with red pepper and fennel confit is another fine choice. An authentic French restaurant should have an extensive wine list. Magnums and super magnums, vintage, non-vintage,
Bordeaux, blancs, American rouges, Loire rouges and cuvées prestige. We had a bubbly glass of Crémant de Limoux Brut NV ($9) which spoke French with bubbly pin pricks on the tongue. And there are trendy cocktails galore. Our server recommended the gin-based Street Car, which did not disappoint. The most exquisitely crafted dessert was Le Mille Feuille, an elongated Napoleon with whiskey pastry cream and coffee ice cream. It no doubt took some thought in composition but didn’t have enough body. The colorful sorbets in mango, lemon and raspberry were refreshing. Granted more wise and authentic choices would have been caramelized apples à la mode, lemon curd with Swiss meringue /lime supreme, profiteroles, or homemade rice pudding with exotic fruits. Our head server was right out of GQ magazine and saw that the courses flowed smoothly and the food temperature was on point. Le Bilboquet has been open for decades on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, along with locations in Brazil and Texas. Here it’s at 3027 Bolling Way in The Shops Buckhead with threehour free self-parking. Valet is available. Open daily for lunch and dinner. When the weather is nice, sit outside and be transported to a Parisian café. ì
Over 12,000 square feet of versatile event space, including 3 elegant ballrooms for any social event. A team of seasoned event planners are on hand to help you orchestrate a truly unforgettable event.
10% off
when mentioning you found us in the Jewish Times! Contact Dana Cates at dcates@wyndham.com Conveniently Located in Sandy Springs 6345 Powers Ferry Rd NW 770.790.1002
www.wyndhamatlantahotel.com
39 • STYLE MAGAZINE
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
Restaurant Rebound
Ray’s on the River has opened a section of tables just steps from the Chattahoochee River.
By Bob Bahr
Gov. Brian Kemp’s recent announcement that Georgia restaurants can fully open starting June 16 was encouraging news to three veteran Jewish restaurant owners in an industry struggling to survive. Gearing up for increased business in dining and catering segments, they have taken health care precautions to ensure their employees and customers stay safe with promising plans for the future. The executive order, which will initially be in effect through June 30, allows restaurant to drop the requirement that employees wear face masks unless they are directly serving customers. Although the easing of restrictions may make it possible for some restaurants to return to profitability more quickly, restaurant owners are still being very cautious. Increased health precautions include masks, gloves, plastic cutlery, hand sanitizer, temperature taking, spacing out tables or providing outdoor dining. Along the Chattahoochee River, just south of I-285, the popular restaurant and special ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
STYLE MAGAZINE • 40
events facility Ray’s on the River has reopened with a long list of safety upgrades. When we visited soon after the reopening last month, we were greeted with a hand sanitizing station 15 feet from the front door. The hostess confirmed the reservation and then took our temperature with an electronic device pointed at our foreheads. The long-time owner of the restaurant, Ray Schoenbaum, has even installed a new ultraviolet light system in his heating and air-conditioning units. The technology, which dates back to health concerns in the 1930s, is designed to destroy the bonds that hold the coronavirus together, which prevents them from causing disease. Schoenbaum’s riverside location near the Chattahoochee is an Atlanta favorite. He’s doing everything he can to keep customers happy. “The business today is about having other people say to other people on social media that they feel safe. It’s people not questioning what you’re doing. I have not had a complaint yet from a customer that they didn’t feel comfortable. I read social media and
Ray’s on the River mandates hand sanitizing before entering.
I get an average of 30 [messages] a day. So it’s 200 a week I’m reading. They talk to other people and tell them how they feel. Gradually the word is getting out. And a lot of people who weren’t coming out are coming out just to see what it’s like.” For the first time in its history, Ray’s on the River offered table service outdoors, in widely spaced umbrella tables just steps from the river. The expansion outdoors, in an area that had previously only been used during private parties and special events, has proven successful. Business, our hostess assured us, had been good, particularly on the weekend, when over 400 guests have shown up daily. Schoenbaum, now in his 70s, has spent his whole life in the business. His parent started the Shoney’s chain of family restaurants. He’s owned Wendy’s franchises, started the Rio Bravo chain and opened and closed more restaurants than he can count. Still, he says the basics still apply whether it’s a table for two or a wedding for 250. “I’m looking at every day building our business, trying to
keep our people happy so they can live comfortably and come out of this with a great attitude.” At Alon’s Bakery & Market, which has locations in Dunwoody and Virginia-Highland, owner Alon Balshan is still requiring customers to wear masks and will maintain safe distance in the indoor and outdoor tables at the Dunwoody restaurant. Plastic cutlery will be available in sealed packs and at the Virginia-Highland location, the number of customers allowed in the bakery and delicatessen will still be restricted. Alon’s never closed during the pandemic, although business hours were cut back. Even on days when his business dropped by 90 percent from a year ago, the two locations continued their take-out and retail businesses. Balshan is a firm believer that trust and caution are the keys to more normal times. Business at his Virginia-Highland location is nearing 75 percent of what it was last year, he said. “I still think that there is a certain sense of paranoia. So in the end, it doesn’t matter what [politicians] or anybody else says, it’s the people that vote in how
Self-serve soda machines at Goldberg’s come with rubber gloves.
they go out. They decide whether they’ve lost confidence in going out or they’re not. If they feel comfortable, they’re going to come out.” He also has ambitious plans to expand his business during the coming year. He has signed a lease at Phipps Plaza to develop a 5,300-square-foot location similar to his Dunwoody operation to serve the business and residential communities in the area. Construction is expected to start in October and a March opening is planned. He is also putting the finishing touches on a new building housing a wholesale bakery that will service restaurants and other food service locations. That operation is expected to be up and running next month. Goldberg’s Fine Foods, which stopped table service for a month during the pandemic, will be able to expand its business now that the governor lifted some restrictions. President and CEO Wayne Saxe welcomed the news, but said he is in no hurry to compromise the safety of his customers. Employees behind the takeout counter as well as waitresses and servers wear masks. Recently, signs in front of the soda beverage dispensers indicate that users should wear plastic gloves for each use. Saxe is empathetic that safety is still a primary concern at his 12 locations. “At Goldberg’s, we are going to stand by the fact that everyone has to have a safe space. What we’ve done from day one is make sure customers feel safe. We take temperatures at the door. We go above and beyond.” ì
Table service at Goldberg’s has been restricted.
Waitress at Ray’s on the River with mask and rubber gloves.
41 • STYLE MAGAZINE
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
Advertisers Directory
The AJT thanks all of our advertisers and we ask Jewish Atlantans to patronize these businesses and let them know you saw them in the 2020 Summer Simcha and Celebration STYLE Magazine. Alluring Cosmetic & Family Dentistry 770-642-9900 www.alluringcosmeticdentistry.com
Buckhead Theatre: Live Nation 470-351-3862 www.thebuckheadtheatreatl.com/events
Atlanta Custom Closets 404-255-0589 www.closetpro.net
Cinnaholic 404-343-0805 www.cinnaholicedgewood.com
Aviva Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics 678-974-8435 www.avivaplasticsurgery.com
Country Club of Roswell 770-475-7800 www.ccroswell.com
Amy Barocas/ Peggy Feldman - Harry Norman Realtors 404-790-0913 www.barocasfeldmanteamweb.harrynorman.com
Atlanta Fever Entertainment 404-931-5779 www.atlantafeverent.com
Balloons Over Atlanta 404-231-3090 www.balloonsover.com
Computer House Calls 770-527-3533 www.HealthyComputer.com
Dani Weiss Photography 206-409-9982 www.daniweissphotography.com
Blue Orchid Productions 678-261-6185 www.blueorchidproductions.com
Dianne Harnell Cohen - Realtor - Atlanta Fine Homes 404-313-7300 www.dianneharnellcohen.atlantafinehomes.com/eng
Bruster's Ice Cream 404-320-7166 caterbrusters@gmail.com
Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care 770-451-4999 www.dresslerjewishfunerals.com
Bob Smith - Health Insurance 404-593-9663 Bob.Smith4Health@gmail.com
We Buy Diamonds We Buy Gold
1820 Independence Square # C, Dunwoody, GA 30338 (770) 396-3456 Haim Haviv Max Haviv Graduate Gemologist www.hajewelry.com Owner ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
Cakeology 770-905-4874 www.cakeologyatl.com
STYLE MAGAZINE • 42
Stephanie Divjak - Realtor - Atlanta Fine Homes 404-247-9999 www.stephaniedivjak.atlantafinehomes.com/eng
JScreen - Emory University - Dept. of Human Genetics 404-778-8640 www.JScreen.org/donate Eydie Koonin - Realtor - Atlanta Fine Homes 404-237-5000 www.eydiekoonin.atlantafinehomes.com/eng Fakakta Computer 404-954-1004 damon.carp@gmail.com
May all of the incredible Doctors, Nurses, Police, Firemen and First Responders be blessed with Sunshine and Happiness of Summertime!
Flower Design by Joan Rubenstein 404-518-2021 www.flowerdesignbyjoan.com/
Georgia Aquarim 404-581-4000 www.GeorgiaAquarium.org/reopening H & A International Jewelry 770-396-3456 www.hajewelry.com Jim White Designs 404-462-4787 www.jimwhitedesigns.com/ Keith's Corner BBQ 404-250-1BBQ (1227) www.keithscornerbbq.com
SANDY ABRAMS HARRY NORMAN, REALTORS® C: 404.281.0097 | O: 404.233.4142 Sandy.Abrams@HarryNorman.com 532 EAST PACES FERRY ROAD, ATLANTA, GA 30305 404.233.4142 | HARRYNORMAN.COM
Lipsey Mountain Spring Water 770-449-0001 www.lipseywater.com/ Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta 678-624-3121 www.alpharettamarriott.com
Mercedes Benz of Buckhead 800-713-5938 www.MercedesOfBuckhead.com Right Image Company 404-452-2333 rightimagecompany@yahoo.com
Roberts-Shields Memorial Company 678-784-2100 www.rsmemorial.com
Experience the Gift of Luxury.
Sandy Abrams - Realtor - Harry Norman 404-281-0097 www.sandyabramsweb.harrynorman.com/ Visit Sandy Springs 770-206-1447 www.VisitSandySprings.org Spring Hall Atlanta 770-613-9973 www.springhallatl.com
2799 Piedmont Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 MercedesOfBuckhead.com • (800) 713-5938 43 • STYLE MAGAZINE
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
SRI Travel 888-451-9399 www.sritravel.com
WE’RE OPEN! MONDAY-SUNDAY 11AM-10PM
Proudly serving the community for 17 years! Now, Atlanta's only FULLY KOSHER Ice Cream Parlor (AKC Certified). We have plenty of space, bring a blanket or a lawn chair and please remember socially distance! Ask about our catering services for your next corporate event (options available), wedding, party, Bat Mitzvah, and other special occasions!
Toco Hills Shopping Center 2095 LaVista Road, Atlanta, GA 404-320-7166 caterbrusters@gmail.com
Sufi’s Kitchen Atlanta 404-888-9699 www.sufisatlanta.com
The Carlyle 404-351-8835 www.thecarlylevenue.com The Dusty Coin 404-263-2967
The Sonenshine Team 404-250-5311 www.SonenshineTeam.com The Spicy Peach 404-334-7200 www.thespicypeach.com
The Wedding Dance Napkin Designed by Janet Galanti 404-580-9276 www.facebook.com/TheWeddingDanceNapkin Tower Beer Wine & Spirits 404-881-0902 www.towerwinespirits.com
Wyndham Atlanta Galleria 770-790-1002 www.wyndhamatlantahotel.com Zoo Atlanta 404-624-9453 www.zooatlanta.org
ADVERTISE WITH THE
404-883-2130 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
STYLE MAGAZINE • 44
SIMCHA SPOTLIGHT
THE SONENSHINE TEAM
Atlanta’s Favorite Real Estate Team
DEBBIE SONENSHINE
Have something to celebrate? Share your simchas with the
Births, B’nai Mitzvah, Engagements, Weddings, Anniversaries, Special Birthdays and more ... Share your news with the community with free AJT simcha announcements. Send info to submissions@atljewishtimes.com submissions@atljewishtimes.com..
Top 1% of Coldwell Banker Internationally, Certified Negotiator, Luxury, New Homes and Corporate Relocation Specialist Voted Favorite Jewish Realtor in AJT, Best of Jewish Atlanta
Debbie Sells Houses!
Buckhead - $1,650,000
• Exceptional - A Perfect 10 in Prime Location!
• The Floorplan is Centered Around the Open Dream Kitchen
• Better than New Open Plan with Every Upgrade
• And Flows to Outdoor Living on Covered Stone Patio
• Custom 6 Bedroom with all the Top Line Features & Details
• Overlooking the Lush, Level Backyard
direct 404.250.5311 | office 404.252.4908 Follow Us On Facebook
Debbie@SonenshineTeam.com | www.SonenshineTeam.com ©2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Operated By a Subsidiary of NRT LLC.
45 • STYLE MAGAZINE
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
MARKETPLACE
COMPUER HOUSE CALLS
Voted #1 by Atlanta Jewish Community
Voted #1 by Atlanta Jewish Community
770-527-3533
www.HealthyComputer.com • • • • • • •
PC, MAC, iPhone/iPad Service Home & Commercial Service BEST OF Virus/Malware JEWISH Removal ATLANTA Laptop Screen Repair Data Recovery/Forensics Wireless Corporate Networks We beat competitor pricing!
As Seen On
It’s Time to Call for Help!
FAKAKTA COMPUTER
BEST OF JEWISH ATLANTA
BEST OF JEWISH ATLANTA
DESKTOP & LAPTOP REPAIR HOME/BUSINESS NETWORKING
10% OF PROFITS THROUGH
PERFORMANCE UPGRADES2019 WILL BE DONATED TO APPLE DEVICE SUPPORT
JEWISH CHARITIES.
VIRUS/SPYWARE REMOVAL
404.954.1004
Same Day Appointments • Reasonable Rates • All Services Guaranteed
DAMON.CARP@GMAIL.COM
10% OF PROFITS THROUGH 2020 WILL BE DONATED TO JEWISH CHARITIES.
• Same Day Appointments • Reasonable Rates • All Services Guaranteed
BEST OF JEWISH ATLANTA
THE DUSTY COIN, LLC “Shekels For Your Collectibles”
Closets, pantries, garages, offices and more!
404-255-0589
BEST OF JEWISH ATLANTA
Atlanta Custom Closets
Rick Moore www.closetpro.net
Representing most major providers:
BEST OF JEWISH ATLANTA
MEDICAR
& YOU
E
Contact Bob Smith at Medicare Advantage, MedSupps, Prescription Drug Coverage
• Coins • Bullion • Jewelry • Flatware •
404-263-2967 Strict Confidentiality • References Upon Request Member: ANA, NGC & PCGS
Hospital Indemnity, Critical Illness, Dental & Vision Final Expense Life Insurance
404-593-9663
Bob.Smith4HEALTH@gmail.com
NO FEE or obligation to review your Health & Life Insurance options
From Obamacare to Trumpcare to BobcaresSM
Right Image Company 404-452-2333 Dani Weiss Photography
Fun and playful photographer specializing in People and events! New to Atlanta with 30 years as a photographer in Seattle. Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, Family Portraits, Corporate events, Parties and Weddings.
206.409.9982 www.daniweissphotography.com
Cakeology Cupcakes • Cakes • Cookies It's not just a dessert. It's an experience!
We specialize in custom cakes, cupcakes and cookies for Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebrations, weddings, birthday parties and more!
The Wedding Napkin A beautiful keepsake for the Bride and Groom
Janet Galanti Designer
Book Cakeology for your next event!
Alli Marbach Owner
www.cakeologyatl.com info@cakeologyatl.com 770.905.4874
Mitzvah Montages
404-580-9276 janetgalanti27@gmail.com
TOWERWINESPIRITS.COM
By Lilli
I Specialize in:
Bar and Bat Mitzvah Montages Wedding Montages Memorial / Tribute Montages Special Birthday Montages Synagogue / Organization Videos
LilliAnnJ13@gmail.com
DORAVILLE
5877 Buford Hwy Doraville 30340 770.458.3273
BUCKHEAD
2161 Piedmont Rd Atlanta 30324 404.881.0902
MARKETPLACE
Quality Professional Photography, Weddings, Events, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs.
YOUR BEST FACE FORWARD
