Ellie and Yair

Wedding Date: October 27th 2025

Ellie and Yair’s wedding day was packed with beauty, laughter, love and the kind of moments you just feel in your heart. We started the day at the hotel, and right away, I could tell this was going to be a fun crew. Ellie was all smiles as she got ready, and when it came time for her dress reveal to her bridesmaids, the energy in the room absolutely exploded. Cheers, gasps, and a few happy tears. This group was all in for their girl, and it was such a sweet moment to witness.

Afterward, I met up with the guys, who were hanging out and getting ready before we all headed to the Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA) for a stunning and memorable first look.

We arranged for Ellie and Yair to see each other for the first time on the grand marble staircase, surrounded by incredible works of art. Her heels clicked across the marble floor as she approached, the sound echoing softly through the space. Yair waited, and when he turned to see her, the moment completely stopped. They locked eyes, both glowing, and you could see the emotion settle over them.

After taking in the moment together, we explored the galleries, moving from one incredible piece to the next. Ellie and Yair looked like they belonged among the art, timeless, elegant, and full of connection. Then we stepped outside to catch the fall colors in full display, where their wedding party brought the fun back in full force. Laughter, hugs, and a whole lot of celebration. Before the ceremony, we snuck back inside for some moodier, dimly lit photos in the quieter corners of the museum. The calm before the next big moment.

Surrounded by family and loved ones, Ellie and Yair signed their ketubah in the Jewish gallery. Then it was time. Guests were already seated in the ceremony space as Yair waited up front, anticipation written all over his face. Then Ellie entered. The room hushed. As she walked down the aisle, it felt like the air shifted, filled with reverence and love. The ceremony itself was deeply personal and emotional, with moments that brought laughter, a few tears. They practically danced back down the aisle together, hand-in-hand, joy radiating from every step.

As the cocktail hour kicked off, guests mingled among art and sculpture while a string quartet played softly in the background. A long harvest table threaded its way through the galleries, elegant and inviting. Dinner began with heartfelt toasts that filled the space with laughter, sweet memories, and more than a few tissues being passed around. Then, the lights shifted and the purple glow set the mood. The dance floor came alive. Ellie and Yair shared their first dance, followed by a few special dances with family and then came the moment. The hora. Chairs were lifted high, arms flew into the air, and the room absolutely erupted with dancing and celebration. The energy was unreal, everyone joining in the joy, circling, laughing, singing.

Ellie and Yair, your wedding was a celebration of art, heart, and everything in between. Thank you for letting me be part of such a beautiful, unforgettable day. Mazel tov!

Vendors: MIA (venue), Dana Allison (wedding planner), Studio B Floral (florist), Keyed Up Events (decor), D'amico (catering), Studio Veil (videographer), Ivory Bridal Co (dress boutique), Indochino (suit), Lady Vamp (hair and makeup)

Merina Burda