Five Sails Restaurant

L'Chaim Happy Hour

Fairmont Pacific Rim | Emerald Ballroom

Shabbat Dinner

Five Sails

L'Chaim | Happy Hour

Tish & Bedeken

Congregation Beth Israel, Vancouver

Wedding

Chuppah Ceremony

Reception

Brunch

Fall

Home

OUR STORY

Alexandra and Samuel: a true modern-day love story — Alex: We met online. I was vacationing in Switzerland, and Sam thought I was blowing him off.Sam: I had promised my mother I'd go on a date with a Jewish girl (meanwhile, Alex was looking for a nice Jewish boy).Alex: Our first date lasted three cocktails and four hours, and by the end we both realized there was a truly special connection — a real match.Sam: Our second date was a weekend-long adventure in Whistler; that’s when we both knew we had found what we were looking for. From that moment on, their adventure began. It really is true what they say... when you know, you know. It was clearly besheret [meant-to-be]. Alexandra &amp; Samuel are now thrilled to be celebrating their love with the people who matter most.

Our Story

A GUIDE TO OUR JEWISH WEDIDNG We’re so excited to share our wedding day with you. Jewish weddings are filled with meaningful traditions, beautiful symbolism, and lots of joy. Whether this is your first Jewish wedding or your fiftieth, we hope this gives a little insight into what you’ll see and how to join in the celebration. KetubahThe ketubah is the Jewish marriage contract, outlining the couple’s commitments to one another. It’s both a legal document and a meaningful symbol of responsibility, respect, and partnership. This will be signed and witnessed before we meet under the chuppah. ChuppahThe chuppah is the canopy under which we’ll be married. It’s open on all sides to symbolize the home we hope to build together — open, welcoming, and surrounded by the people we love most. Our wedding chuppah is the Shafran family's, embroidered with the names of family members who have stood beneath this same canopy on their own wedding days. 7 CirclesDuring the ceremony, the bride will circle the groom seven times. This tradition represents the creation of a new family circle and the couple’s commitment to protect, support, and nurture one another. By circling seven times, the bride and groom symbolically create a sacred space for their marriage, marking the beginning of their life together. Ring ExchangeDuring the ceremony, the couple will exchange rings. In Jewish tradition, the ring is a simple, unbroken circle with no embellishments, symbolizing eternal love and commitment. The ring is placed on the index finger of the right hand, as this represents a direct line to the heart. This ritual marks the couple’s union under Jewish law and serves as a visible symbol of their vows to one another. The Seven BlessingsThe Sheva Brachot, or Seven Blessings, are recited by family and friends of the bride and groom. These blessings praise God, celebrate love, and honor the couple’s new life together. They connect the couple to centuries of tradition, family, and friends who have celebrated Jewish weddings before them, and are a beautiful way for everyone to share in the joy of the day. Breaking the GlassAt the end of the ceremony, a glass is broken. This tradition reminds us that even in moments of great happiness, life is fragile and the world is not perfect. It also signals the end of the ceremony and the beginning of the celebration. When Sam smashes the glass, that’s your cue to shout “Mazel Tov!” The HoraThe hora is a joyful, high-energy dance at the reception. Guests dance in a circle and lift the couple on chairs. Things will get slightly out of control, it’s loud, fun, and one of our favourite traditions. Participation is encouraged by all - simply follow along, celebrate with us, and enjoy the moment. Your presence truly means the world to us.

Our Traditions

Photos

Wedding Party

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is the closest and most convenient airport for our wedding. Located approximately 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver, YVR offers direct flights from many major cities and easy access to hotels, transportation, and the wedding events.

Vancouver International Airport

The&nbsp;Bride&nbsp;&amp;&nbsp;Groom&nbsp;will&nbsp;be&nbsp;staying&nbsp;at&nbsp;the&nbsp;Fairmont&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;Rim&nbsp;Hotel.&nbsp;While&nbsp;our&nbsp;wedding&nbsp;room&nbsp;block&nbsp;is&nbsp;now&nbsp;full,&nbsp;the&nbsp;hotel&nbsp;is&nbsp;pleased&nbsp;to&nbsp;continue&nbsp;offering&nbsp;wedding&nbsp;guests&nbsp;preferred&nbsp;rates&nbsp;that&nbsp;are&nbsp;lower&nbsp;than&nbsp;its&nbsp;publicly&nbsp;available&nbsp;online&nbsp;pricing.&nbsp;Rates&nbsp;will&nbsp;vary&nbsp;based&nbsp;on&nbsp;current&nbsp;availability.To&nbsp;make&nbsp;a&nbsp;new&nbsp;booking,&nbsp;extend&nbsp;your&nbsp;stay,&nbsp;or&nbsp;request&nbsp;assistance&nbsp;with&nbsp;your&nbsp;reservation,&nbsp;please&nbsp;contact&nbsp;Aya&nbsp;Elsayed&nbsp;directly.Aya&nbsp;Elsayed<a href="mailto:aya.elsayed@fairmont.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">aya.elsayed@fairmont.com</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;+1&nbsp;778&nbsp;951&nbsp;5350

Fairmont Pacific Rim

We have also secured a negotiated rate at Level Vancouver. Please use the link below to book OR visit the hotel website directly and use code HTLSAW. For questions or reservations support please contact the hotel directly:KAITLYN&nbsp;DUPLAK​Assistant&nbsp;Director&nbsp;of&nbsp;Sales<a href="mailto:kduplak@stayinglevel.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">kduplak@stayinglevel.com</a>

Level Vancouver Yaletown - Seymour

Travel & Accommodation

NOSH

COFFEEVancouver offers exceptional, world-class coffee, often praised for its specialized, artisan pour-overs and Scandinavian-style light roast. Top spots include <a href="https://revolvercoffee.ca/?srsltid=AfmBOor403NP92GjAiQe_cIqrJdfdl-k1b-3LPBGjnAC4bgLLWXMq48s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Revolver</a>, <a href="https://www.nemesis.coffee/?srsltid=AfmBOootA_QBXeP7VHvz92m0xVAWum83etCwMlLXh83lrHOVUR7PWkVo" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Nemesis</a>, and ? SIEGEL'S BAGELSClassic Montreal-style bagels, perfect for breakfast or a quick snack.<a href="http://siegelsbagels.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website</a> THIERRYSMALL VICTORYNEMESIS??

RESTAURANTS

Perhaps a greater task than wedding planning is to narrow down a list of restaurants in a city that is filled with so many great food options. Below we have curated a list of our self-proclaimed 'Best of Vancouver'. NIGHTINGALEA cozy spot for modern comfort food with fresh local ingredients. They have an excellent bar, and make sure you order the fried chicken!<a href="http://hawknightingale.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website</a> ELISAModern steakhouse with an elegant atmosphere, perfect for a date night or special occasion. They make an excellent martini, and this was Alex's first culinary job!<a href="https://elisasteak.com/?utm_source=GoogleBusinessProfile&amp;utm_medium=Website&amp;utm_campaign=MapLabs" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website</a> LA QUERCIA &amp; L'UFFICIOThe best Italian in the city! A cozy neighbourhood spot where the staff treats you like family.<a href="http://laquercia.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website</a> JOE FORTES SEAFOOD &amp; CHOP HOUSEClassic seafood institution. Great oysters and old school dining, not to mention they have Sam's favourite Creme Brulee in the city!<a href="http://www.joefortes.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website</a> BAO BEIVancouver is known for their asian bites. This is a trendy spot for Chinese-inspired small plates and creative cocktails.<a href="https://www.bao-bei.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website</a>

EXPLORE

We’re so excited to welcome you to Vancouver! Our city is located where the mountains meet the ocean. We hope you take the opportunity to explore some of our favourite ways to experience the city. STANLEY PARK SEAWALLA must‑see! Walk or bike the iconic Seawall for stunning views of the ocean, mountains, and city skyline. Stop by the Totem Poles and Prospect Point along the way.<a href="https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/stanley-park.aspx" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website</a> | <a href="https://www.google.com/maps?um=1&amp;ie=UTF-8&amp;fb=1&amp;gl=ca&amp;sa=X&amp;geocode=KaPkJq2McYZUMRbiCbSdY0o2&amp;daddr=Vancouver,+BC+V6G+1Z4" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Map</a> GRANVILLE ISLAND PUBLIC MARKETBustling market with fresh produce, artisanal shops, and local treats. Don’t miss <a href="https://www.leesdonuts.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lee’s Donuts</a> for an iconic Vancouver sweet bite and Alex's favourite donut in the city.<a href="https://granvilleisland.com/public-market" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website</a> | <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Granville+Island,+Vancouver,+BC/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x548673ce5224c2db:0x36ded25e2da1aeb9?sa=X&amp;ved=1t:242&amp;ictx=111" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Map</a> GROUSE MOUNTAIN Take the Skyride gondola for panoramic city views; enjoy hiking, wildlife, or winter sports depending on the season.<a href="https://www.grousemountain.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website</a> | <a href="https://www.google.com/maps?sca_esv=acd81caf4539d42c&amp;output=search&amp;q=grouse+mountain+map&amp;source=lnms&amp;fbs=ADc_l-aN0CWEZBOHjofHoaMMDiKpaEWjvZ2Py1XXV8d8KvlI3kj_s5Jds98_ubVRf0unUVuttyzNArKNIU5GZzx4Y5djFcxQXOCsqeNxs4jgJuvK8LY2hbJKwIkqT0MenynALriEdfxsZnI8Dbk6NbMpDo_jgLsnC-4lhvJh073C2n7U7-gjCEPqe56POA4r2DHVLZwexuEJnwp_3SqurM-QA-FzEn4jnw&amp;entry=mc&amp;ved=1t:200715&amp;ictx=111" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Map</a> VANCOUVER ENDOWNMENT LANDSOld wood forests near UBC, where trees are as tall as your eyes can see! Beautiful forest trails, perfect for a relaxing walk or light hike.<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir//endowment+lands/data=!4m6!4m5!1m1!4e2!1m2!1m1!1s0x548672b7de525387:0x65687430fcc3211c?sa=X&amp;ved=1t:155782&amp;ictx=111" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Map</a> KITSILANO BEACH PARKClassic Vancouver beach with soft sand, volleyball, and stunning sunset views. One of Alex and Sam's most visited walking spots with Lola.<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir//kitsilano+beach+park/data=!4m6!4m5!1m1!4e2!1m2!1m1!1s0x548672357b6c519d:0x4e436eee3dbe937f?sa=X&amp;ved=1t:155782&amp;ictx=111" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Map</a> SHOPWEST 4thTrendy boutiques, local brands, and chic cafés in Vancouver’s West Side. Near Sam &amp; Alex's home and walked by them almost daily.<a href="https://www.shopwest4th.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website</a>

Explore Vancouver

Q & A

Where is the wedding?Both our Wedding Ceremony &amp; Reception will take place at <a href="https://www.bethisraelvan.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Congregation Beth Israel</a>, Vancouver. Is there parking at the venue?Yes. There is ample parking available on-site. However, if you plan on enjoying a few cocktails, please drink responsibly and arrange alternative transportation. What is the dress code?Formal Attire, Black Tie Encouraged.Fashion Inspiration HERE Are children invited?While we love your children, our wedding will be an adult-only weekend. Thank you for understanding, we hope you take this opportunity to enjoy a little time for yourselves. Can I bring a +1?Please refer to your invitation for details. We are only able to accommodate guests listed on your invitation. Where do you suggest we book accommodations for the weekend/do you have a preferred room rate at any hotels?Please visit our <a href="https://www.samuelandalexandra.com/us/alexandra-shafran-and-samuel-kirshenblatt-oct-2026/travel" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">TRAVEL</a> page for more details that pertain to accommodation, airline travel, + more. Do you have a Wedding Registry?Your presence is truly the greatest gift. Should you wish to celebrate with a gift, registry details can be found HERE. Who should I contact with any questions?At this time, both Alexandra or Sam are happy to support with any wedding or travel-related questions. Closer to the wedding date our wedding planner will be the primary point-of-contact, updated information will be shared accordingly.

Having our family and friends together to celebrate means the world to us. Your presence is truly the greatest gift. For those who have expressed an interest in honouring us with a gift, we have created a registry that can be found below. Please note that this page will continue to be updated in the months leading up to our wedding.

<a href="https://atkinsonsofvancouver.com/giftr/registry/view/uid/VSQUL/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Atkinson's Gift Registry</a>

<a href="https://www.crateandbarrel.ca/gift-registry/alexandra-shafran-and-samuel-kirshenblatt/r7599048" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Crate &amp; Barrel Registry</a>

<a href="https://www.pacificangler.ca/apps/wishlist/6a8739f0a770a73bbca88d55" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pacific Angler Wishlist</a>

Our Registry

Our wedding dress code is black tie encouraged, and we would love to see you dress up with us! GentlemenTuxedos are preferred, but a classic black or dark suit paired with a collared dress shirt and tie is also warmly welcomed. LadiesFloor length evening gowns or formal dresses are preferred. Feel free to embrace colour, elegant jumpsuits, or minimal prints and patterns. A few notes:Our ceremony and reception will both take place entirely indoors, so you can choose your outfit (and shoes!) with this in mind. We kindly ask guests to avoid casual attire, including short dresses, denim, athletic wear, or other informal clothing. Our ceremony will be a traditional Jewish wedding ceremony held in the synagogue sanctuary. We kindly ask our guests to dress respectfully for the setting. For those wondering, there is no expectations for women to cover their shoulders. We can't wait to celebrate with you! If you have any additional questions, feel free to text Sam or Alex :)

Dress Code

Registry

Our wedding will be a formal celebration, and we strongly encourage guests to embrace black tie attire. Ladies:Floor length gowns are preferred. Tea length formal dresses or elegant jumpsuits are also welcome. Please avoid cocktail length attire or casual daytime styles. Gentlemen:Tuxedos with bow ties are preferred. A formal dark suit with a tie is also appropriate. Please avoid casual dress and footwear.

Attire

Regist

To ensure you receive your invitation, <a href="https://www.theknot.com/ac/shafran-kirshenblatt" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">please click here </a>to share your mailing address.

Share Your Address

Our RSVP period is now closed. If you need to make any changes to your response or have any questions regarding your attendance, please contact Alexandra and Sam directly. We look forward to celebrating with you!

Alexandra & Samuel

Alexandra & Samuel

A&S