Gili and Oz: the date that turned out to be a sign

Every couple planning a wedding knows the feeling: the search for the right place can be long, tiring and full of doubt. But what happens when it is the unexpected moments, the small signs along the way, that point you in the right direction? Meet Gili and Oz, a couple who paid attention to the signs and, in the end, were glad they did.

A sign from above

The search for a venue began in the usual way: three weeks of intensive looking, with no suitable date in sight. Gavriel was the last name on the list, and it offered one date only that month: 30 October.

While they were still making up their minds, Gili discovered a detail that changed everything for her: 30 October is her late mother's birthday in the Hebrew calendar. In that moment she knew there was no other place for them, and today she says with confidence: "The best venue I could have wished for to get married in."

The conclusion? Sometimes the biggest decisions arrive in the most surprising ways.

Masks, rings and Jerusalem of Gold

Gili and Oz's story began a few years ago, when a mutual friend set them up, and the rest, as they say, is history. The proposal came on a balcony overlooking the Western Wall: in the days of Covid the two went away for a romantic break in Jerusalem and managed to make a good memory out of a time spent behind masks.

When your partner turns out to be a master producer

It is usually the bride who makes all the decisions, but not in Gili and Oz's case. While Gili was busy with dresses and the events around the wedding, the groom got down to the details and dealt with every one of them.

Gili, who calls herself a "control freak" in everyday life, says she learned to "let go" and leave all the planning to Oz, knowing that "he really is the best at it". The result? A success.

Still, a word about what happened in between: at first Oz was less involved, but as things moved along he began meeting the designer and adding elements. On the wedding day Gili was amazed to discover the final result, and for her one design element stood out in particular: the carpet that covered the floor of the hall.

Three venues, one choice

At Gavriel you choose between three venues. Gili and Oz had an especially long guest list, and they chose the Hangar. A brief look at all three:

• Hangar - a club-style space with lighting and sound systems.
• Shulhan - described as a concept restaurant, where Chef Dudu spoils the guests.
• Bustan - a garden of olive trees with a pool, and plenty of green to rest the eyes on.

The people at Gavriel

The couple had a great deal of praise for the Gavriel team, describing it as "professional through and through". They singled out Gabi, Yossi, Roi and Dudu, and also stressed how important their wedding producer, Lidor, had been.

Good luck with your own sign

Gili and Oz's story shows what can happen with a little faith in fate and a supportive partner. So good luck, and may you, too, find your sign where you never thought to look.

And to sum up in Gili's own words: "best day ever".