Linoy and Tai - A wedding planned from overseas

The story of Linoy and Tai's wedding: planning a wedding from a distance, coping with the pressure, and five tips for couples with their big day ahead.

One couple, one place - love at first sight

It is always interesting to hear how he and she fell in love, but it is just as interesting to hear about that single, distilled moment when you knew that, with all due respect to everywhere else, this one was yours. This is where you will invite your guests, where you will stand as the groom breaks the glass, and where you will dance your first slow dance as husband and wife.

When Linoy and Tai were invited from abroad to a close friend's wedding, they did not imagine the evening would be etched on their hearts. Linoy says she felt at once that this was it: not just a hall, but the place where she wanted to be married.

It was the atmosphere as a whole - the devoted service, the elegant design and the excellent food. Everything was so exactly right that she realised she could stop looking. They did see a few other venues, but it was a foregone conclusion.

Planning a wedding from overseas

Planning a wedding is always a challenge, but planning one while living in the United States? That is a job for professionals. Tai, a footballer, had to stay in the US, so Linoy took on most of the preparations herself.

Here Linoy has warm words for Tai, who was patient and took all her whims in his stride, and for the Gavriel team, who were flexible, easy to reach and supportive. That is how the preparations and the decision-making became a smooth, pleasant process.

A perfectionist who lets go

Linoy admits she is a perfectionist, and the pressure before the wedding was certainly felt. But two weeks before the big day she decided to let go, and on the wedding day she really was at ease. Even small mishaps, like something spilt on her robe, were met with a smile and with improvisation, which soon turned out to be a great success.

Five tips worth a ring

Linoy shares five small tips that make a big difference:

Bring an old phone for photos and videos. That way you can gather material without worrying about running out of space.
Bring comfortable clothes to change into in the bridal room.
If a lot of people are coming along with you, think about hiring a minibus. It makes for an enjoyable shared experience.
The groom should bring a few shirts to change into. He will sweat.
And most important of all: listen to yourself, do what feels right for you and enjoy the moment.

Shall we sum up?

Choosing Gavriel may not have been romantic, but it was certainly wise. Planning a wedding in Israel from abroad is a challenge, but with the right people it is entirely possible. It is easy to get stressed, and wonderful to let go. 50% of the secret of success is choosing the right partner, 45% is down to the quality of the venue, and... thank you to all the friends who flew specially to celebrate with the happy couple.