Sukkot 101: Everything You Need to Know About the Festival of Booths

Mark Jacobovits

Sukkot, also known as the Festival of Booths, is a joyful Jewish holiday that celebrates gratitude, harvest, and faith. Discover its history, traditions, and how it’s observed today.

Read more →

Cholov Yisroel 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Jewish Dairy

Mark Jacobovits

When it comes to kosher food, dairy has a unique place in Jewish tradition. One term you’ll often hear in this context is Cholov Yisroel (literally “Jewish milk”).

For many people new to kosher living, it can be confusing to understand what makes Cholov Yisroel different from regular milk and dairy products. 

Read more →

What Is Stam Yainom — And Why Kosher Wine Matters

Mark Jacobovits

Wine plays a central role in Jewish life, but not all wine is the same. Discover the meaning of Stam Yainom and why kosher wine is more than a drink — it’s a tradition of sanctity, trust, and heritage passed down through generations.

Read more →

Why a Thoughtful Gift Matters More Than a Bonus

Mark Jacobovits

In a world where performance is often rewarded with numbers, a thoughtful gift speaks a different language—one of appreciation, intention, and human connection. While a bonus may satisfy financial goals, it rarely touches the soul. A carefully chosen gift, on the other hand, says, “I see you. I value you.” It transforms gratitude from a transaction into a gesture of genuine care. Whether it’s a handwritten note tucked beside a kosher gourmet basket or a personalized token that reflects someone’s passions, the impact lingers far beyond the moment. It’s not about the price—it’s about the presence behind it.

Read more →

Kosher Bread: A Complete Guide to Ingredients, Blessings, and Preparation

Mark Jacobovits

In this guide, we’ll explore what kosher bread means, which ingredients are acceptable, how preparation impacts kosher status, the appropriate blessings (brachot), and common types of kosher bread used in Jewish rituals and everyday meals.

Read more →

10 Beautiful Rosh Hashanah Traditions and Their Significance

Mark Jacobovits

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is more than a celebration—it’s a soulful invitation to reflect, renew, and reconnect. Across generations and continents, Jewish communities have embraced meaningful traditions that blend symbolism, sweetness, and spiritual depth. From the sounding of the shofar, awakening the heart to change, to dipping apples in honey as a wish for a sweet year, each custom carries layers of history and hope. 

Read more →

10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Observing Shabbat

Mark Jacobovits

Shabbat, the Jewish day of rest, is a sacred weekly tradition that begins at sundown on Friday and ends at nightfall on Saturday. It's a time to disconnect from the hustle of the week and reconnect with family, faith, and community. Whether you're new to Shabbat or looking to deepen your practice, understanding the Shabbat do's and don'ts is essential.

Read more →

What Is Shiva? Understanding the Jewish Mourning Period

Mark Jacobovits

This blog post is designed as a comprehensive guide to help you understand the purpose, customs, and spiritual significance of Shiva—whether you are observing it, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about Jewish traditions.

Read more →

The Ultimate Guide to Koshering Your Kitchen

Mark Jacobovits

Are you considering koshering your kitchen for the first time? Whether you're newly observant, moving into a non-kosher home, or preparing for Passover, turning your kitchen into a kosher space may seem overwhelming — but with the right guidance, it’s entirely achievable.

This comprehensive guide for beginners will walk you through the full koshering process, from understanding key concepts to step-by-step techniques like boiling and blowtorching.

Read more →

Jewish Gift Ideas: Unique, Thoughtful and Meaningful Presents

Mark Jacobovits

Jewish gifts are a wonderful way to celebrate heritage, traditions, and life’s special moments. Whether you’re looking for a gift for Hanukkah, a Bar/Bat Mitzvah, a wedding, or a housewarming, choosing something unique and meaningful makes all the difference.

Read more →