Working with Rabbi Eliana was inspirational for Coleman and the family. We did not follow a standard pattern of him learning Hebrew. Eliana smoothly accepted our individualized course and supported him fully as they helped him expand his knowledge and expertise. Eliana provided the proper measures of guidance, constructive criticism, praise, and encouragement. He clearly felt their appreciation as his self-motivation and confidence grew stronger throughout the educational process. Also, Eliana generously gave more time as they travelled to Geyserville for Shabbat dinner and the Simcha. At the Simcha, Eliana created an atmosphere of inclusion and respect for our religiously diverse family. They provided opportunities for direct involvement in the service for all generations and levels of experience. When they had the children (and some adults) come close to and touch the open Torah, Eliana provided a moment of powerful connection for them. We thank Eliana profusely for their involvement with our family. We look forward to more in the future.
— Robert, Grandparent of B’ Mitzvah Student
I appreciated the way Rabbi Eliana met with India and kept her on track with what she needed to learn for the Bat Mitzvah, it allowed me as the parent to stay out of it and reduced the struggle between us. I had complete trust in their process so I could relax and stay out of it! My concern was that we didn't have enough time to prepare India for the service, but Rabbi Eliana knew how many meetings it would take, and got it done in the amount of time we had. I loved how confident in India Eliana was. Some benefits of working together were a beautiful and meaningful ceremony, a confident and happy B'Mitzvah child, and a learning and a journey that India will never forget. Eliana’s presence as they led the service was spectacular. What a joyous experience!
— Kelsey, Parent of B’ Mitzvah Student
I appreciated the way Rabbi Eliana listened to my ideas and helped me craft a d’var torah speech that really represented me and my ideas. My concern was that I wouldn't be able to learn or memorize my torah portion on time. Rabbi Eliana’s constant encouragement and practice helped me feel less anxious. Rabbi Eliana is really a great mentor, they helped the process go smoothly and supported me. Their knowledge and patience were greatly appreciated and valued. Rabbi Eliana is a great teacher, and if I had to do it again I'd use their mentorship again!
— India, B’ Mitzvah Student
Rabbi Eliana officiated our daughter, Talia’s, simcha. We had an excellent experience with them, both leading up to and at the simcha. We are not a religious family and our experience with planning a bat mitzvah was minimal. Consequently, I was unsure about a lot of aspects of bat mitzvah preparation. Rabbi Eliana is extremely approachable and easy to work with. They are knowledgeable, kind, and addressed all of our concerns thoroughly and clearly. I felt extremely comfortable asking all of my questions about what we needed to do to prepare and I trusted Rabbi Eliana to let us know that Talia was ready for her special day. Perhaps more importantly, Talia felt seen and respected by Rabbi Eliana during this process. Talia enjoyed her tutoring sessions with Rabbi Eliana, and I sensed that she was encouraged to explore her own thinking, which she liked. The ceremony itself was exactly as we would have hoped. We held it in our backyard. Rabbi Eliana and Talia led the bat mitzvah seamlessly and with joy. It was fun and lovely and beautiful. We will always cherish that day and we are grateful to Rabbi Eliana for the role they played in making it happen!!!
— Rachel, Parent of B’ Mitzvah Student