THE SMILEY BLOG

Senior pictures have really come a long way. What started as corny, staged portraits have grown into gorgeous sessions that let you show off every inch of your personality. These pictures give you the chance to show the world all your accomplishments and tell the story of the person you are becoming. Whether you’re someone […]

It’s no secret that an impressive application is the key to getting into your dream college. When you are working to find your new school, you want to take every chance to stand out. While extracurriculars like sports and school clubs are a great place to start, it’s important to ensure your experience is well-rounded. […]

In Judaism, embracing your Jewish identity is so important. Whether that means observing a holiday, worshiping in a synagogue, or observing a simple tradition, finding meaningful ways to connect is how to keep culture and customs vibrantly alive! Being a part of a larger community can make all the difference, too, especially in moments when […]

Being Jewish means a lot of things: caring for the planet, overcoming adversity, and standing up for what’s right and fair in the world. And, maybe, also an affinity for a great deli. But being Jewish has also always been about being a part of a community and taking pride in the cultural and religious […]

There are a lot of aspects that go into planning the perfect Mitzvah. From the venue to the entertainment, you’re keeping track of a lot of vendors. Perhaps one of the most important parts of your child’s Mitzvah is the cake. This is the centerpiece that ties the entire event together and adds a bit […]

Community is a critical part of Jewish culture, whether in times of trial or celebration. Coming together to celebrate, pray, learn, and make a positive impact on the world has long been a part of being Jewish. Seattle is home to a thriving Jewish community, and the residents are lucky to have so many unique […]

Senior pictures are an amazing way to showcase who you are in this incredibly transformative phase of your life. By now, as a senior, you’ve developed your own unique sense of style and are truly coming into your own as you make some big life decisions – and that’s so exciting!! Your senior photos should […]

Community is always at the heart of the Jewish heritage. They’ve seen their share of trials and tribulations. But by sticking together, learning together, observing together, and growing together, they have proven time and time again that the pride in their heritage cannot be shaken. In the Seattle area, there are places like Chabad Mercer […]

If you’re in or approaching your senior year, chances are you’re thinking about what lies beyond high school. College is a great investment in your academic future, and with so many incredible colleges near Seattle, chances are the right school for you is waiting nearby! Not only do Seattle-area colleges typically offer in-state tuition rates, […]

If you were lucky enough to grow up in a community with a great Jewish Community Center (JCC), you know that it’s so much more than a fitness center or a pool. It’s an amazing resource that welcomes families and individuals from all walks of life, providing opportunities to gather, collaborate, learn, celebrate, reflect, and […]