The Goldstein family celebrated daughter Lindsey’s Bat Mitzvah with a morning service at Temple Beth El and the reception at the Pavilion Grille, both located in Boca Raton, Florida.
A New York themed Bat Mitzvah party in Boca Raton, Florida, put the family and friends in a New York State of Mind.
Pictured L-R: Dad Jeff, brother Danny, Bat Mitzvah girl Lindsey, Mom Lisa and brother Spencer.
John Canning was the photographer and the rest of the vendor information is listed below.
We always say the invitation can set the tone for your child’s celebration. This New York subway themed invitation from Karen Schloss of Creative Impressions let guests know what to expect!
Lindsey’s family and friends joined her in celebrating her Bat Mitzvah at Temple Beth El. It was Sukkot and the autumn harvest colors looked beautiful on the bimah
The Goldstein family looked chic in their black and hot pink color palette.
The theme was “Take the L train to New York City.” The place cards were designed as Metro cards and were created at a local Office Max for under $20!
The Pavilion Grille has a great space to work with including a canopy-covered 2,000 square foot dance floor. New York City style was cleverly navigated thanks to Dalsimer Atlas. After guests walked through, they were transported to another place.
A 3-dimensional pop-up of Lindsey on the subway directed her friends to their table
Fun replica signage of the actual MTA sign for Grand Central Station
The tablecloths and seat covers were hot pink and each table had a tall working street lamp with a street sign, such as Wall Street, Broadway and Soho
Lindsey made her entrance in grand style coming down the glass elevator.
Celebrity Entertainment provided great music and dancers. MC TJ was on the dance floor all night. Guests of all ages had a blast!
MC TJ’s hot pink t-shirt stood out in the crowd
Non-stop fun!
Living statues, glitter tattoos and a magazine stand for a photo green screen kept guests entertained all evening.
The living statue, college student Madison Bakish, was from Florida Atlantic University
The magazine stand was the backdrop for photos by Cocktail Hour Entertainment
Photo op on a popular magazine cover
Cocktail Hour Entertainment also provided glitter tattoos which were a big hit
The favors, created by Louie Max, were black hooded sweatshirts designed as subways maps with the New York Subway slogan, “I took the L train to NYC.” Instead of placing the sweatshirts in bags, a tie was used with name tags.
Lindsey raised awareness and funds for FD which works toward treatments for Familial Dysautonomia, a Jewish genetic disease Lindsey’s brother Danny suffers from. She sold raffles for a shopping event and had a team “Team Lindsey” for a 5K for FD Now. Team Lindsey pictured here crossing the finish line
Some advice from Mom Lisa: “Make a to-do-list and break the planning into a timeline. If you handle piece by piece it is much less overwhelming. And NEGOTIATE!”
The following vendors made Lindsey’s celebration special. If you contact any of them please make sure they know you read about their services on MitzvahMarket.com.
Venue: Liz Stark-Perez, Pavilion Grille, 561-912-0000 Party Planner: Mom Lisa Photography: John Canning Photographer, 561-573-3507
Music Entertainment: Celebrity Entertainment, MC Todd Rose aka DJ TJ, 954-200-7777 Décor/florist: David Dalsimer, Dalsimer/Atlas Floral and Events, 954-418-0608
Invitation; Karen Schloss, Creative Impressions, 561-477-6900
Favors: Louie Max, www.louiemax.com, 718-575-2100 Newstand photo booth/airbrush tattoos: Eric Cutler, Cocktail Hour Entertainment, 954-612-7431 Sign-In book: John Canning Photographer, 561-573-3507 Dresses for family members: Mario Pucci, 561-982-8382 Suits for family members: Men’s Wearhouse, 561-482-7533 Hair/makeup for service: Trish, Wild Hare, 561-347-8100 Hair for party: Maurice, Spalano’s, 561-391-8803 Party security: Boca Raton Police
Zane Lantzman of Livingston, New Jersey, is preparing for his Bar Mitzvah which will take place on April 19, 2015.
On November 22, 2014, the Lantzman family rescued dog, Oakley, from the Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter in East Hanover, New Jersey. He saw that there were so many dogs and cats looking for new homes.
He dedicated his Bar Mitzvah project to helping the shelter by collecting a much needed supply, paper towels.
His goal was to collect 180 rolls of paper towels to donate to the shelter and he reached it!
Please read more about this great Mitzvah project.
MM: Can you give us details of your Mitzvah Project?
ZL: My goal was to collect 180 paper towel rolls to donate to the shelter (18 is “chai” in Hebrew which means life). They are the number one item needed at the shelter.
MM: Why did you decide to take on this particular project? ZL: We rescued our dog Oakley from the shelter and when I visited the animal shelter to meet and play with Oakley, I saw that there were many dogs and cats there looking for new homes, and I witnessed the great care that the volunteers at the shelter gave to these animals. The amazing volunteers cannot do their work alone. They need help wherever they can find it, which is why I decided to dedicate my Bar Mitzvah project to helping the Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter.
MM: Does your project have a start and end date, if so what are they? ZL: My project is over but the Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter is constantly in need of donations.
MM: In your own words, what does it mean to you to do a Mitzvah Project for your Bat Mitzvah? ZL: It means to become a man and to have the honor of reading from the torah. It means to help people and animals. It also made me feel great.
Zane, with best friend Oakley, and all the paper towels he collected ready to be donated
MM: If it involved a donation, how did you spread the word?
ZL: We sent out fliers through the synagogue and religious school and posted requests on Facebook multiple times. Fliers were also directly e-mailed to friends, family, teammates and colleagues.
MM: Anything else we need to know about your Mitzvah Project?
ZL: Our family has provided Oakley with continued life, and now I want to make sure that all the other animals in the shelter are also given a chance to find their forever families. To adopt an animal or make a donation please contact the Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter. Here are some items that the shelter always needs:
Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter’s Top 10 Wish List:
1. Paper Towels
2. Bleach (non-scented)
3. Non-clumping cat litter
4. Gift cards (Staples, PetSmart, Target, Gas, etc.)
5. Liquid laundry detergent
6. Garbage bags (40 gallon)
7. Wet & dry puppy food*
8. Wet & dry dog food*
9. Wet & dry kitten food*
10. Wet & dry cat food*
* Preferred brands of food are Natural Balance, Nutro, Pro-Plan and Kirkland.
Other items needed: Toilet paper, cat toys, postage stamps, Nyla bones, Martingale collars, plastic basket wrap & bags, brooms & dust pans, Betadine, mop heads, sponges, Pet Safe Ice Melt, Brillo pads, and cat furniture.
We thank Zane and his family for sharing this amazing Bar Mitzvah project with our readers and wish him good luck with his upcoming Bar Mitzvah.
Who better to find the latest and greatest for all things Bar Bat Mitzvahs than our own Mitzvah Moms!
We have spotlighted over 200 families and we thought it would be fun to call out some of the “Mom Finds” that you might have missed.
For the Maskell family, their daughter Dylan wanted a sophisticated and modern party with only one requirement…plenty of teal!
Her celebration featured a great color palette and many special touches created by her Mom Keri including the clever poem below. These bags of ear plugs, with poem attached, were on the tables for any guest who needed them!
Wanna dance and hang out with the rest of the crowd?
Wanna have fun but the music’s too loud?
Open this bag – this is your chance:
Plug up your ears, then GET UP & dance!!!
To see more from Dylan’s Bat Mitzvah story, click here.
The St. Pierre family from Springfield, Virginia, celebrated their daughter Rachel’s Bat Mitzvah at Congregation Olam Tikvah in Fairfax, Virginia, followed by an evening reception at the Clarendon Ballroom in Arlington, Virginia.
Mom Ilisa created a fun save-the-date along with many great party details incorporating Rachel’s wish for a purple and lime green color scheme.
We featured sister Sarah’s Bat Mitzvah in 2013 which also included many DIY touches by Mom.
Pictured above (L-R): Mom Ilisa, Sister Sarah, Bat Mitzvah girl Rachel and Dad Stephen.
Zachary Ruben was the photographer and the rest of the vendor information is listed at the end of the spotlight.
Rachel’s save the date was a fun photo favor just like the family used to get at the beach! It was mailed to guests in a bright purple bubble mailer
When you looked inside there was a picture of Rachel holding a sign with the date. Everyone went crazy for them!
The invitation and thank you card from Action Invitations had glitter around the borders and purple print
Rachel did a great job on her Haftorah in front of family and friends
The St. Pierre family looked great, especially Rachel, in her lime green beaded cocktail dress
The happy face emoji logo was in party colors and designed by Ali Weitzman of iSparkleEvents
The party was at the Clarendon Ballroom which had an art deco feel. Mom Ilisa had a vision for this event and made all of the centerpieces and many decor details herself.
Labels with Rachel’s logo were tied onto the lanterns which served as escort cards and favors for the adults
The kids’ escort table had a large “R” for Rachel and it now hangs in her room!
Rachel in the ballroom ready for her party to start. In the background are lime green and purple paper lantern centerpieces made by Mom Ilisa
The ballroom was lit with purple up-lighting
“Celebrate Rachel” vodka luge for adults only!
Mom Ilisa made a beautiful photo book from Picaboo.com that included pictures of each guest with Rachel. Everyone found their page and wrote a note to Rachel
Rachel’s friends signed-in next to their picture
DJ Chad from Washington Talent was amazing and enjoyed by everyone. The party was supposed to stop at 12 midnight, but kept going until 1am! Rachel up on the chair looking stylish with her lime green hat
Dad and Rachel enjoyed a dance together to “Daughters” by John Meyer
Lots of high energy on the dance floor
Rachel lounged with her friends
There was a Havdallah Service at the beginning of the party on Saturday evening. Instead of a traditional candle lighting, Rachel called each person she wanted to honor to light a Havdallah candle. Rachel watched as Grandma Wendy Silver lit a candle
Each of the guests Rachel wanted to honor lit a candle and then returned to the floor. There were 15 candles lit around the room during the prayers
At the end of the evening Rachel’s friends received black sweatpants with Rachel’s logo from Mr D’s Tees
Tied with beautiful lime green ribbon
The escort table was turned over to become a candy bar for guests as they left the party
Some advice from Mom Ilisa:
“My advice would be to do some research, narrow things down and create a vision for how you want the service and party to look and feel. Then make it happen. There is so much that you can do yourself with a little time and creativity. Surround yourself with awesome vendors and trust them to do the job. During the weekend, forget all of the planning and relax and enjoy. It goes too fast, so don’t spend the whole weekend worrying about details. The more fun you are have, the more fun your guest and child will have.”
The following vendors made Rachel’s celebration special. If you contact any of them please make sure they know you read about their services on MitzvahMarket.com.
Venue: Sandra Hoehne, Director of Catering Clarendon Ballroom, 703-469-2244 Photographer/Videographer: Zachary Ruben Photography, 816-591-7198 Décor/labels: Mom Ilisa Day of Service Coordination/Logo Design: Ali Weitzman, iSparkleEvents, 240-393-3394 Music Entertainment/MC: MC Chad, Washington Talent Agency, 301-762-1800 Favor person: Kevin, Mr. D’s Tees, 215-343-TEES Invitation: Sami, Action Invitations, 703-880-8943 Save the Date Photo Favor: Radex, 800-527-2056
Paper Lanterns: Paper Lantern Store
Sign-In Book: Picaboo.com Rachel’s Dress: Déjà vu Boutique
South Florida Mitzvahs by 84 West Events created a great camp theme for Bat Mitzvah girl, Alyssa. The reception took place at Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El in Plantation, Florida, which was transformed into Camp Alyssa.
Using a combination of foliage, simulated camp fires, backdrops, as well as custom logos and graphics, they created an awesome summer camp experience for Alyssa’s family and friends!
South Florida Mitzvahs by 84 West Events provided the photography, decor, entertainment and lighting.
To set the tone for this celebration, there was foliage and backdrops of woods, along with a sign that welcomed guests to “Camp Alyssa”
Alyssa’s camp inspired logo
The escort card table had that “woodsy” feel
Guests received their cabin number along with a jar of trail mix
The mash sign was made to look like wooden signs
Guests had fun writing a note to the Bat Mitzvah girl and “mailed ” them to her
One of the amazing centerpieces, a camp fire, that looked so cozy!
Another centerpiece with foliage and butterflies
The kids’ seating area
The table numbers fit the theme perfectly
Every camper loves bug juice!
An area set up for kids to hang out at the camp fire (not real of course!)
Delicious s’mores were part of the dessert
Friends received Camp Alyssa blankets as their favor
Signage as guests left thanking them for visiting Camp Alyssa
They specialize in custom sign-in boards, place cards, seating charts, logo design, photo décor and more. Additionally, they also offer creative consulting services for families looking for assistance with developing a theme or event concept for their celebration.
Recently, they worked with the Kaufman family who celebrated their son’s Bar Mitzvah at H On The Harbor in Port Washington, New York.
The family wanted to have a kid-oriented event where Jacob could get together with his friends for a truly “rockin” party. Therefore, what better than a “rock star” theme to incorporate his love of music, concerts and dancing.
Special touches such as a custom VIP pass that were handed out by dancers as each guest entered the party and a great logo design tied the theme together from start to finish. Jessica Garmise from Out of the Box Event Decor designed the event décor for this fun and modern party.
Together with Jacob and his family, they brainstormed ideas to create a unique candle lighting display, sign-in board and much more! Check out their special touches below:
CANDLE LIGHTING DISPLAY
Jacob’s candle lighting illuminated the room and dazzled his guests
Out of the Box created a stunning 2-tiered lighted display with Jacob’s name and custom cutouts with his logo and silhouette
Jacob lighting a special candle with his grandparents
INTERACTIVE SIGN-IN BOARD
Jacob was looking for something fun and unique for his sign-in board. Out of the Box had the idea to blow up a silhouette of Jacob singing and then divide it into 140 small pieces that guests could sign
After signing, each piece was attached to a large grid. As more pieces were assembled, Jacob’s silhouette began to appear on the sign-in board. Guests kept returning to the board during the night to see what the final design would reveal!
VIP PASSES
One of the most unique and special touches was the custom VIP passes that were created for each child attending the party. On the back of each VIP pass was a number and throughout the night, the DJ would give out prizes based on the number of each person’s VIP pass
LOGO DESIGN
The orange and dark grey logo was designed to match the color scheme of Jacob’s invitation and fit perfectly with the rock-star theme of the night
The logo was used on many of the party elements including the favors, pillows and the candle lighting
Out of the Box designed the back of the t-shirts to look just like a real concert tour with dates and locations for Jacob’s “Mitzvah Tour”
To learn more about Out Of The Box Event Decor, visit their Website.
This family celebrated their son’s Bar Mitzvah service at Temple Beth Torah in Jericho, New York, on September 20, 2014, followed by a party one week later on September 27, 2014 at Temple Avodah in Oceanside, New York.
Spencer celebrated with a combination theme which included all of his interests. The kids’ side featured a Penalty Box and other touches from his favorite hockey team, the New York Islanders, while the adult side of the room included centerpieces featuring movies and music.
Pictured (L-R): Mom Heather, younger brother Oliver, Bar Mitzvah boy Spencer, brother Dylan and Dad Andrew
Simon Elliot Events was the photographer and the rest of the vendor information is listed at the bottom of this story.
Mitzvah Invitation & Style
Simon Elliot Events created a custom Website and postcard that was mailed to each guest with the URL.
The custom Website featured information about his service, celebration, directions and a special RSVP for the young guests! They were asked to fill out a questionnaire and upload photos of themselves. This information was used to create a special step n repeat and custom bobbleheads (both shown later in the story)
Guests were mailed this postcard directing them to the Website
Mom Heather had her dress created by Kimberly at Runway Couture. The gown was midnight navy with black feather trim and horse hair
Mitzvah Details
Porta Decor created all of the decor for both the kids’ lounge area and the adult table centerpieces. Since Spencer’s friends were sending in their photo in advance of the party for their custom bobblehead, Portadecor created this step n repeat which was used as a background for many photos during the night.
There was a penalty box inspired by Spencer's love of hockey and the New York Islanders
A view from the other side
Movie themed centerpieces were on the adult tables
Other tables featured movie clapboards
These unique highboy tables were at the corner of the dance floor to hold the adult drinks while they danced
New York Islanders phrase "Believe" was used on hats and decor
Large blow-ups of Spencer, shot by Simon Elliott Events, were on display around the room
Mom Heather found director chairs online and had A Promos USA/ImageMaker add their logo. These were used as Spencer's sign-in
This large step n repeat is now hanging in Spencer's room
A unique idea!
Music & Entertainment
Carl was the MC and Entertainment Tonite provided all the music for this rockin’ celebration.
Real New York Islander girls helped Spencer make his entrance
They took pictures with guests and helped with the candle lighting ceremony
Spencer had fun during the Horah!
Simon Elliot Events provided their Selfie Booth for photo fun!
Each guest received a photo album for their photo favors with Spencer's logo on the front
Mentalist Oz Pearlman amazing Spencer's friends
Temple Avodah provides so many desserts that this family decided against a traditional Bar Mitzvah cake. Instead they bought a mini drum set and surrounded it with candles for their candle lighting ceremony
Spencer planned to donate the drum set
Spencer wrote, shot and edited his own entrance video and montage, which included his camp friends!
Mitzvah Moment
Spencer attends the School of Rock and decided he would like to perform for family and friends at his celebration.
Spencer was ready for his performance
Spencer didn’t want to be in a suit all night, so for his performance he changed into jeans and a shirt made with his logo
DYAD Music (a drummer and guitarist) accompanied Spencer's performance and then played along with the DJ
Friends and family watched as Spencer performed
Mitzvah Favors & Exit Treats
Lucky for Spencer, one of his Dad’s businesses is Allbobbleheads.com. Each one of Spencer’s friends had a custom bobblehead created just for them! When sending in their RSVP, they chose their hair color, favorite hobby and answered other questions so each one could be personalized specifically for them.
Portadecor displayed the bobbleheads for each of Spencer's friends
Friends were excited to see their custom bobbleheads!
As if this wasn't enough, each young guest received a gift bag with their Bobblehead and a t-shirt with Spencer's logo!
Advice from Mom Heather:
“I feel like I should have a shirt made that says, “I survived planning a Bar Mitzvah.” I did not have a party planner and I wanted it that way. I was very involved in every detail from logos, pictures, decor, entertainment, colors, music and custom bobbleheads for each child. Ask every vendor to do as much as possible before the last few weeks. No matter how hard you plan, they work week by week, and your party will be their main focus the week or two before. Expect to be extremely busy the two to three weeks before the party. Ask for all paper work early. Choose songs, deal with candle lighting, logos, any apparel and favors as early as possible. There is also a lot of things for the service that could be handled a long time in advance.”
Mitzvah Project
Spencer has been involved with RockCanRoll.org for years and helps out with many projects for teachers and other adults using his creativity, computer and movie making skills.
Vendor Directory
The following vendors helped to make Spencer’s Bar Mitzvah special. If you give any of them a call, let them know you read about their services on MitzvahMarket.com.
Venue: Kenny Kombert, Temple Avodah, 516-678-6161 Music Entertainment: MC Carl, Entertainment Tonight, 516-826-6900 Cocktail Music: Krisitin and Corey, Jupiter Fell, 631-402-4284 Sweatshirt/Hat/Blanket Favor: Mindy Younger, A Promos USA/ImageMaker, 516-377-0186 Bobblehead Favors: Dad Andrew, Allbobbleheads.com Photographer/Selfie Booth/Logo: Michelle Collins, Simon Elliot Events, 516-586-6822 Website invite/Postcard:Simon Elliot Events, 516-586-6822 Entrance video/Montage: Spencer Magician/Mentalist: Oz Pearlman, 917-309-2533 Décor:Portadecor, 516-822-1180 Sign-In Chair: Two director chairs with logo printed by A Promos USA Drummer and guitarist: Played along with DJ, DYAD Music, 631-842-DYAD Custom Dress: Kimberly, Runway Couture, 516-308-4639 Suits for family members: Kenny’s Mens and Boys, 516-921-2660 Makeup: Krystale, Make-up, 631-655-5123 Hair: Salon O, Valentina, 516-935-7777 Transportation: Regal Limo, 516-234-7932 Party security: Hired by Temple Avodah
Chloe Cornell is a 7th grader who lives in Armonk, New York and will be celebrating her Bat Mitzvah in March, 2015. She loves tennis, soul cycle, fashion and is also our teen blogger for Mitzvah Market.
Chloe and a friend founded the company #kindnessistherealcool for their Mitzvah Project, and invites everyone to visit them on Instagram @kindnessistherealcool and join the movement.
We spoke to Chloe to learn more about her Mitzvah Project that supports Stomp Out Bullying which is considered the most influential anti-bully and cyber bully organization in the United States.
MM: Can you give us details of your Mitzvah Project? CC: It is a movement to promote and celebrate kindness and acceptance in our society. I created a trademarked logo and designed a product line to raise money for Stomp Out Bullying. We sell t-shirts, hats, bracelets, water bottles and stickers from the Website www.kindnessistherealcool.com. I also have an Instagram account where I post inspirational quotes about kindness, photos of products for sale, and suggestions of kind acts.
MM: Does your project have a start and end date, if so what are they? CC: The project began in November 2014, and I hope to continue it for a long time.
MM: Why did you decide to take on this particular project? CC: Middle School is known to be a difficult time in people’s lives and bullying is a hot topic for tweens and teens. In addition, there is a lot of hate around the world, so I thought that promoting kindness and helping people who suffered from bullying would be a timely and important cause.
MM: In your own words, what does it mean to you to do a Mitzvah Project for your Bat Mitzvah? CC: Becoming a Bat Mitzvah means becoming an adult in the Jewish religion. One of the most important parts of being a Jew is to do mitzvahs/give charity. To me, doing a Mitzvah Project shows that I am ready to be considered an “adult” in the Jewish community.
MM: If it involves a donation, what are you doing to spreading the word? CC: I am sending an email out to our friends and neighbors and have friends and family helping to spread the word. People can go on my Website at www.kindnessistherealcool.com. I also have an instagram account @kindnessistherealcool.
MM: For how long can people donate to this charity? CC: I hope to keep this ongoing as long as people will donate! I would love for other people to join as kindness ambassadors, to help sell our product, and spread the word.
We thank Chloe for sharing their Mitzvah Project with our readers.
Where and Why to Have Your Celebration Out of Town
By Lori S. Robinson
Imagine a joyous parade that bursts with music, dance, song and the blowing of a shofar as it winds its way through the narrow cobblestoned streets of Tzfat, an ancient Galilee city of mysticism and Kabbalah. Your family, swept into the experience, sings, dances and swirls around your Bar or Bat Mitzvah child who is sheltered under a tallit chuppah. Together you travel through the old Jewish Quarter towards a gorgeous 16th century synagogue to celebrate your child’s coming of age.
Photo above: Courtesy Israel Tour Connection
There are many reasons to have a destination Bar or Bat Mitzvah. The most obvious place to celebrate is in Israel. Such a trip can be a wonderful family bonding experience. It may also be an option to consider for a shy student who would rather not chant on the bimah in front of hundreds of people in your home congregation. In Israel you can make it a more personalized, impactful experience on a smaller scale with just close family and friends. Whatever the case, celebrating in Israel can be an experience to last a lifetime.
After Eva Wisnik’s son David became a Bar Mitzvah in Israel, he continued studying at his synagogue’s Hebrew high school in Tarrytown, NY. He was one of only a handful of students who went all the way through high school to graduation. “The experience of being Bar Mitzvahed in Israel clearly solidified his Jewish identity,” says Wisnik. “What more could a parent ask for from that rite of passage?”
Should you be considering a Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebration and tour in the Holy land, your very first stop should be at the Israel Ministry of Tourism website, http://www.goisrael.com, or call 1-888-77-ISRAEL, for an overview of your many options and a host of resources.
WHO “QUALIFIES” TO BE BAR/BAT MITZVAH IN ISRAEL?
According to an Israel Ministry of Tourism there is no educational requirement to fulfill to accept the responsibility of Jewish adulthood. A Bar/Bat Mitzvah simply needs to be Jewish. Traditionally, boys are at least 13 years old and girls, 12 or 13. Of course, celebrants well into legal adulthood can also be Bar/Bat Mitzvah.
The ceremony itself does call for the reading of a Torah portion related to the chosen date and this can be coordinated beforehand with the rabbi performing the ceremony. If the Bar/Bat Mitzvah has not attended religious school or learned
Hebrew, he or she may be tutored beforehand, in person or via Skype or Facetime.
Israel Ministry of Tourism
WHAT KIND OF TRIP IS RIGHT FOR YOUR FAMILY?
Once you have surfed the Internet and gotten a feel for where and when you want to go, it’s time to start making some
decisions.
Many organizations and travel companies offer group Bar/Bat Mitzvah tours in Israel where everything is arranged for you— from the rabbi to the ceremony site to the itinerary. Done! There are other advantages too: Other families with children the same ages are likely to share the trip with you, and many tour companies “comp” the tour for the Bar/Bat Mitzvah child.
If your synagogue is planning a trip to Israel, talk to your rabbi and see if he or she would perform a Bar/Bat Mitzvah while you arethere. Or, if you do the trip on your own, you can offer to invite your rabbi to come as your guest, so that the ceremony is further imbued with meaning.
Another type of trip is a customized private tour with a qualified tour guide who can arrange all the details of your Bar/Bat Mitzvah service, celebration and touring. This arrangement gives your family lots of flexibility — do you want to sleep late, go rafting, see historical sites or learn more about anything in-depth? Your guide will also have all the inside info on the best times and ways to get around. On this type of trip, you may have to plan your own flights and accommodations. Many of the same groups that offer group tours will also work with you to customize a private tour.
If you are visiting family in Israel, or if have been to the country before and know exactly what your family would like to do and see, you may want a do-it-yourself trip, where you do all the research and planning. Of course, the Israel Ministry of Tourism is there to fill in the blanks, providing everything from a list of rabbis to party locations. Go to www.goIsrael.com and search “Tourist Information” for “Jewish Themes.”
PLANNING CELEBRATIONS
Having a Bar/Bat Mitzvah ceremony in Israel does not mean you have to forgo the hoopla that usually comes with the event
at home. Your touring party can be as small or large as you’d like, with grandparents, cousins and friends all attending the ceremony, whether it’s being held in a hotel, a synagogue or at an historic site.
Most families dress less formally for the ceremony in Israel than they might have at home, mostly in deference to the heat. Wearing white clothing is a great choice and can give a coordinated look in photos. Do remember to check dress codes in some locations where women are expected to cover their arms and skimpy clothing is not acceptable.
While many families choose a casual post-cremony celebratory meal (perhaps in a Bedouin tent), or decide to continue touring, others work with a planner to produce a party that can rival any at home (fire-eaters, anyone?). The options are unlimited.
Many families choose to hire a professional photographer to record the ceremony and celebration in Israel – or even their entire trip because it is such a once-in-a-lifetime event.
WHERE SHOULD THE BAR BAT MITZVAH CEREMONY BE HELD? There are a myriad of places to hold a ceremony in Israel, but the trick is finding the place that is right for you and your entire party of travelers. For instance, if your group includes young children or the elderly, you might want to avoid places that require a hike to reach, have no seating or are in unrelenting sun. Of course, if there is a will there’s a way to make almost any site work.
Additionally, while it’s true that in many locations you can hire a rabbi to perform the ceremony according to whatever Jewish tradition you adhere to, many sites, especially synagogues and a few sites of religious significance, require services be done only in their tradition, whether it’s reform, conservative or orthodox.
Keep in mind that the most popular days for Bar/Bat Mitzvah services in Israel are Mondays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Rosh Chodesh (the first day of every month), and the most popular time is very early in the morning.
Have a spiritual, meaningful Bar Bat Mitzvah high above the desert or walk through an Israeli town under a chuppah to your celebration
TRADITIONAL CEREMONY SITES
These popular Bar/Bat Mitzvah sites are the ones most often included in group tours:
The Kotel (Western Wall)
The Kotel is perhaps the holiest site in Israel to hold a Bar Mitzvah. Bat Mitzvahs are not allowed at the Western Wall. All the services are Orthodox, and women do not stand up with their sons. Men and women are seated in separate sections (not necessarily with equal views or within equal earshot).
The Israel Ministry of Tourism points everyone to www.barmitzva.thekotel.org/en to plan ceremonies at the Wall. As the website explains, the Western Wall Heritage Center oversees all Bar Mitzvah proceedings, which are free. Bar Mitzvahs register one month in advance, and on arrival, will be assigned a Bar Mitzvah Guide to walk them through the process step by step. The center will provide a Sefer Torah, and a small table, and is happy to lend celebrants teffillin.
Other things to note: Entrance to the Western Wall Plaza requires walking through the Old City and going through airport-like security check (total time – 1 hour). In the fall and winter, and any time rain threatens, the Torah cannot be taken out, so Bar Mitzvahs take place under Wilson’s Arch.
To enhance your party’s experience, consider adding a tour of the adjacent “Generations” exhibit or of the Western Wall tunnels. With a little pre-planning and some tutorial, the Bar Mitzvah boy can actually lead the tour (with some help from a guide).
Robinson’s Arch and the Davidson Center
There are places along the Wall, no less holy, that do accommodate both Bar and Bat Mitzvah services.
“My favorite Bar/Bat Mitzvah location in Israel is Robinson’s Arch,” says Rabbi David Holtz, of Temple Beth Abraham in Tarrytown, NY. “We hold the ceremony at the southwest corner of the Temple Mount, standing on the very paving stones on which our ancestors walked. Facing us in front of the Wall is a jumbled pile of huge blocks, all that remains of the arch and of the Temple that stood above. In the year 70 A.D., Roman soldiers stood atop the Temple Mount and threw these very stones to the ground below, cracking the pavers.” He remains amazed that 2000 years later, Jews are still here, making this a very special place for a ceremony.
Ilona Marsh’s eldest daughter Sydney was Bat Mitzvahed under the arch. “During Sydney’s service, tourists stopped to watch. We ran into some of them later in the Old City and several women told Sydney how meaningful it was for them to watch a girl become a Bat Mitzvah.” She added that they even asked for her daughter’s name to record in their trip journals.
Robinson’s Arch, the Hulda Steps (a great place to sit or hold the ceremony when the shade leaves from Robinson’s Arch later in the day) and the Davidson Center are all part of the Jerusalem Archeological Park. The Davidson Center offers visitors an interactive, virtual-reality reconstruction of the Temple Mount and its environs. Note: The Davidson Center is closed on Saturdays.
Masada
An hour away from Jerusalem are the ruins of King Herod’s palace fortress on top of Mount Masada, a powerful symbol of Jewish resistance to foreign subjugation.
At 8 a.m., the first cable car climbs up the mount overlooking the Dead Sea to perhaps the world’s oldest synagogue still in use. By 8:30 a.m. it hosts Bar and Bat Mitzvahs in all traditions, Orthodox, Conservative, Reform or Reconstructionist. After the service, every Bar/Bat Mitzvah has the unique honor, under the tutelage of a Torah Scribe, of adding a single letter to the Masada Torah scroll.
Ceremonies must be arranged ahead of time by contacting the
Masada National Park (www.masada.org.il/en).
LESS TRADITIONAL, BUT FANTASTIC ISRAELI CEREMONY SITES
These sites can be as wonderful as the more traditional ones, but
may require an event planner to coordinate all events.
Tzfat (Safed)
Tzfat, to Israel’s north, is one of the country’s four holy cities. It is a picturesque city of spiritual people and artists, and a great place to hold a coming-of-age ceremony.
Besides the artist colony and the International Kabbalah Center, a must-see is the Otzar HaStem of Tzfat Experience (phone 011-972-4-691-2000), bringing the world of Scribes and the mystical secrets of Hebrew Letters to life. Built by the same people who design educational adventure rides at Epcot in Disney World, this adventure moves visitor’s seats into an immersive, multi-sensory, virtual reality world, complete with a holographic scribe.
Eretz Bereshit (Genesis Land)
Sarina Stein, of Irvington, NY, became Bat Mitzvah at Eretz Bereshit, on an overlook high over the Judean Desert. “We were a bit skeptical because it’s a place that’s known to be touristy; where people dress up in traditional garments and ride camels,” says her mother Ilona Marsh. “But we got there just after sunrise, before anything was open to the public. There was a beautiful bimah set up” and Sarina’s Bat Mitzvah felt very spiritual, connected to nature and to the history of the Jewish
people.
The “touristy” bit that the Steins were wary of could, in fact, be the very thing to enliven and enhance a family trip. Genesis Land, not far from Jerusalem, is more than a simple reenactment of biblical times; it is an interactive experience. The Patriarch Abraham’s servant meets your group and invites you to travel by camel to the Abraham’s tent. On the way, the caravan meets Joseph’s brothers, just before the siblings throw their brother into a pit. The servant continues to weave familiar tales. Once enjoying the hospitality of Abraham’s tent, families can join in on pita-making, parchment writing or pottery workshops.
Neot Kedumin
Nature lover? Neot Kedumin (http://www.neot-kedumim.org.il/), halfway between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, is a large, biblical landscape reserve whose plant life and sweeping vistas are the setting of many popular bible stories. A Bar or Bat Mitzvah ceremony here, under a sukkah, draws on Bible references to nature and you can work with Neot Kedumin’s party planner to design a reception among the olive trees.
OTHER GREAT DESTINATIONS FOR BAR BAT MITZVAHS
While Israel will always be a popular choice for Bar/Bar Mitzvahs, an increasing number of families, perhaps influenced by the popularity of destination weddings, are seeking other locations in which to celebrate, including St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands, synagogues around the world and even out at sea. Here are some places to check out:
Historic St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands
“We chose not to go to Israel because I never converted to Judaism, so I would not be allowed to be on the bimah with my kids at any of the temples there,” said Lisa Shiroff of Vorhees, NJ.
She organized a B’nai Mitzvah for her two kids (13 and 12) and her 12-year old niece at the historic St. Thomas Synagogue in St. Thomas, in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The synagogue, the longest in continuous use under the American flag, has become a popular destination ceremony site.
“The menorah dates to the 11th century, and there is a sand floor to represent the Conversos — Jews who were forced to convert to Catholicism in Europe and who covered the floors in their basements to muffle the sound of their Hebrew prayers when they observed their Jewish services in secret,” Explains Shiroff.
Madison Wynter, of Bucks County, PA, was also Bat Mitzvah at the historic synagogue, but her journey started on the Norwegian Epic cruise ship and included a Caribbeanthemed celebration. Her mom, Beth McDonnell, arranged it all because she happens to be a Tripguy.com travel agent specializing in organizing Bar/Bat Mitzvah tours. McDonnell has arranged Bar and Bat Mitzvahs at a wide array of places: a Curacao resort, synagogues in Puerto Rico, Aruba and Prague, in the Italian countryside and under a chuppah on a Mexican beach at sunset.
For a unique celebration, have a Bar Bat Mitzvah at sea
Photo courtesy Mitzvah At Sea
“Beautiful settings as the backdrop for an important event, such as a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, will always be remembered and talked about for a lifetime,” according to Rabbi Steven Westman, who officiates ceremonies organized by a popular concierge B’nai.
Mitzvah planning company, Mitzvah at Sea (www.mitzvahatsea.com), which partners with several cruise companies.
Mitzvah At Sea can conduct a ceremony on the beach at a cruise line’s private island, at a resort, on an excursion during a port of call, and even on board a ship prior to it setting sail. Also known as a “Day of Embarkation” ceremony, families are able to invite friends and family who are otherwise unable to cruise, to still attend the ceremony and celebration. When they disembark, those that remain can continue to celebrate throughout the cruise.
Marissa Nemes, one of the company’s coordinators, recalls a particularly moving Havdallah service on the deck of Majesty of the Seas: “As the sun set, a group of 48, with arms linked, swayed and sang along to the rabbi playing hymns on his guitar. I am always amazed at how family and friends, regardless of the group size or dynamics, bonds, unites, and comes together to celebrate.”
Beth McDonnell, echoed that sentiment: “Wherever your family chooses to mark and celebrate this important Jewish milestone, there is nothing like spending those days with the people who mean the most to you. Mazel Tov!”
Israel: Is it Safe?
Israel has arguably the best security forces and technology in the entire world. While there might always be some unrest in the region, the country’s level of preparedness for any problem is without equal, and Israelis are accustomed to unforeseen changes in plans. Rest assured that if the danger level is deemed too high, a travel alert would be issued. That being said, it is always a smart idea to ask your trip organizers and event planners about their cancellation policy, and to purchase trip cancellation insurance.
The Dropkin family from Cortlandt Manor, New York, celebrated daughter Eliana’s Bat Mitzvah at Temple Israel of Northern Westchester in Croton-on-Hudson, New York and afterwards there was a luncheon reception at the Westchester Marriott in Tarrytown, New York.
Eliana is an animal lover so she decided on a “Rainbow Zebra Stripes” theme.
We also featured brother David’s clever geography/travel themed, click here to read about it.
Pictured above (L-R): Brother David, Dad Joseph, Bat Mitzvah girl Eliana, and Mom Suzanne.
The photographer was Alan Weiss Photography and the rest of the vendor information is listed at the end of the spotlight.
The invitation, which hinted at the theme, was in a teal blue and in a zebra striped design. The invitations were on a shimmer metallic paper so the printed “crystal” design caught the light better
Mom Suzanne created a Website page on Freeservers.com which included an email to RSVP, the dress attire, Temple and party directions as well as Eliana’s Mitzvah Project information
Eliana’s family and friends joined her in celebrating her Bat Mitzvah at Temple Israel of Westchester.
Here Eliana is surrounded by her grandparents up on the bimah
Eliana with her parents.
The whole family was included in the service with both her Dad and brother playing guitar
Eliana had two great looks. She started off the party in a floor-length silver and black Hailey Logan gown. Mom Suzanne got the tiara from from Amazon.com
After the cocktail hour, Eliana changed into a zebra print cocktail dress from Delia’s
A vibrant array of neon colors in a zebra pattern were part of the party decor. Neon zebra place cards tied-in with the theme
Zebra print balloons were on each table
Everything was in the zebra neon colors including the holographic foil zebra embossed kippot and the drawstring favor bags with Eliana’s logo.
Brian William Events created this great collage which had pictures of Eliana from the past 13 years. The board was designed by Mom Suzanne on Photoshop. The middle photo is of Eliana proudly holding her personalized prayer book with her name printed on the front. On the side of the board Eliana’s name is spelled out along with words describing her
Jimmy Dee Entertainment with MC Mike had so much energy and had guests of all ages on the dance floor. Here is Eliana making her entrance
Up in the chair for the Horah
Dad Joseph strutting his stuff
Everyone loved dancer Geronimo
Eliana and her friends know all the moves
The family is all smiles in front of the delicious cake.
The Westchester Marriott put the family up in their Presidential suite after the party. How often does a girl get to stay in the Presidential suite? A very happy Eliana after the party with her balloons.
Eliana worked at a soup kitchen with her friends from Young Judaea Camp Sprout Lake in Verbank, New York. She will be working on several more Mitzvah Projects with her Hebrew School class this year. She also has chosen to help support the non-profit chimpanzee sanctuary Save The Chimps, Inc.
Eliana hopes to hold a drive through Hebrew School to collect items for Save the Chimps. She also took some of her gift money to symbolically adopt Jaybee while supporting the sanctuary.
Some advice from Mom Suzanne:
“I loved using Pinterest to keep track of fun ideas and decorations for the ceremony and party. I pinned everything from dresses Eliana liked to tallis options to rainbow zebra grosgrain ribbon and themed balloons. I even found and pinned an idea for how to make place card stands out of paper clips – the idea worked great and we used it at the party!”
Here is the list of vendors who made Eliana’s party special. If you call any, please make sure you tell them that you read about their services on MitzvahMarket.com.
