March 31st, 2019
If you’re looking to make your Bar or Bat Mitzvah a weekend-long affair, check out the Tarrytown House Estate on the Hudson, located just 25 miles north of New York City. The historic estate, set on 26 acres, offers multiple venues to host your Bar or Bat Mitzvah service, party, Friday night Shabbat dinner, Sunday morning brunch and everything in between. With 212 guest rooms and suites, you have the opportunity to create a weekend your guests will never forget. From planning the menu to arranging entertainment, Tarrytown House’s experienced team will take care of everything!
Read on to learn more about the Tarrytown House Estate on the Hudson and to see images of their beautiful location.
Old World Elegance, Modern Amenities
The Mary Duke Ballroom features 18 foot ceilings and can accommodate up to 300 guests; A Kosher catering menu is available for your Bar Bat Mitzvah celebration
For a more casual Mitzvah party - or Sunday brunch - the Winter Palace offers floor to ceiling windows, sweeping views of the estate and an outdoor terrace
The outdoor terrace at the Winter Palace
The estate features several elegant spaces to hold your Bar or Bat Mitzvah service
If you're looking for an outdoor ceremony or reception, check out the majestic Statue Garden
Biddle House is a beautiful spot for Shabbat dinner or Sunday morning brunch with your guests
Cellar 49 offers another location to welcome your guests with dinner on Friday night
For a truly intimate Shabbat dinner check out the wine cellar
This dramatic staircase is a lovely backdrop for family portraits
Guests of all ages will enjoy the classic gameroom
Your guests will love the well appointed guest rooms
For more information about Tarrytown House check out their
extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.
March 31st, 2019
Samantha Waxer’s Bat Mitzvah was (literally!) Sealed With a Kiss! Using her initials, S.W., and her love of metallic colors – think silver, gold and rose gold – as a jumping off point, her Bat Mitzvah celebration was filled with beautiful backdrops, fun logos, unbelievable SWag, fireworks and a surprise boy band performance.
After leading a Havdalah service at Temple Avodah in Oceanside, NY, Samantha and her family celebrated with a party that kept guests on their feet all night long.
Photo above (L-R): dad Adam, Bat Mitzvah girl Samantha, brother Brody and mom Elizabeth. The photographer for this event was Denis Leon. A complete list of vendors follows at the end of this Spotlight.
SWak: Sealed with a Kiss
This silver, gold and rose gold invitation inspired the look of Samantha's celebration
Samantha's initials, SW, were a part of several creative logos, including this "sealed with a kiss" envelope seal
Silver and white kippahs for the ceremony were displayed on a custom SWak lucite tray
The Havdalah service was held at Temple Avodah in Oceanside, NY
Brother Brody, mom Elizabeth and dad Adam couldn't have been prouder
One SWeet Party
Samantha on the red carpet outside of Temple Avodah
Photos from her pre Mitzvah shoto and multiple custom logos greeted guests inside the venue
The dance floor was wrapped in Samantha's logo
Samantha enjoyed every moment
Brother Brody had a blast too
The sign in board was made of white acrylic with a mirrored SWak lip logo
The Waxer family after the candle lighting ceremony
Samantha and her dancers were coordinated in metallic silver to match the sophisticated decor
The biggest surprise of the night came when R&B group The YRS took the stage to perform
Samantha's friends were blown away
The Bat Mitzvah girl took a moment to hang with the group
Samantha's friends also presented her with a custom photo blanket
The place card table was on a light up board which was flipped around at the end of the night to reveal a goodbye message
Bat Mitzvah Decor
Metallic hues and hanging crystals sparkled throughout the ballroom
Roses and other mixed florals were hand sprayed with metallic paint
Silver, gold and rose gold linens topped the tables; centerpieces featured flowers, crystals and a ton of candles
The ballroom was totally transformed
The kids' lounge featured hanging crystals, metallic furniture and multiple seating options
Intro Video
Before making her big entrance, Samantha's guests watched this "hype"
entrance video
Incredible SWag
SAM's makeup booth featured custom makeup bags and light up lip gloss
Samantha's love for makeup and fashion led to this SAM lip logo; Lip gloss was presented on a custom tray
At the Sticker Bomb booth kids picked out reusable stickers to take home
Guests took home their photos in these logo albums (or had the images emailed to them)
The photo booth featured several of Samantha's logos
Custom nail art was a huge hit - guests could choose one of Samantha's logos or their own image
Phone wallets were another fun giveaway
SWak socks kept guests comfy and dancing all night long
Kids took home their favors in these custom SWag bags
Dance floor giveaways included logo t-shirts
Girls went home with bling SWak hoodies
Boys received these SWoosh shirts
S'Well and SWoosh water bottles
Cocktail napkins featured Samantha's logos
SWeet Goodbye
The Bat Mitzvah girl posed with her custom S'Well water bottles and SAM gum
Everyone went home with a sweet treat from Temple Avodah's famous candy shop...
... and SAM's bakery counter!
Specialty popcorn was presented on a SWak cart
Custom cookies were also wrapped in Sam's logos
Up Next: Brother Brody's Bar Mitzvah at Temple Avodah on December 19, 2020
Highlight Video
Sam and her family are able to relive their amazing celebration by watching this
recap video
Mitzvah Advice
“Try and be as organized as possible and plan ahead!,” says mom, Elizabeth. “There is so much planning that goes into it, but you should not be stressed. Enjoy the process since the night flies by so quickly! Take a moment that night to really take it all in!”
Mitzvah Project
Samantha’s dad works at St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children and she volunteers her time to work with some of the St. Mary’s kids who have special needs. She experienced first hand the love and compassion that the wonderful staff and volunteers provide to these children. Therefore, Samantha thought it would be a great opportunity for her Mitzvah Project to sponsor a team (“Samantha’s Mitzvah Crew”) and help raise funds and awareness to help children with special needs at the annual walk for St. Mary’s Kids, which was held on Sunday, April 29th, at Crocheron Park in Bayside, NY. Samantha’s Mitzvah Crew raised over $3,000 to help support valuable programs and services for 2,000 children and their families in St. Mary’s care throughout the New York Metropolitan region.
Vendor Directory
Venue: Temple Avodah/Kombert Caterers, 516-678-6161
Photo Booth/Photo Albums/Sticker Booth/Makeup Booth: Simon Elliot Events 516-586-6822
Event Planner: Elizabeth Waxer (mom), 516-695-5966
Entertainment/Music/MC: Geo Events, Geo, 800-670-0462
Flowers/Decor: Artistry in Flowers, 516-626-7673
Photographer: Dennis Leon, 917-208-1777
Videographer: Reel Life Cinematography, 914-355-3360
Favors: Press House NY (dance floor giveaways, boys’ favors), 646-236-5931; A Bling Affair (girls’ sweat shirt favors, custom logo SAM patches and bling custom SWak appliqués), 917-992-1175
Invitations/Napkins/Lip Gloss/Phone Wallets/Drawstring Bags/All Bottles: Written and Wrapped, 516-375-8851
Cake: Cakes with Character, 516-935-6924
Sign-In Board: That One Special Touch, Randi Lehman, 516-496-1025
Logo Acrylic Trays: Precious Scripts, Randi Nadel/Heather Seff, 917-841-3359
Custom Pillows: Simply Chill Creations, Melissa, 646-285-3775
Indoor Fireworks: Dj Frontboard & Luna Decor, 718-259-9595
Custom Nail Swag: Nail Printing Events, 732-598-9019
R&B Band: The YRS, @the.yrs
Dresses: Ask Alice (Samantha), 516-921-2464 and Filly’s (mom), 516-739-9090
Suits: Kenny’s Mens & Boys Wear, 516-921-2660
Hair: New York Cut, Valentina, 631-824-6879
Makeup: Blue Mercury Manhasset, Dayna, 516-627-3777
March 26th, 2019
Charity Ball provides new quality soccer balls to kids in poverty-stricken communities around the world.
March 24th, 2019
Logos and taglines can tie together a Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah child’s diverse interests and activities. Event planner Melisa Imberman of The Event of a Lifetime, Inc. shares how a clever logo/tagline combination was the perfect way to capture Bat Mitzvah girl Emma’s many loves. “Utilizing a lowercase “e” for Emma, we created a logo with a spin on the classic yin and yang symbol to represent all sides of Emma’s personality. I worked closely with Emma and her mom to create a secondary tagline, “be yourself” which incorporated the same “e,” and we tied the whole theme together with the branding “essentially emma.”
The branding, along with the colors ice blue and white, was used on everything from pillows and signage to party swag and desserts at the event, which was held at The Tuxedo Club in Tuxedo Park, NY. Centerpieces at each table showcased Emma’s interests with photos and images of her favorite things including soccer, dance, cooking, the Yankees, Camp Romaca, Uruguay (where her mom is from) and more.
The photographer for this event was Hi Tech Photography.
Essentially Emma
The double "e"s were pulled out from the original yin and yang logo
This tagline, which was used on favors, giveaways and more, also featured the doube "e"s
Imberman tied the whole theme together with the phrase "essentially emma"
Place cards featured Emma's logo and tables were named after her favorite things
Photos from Emma's pre Bat Mitzvah photo shoot greeted guests in the entryway
The centerpiece on each table highlighted a different aspect of Emma’s life-- this one focuses on family trips to LBI that she looks forward to every year
Foodie: this centerpiece highlighted Emma's love of food
Overview of the room with centerpieces and signage
Another spin on the logo, this time wrapped with rhinetones and used as high top table decor
The Bat Mitzvah girl’s dress and sneakers matched the decor perfectly! Here she sits on the illuminated stage with her logo on the giant video wall
The oversized sign in pillow featured the main logo
The Bat Mitzvah girl takes a break beside her custom logo pillows in ice blue and silver
Emma's logo was splashed across favors and swag; Kids took home soft lightweight zip up sweatshirts with the "e" logo on the front and "be yourself" tagline down the sleeve in a clear stadium approved tote bag. Dance floor giveaways included logo t-shirts, sweatpants, Swell bottles and blankets
Favors went home in these logo drawstring bags
As guests left they picked up logo wrapped chocolate covered Oreos with coffee, tea, hot chocolate and water
We thank Melisa Imberman for sharing these great ideas with us. To learn more about The Event Of A Lifetime, visit their extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.
March 24th, 2019
LOOKING FOR AN ‘OUT OF THE BOX’ VENUE OPTION FOR YOUR CHILD’S BAR OR BAT MITZVAH CELEBRATION?
The Event Center at IPA may be just what you are looking for. The state-of-the-art, contemporary event center in Freehold Township, New Jersey is attached to an indoor family entertainment complex. They can host small groups of 40, to exclusive full-park rentals for groups up to 3,500. iPlay America offers a 12,000 square foot event space, 20,000 square foot Warehouse, VIP lounges and an indoor theme park all under one roof!
There are many reasons to book your child’s celebration at iPlay America, here are just a few:
It’s More Fun At iPlay America
iPlay America is a premier, full-service events and party venue and the best place to Get Inside the Fun! Its family-friendly indoor Boardwalk theme will provide your Bar Bat Mitzvah guests with nearly four acres of outstanding rides, games and attractions making it the perfect destination for fun year-round for guests of all ages. From the Freedom Rider Spinning Coaster to Central New Jersey’s largest two-story Laser Tag Experience, to the thrilling 4-D Movie Theater, a giant arcade and a host of other great attractions, iPlay America provides you with exciting options and opportunities to create and customize a wonderful Bar Bat Mitzvah celebration for your child’s special day.
The Perfect Space For Every Occasion
iPlay America has the accommodations you’re looking for, with a wide selection of party rooms, VIP Suites, iPlay America’s Event Center and Warehouse 100 – their warehouse-styled event space. Stylish and inviting, iPlay America has a host of amenities to offer, and their expert planners can work with you and your family to choose linens, lighting and fabulous decor that will make your child’s Bar Bat Mitzvah celebration an event your guests will talk about for years to come.
They Know Entertainment
In addition to Bar Bat Mitzvah celebrations, iPlay America is host to hundreds of birthday and anniversary parties, sweet 16’s, special events, galas, trade shows, meetings, corporate events and concerts. Their professional expert event staff has access to top-notch vendors to plan important milestones.
Amazing Food
Chef Adam Livow recently returned to iPlay America after being featured on season 14 of Hell’s Kitchen with celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay. Chef Adam will be working with the team at the Event Center @iPA to set new menus and presentations that reflect how events and celebrations have been evolving in recent years, providing clients the ability to integrate the theme of their events into the food and presentation.
They Can Make It Happen
With a variety of room options, excellent menu selections, and outstanding décor choices available, iPlay America’s experienced event planners can create the perfect Bar Bat Mitzvah celebration for your child. From LED screens and lounge furniture, to light up bars, concert grade tress and lighting, illuminated tables, and more, iPlay America’s talented staff will help bring your theme to life!
To learn more about iPlay America, visit their extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.
March 17th, 2019
The expectations were high for Gabi Ivler’s Bat Mitzvah celebration… and the Ivlers did not disappoint! From a “live drink wall” and fire eaters, to break dancers and a metallic 3-D balloon wall, this party was a delight for the senses. After a private service at Congregation Agudath Israel in Caldwell, New Jersey, Gabi was joined by family and friends at the Crystal Plaza in Livingston.
Gabi’s mom, Lisa, is the owner of Lisa Ivler Events, an event production company in the New York Tri-State area. Like all Lisa Ivler Events, Gabi’s Bat Mitzvah was filled with moments that created an original and captivating guest experience. “Special touches of theatrics that make your heart skip a beat,” are Lisa’s goal.
While Lisa was able to call on many of her go-to vendors for the celebration, she tells Mitzvah Market she didn’t anticipate how different it would be to plan her own child’s Mitzvah celebration. “I plan other people’s parties a few times a month and I don’t stress. When it came to my own party, I was beyond stressed!” Lisa, who recommends (now more than before!) hiring a planner or day-of coordinator, shares her Mitzvah planning advice at the end of this Spotlight.
Photo above (L-R): sister Brooke, dad Jeff, Bat Mitzvah girl Gabi, mom Lisa and brother Josh. The photographer for this event was Visionary Artists. A complete list of vendors is at the end of this spotlight.
Bat Mitzvah Service
Gabi had a private service at Congregation Agudath Israel. "Being surrounded by only family and the closest of friends was really very special," says mom Lisa
Gabi's dress was gold with a hint of sparkle to go along with her theme
Dramatic Design
Gabi's invitation and gift box revealed the elegant color palette for her celebration
Gold rose mirrors served as place cards (and a special keepsake!)
Golden branches covered in twinkle lights and accented by hanging balls of white flowers created an enchanted space
Dramatic centerpieces, by Debbie's Designs, were made with gold terraces covered in white roses, white hydrangea, crystals and candle light
Table set-ups in gold and turquoise varied throughout the ballroom
The bars (background) were built with a white and gold rose pattern overlay
The kids' lounge featured turquoise furniture and oversized photos from Gabi's pre-shoot
Custom logo pillows carried out the theme
Photo cubes with a golden G were a part of the decor in the kids' lounge
Gabi's branding was placed on everything from LED screens to these custom vases
Menus were adorned with gold beads
Gabi made her entrance in an ethereal blue dress
The hora was just the beginning of non-stop entertainment
Family is everything for the Ivlers, who surrounded Gabi during her candle lighting
The dance floor was packed all night long
Brilliant Branding
Gabi's full name, Gabrielle Rose, was the inspiration for the rose theme in the decor and branding. The various logos were designed by FabuDesigns.com
The Bat Mitzvah girl's initials, GRI, were also used in a variety of logos and branding
The acylic sign in board was created by Lisa Ivler Events
The adult cocktail menu offered GRI-approved cocktails
Dance floor giveaways were a hot commodity
Gabi's girlftiends took home logo sweatshirts while the boys received long sleeve sport tech shirts
Kids enjoyed signature mocktails
Major WOW Moments
A "live drink wall" offered guests mocktails as they entered the reception
Instead of a traditional photo booth, a metallic balloon wall served as a backdrop for photos
The dance floor was empty on only two occassions... to make room for the break dancers...
... and fire eaters!
A thrilling sight for guests
Sparklers went off behind the LED screens (with custom branding)
Another unexpected WOW! moment came when (adult) guests received champagne from a server in a champagne skirt and aerial ring
The multi-tiered DJ set up featured LED screens, a white stage and tons of lighting to change the mood in the room
An electric violinist added a funky live music element
Kids loved the "neon fantasy" moment
Special Touches
A surprise message from the Bat Mitzvah girl in the women's restroom
Gabi stayed comfortable all night thanks to these metallic gold Converse sneakers
Guests were treated to airbrush tattoos
An eye-popping array of desserts were passed out to guests. iCandy Entertainment girls offered some of Gabi's favorites
Sprinkle milk shakes were passed on silver trays
Fried Oreos were presented in a clear umbrella
A double sided donut wall was brought out...
... as well as a board covered in French Macarons
Mini fruit kebobs were also available
Hot pretzels (with dipping sauces) and logo water bottles were given to guests on their way home
Mitzvah Advice
“My advice to anyone planning a Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebration for their child? Hire an event planner or a day-of coordinator!” says mom Lisa, who is the owner of Lisa Ivler Events. “Even for my own daughter’s party, I enlisted the help of another planner. There are always last-minute details that need attention in the hours leading up to a party, especially when the party is just about to begin! I never would have been able to relax without a planner on-site that day. So, my advice is to hire a planner, relax, and feel like a guest at your own party!”
Mitzvah Project
Gabi volunteers at the family’s temple working with three and four year olds on a weekly basis.
Vendor Directory
The following vendors helped to make Gabi’s Bar Mitzvah a night to remember. If you contact them, please let them know you read about their services on Mitzvah Market.
Venue: Crystal Plaza, 973-992-8100
Event Planning/Invitations/Extra Entertainment/Break Dancers/Sign-In Board/Give Aways: Lisa Ivler Events, 973-826-2108
Decor/Floral: Debbie’s Designs, 973-696-7930
Branding/Logos: Fabu Designs, 312-513-1698
Music/DJ/Electric Violinist/Games: Total Entertainment, MC Robby, DJ Sal Domingo, 201-894-0055
Magician: The Magic of David Corsaro, 973-699-2723
Photographer: Visionary Artists, 908-770-0554
Videographer: Mark Yelen, 973-610-4746
Favors: Let’s Go Invite, 973-685-4547
Balloon Wall: Balloon Design Studio, 908-295-1840
Photo Booth/Games/Airbrush Tattoos: Royal Entertainment, 973-826-7011
Strolling Candy Bar: iCandy Entertainment, 973-826-2108
Dresses: All About the Dress, 914-219-5300
March 10th, 2019
The Woodmere Club, a waterfront country club located in Woodmere, New York, has a variety of newly renovated spaces that are perfectly suited to host a Bar or Bat Mitzvah. The historic main clubhouse features a lodge-style bar, a grand ballroom that accommodates hundreds of guests, a grille room, surrounded by windows, with views of the 18th hole, and a beautiful outdoor patio overlooking the magnificent grounds.
Whether you’re planning an elegant, formal party or an intimate luncheon, The Woodmere Club will work with you to create the party of your dreams. Their culinary team offers non-Kosher or Kosher style menus, and they also allow Kosher caterers to utilize the facility.
Read on to see photos and learn about recent Bar Bat Mitzvah celebrations at The Woodmere Club.
Inside The Woodmere Club
Recently renovated, the grand ballroom was designed with an eclectic, architectual style that lends itself well to any theme or decor
The ballroom can accommodate up to 285 people, with plenty of room for dancing
For your cocktail hour, or a more casual affair, the outdoor patio offers a beautiful setting
Formal portraits are a must in the sophisticated foyer
The terrace is a beautiful spot for photos
Sunset is an amazing time for photos on the golf course
An elegant driveway greets guests
Exterior view from the golf course
This elegant Bat Mitzvah featured abundant florals and a fuschia and white color scheme
A view of the ballroom with round tables
Large rectangular tables also work well in the space
Creative Touches
The outdoor patio is transformed with white lanterns and a mix of seating options
Games and activities can be set up adjacent to the championship golf course
Filled with natural light, the grill room can be used for Mitzvah games and entertainment
This circular room with high ceilings is a perfect area for kids to let loose
For this Mitzvah with an ice hockey theme, a skating rink was built in the ballroom!
Another view of the rink with casual seating and lounge furniture on the perimeter
Skate lockers were set up next to the rink
To learn more about The Woodmere Club, please visit their extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.
March 10th, 2019
Life is Better on the Ice for Bar Mitzvah boy Jordan Freund. An avid ice hockey player since age seven, Jordan’s Bar Mitzvah theme brought to life his favorite aspects of the game. From a hockey rink dance floor, complete with penalty boxes, to NHL ticket place cards and hockey jerseys galore, this party had it all. Following a service at Community Synagogue of Rye in Rye, New York, Jordan’s guests gathered at LIFE, the place to be in Ardsley, New York where they were treated to a night of non-stop action on and off the dance floor.
Photo above (L-R): sister Brooke, mom Jackie, Bar Mitzvah boy Jordan and dad Lee. The photographer for this event was Angelica Glass. A complete list of vendors follows at the end of this spotlight.
Bar Mitzvah Service
Jordan became a Bar Mitzvah at Community Synagogue of Rye
Nervous and excited, Jordan did a fantastic job at his service
Ice Ice Baby
Jordan's invitation was designed like an NHL game ticket
From the moment guests arrived at LIFE, the place to be, Jordan's theme was front and center
Place cards were displayed on lucite stands and resembled NHL tickets
A circular light-up bar, with Jordan's logo on the floor, was the place to be during the cocktail hour
White and blue lighting created an icy vibe; the high top tables were later used in the kids' lounge
Jordan's logos were scattered throughout the cocktail hour
The blue and white theme continued into the reception with oversized balloons, draping on the ceiling and custom logos on the walls
The hockey rink dance floor was the centerpiece of the party
Penalty boxes, featuring some of Jordan's favorite brands, lined the dance floor rink
Images of Jordan playing hockey were projected on the walls
Lucite trays and votive candles added a cozy vibe to the ice theme
Close up of table centerpieces featuring photos of some of Jordan's favorite NHL players
Jordan's logo appeared on LEDs and other signage
White lounge furniture with custom pillows created a comfy space for the kids
Hockey photos of Jordan through the years captured some of his favorite on ice moments
Jordan's Grandma Carol made this unbelievable cake! She drove to NY from Chicago with all of her baking supplies and began baking the cake two days prior to the event
Sister Brooke joined Jordan for the candle lighting
The DJ kept the dance floor packed all night
Dance floor giveaways included New York Rangers jerseys, logo t-shirts, Big Baller Brand t-shirts and sweatshirts, gift cards and Apple AirPods
Party swag was stored in "The Locker Room"
Special Touches
The sign in board was framed by hockey sticks with Jordan's logo in the center
Jordan's friends surprised him with a special keepsake-- a New York Rangers flag which they all signed
An electric violinist played along with the music from the DJ
LIFE also provided an arcade
Kids (and adults!) could hit the video games when they needed a break from dancing
Everyone stopped by Jordan's Oreo Bar
Traditional, Red Velvet and Birthday Cake Oreos were among the choices
Jordan tested out the custom S'mores bar with Steven, the owner of LIFE
Guests could pick their chocolate, cookies and marshmallows... YUM!
"Dragon Popcorn" was a huge hit-- presented on dry ice, it looked like smoke was coming out of guests' mouths when they ate it
Jordan's logo was printed on custom ISlide favors
Kids took home their ISlides in logo drawstring bags
Logo water bottles were presented as guests headed home
Mitzvah Advice
“I wasn’t sure if I really needed a planner as I enjoy the planning process myself and the venue came with a planner,” says Mitzvah Mom Jackie. “But I’m thrilled that I did decide to hire my own planner, especially when it got closer to the event. She helped with so many crazy details (timeline, tipping, transportation etc…) that I hadn’t realized would make the last few weeks so incredibly busy. I was able to relax the day of the party knowing she was there and not worry about a thing!”
Mitzvah Project
Jordan sold snacks at his synagogue each week before Hebrew school. He donated the proceeds to the ASPCA as he loves animals. The family has a dog and two cats of their own.
Vendor Directory
Venue/Decor: LIFE the place to be, 914-591-4400
Event Planner/T-Shirts/Drawstring Bags: Stacey Nisenson, Full On Events, 973-800-2619
Entertainment: Total Entertainment, 201-894-0055
Photographer: Angelica Glass, 917-741-4160
Videographer: Giulianna Marie Studios, 973-835-4300
Favors: iSlide Customizable Slides, 781-352-0677
Invitations: Etched in Sloane, Sloane Zane, 201-848-6006
Sign-In Board: ShotsOnGoalHockeyFrames.com
Cake: Jordan’s Grandma, Carol David, 815-212-2204
Dresses: Roland Mouret (Mom), Zoe Ltd. (Sister), All About the Dress, 914-690-1593
Suits: Rothmans (Dad), Lubin’s (Jordan), 914-713-0300
Hair/Makeup: Rita Devlin Wolf (hair), 914-588-5471 and Valerie Guglielmo (makeup), 914-320-0944
Transportation: Country Coach Corp., 914-967-5959
March 4th, 2019
By Sophie Glaser
The first time I heard about the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, I was at dinner with my family. I was nine at the time. My parents pulled up a photo of one of our close family friends who had shaved his head to raise money and awareness for pediatric cancer. Something tugged at my heart as I watched the videos on the St. Baldrick’s website about kids with cancer and thought about the many adults in my life who were also diagnosed with cancer.
That was when I knew what I wanted to do. As my long curly hair bounced on my shoulders, I announced to my parents that I wanted to shave my head too. And so, it happened. That was just the first time.
I’ve long been involved with St. Baldrick’s, a non-profit organization that partners with kids, teens and adults to raise money for pediatric cancer research. Volunteers educate, fundraise and spread the word. They also shave their heads in solidarity with those who have lost their hair during chemotherapy treatments.
Towards the end of third grade, I shaved my head for the first time. I raised more than $12,000 for St. Baldrick’s. The fundraising took place over a month, and I wrote letters, contacted my friends and spread the news via the internet to raise awareness about the cause. It was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. That’s why, more than three years later when I was thinking about what I wanted to do for my Bat Mitzvah project, it was the first thing that came to mind.
I also wanted to give back directly to the community and do something more personal than simply raising money. So, I taught myself how to knit hats on a loom. My intention was to donate them to the kids in the pediatric oncology ward to keep their bald heads warm during the cold Connecticut winters.
In order to make the greatest number of hats possible, I taught my family and friends how to knit them too. I also taught a class at a local store where I asked my students to donate their first hat to my Bat Mitzvah project.
In the end, I donated more than 65 hats to the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. I started raising money the September before my Bat Mitzvah. I posted on Instagram and my parents’ Facebook pages, wrote letters, talked to friends and family and even spoke to students at my school about what I was doing. My goal was to raise $5,000.
On February 25th, 2017, the day of my Bat Mitzvah I had raised more than $7,000! But that wasn’t all. During my reception, as I was surrounded by family and friends, I shaved my head for the second time in my life. (This was also after I had already cut off most of it to donate to Pantene Beautiful Lengths, an organization that makes wigs for people with cancer).
Sophie at her Bat Mitzvah before she Braved the Shave!
Guests watched as Sophie did her Mitzvah Project "live!"
The end result and a contagious smile!
The room was brimming with excitement! I had my mom, dad and sister behind me as I sat in the middle of the room facing the enormous crowd of my family and friends. I felt the warmth and support of the people around me permeate the air. Underneath the cheers of my classmates and relatives, I could hear my family sniffle a little from emotion, just like they had done when I shaved my head in third grade. I cried, too, not only because I felt so lucky to be surrounded by the people who supported me, helped me and listened to me as I completed my Bat Mitzvah project, but also because of how important my Bat Mitzvah and my project was to me. Finishing it and seeing all of my hard work culminate in this wonderful event was so special; it was an emotional moment.
One of the things that I learned while doing this project is that it is important to have patience and be confident in yourself and your abilities. While I was fundraising, there would be periods where it looked like I wasn’t going to reach my initial goal. That just made me work even harder, and I surpassed my goal by $2,000. This project also helped me increase my social skills, as I often had to introduce myself to strangers and talk to them about the cause.
This project meant a lot to me, and it really made my Bat Mitzvah special. The support I got from my family and friends on the day of my Bat Mitzvah was overwhelming, and I feel so lucky that I was able to complete my project surrounded by them. My project proves that anyone, anywhere, can help others. I took something as simple as knitting hats and turned it into a long-term project that positively affected my community. When I donated those hats, I felt such a sense of accomplishment and pride.
Shaving my head in solidarity with those who have cancer connected me to them. It helps to break down the stereotypes that come with a bald head; associations of sickness and masculinity. It also empowers me, and others, to take action and help people in any way possible. Hair, to me, is a form of expression, and I feel like there is no better expression than of support and solidarity.
In the months after my Bat Mitzvah, many people asked me why I was bald. When I told them about my project, I helped spread awareness about pediatric cancer and helped point them in the direction of a great organization that helps people around the world. I hope that I can continue my work with the St. Baldrick’s Foundation in the future, whether it is by helping them fundraise, raising awareness or by shaving my head again.
Sophie Glaser is in the 9th grade at Phillips Academy Andover. She lives in West Hartford, Connecticut. Find out more about St. Baldrick’s Foundation, stbaldricks.com and Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, connecticutchildrens.org
Read more about Sophie’s Bat Mitzvah Celebration.
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March 3rd, 2019
For Cassidy Jane Paget’s Bat Mitzvah, guests were asked to “Come Join The Party!,” a tagline the Bat Mitzvah girl came up with herself, cleverly incorporating her initials. This celebration also featured metallic hues, modern decor, and high dress expectations (which did not disappoint!) as Cassidy’s mom Julie co-owns All About The Dress in Armonk, New York. Following the Havdalah Service at Temple Shaaray Tefila in Bedford Corners, New York, family and friends headed to the party at Brae Burn Country Club in Purchase, New York. Event planner Sandi Z from Revolution Events, created a fresh, sophisticated backdrop using silver Mylar balloons to cover the ceiling and walls, dramatic calla lily centerpieces and plenty of activities to keep the party going all night long.
The photographer for this event was Todd Shapera Photography. A complete vendor list follows at the end of this Spotlight.
The evening started with a beautiful Havdalah Service
Cassidy captivated the audience with her confidence and excitement
The Paget family (L-R)- brother Brian, mom Julie, Bat Mitzvah girl Cassidy and dad Adam
Cassidy had several wardrobe changes for her celebration. This first look, by Jovani, was for her Bat Mitzvah service
A brushed metallic invitation gave guests a hint of the color palette for the celebration
Modern Elegance
For the place card table, event planner Sandi Z had Lucite cards cut by a plastic vendor and then sent them to a calligrapher. They were assembled with gold card holders
Vessels of calla lilies, gold chargers and white goblets created focal points on the tables, while a large mirrored bar was built opposite the dance floor
A combination of round and rectangular tables with different centerpieces and linens mixed things up
The colors were silver and gold with pops of blue
CJP, ‘Come Join the Party’ logos by FabuDesigns.com, and metallic silver lounge furniture kept the room looking modern
A silver Mylar balloon installation hung from the ceiling
The wall of Mylar balloons and mirrors created a WOW! moment behind the stage
Cassidy entered the ballroom in a custom silver halter dress with a multitude of gold & clear Swarovski crystals
After her big entrance, the dancers surrounded Cassidy and one of the designers of the dress, Jesus Estrada, removed her ball gown skirt for a dramatic reveal of the third dress which was short with a double skirt trimmed in horse hair
The Paget family enjoyed every minute of their celebration
Julie's dress was a collaboration with designers Jesus and Antonio Estrada. They incorporated tulle details in a fun and sophisticated way so that she would coordinate with her daughter but not look like a Bat Mitzvah girl
MC Mannee kept the music and energy going all night so the dance floor was crowded with both kids and adults; guests also loved the "marathon" Hora!
Special Touches
Mom Julie found this mirror on Overstock.com and planner Sandi Z personalized it with a gold decal. The result? A unique sign-in board in keeping with the event decor
During the cocktail hour, the kids were kept busy with activities including this Urban Hoops pop-a-shot...
... and a neon photo booth
Guests danced their Cass Off! all night long on this custom floor decal
Cassidy's logo was splashed across favors including these buttery soft two-tone gray raglan hooded sweatshirts with gold foil printing for the girls... and lightweight hooded shirts with navy and blue print for the boys. Dance floor giveaways included cozy distressed shorts with a CJP logo and super soft T-shirt’s that said “Dance Your Cass Off”
Custom graffiti neck pillows were made for each of Cassidy's friends
When the party ended, guests came out to see this incredible wall of 400 homemade glitter donuts. Coffee and hot chocolate were also provided in ‘to go’ cups
Mitzvah Advice
“Try not to control the process too much,” suggests mom Julie. “Do your initial planning by reserving your venue and all of your service providers (ie.photographer, DJ/MC, florist, party planner if you are hiring one) far in advance. Then you can sit tight for a while.” As the owner of a dress boutique, Julie says, “Start shopping for your daughter’s dress(es) about 5 months in advance of the party and if you have an early fall Mitzvah take the summer months out of the equation as most girls go to camp. Many off-the-rack dresses have long lead times as they are made overseas and you need to allow approximately five weeks’ time for alterations.”
“The last 2 months prior to the party is when the hard work kicks in,” says Julie. “After mailing your invitations, you start to get your numbers and can order favors, plan your menu and do your seating chart. Also, the end is when you will nail down the entertainment, pick special music, write you candle lighting and Mitzvah speeches. There will be stressful moments but try to keep your wits about you and remember that the party is just a result (or casualty) of the actual event that you are celebrating, which is the Mitzvah. Keep Jewish values in mind and always be kind to your service providers and vendors.”
Mitzvah Project
Cassidy was interested in helping the sick for her Mitzvah Project and wanted to do something to aid cancer research and help find cures since cancer has touched her family. She raised over $2,500 for the Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Research and she participated in a Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk. Cassisdy also volunteered at the A Cure in Our Lifetime spring benefit, which supports breast cancer research, and she volunteered and modeled at a children’s cancer benefit luncheon.
Vendor Directory
The following vendors helped to make Cassidy’s night very special. If you contact them, please tell them you read about their business on Mitzvah Market.
Venue: Brae Burn Country Club Contact, 914-761-8300
Event Planning/Music/Entertainment/Decor/Lighting/Favors/Airbrushing/Place Cards/Donut Wall/Security: Sandi Z/Revolution Events, 914-661-0752
Photographer: Todd Shapera Photography, 914-631-8353
Logos/Graphics: FabuDesigns.com, Amy Wohl, 312-513-1698
Invitations: Jillian Pohly Stationery & Gifts, 917-882-2716
Flowers: Joseph Richard Florals, 914-273-3361
Sign-In Board: Mirror purchased from Overstock.com, logo decal provided by event planner
Donuts: Beascakes Bakery & Breads, 914-273-3612
Dresses: Jovani (Cassidy’s service dress) and Custom designs for party by Jesus and Antonio Estrada, All About the Dress, 914-219-5300
Custom Bedazzled Sneakers: Solemates exclusively for All About the Dress, 914-219-5300
Suits/Men’s Furnishings: Family Britches, 914-238-8017 (suits) and Neiman Marcus
Hair/Makeup: Be Gorgeous, Tsvia Goldberg 914-450-8049 (makeup) and Hott Blowdry Bar, Samantha, 914-273-0020 (hair)
Transportation: Leros Point to Point, 1-800-825-3767 (Mitzvah family) and Chappaqua Transportation, 914-238-4404 (buses for kids)
