January 18th, 2018
Debbie’s Designs created a chic Bat Mitzvah at The Hangar located within the Essex County Airport in Fairfield, New Jersey. The Bat Mitzvah girl Jacqueline, whose initials are JL loves the design of the Hamsa and the team worked with tones of pink and blue incorporating “Just Live, Just Laugh, Just Love” as her tagline. From the minute guests walked in, they were WOWED!
Pictured above the custom gift box. The photographer was At Home Studios.
Party Venue and Room Decor
The venue is an empty airport hangar so here is the before shot
The after... what a transformation! The event space, The Hangar, is a unique and fun setting within a regional airport. The room was lit up in pink with touches of blue
There was a mix of round and rectangular tables
The border of the table linens included the tagline, "Just Live, Just Laugh, Just Love." What a great decor element!
The kids' bar was wrapped with a great picture of Jacqueline taken from her pre-shoot
Beautiful floral arrangements placed on the adult tables
Special Party Details
The sign-in board
The seating chart
Candle Lighting display
Party Inspiration
Guests loved the inspirational quotes
Fun quotes were displayed in cube centerpieces for the cocktail hour
The tagline, "Just Live, Just Laugh, Just Love", incorporated the Bat Mitzvah girl's initials
We thank Debbie’s Design for sharing this great party with our readers.
Decor: Debbie’s Designs; Venue: The Hangar; Event Planner/Day of Party Coordination: Fred Fogg Productions; Music Entertainment: Heart & Soul Productions/Entertainment featuring DJ Andreas Potossis and MC Mike; Lighting: C&C Special Event Productions; Event Photography and Video: At Home Studios; Off Premise Catering: Two Men And an Appetite
January 16th, 2018
Lighter Than Air Events, a party decorating company on Long Island, had so much fun working on Sophie’s Bat Mitzvah. The teen is multi-talented and has a diverse variety of interests. Therefore, it was difficult to focus on just one thing. The celebration became “Sophie’s Story” and incorporated all the guest of honor’s many passions and interests like painting, sports, science, baking, eating candy (of course!) and being a practical joker! The décor tied everything together with great details and spectacular personalized tabletop centerpieces. The party took place at Bridgeview Yacht Club in Island Park, New York.
Mitzvah Centerpieces
Each of her interests inspired the larger than life centerpieces and decor around the room.
This 3D painting themed centerpiece featured Sophie and some artwork
Paint tubes and brushes filled the bottom half
Sophie loves practical jokes
At the bottom of the centerpiece were fun props to joke around with
Sophie has a sweet tooth
Colorful candy filled the bottom
Sophie's an avid snowboarder. This centerpiece featured the perfect day on the slopes
The bottom was filled with ski goggles, gloves and "snow"!
The tables themselves were covered in white linens with purple napkins. Here is the puzzle themed table, another fun hobby of Sophie's
Mitzvah Special Details
Sophie's logo used throughout the party on various decor elements
The candle lighting display
Sophie's delicious cake
We thank Lighter Than Air for sharing this great Bat Mitzvah with our readers.
Decor/Logo Design/Sign-in Book/Candle Lighting Display: Lighter Than Air Events; Photographer: Newtown Photography; Venue: Bridgeview Yacht Club.
January 11th, 2018
The Weitzman family of Potomac, Maryland celebrated their son Samuel’s (Sam) Bar Mitzvah with the service and party taking place at the Bender JCC of Greater Washington in Rockville, Maryland. The “Little League Baseball” theme and logo was created by Sam’s Mom, Ali Weitzman of iSparkleEvents. There was an awesome baseball diamond dance floor, a special appearance, concession stand and amazing swag store
Pictured above: Bar Mitzvah boy Sam grabbed a seat on the bleachers before the party started.
The photographers were Maryland Photo Video and Jack Hartzman Photography.
Bar Mitzvah Decor
Sam's logo was in the shape of a baseball diamond and incorporated his initials STW. The logo was used throughout the celebration for a cohesive feel on everything from décor to swag. Logo and party colors were red, white and blue
The doors leading into the party room with "Club Level" let guests feel like they were entering a stadium
Adding to the baseball theme, a locker room was designed to hold guests' swag and coats
Guests could walk right “onto the field” with this dance floor in the shape of a baseball diamond. Sam's logo was home plate!
There was no set seating, but lots of high tops and lounge seating
The bar and grill were a great decor element. The back bar area included Sam’s logo with a menu and classic snacks
Bar Mitzvah Party Details
The family worked with Lee of Inviting Lee on the navy acrylic modern invitation
Mom Ali designed custom printed cocktail napkins
Various baseball sayings were used as signs throughout the party
Custom logo'd stir sticks
Mitzvah Ballpark Food
Kids and adults were able to order from the concession stand throughout the evening
Food was delivered "ballpark style"
The waitstaff had custom t-shirts with Sam's logo serving up some fan faves including jello shots for the adults
Bar Mitzvah DJ/Fun and Games
There was a special appearance by the iconic Lemonade Shaking Guy from Camden Yards (home of the Baltimore Orioles). He was on hand to give lemonade drinks to the adults and kids
Sam making his entrance on the shoulders of one of the dancers from Washington Talent Agency
MC Bamm Bamm got the crowd on the dance floor going!
Because the event was held at the JCC, the kids were able to hit the gym and play a fun game of dodgeball and some basketball after the service!
Mitzvah Branding and Favors
Guests left with specialty favors including hats that put the finishing touches on Sam's celebration
Camo back packs
Coffee mugs read "Grind it Out"
Fidget spinners with Sam's logos
Custom labeled water bottles
Mitzvah Exit Treat and Dessert
After the party, Captain Cookie and the Milkman greeted worn out guests with ice cream sandwiches
Baseball inspired cake pops
Sam’s Mitzvah Project
In the spring Sam planned a Mitzvah Project with two other friends for Simon’s Fund. This organization, Simon’s Fund, raises awareness about the conditions that lead to sudden cardiac arrest and death in children. The organization had people come to the community for the first time and conduct heart screenings for local teens. At the screening, for over 300 teens, there were 9 teens that needed to make a follow up visit. The organization also advocates for life-saving legislation, hosts awareness events and promotes research.
Some Advice From Mom Ali
“Plan and purchase early. It’s so much nicer to be ready to go, so you don’t have to have any last minute worries.”
Vendor Directory
The following vendors helped to make Samuel’s Bar Mitzvah special. If you give any of them a call, let them know you read about their services on MitzvahMarket.com.
Venue: Bender JCC of Greater Washington, 301-881-0100
Party Planner/Logo Design/Party Details/Favors: Mom Ali Weitzman, iSparkleEvents, 202-302-2001
Music Entertainment/Videography: MC Bamm Bamm, Washington Talent Agency, 301-762-1800
Caterer: Provisions Catering, 301-984-4411
Photographer: Maryland Photo Video, 410-982-6756/Jack Hartzman Photography, 301-762-1800
Entertainment: Lemonade Shaking Guy, 443-604-4004
Invitations: Inviting Lee, 301-646-1357
Décor: Revolution Event Design, 866-232-6326
Transportation: Martin’s Sedan & Limousine, 301-260-9393
January 4th, 2018
The Guttman family from Manalapan, New Jersey celebrated their daughter Alison’s Bat Mitzvah service at Perrineville Jewish Center in Millstone, New Jersey. There was also a party in her honor at the Grand Marquis in Old Bridge, New Jersey.
Alison loves inspirational quotes so much so that one day she left a sign on her door that read, “Free compliments, take one,” and that’s how her cool Bat Mitzvah theme developed. Mom Sheri is former event planner who did lots of research and incorporated many inspirational details throughout the party. She is also the publisher of Macaroni Kid Western Monmouth.
Pictured L-R: Mom Sheri, Bat Mitzvah girl Alison, Sister Rachel and Dad Keith.
The photographer was Veronica of VeroLuce Photography.
Logo and Theme
Mom Sheri was happy to find Ali Weitzman of iSparkle Events. She created two logos which were used throughout the party. The Bat Mitzvah girl wanted all of her favorite sayings on one logo
The second logo included the same color palette of blush, gold and white
Invitation/Service/Kippot
The family worked with Maria of Oh My Occasions creating the perfect invitation using ideas they found on Pinterest
Alison led the Bat Mitzvah service for family and friends. Here she is alongside Rabbi Schevelowitz on the bimah
The kippot were pink suede with gold trim. A hint at the party theme was included in the inscription - #inspirationAli
Bat Mitzvah Style
The Bat Mitzvah girl and her sister Rachel looked beautiful in their party dresses
These custom Converse sneakers were the perfect accessory
Both sisters had a pair to match their dresses
Delicious Bat Mitzvah Place Card Cookies
As guests entered the foyer, they walked over to the place card table and found a sweet surprise
Beautifully wrapped, each chocolate covered Oreo had a guest's name and table number from Sweet Ali's Custom Confections
Balloon Wall and Decor
There was a magnificent balloon wall along with the images VeroLuce took from the photography pre-shoot. Quite a wow statement!
The ballroom was chic and elegant. The tables were dressed to perfection with alternating centerpieces
This one featured Alison's picture alongside an inspirational quote. Gold branches, flowers and some bling completed the look
This centerpiece even had inspirational quotes hanging down from crystals
Inspiring Party Details
Guests were asked to leave inspiring messages for the guest of honor. They were displayed on this frame
Some fun details included a Snapchat Geofilter. Tent cards on the tables included Alison’s picture and were a great way to let guests know about it
The table numbers were pictures of Alison holding a poster with some of her favorite words
Custom logo'd cocktail napkins
Inspiring Signage
Kippot sign for the Bat Mitzvah service
Signage asking guests to leave Alison an inspirational note
Signage directed at the adults!
Signage in the ladies bathroom by the bathroom basket
Ali-Inspired special drink menu
Next to the basket of socks for dancing
MC Music and Interactive Entertainment
Guests had a blast dancing. MC Denver got everyone on the dance floor and there were some great giveaways!
It's Horah time!
The logo’d background for the Step-N-Repeat looked great
Guests had lots of photo fun. The real star of this picture is the family dog Cooper. Mom Sheri had pictures of Cooper's face made up so he could be included in the celebration
You Name It Tags supplied the interactive fun. Guests loved the airbrush artist. They got to choose a t-shirt or hat to be airbrushed with their name and design during cocktail hour
Fun Pop-A-Shot and air hockey games were enjoyed by guests
Mitzvah Special Moments
It Could Be Verse helped Alison write catchy poems for the candle lighting
Bat Mitzvah girl Alison and Dad Keith started dancing slowly to "It Won't Be Like This For Long" by Darius Rucker
And then jumped into "Jump On It" by the Sugar Hill Gang impressing their guests with their dance skills
Mitzvah Sweet Treats
Jenni Cakes created the elegant cake served during the party. Not only did it look fabulous, but tasted incredible
The back of the cake includes some inspirational quotes
Sweet Ali created customized Oreos with Alison's image and her logos as an end of the night treat. They were beautiful and delish!
As a surprise, the family set up an ice cream truck with Goldy's Ice Cream and shaved ice for guests to enjoy on their way out
Bat Mitzvah Re-Cap
Professional Video created a short re-cap of Alison's celebration. Watch
here
Some advice from Mom Sheri
“There’s always going to be bigger and better ways to embellish the party, but if it doesn’t make it more fun do you really need to spend money on it? Most likely nobody else is going to notice other than you. Food and music are paramount, everything else is icing on the cake. Stop and take it all in, my favorite part of the day was watching my daughter shine on the Bimah, that’s what it’s all about. If you don’t have a party planner, the day of have a close friend that knows all the details and can help you out if a problem arises, so you can still have a great time. Get a hair, tanning and makeup trial. Yes, it costs money to do this, but relativity speaking its minuscule compared to the cost of the big day. Bring a change of clothes and shoes to go home in, your feet might be crying at the end of the party. I was so happy to put on jeans and comfy shoes.”
Vendor Directory
The following vendors helped to make Alison’s Bat Mitzvah special. If you give any of them a call, let them know you read about their services on MitzvahMarket.com.
Venue: Grand Marquis, 732-679-5700
Logo Design/Step-n-Repeat Design/Photo booth Design/Geofilter: Ali Weitzman, iSparkle Events, 202-302-2001
Place Card Oreos: Sweet Ali Custom Confections, 917-714-9936
Candle Lighting Poems: Claudia, It Could Be Verse, 732-679-8093
Candle Lighting Display/Cake Table/Place Card table decor/Sign-In/Gift Box: Wendy Kandell, Way Kool Event Planning, 732-682-5096
Balloon Wall Decor: Dori, Total Party, LLC., 732-723-3555
DJ/Air Brush/Interactive Entertainment: MC Denver, You Name It Tags, 732-492-7623
Photographer: Veronica, VeroLuce Photography, 973-449-6167
Videographer: Seth, Professional Video, 973-218-0800
Cake: Jenni Cakes, 732-608-0832
Social Media/Drink Signage: Sunflower Photo Solutions, 732-740-7230
Ice Cream Truck: Danny, Goldy’s Ice Cream, 732-740-9972
Drawstring Favor Bags: Totally Promotional, 866-795-4657
Dog Picture: Build A Head, 888-412-0450
Invitation: Maria, Oh My Occasions, 908-770-3094
Mitzvah Exit Treat: Goldy’s Ice Cream
Kippot: Kippah.com, 718-435-3288
Alison and Sister Rachel’s dresses: Party Girl, 201-568-8804
Custom Sneakers: Kouture Kicks, 516-313-7335
Mom Sheri’s dress: Lola’s, 732-972-5222
Hair: Alex, Delivering Beauty, 732-861-8727
Make-Up: Tim Alan’s Chrysalis Beauty, 732-718-1144
Bus Transportation: Browntown Bus Services, 732-591-1966
December 21st, 2017
Hailey Diamond is a 6th grader at Yeshivat Noam in Bergen County, New Jersey and just celebrated her Bat Mitzvah. She is an avid reader and was very touched by reading A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park and wanted to help. The novel is about the Sudan Civil War where millions of people died and millions more had to flee for their lives to refugee camps in Ethiopia, Kenya, and other neighboring countries. Among those who fled were thousands of children, mostly boys, known as “The Lost Boys of Sudan.” Salva Dut was one of those boys and relocated to the United States in 1996. He now leads Water for South Sudan, the non-profit organization he founded in 2003.
Pictured Above: Hailey Diamond at her Bat Mitzvah.
MM: Why did you take on this particular Mitzvah Project?
HD: In my school book club, I read the book “A Long Walk to Water” by Linda Sue Park, about the challenges many people face in the area of Sudan. I was so surprised to hear about how people live. While we can turn on our faucets and get clean drinking water, life in the Sudan is very different. For much of the year, the land is dry and people have to leave their homes and families behind, and women and children are forced to walk hours every day to collect water. The water they find is often dirty and many people die from the water or the trek to get water. This demanding, time-intensive regimen makes getting an education difficult, if not impossible. This is why most children and especially women in South Sudan do not even have an elementary education. According to Salva Dut, “Where safe, clean water flows, education, economic development, and health spring up. Safe water brings new hope and opportunities to South Sudan’s people, empowering them to change their lives.” I wanted to help them. Things are improving as of May 2017, Water for South Sudan has successfully drilled 304 borehole wells, bringing clean, safe water to hundreds of thousands of people in South Sudan.
MM: Can you give us details of your Mitzvah Project?
HD: My mom Stefanie and I contacted Water for South Sudan (their headquarters are in New York), and launched a fundraising page where every dollar raised goes towards the cause. I sent an email to family and friends describing the situation in South Sudan and asking for donations. Then I launched a party business and I donate the money I make from working at local birthday parties. I have just reached $2,800!!
MM: In your own words, what does it mean to you to do a Mitzvah Project for your Bat Mitzvah?
HD: Water is usually something we take for granted. It takes me only a few seconds to get water from my sink. But in the book, we meet an 8-year-old girl named Nya who walks 8 hours a day, every day, just to get a little bit of bad, contaminated water. When I finished the book, I just wanted to help in any way I could. I thought I needed to raise to a lot of money to make an impact, but I read on their Website that small amounts make a huge difference, even $10 can change a life, so I launched my campaign. I had the honor of meeting Salva. He thanked me for feeling motivated by his story and taking it upon myself to help. He said “Hailey, it is because we have kids like you, who care about others, that the world is still spinning. Our purpose is to help others, and we are so grateful to you and proud of everything you’ve done.”
Hailey with Water for Sudan founder Salva Dut. Upon meeting him Hailey said, “It felt amazing and empowered to change other people’s lives, and it feels even better that I don’t know them personally.”
MM: How long and how can people donate to this charity?
HD: This issue may not directly affect you or me, but that’s what makes it all the more important. It’s our job to make the world a better place, and we need to start with empathy. Caring about people we don’t know and helping improve their quality of life will change the world. I have raised $1,600 to date, and plan on continuing even once my Bat Mitzvah is over. I have spoken to 5th and 6th graders at SAR Academy about my project and will do a presentation for the 6th grade class at my school, Yeshivat Noam. My ultimate goal is to dig a well, even if it takes me the next 20 years to do so.
I have spoken to 5th and 6th graders at SAR Academy about my project
Book club teacher Margi Saks with Hailey
We thank Hailey and her family for sharing her great Bat Mitzvah Project with our readers and wish her much success in reaching her goal and Mazel Tov on her Bat Mitzvah!
To donate to Hailey’s Bat Mitzvah project, visit her fundraising page at or email stefdiamond@gmail.com and Stefanie will direct you to the link.
December 18th, 2017
Designer Event Chicago, a luxury event planning firm, knows that sometimes you don’t need to look further than the name of the guest of honor for a Mitzvah theme.
Event planners Katie Goggin and Lindsay Stein Cohen used the Bat Mitzvah girl’s first name, Macy, as their inspiration. They incorporated both New York City and the Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade into a party that had amazing details. This celebration was held at Morgan Manufacturing an event space in Chicago, Illinois but guests were “transported” to New York City for the night and given an experience they would never forget.
The photographer was Tell Draper Photography.
Room Decor Details
The logo was featured throughout the party, including as an over-sized dance floor decal
Decor was festive with a red, white and blue color palette
The Macy's inspired logo was placed all around the venue
The dance floor set up left no doubt who the guest of honor was
Table names were New York City iconic landmarks. The kids sat at Madison Square Garden
Big Apple Party Details
Apples were used throughout the party. Guests took and ate their place cards
The centerpieces for the cocktail tables were scooped out apples with votive candles inside
We love that the theme was carried into the bathroom
New York City Inspired Desserts and Mitzvah Exit Treats
Towards the end of the night, guests enjoyed a variety of New York style desserts
Yummy cupcakes with the logo
Treats from Dylan's Candy Bar
Yummy cronuts decorated with taxis, the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty were created by Chef Dominique Ansel
Cute packaging for the potato chips
Big Apple Mitzvah Favors
Macy's guests went home with great logo'd sweatshirts
And comfy flip flops and logo'd socks to enjoy on their way home
We thank Katie Goggin and Lindsay Stein Cohen of Designer Event Chicago for sharing this beautiful celebration with our readers.
Event Planner/Sweets Table: Designer Event Chicago; Photographer: Tell Draper Photography; Venue: Morgan Manufacturing; Décor: HMR Designs; Caterer: Entertaining Company; Entertainment: HYPE Productions
December 14th, 2017
Pantone has announced the color of the year for 2018 and it’s…Ultra Violet. Pantone is the company that nearly everyone turns to when it comes to color trends. Each year they pick a “color of the year,” which is found not only in decorating trends but in fashion and event planning.
The 2018 color of the year follows 2017’s “Greenery,” a grassy fresh, revitalizing shade that reflected new beginnings. Look for “Ultra Violet” in a variety of party details at an upcoming Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah celebration soon. You might have seen it already because many of our families are trend setters! Here are some of the ways they incorporated this beautiful color into their Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah celebrations this year.
This beautiful Bat Mitzvah girl is a vision in violet. See more from this celebration
here
The Event Of A Lifetime designed a celebration based on the Bat Mitzvah girl's favorite color of purple. See more from this celebration
here
The Tarlie family used purple in their logo and party elements. See more from this celebration
here
Purple up lighting was featured at this South Beach Themed Bat Mitzvah celebration. See more from this celebration
here
The Keyes family worked with Pioneer Announcements to create a unique invitation that wowed everyone with the purple crocodile outside. See more from this celebration
here
Each floral centerpiece included vibrant shades of purple flowers and a fashion and candy element. See more from this celebration
here
Send us photos of your Ultra Violet touches from your child’s 2018 Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah celebration. We can be reached at info@mitzvahmarket.com.
December 14th, 2017
The Goldfine family of Wayne, New Jersey celebrated son Spencer’s Bar Mitzvah service and reception at Waterside Restaurant and Catering in North Bergen, New Jersey. They were lucky to have the most perfect weather! The ceremony was held outdoors on the water, overlooking the breathtaking views of the New York City skyline. Spencer loves sports and the theme incorporated that. Mitzvah Market featured older sister Melissa’s Broadway themed Bat Mitzvah a few years ago.
Pictured L-R: Mom Hali, Bar Mitzvah boy Spencer, Sister Melissa and Dad Marc.
Gary Flom Photography was the photographer and the rest of the vendor information is listed at the bottom of the spotlight.
Spectacular Bar Mitzvah Service
Guests were captivated by the picturesque view and the outdoor service overlooking the Hudson River and New York City skyline
Spencer did a great job reciting his prayers and leading the service
Picture perfect!
Spencer made a personalized Yad with his Hebrew name that he used for the service
Mom Hali created personalized service programs that guests loved
Bar Mitzvah Decor
The logo of the Bar Mitzvah boy captured the theme perfectly
The party color scheme was blue and green. The logo'd gift box in the background was made by Dad Marc
Accents like the custom ticket place cards added to the sports theme. Tables were named after Spencer's favorite teams
The eye catching balloons added a pop of color against the white linens and walls
Cubed logo'd centerpieces by Balloon Artistry
Special Party Details
The family worked with Marina Borukhovich of A Paperie
Dad Marc created the awesome wooden logo which was placed on the sign-in board
Candle lighting display
Music and Entertainment
Spencer making his big entrance on the shoulders of one of the dancers
The team at More Than Music, led by MC Jared, made sure everyone was on the dance floor having a wonderful time
Spencer doing his thing
Spencer's friends got into the action too!
Bar Mitzvah Special Moments
Spencer dancing with Mom Hali
Sister Melissa dancing with Dad Marc
Bar Mitzvah Interactive Fun
Spencer had fun activities for guests. Airgraphics Entertainment created a great airbrush station that was a big hit
Guests personalized their hats
Each hat was embroidered with "Spencer's Sports Spectacular"
Photo fun!
Mitzvah Favor and Treats
Favor-It! created sports pinnie favors with Spencer's logo. They were tagged so guest could pick them up at the end of the night
Spencer wanted cake pops, not a cake. These sweet treats are from Sweet Pleasures By Phyllis
The color coordinated candy buffet
Mitzvah Project
Spencer made and sold dog toys out of old t-shirts to raise money for his sister Melissa’s Special Olympics’ swim team, Team Limitless. He raised so much money that the team was able to get personalized team towels. Spencer had a few toys left over and brought them to the local animal shelter so the dogs there could have some toys too.
Team Limitless, a Special Olympics swim team with Spencer's sister Melissa in the center
Handmade dog toys
Vendor Information
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/Caterer: Waterside Restaurant and Catering, 201-861-7767
Party Planner/Personal Service Program: Mom Hali Goldfine
Gift Box: Dad Marc Goldfine
Music/MC: Jared Levine, More Than Music, 516-626-9400
Photographer: Gary Flom Photography, 862-684-7077
Favor Pinnies: Michelle Wickwire, Favor-It!, 973-715-1015
Balloon Decor: Balloon Artistry, 845-352-7916
Embroidered Baseball Caps: Lori Bullard, JW Shirtworks, 843-769-0724
ColorSplash Photo Booth and Airbrush Entertainment: Airgraphics Entertainment, 973-865-4647
Invitation: A Paperie, Marina Borukhovich, 973-633-5856
Cake Pops/Candy Buffet: Sweet Pleasures By Phyllis, 201-341-7154
Mom Hali’s party dress: Nicole Miller, Lord & Taylor
Sister Melissa’s party dress: Adrianna Papell, Nordstrom
Spencer and Dad’s party clothes: Robert’s Tuxedos, 973-256-3849
Makeup: Erica Ferraro, 201-401-3349
Hair: Daniela Vitale, 973-462-1579
December 7th, 2017
Michelle Farber of M. Studio Events created a one-of-a-kind Bar Mitzvah, giving the family and their guests the country club experience. The actual venue, Current NYC/Chelsea Piers located in New York City, was transformed into “Ben Oaks Country Club” for the evening. The decor done by Geo Events even included an amazing “pool” dance floor.
Terri Diamond was the photographer.
Bar Mitzvah Decor
The dance floor created quite a splash! It was completely transformed into a pool, with a life guard chair, lounge furniture, pool floats and even swimmers!
To continue the "country club" theme, these lounge chairs were the perfect spot to hang out
Turf and tennis lines were placed on the floor to give it the feel of a tennis court
So clever! We love how the Bar Mitzvah boy's name was incorporated into the bar signage
In the main room, there was a white lounge area that suited the theme perfectly
Special Party Touches
Volleyball and dancing took place on the custom "pool" dance floor
There were a few versions of custom pillows placed around the room
Even the clock had that "Par-tee" feel
Branded Shirts
GEO Event dancers changed into many branded t-shirts fitting in with the theme. Here they are as "lifeguards"
Glow in the dark neon t-shirts
T-shirt giveaways were fun on the dance floor
We thank Michelle Farber, M. Studio Events and the Siegel family for sharing this amazing Bar Mitzvah with our readers.
Event Planning/Branding: Michelle Farber, M. Studio Events; Photography: Terri Diamond Photography; Decor: Geo Events; Venue: Current NYC/Chelsea Piers;
DJ/Games: Total Entertainment
December 4th, 2017
The Kratchman family celebrated son Emery’s Bar Mitzvah at The Heldrich Hotel, in New Brunswick, New Jersey. His love of video games became the theme and inspired everything from the place cards, centerpieces, and room decor, to the montage, favors and exit treats. There were some really unbelievable special touches!
The photographer was Jeremy Messler and the rest of the vendor information is listed at the end of the spotlight.
Bar Mitzvah Invitation
Guests were wowed by the invitation which had the perfect balance of showcasing the theme with using different video game fonts but also had a masculine and elegant design
Dad Jarrett designed the back of the invitation which was then grayed out and used as the envelope liner as well. Every font used is a different video game font. The font used for Emery’s name on the back of the envelope was the one similar to the WWE video game font
Emery's first and last name on the clever RSVP card
Custom stamps from Zazzle.com
Bar Mitzvah Logos
Emery had two logos, both designed by Dad Jarrett, that were used throughout the party. The first one looked like a video game rating with a large "E" appearing in a rectangular box
The second logo was Emery’s initials "EMK" made out of video game remote controllers. Here it is being used as a Gobo on the wall
The combination of both logos looked great on the step-n-repeat which Xtreme Event Group created
Bar Mitzvah Service
Emery did a great job reciting his Haftorah and prayers, making his family so proud. Pictured L-R: Brother Logan, Mom Koren, Bar Mitzvah boy Emery, Dad Jarrett and Sister Alyson
The yarmulkes were gray with a slight pattern. Inside there was a line that read “Game On” in English and Hebrew. The invitation was displayed in a frame next to the yarmulkes
The head coverings for the service were made by Mom Koren, sister Alyson and Mom's friends Alyson and Melissa. They had a gray bow with a Jewish star
Emery's grandparents Paula and Irwin Miller presenting the tallis to him that they bought in Israel
Bar Mitzvah Style
Emery wore a white tuxedo jacket, gray vest, black pants and white/black shoes. He also wore a video game bow tie for the first part of the evening
A fun accessory was his remote control cufflinks
After the candle lighting ceremony, the men in the family changed to superhero bow ties
Mitzvah Now and Then
The photo on the left is from sister
Alyson's Bat Mitzvah which we featured back in 2015! The family recreated their pose on the right at Emery's celebration
Bar Mitzvah Place Cards
The place cards were DVD video game cases with edible chocolate discs inside. Dad Jarrett created the display making Emery’s name in remote controls
Every table was a different video game
Dad Jarrett designed each "video game" place card. The front was a game cover with the guests’ names on the top
The back looked just like the back of a video game case but included Emery in the photos
The chocolate game disc inside the place card DVD case, created by Classic Cake, had either a Pac-Man or Donkey Kong design. 1UP represented the date (09092017) and 2UP represented the Bar Mitzvah year for Emery’s younger brother Logan (002021)
Bar Mitzvah Decor
The centerpieces included all of Emery's favorite games. Here is a close-up of the Pac-Man themed table centerpiece
The WWE table centerpiece incorporated pictures of Emery meeting various WWE superstars
The Donkey Kong table
Emery's guests sat on the left side of the ballroom at the "Mario Brothers" themed tables
The kids' table was shaped in the letter "E" for the guest of honor
Special Party Touches
The adult tables had a large chocolate box that had a video game remote control “handle” on the top. The boxes were filled with nuts, mints and chocolate covered fruit for the guests to enjoy and were created by Classic Cake
Out of town hotel guests received goody bags filled with water and treats. The bags were black with Emery's logo on it
Hershey Kisses wrapped in organza created by Mom Koren were in each goody bag
Emery’s sign-in door had a large “E” logo in the center and some video game character stickers on the bottom
Bar Mitzvah Montage
Dad Jarrett, Mom Koren, and Emery all worked on the montage. They used themes from “Modern Family,” “The Amazing Race,” “Fresh Prince of Bel Air,” and “The Late Show.” They even put in a very short Socker Bopper’s commercial!
Watch Emery’s Montage here
Music and Candle Lighting Ceremony
Each family member made their entrance to a video game theme. Here is Emery coming into the ballroom to the "Mortal Kombat" theme song
The Bar Mitzvah boy also celebrated with a traditional Horah and chair lift
Emery surrounded by his friends during his candle lighting ceremony
Bar Mitzvah Cake
Dad Jarrett designed Emery’s Bar Mitzvah cake on paper and Classic Cake did an absolutely amazing job bringing it to life! The bottom part was gaming system consoles created using fondant that were standing up
On top of the consoles stood stacks of Emery’s favorite video games and Emery’s name spelled out in video game controllers. All edible!
Mitzvah Exit Treat
The candy bar was made to look like a video game shop with movie box sized candies
Emery’s friends received gray hooded sweatshirts that had the remote control EMK logo on the front and the big “E” logo on the back
The adults got 3 different remote control cookies to take home- Wii remote, PlayStation and Xbox
Brooklyn Seltzer Boys set up an amazing seltzer and egg cream bar
Seltzer Bar specialty signage using the family's last name
Bar Mitzvah Favors
Emery modeling his sweatshirt favor that his friends received at the end of the evening. The front corner had one logo
The other logo looked awesome on the back
Bar Mitzvah Project
For Emery’s Mitzvah project, he chose to support the Clean Crayon Collection in memory of Taylor Barta, an 8-year-old boy who went to school with Emery’s younger brother Logan. Taylor was diagnosed with Stage IV Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma in 2014 at the age of 6 and bravely fought this disease for 2 years until succumbing to it in 2016. He was an amazing artist. The Barta family set up a collection for brand new 8-pack boxes of Crayola crayons. Emery’s original goal was to collect 300 packs of crayons. Within 3 days, he received 600 packs of crayons!! Due to the generosity of friends and family, he ended up collecting an incredible 1,570 packs of crayons! Awesome Emery!
The Barta family told Emery that he gave them the biggest crayon donation to date!!
Some planning Advice From Mom Koren
“Plan in advance – the sooner, the better!! This was our second time planning a Mitzvah, so we knew the work that was involved. We started early and had everything in order well in advance of the week before the party. The more organized you are, the better off you will be. I had spreadsheets for everything…from the invite list to the favors to the seating arrangements to which photos we wanted to take on the day of the event. The more you can do in advance and prepare, the smoother the day will run so that you can enjoy yourself! I also kept notes from our first Mitzvah to use as a reference. This came in handy so that we could look back to see what type of food we had ordered for the Kiddush luncheon, how many dancers we had used, how much candy we should get for the candy bar, etc.”
Vendor Directory
Venue: Galina Bayok, The Heldrich Hotel, 732-729-4670
Party Planner/DIY Decor/Montage: Koren & Jarrett Kratchman
Music Entertainment/MC/Photo Booth/Step-N-Repeat: Scott Present & MJ Navara, Xtreme Event Group, 732-536-8155
Photographer: Jeremy Messler, 609-980-5082
Videographer: Mitch Reisbord, Reisbord Video, 609-426-9898
Logo/Place Cards/Invitation Back/Cake Design: Dad, Jarrett Kratchman
Invitations/Favors: Dana Kaufman, by Dana, 732-625-1471
Chocolate DVDs/Mitzvah Exit Treat Cookies/Cake/Chocolate Treat Boxes: Kristina & Emily, Classic Cake, 856-751-5448
Décor/Candy Set-Up/Sign-In: Wendy Kandell, WayKool Events, 732-682-5096
Mitzvah Exit Candy: Mom Koren Kratchman
Mom Koren’s Service Dress: Nordstrom (Xscape); Party Dress: Dream Dresses (Ivonne D by Mon Cheri), 732-607-1112
Sister Alyson’s Service Dress: Nordstrom (Betsy Adam); Party Dress: Group USA (Camille La Vie), 908-351-0909
Bar Mitzvah Boy Emery’s Tuxedo/Dad Jarrett and Brother Logan’s Suits: Clothing Center, 732-254-0870
Service Hair/Makeup: Tina Marie, Salon V.I.P., 732-521-2700
Party Hair for Mom Koren and Sister Alyson: Spa at The Heldrich, 732-729-4670
Reception Makeup: Kelly Cunningham, 908-803-8203
Seltzer Bar: Alex Gomberg, Brooklyn Seltzer Boys, 718-649-0800
Superhero Bowties: Tie Game,etsy.com
Video Game Bowties: BowTie Yakut, etsy.com
Video Game Remote Control Cufflinks: Cuff-Daddy, 888-808-9944
