March 4th, 2010
If you are in the process or are about to decide your Mitzvah menu or even if you are just a foodie, you will want to keep reading! Ever wonder what foods are passe and what are the latest trends?
We have a Mitzvah Catering Expert, Cheryl Kahn-Brocco, who is the Director of Catering for The Glazier Group.
She is telling us about the latest catering and party trends that you will want to know! Cheryl has extensive experience in hospitality and oversees one-of-a-kind events for her clients at Bridgewaters, Twenty Four Fifth in New York City and The Reach Resort, Key West, Florida.
Here are Cheryl’s “What’s Hot” and “What’s Not” in catering and party trends for 2010:
WHAT’S HOT: Fried Chicken vs. WHAT’S NOT: Sliders
WHAT’S HOT: Organic, Sustainable, Local Foods vs. WHAT’S NOT: Processed, Frozen or Imported Food
WHAT’S HOT: Donating A Portion of Your Mitzvah Gelt To Charity vs. WHAT’S NOT: Frivolous Spending
WHAT’S HOT: St. Germain Cocktails vs. WHAT’S NOT: Cosmopolitans
WHAT’S HOT: Short Ribs vs. WHAT’S NOT: Rack Of Lamb
WHAT’S HOT: Airbrushed Converse Sneakers vs. WHAT’S NOT: Airbrushed Boxers
WHAT’S HOT: Lounge Seating vs. WHAT’S NOT: Assigned Seating
WHAT’S HOT: Email RSVP vs. WHAT’S NOT: Response cards sent via the mail
WHAT’S HOT: Woopie Pies vs. WHAT’S NOT: Chocolate Fountains
WHAT’S HOT: Root Beer Floats vs. WHAT’S NOT: Frozen Daiquiris
Thanks Cheryl – now we are all in the know! For more information on the venues Cheryl represents, visit The Glazier Group.
March 3rd, 2010
Disney started it’s “Give a Day, Get a Disney Day” program to inspire one million people to volunteer just one day of their time in their community.
The promotion is focused on family-friendly volunteer opportunities and is a great way to give your family and Mitzvah child some inspiration to volunteer.
You must pre-register before you do the volunteering. Any volunteer (6 years and older) who gives a day of service to a participating organization earns 1 free day at the Disney park of their choice!
The program started on January 1, 2010 and will continue until December 15, 2010, or until the tickets are all distributed, whichever happens first.
All tickets must be redeemed by December 15, 2010.
February 26th, 2010
Are you or your child a fan of MTV’s hit show Jersey Shore?
It seems that the latest reality stars are now taking appearance fees to attend events and parties around the country. According to Eonline the show’s cast members are now accepting appearance fees to attend parties and events.
Apparently, Mike (aka The Situation) and Pauly D are the most sought after, so they’re asking the highest price, $7,500 each. Snookie on the other hand is much more affordable; she’s only asking $2,000 plus transportation. Ronnie and Vinnie want $3,500 to show up at your Mitzvah while Jenni (J-Woww) requests around $5,000.
You can’t make this stuff up!
February 26th, 2010
Daniel Rosengard is a 14-year-old originally from East Brunswick, N.J., who now lives in Texas. Although he is a typical teen in many ways, he likes ice hockey, sports and current events, unlike most teens he is also a published author.
Danny decided that for his Mitzvah Project he would write a book that would help children better understand Autism. Before his family moved to San Antonio, Rosengard was best friends with Adam Scharfman, whose younger brother, Matt, had been diagnosed with severe autism.
Pictured left to right: Daniel Rosengard, Matt and Adam Scharfman.
Through years of countless playdates, Danny came to learn firsthand what the disability does and how it can affect families. His book, “The ABC’s of Autism” was self-published by his mom, Susan Young. The book has been donated, not sold, to schools and libraries in San Antonio and in East Brunswick.
We spoke with Danny to learn first-hand about his project:
MM: Can you give us the details of your Mitzvah Project?
DR: I wanted to write a book about Autism because when I lived in New Jersey my best friend’s brother Matt had Autism. I spent a lot of time with them. Many kids don’t understand Autism because they are not around it.
MM: In your own words, what does it mean to you to do a Mitzvah Project for your Bar Mitzvah?
DR: I wanted elementary school kids to know what Autsim is and how it affects people. I dedicated the book to Matthew. I wrote: This book is dedicated to my friend Matthew, who has taught me that everything happens for a reason. At my Bar Mitzvah, I presented the book to my Rabbi who also has a daughter with Autism.
Danny’s has gained a lot of attention from his book, he is admired by Eva Longoria and the local ABC affiliate did a segment about him. Check the video out here.
If you would like to purchase Daniel’s book The ABC”s of Autisim, please click here. For information on Autism click here.
Danny, Adam and Matt are still in touch and Danny flew up to New Jersey last year to attend Matt’s Bar Mitzvah. We would like to thank Daniel for writing this wonderful book and sharing his experience with our Mitzvah Market readers.
February 10th, 2010
Here is another example of our Mom-to-Mom advice here at Mitzvah Market!
A special thanks to Mitzvah Mom Randi for writing in about something she’s been seeing at many a Mitzvah…Candy Buffets. It inspired us to write this feature in honor of Valentine’s Day. We’re excited to bring you some eye candy treats!
Candy buffets/bars, candy stations and candy themes are very popular and can add something new to your decor. As an added bonus, they can also serve as your favor! You can find them in all sizes from small to over the top.
When people walk into a room and see a huge display of candy in beautiful glass jars there is definitely a wow factor. It allows guests to be interactive because they get to pick out what they want and can enjoy their treats right away or save them for later. Below are some pictures to inspire you with your candy buffet:
Your candy theme can start with an invitation like this one above from Party411.com, which took Dylan’s Candy Bar. To learn more about Party411.com and see more of their theme ideas, visit their extended Vendor Directory profile page.
Lollipops can also be great as placecards
Beautiful Day Events coordinated the linen to go along with the candy theme
A delicious centerpiece from www.party411.com
A Mardi Gras Theme Candy Buffet from event Planner Jackie Sorkin
Another beautiful display from Jackie Sorkin
Talk about eye candy, this one is from Art of the Party in Orlando, Florida
Here are some tips when planning a candy buffet:
* Don’t skimp, think of your candy buffet as a decorative element and focus on creating a display that looks visually beautiful as well as one that tastes delicious.
* Large parties require approximately 8-10 types of candy, 15-20 pounds each.
* Have the caterer place the containers on different levels by places different sized boxes or books under the table cloth to create risers for some of the containers to sit on. This makes containers easier to reach, and makes the table look fuller.
* Buy in bulk – Candy Central offers great prices and a great selection. Check out their extended Vendor Directory profile page.
* Color makes a difference – generally, a candy buffet in coordinated colors looks much more elegant then one with colors that don’t tie-in.
* Use other decorative “filler” items on the table around the candy jars. Paper lanterns, flowers, flower petals, and picture frames are great “filler” elements.
If you have guests with special dietary restrictions like Kosher or sugar free, delicious candies can easily be included.
You can also make your own Candy Buffet. Trying finding glass cylinders on site such as usedeventstuff.com and buy candy in bulk from sites like Candy Central.
February 10th, 2010
The Horowitz triplets Alex, Kelsey and Josh celebrated their B’nai Mitzvah on December 5, 2009 at Congregation Sons of Israel in Briarcliff Manor, NY. The recipient of their Mitzvah Project was an obvious choice for these three…the hospital that took care of them when they were born prematurely. We got the chance to speak with the Horowitz family to learn more about their children’s Mitzvah Project.
(Pictured L-R Alex, Kelsey and Josh Horowitz)
MM: Why did you decide to take on this particular project/charity?
Horowitz Family: The kids chose to work with Blythedale Hospital because Alex spent 5 months there as an infant. The kids (triplets) were preemies and spent many months in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Hackensack Medical Center in New Jersey. Alex was unable to come home after 8 months in the NICU and went to Blythedale to try and get him healthy enough to come home. He turned a year old in the hospital and was finally able to go home at 13 months. The kids wanted to give back to Blythedale for taking such good care of Alex when he was a baby. We have kept in touch with some of the doctors and nurses who took care of Alex over 12 years ago.
MM: Tell us about the hospital that benefited from your Project.
Horowitz Family: Blythdale Children’s Hospital in Valhalla, NY is dedicated exclusively to the diagnosis, care and treatment of children with complex medical and rehabilitative needs.
MM: Tell us about your Mitzvah Project.
Horowitz Family: Our Mitzvah Project was done in two parts. For the first part called, “Blankets for Babies,” we put a donation box in at the Temple and sent out emails to over 500 families to collect blankets that the hospital could use for newborn babies. The hospital said they needed a fresh supply so we thought that would be good for us to do. The second thing we did was to volunteer at the hospital. We played games and read to the sick children and helped them pass the time. “I was sick there and they helped me. I just wanted to help them,” Alex said. Kelsey adds, “(The hospital) was, I guess is, part of us.” And Josh chimes in, “And it’s fun to play games there. It’s really not that much.”
The triplets celebrated their Bar/Bat Mitzvah with a festive party at Trump Naitonal in Briarcliff Manor. Look for a Mitzvah Family Spotlight on their joyous celebration soon!
We want to thank the Horowitz family for sharing their triplets Mitzvah Project with our Mitzvah Market readers.
February 3rd, 2010
JVibe.com is a Website geared toward Jewish teens aged 12 to 18, featuring the stuff teens love—pop culture, celebrity interviews, news from Israel, sports stories and info on what Jewish teens are up to around the world.
There is also a section on how other teens are helping shape their communities. JVibe’s Web site recently underwent a yearlong redesign to include more features such as blogs, contests and the magazine’s archives.
The site was honored with a Simon Rockower Award for Best Website at the recent American Jewish Press Association (AJPA) conference in Washington, D.C.
February 1st, 2010
Hello All,
This Mitzvah Family Spotlight is courtesy of the Mandell family. Their daughter Remi’s black tie Bat Mitzvah was held at The Woodmere Club and their creative theme was Hotel Remi.
The family chose this theme because they love to take vacations as a way to reconnect and enjoy some alone time. Since Remi’s celebration was going to be one of the last for her grade, they tried to incorporate new and unique ideas to keep the young guests interested. We hope their ideas will inspire you!
Pictured left: Bat Mitzvah girl Remi, her brothers Bailey and Dustin and parents Jon and Andi Mandell. All event photography was done by Ira Rosen. Reminder: All Vendor information is at the bottom.
The entire Mandell family looked great at Remi’s Bat Mitzvah. Remi’s dress was from Moonlight Couture and Mom wore a beautiful Stephen Yearick beaded gown. Her twin brothers Dustin and Bailey and Dad got their suits from Murlee.
Remi’s beautiful custom invitation was designed by Party Planner Debbie Kahn who worked closely with Mitzvah Mom Andi on all party details. The logo, an initial “R” was seen throughout the party and set the tone for all things Remi!
Remi’s invite set the stage for her fun celebration
As guests entered The Woodmere Club, they found themselves inside a hotel guest room complete with bed, dressers, chairs, bible and telephones. As an added touch, one of the dancer’s was sitting in a chair in a Hotel Remi bathrobe and matching slippers reading a travel magazine.
When guests arrive, they were greeted by Hotel Remi signage
Bat Mitzvah girl Remi at the check-in desk where guests registered and received an envelope with their table number. Also inside was a brochure which talked about all of the amenities of Hotel Remi and featured pictures of Remi at various places in her hotel
Remi strikes a beautiful pose in her “Hotel Room” lobby
Incorporating colors of hot pink and silver and using lots of white fabrics and lighting, Party Interiors owner Paul completely transformed the ballroom into a night club setting. The dance floor lit up and the kids lounge was elevated and changed colors each time it was stepped on. Instead of flowers, the room was decorated with crystal beads with many plasma TV screens placed around the room for easy viewing of zap photos and the montage.
Mini rolling suitcases were at each place setting and were filled with pink M&M’s which were available in October in celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness month
Instead of flower, crystals were used all over the room for additional sparkle
The Mandell’s used Shine Events for their musical entertainment, plasma screens and intelligent lighting. Fitting with the theme, Remi “made her entrance” via a hotel rolling luggage rack accompanied by some of the dancers in themed shirts!
Remi “makes her entrance!”
Remi’s brothers entered in suitcases!
Everyone got in on the action -the waiters, dancers, Vendors and Club employees all wore specially designed “Remi Hotel” robes
One of their many special touches was to hire an artist who painted “live” throughout the evening to capture the special memories.
Party Planner Debbie Kahn brought in an artist who worked all night and by the end of the evening, the Mandell’s had a beautiful painting to hang in their living room to always remind them of this special celebration
The kids drinks were adorned with neon “Remi” crazy straws from Krazystraws.com. Mini pink bottles of champagne were offered to adults as well as other cocktails and there were two separate cocktail rooms, one for the adults and one for the kids
Remi’s sign-in book
The Mandell’s guests enjoyed the “15 Seconds Of Fame” reality booth arranged by their party planner. As guests entered the 8 foot circle truss booth, their very own celebrity-like photo shoot, complete with professional cameras, lighting and appropriate music begins!
Remi offered her guests lots of great entertainment that also became take home favors.
Wacky Wendy entertaining a crowd with her party hats
The kids enjoyed airbrushing on flip flops and hats from Make It Snappy!
Remi proudly showing her sweatshirt favors by Holly Green from Infinity
Instead of a traditional montage, Remi’s was more like a film which showed her trying to find the perfect location for Hotel Remi. Throughout the montage she interviews family members and close friends who lobby for their place to be the new location. At the end, Remi clicks her heels and says “there’s no place like home” three times and the montage fades to The Woodmere Club and Remi is standing outside.
Remi’s Mitzvah Project was a series of projects. Her temple, Hewlett-East Rockaway Jewish Center has a youth group that was participating in a Day of Mitzvah’s. As part of that day, Remi packaged up life essentials for a battered Women’s shelter, visited a nursing home and did a craft with the residents, participated in a supermarket sweep in which each group had $25 to spend in the supermarket to buy as many non-perishable kosher items as they could and then deliver them to the soup kitchen.
In addition, Remi donated money from her Bat Mitzvah to the Justin Sheftel Scholarship Fund which ws set up in memory of her cousin Justin who was killed when a drunk driver ran him over in Ocean City, Maryland while he was participating in Senior Week having graduated High School the previous day.
Lastly, Remi planted a tree in Israel for each one of her adult guests who attended the reception and each guest received a Tree Certificate with their favor when leaving the reception.
The Mandell’s had some special touches that they have shared with Mitzvah Market.
The adult favors were travel dop kits complete with Hotel Remi, shampoo, conditioner (pictured above) and hand sanitizer
The Mandell’s purchased these dob kits as the adult favors and filled them with hotel amenities
As guests were leaving, there was a table of cookies, coffee and water bottles with a Hotel Remi label fixed to each bottle
As you can see in the picture below, even Remi’s cake was creatively made! Look closely, it’s a replica of a hotel room created by Sweet Things.
Mitzvah Mom Andi wanted to pass along some advice to our readers, “Staying organized is very important. Buy an accordion folder and keep everything related to the event in one place. As you go to other people’s affairs jot down notes on what you really liked and file it away. As a working Mom I relied heavily on my party planner Debbie Kahn, she was worth her weight in gold. Start gathering pictures for the montage and placing them in the folder. Keep track of what you are spending to keep things in control. Let your friends help you stuff invitations, organize sweatshirts, help with the bathroom basket, etc. Keeping perspective is really important. The people who love you and your family will have a great time no matter what you do so in the end don’t stress over everything. Enjoy the moment and the fact that everyone you love will be in the room with you, that’s what is most important. Ask a good friend to bring a camera so you will have some pictures for the next morning and to take to work.” Thanks Andi – all great points!
Here is a list of the Mitzvah Vendors who helped the Mandell Family put together a great “trip” to Hotel Remi. If you call any of them please let them know that you read about them on MitzvahMarket.com.
Venue: The Woodmere Club 516-295-2500
Party Planner: Debbie Kahn, AGI Events 516-374-6867
Entertainment DJ/MC: Matt Toubin, Shine Events 845-535-3100
Decor/Florists: Party Interiors 516-586-5850
Children’s Sweatshirts: Holly Green Infinity 516-295-9868
Adult Favors: AGI Events
Party Hat Maker: Wacky Wendy 877-939-2259
Flip Flops/Hats/T-Shirts: Make It Snappy
Cake: Sweet Things
Photographer: Ira Rosen
Videographer/Photo Sign-In Board: Ethan Kornfeld 516-678-7180
PM Boutique: Stephen Yearick Gown 516- 766-0064
Remi’s dress: Moonlight Couture 516-868-1500
Men’s suits: Murlee
Temple Suits: Infinity Holly Green Designer
Transportation: Jaco 516-935-2277
Water Bottles: My Water Bottles Labels
Makeup: Lani Spiro 516-428-9144
Hair: Carmichaels 516-374-3517
Mini Suitcases: FlavorsAndFlowers.com
January 27th, 2010
Lilli Abraham is a 12-year-old resident of Park Ridge, New Jersey. She is a student at Park Ridge Middle School and Temple Beth Am in Pearl River, New York, and an avid soccer player.
For her Mitzvah Project she organized and hosted a fund raising event called, Let’s Kick Cancer for the American Cancer Society.
Mitzvah Market caught up with Lilli to learn more about her clever project:
MM: Can you give us details of your Mitzvah Project?
LA: For my Mitzvah Project, I had a soccer shootout at Memorial Field in Park Ridge, New Jersey. I went around town to local businesses and asked for donations for my project. I made flyers and put the flyers up in the businesses that donated. I got many prizes, from things like free ice cream gift cards to a free guitar lesson, and more. When I was finished I had 11 prizes, and all of them were donated except for the 2 grand prizes. I sent emails out to a bunch of people telling them about what I was doing, and to spread the word. My flyer was even on my town TV station! Then, on the day of my project, about 100 people came!
I had set up two goals, one for little kids, (juniors) and one for adults and teenagers, (seniors.) Many of my friends helped by manning the nets, and collecting balls when they were shot and missed. Everyone who came paid $5 to participate and got 5 different shots from various points. However many goals you scored, you got that number of tickets, but if you got all of the goals in, you got 10 tickets. You entered your tickets in a raffle, and at the end of the fundraiser, volunteers picked the tickets and announced the winners. If the winners weren’t still present, then we called them. Overall, I raised $1,500!
MM: How did you spread the word about your event?
LA: I sent out emails to friends, family, and people all over my town. I put flyers up in places that donated gifts, and as a favor, I had someone put my flyer up on my town TV station, and the Pascack Valley Indoor Soccer League website.
MM: For how long can people donate to this charity?
LA: If you would like to donate, I will accept money for as long as it comes. I have already brought the money I earned in personally to the American Cancer Society, but if more money continues to come, I will send it in.
(Editor’s Note: If you are interested in donating, let us know and we will put you in touch with Lilli. We can be reached at info@MitzvahMarket.com.)
MM: Does your project have a start and end date, if so what are they?:
LA: My fundraiser was on November 7, 2009 and I was working hard before that. My project does not have an end date.
MM: Why did you decide to take on this particular project/charity?
LA: I believe that cancer is a very serious disease, and I want to help people that have it. I have a friend whose Mom died of cancer, and it really affected me. I didn’t know her Mom, but I do know that there are millions of other people who had cancer just like she did, and knowing that all of the money I raised, might help to save someone’s life is a great feeling.
MM: In your own words, what does it mean to you to do a Mitzvah Project for your Bat Mitzvah?
LA: To me, a Mitzvah Project means an opportunity to do something good that will benefit others. Becoming a Bat Mitzvah is all about becoming a Jewish adult, and taking on responsibilities, so taking on the task of completing a Mitzvah Project is all about preparing yourself for becoming a responsible Jewish adult.
MM: Anything else we need to know about your Mitzvah Project?
LA: Yes, I would not have been able to complete my Mitzvah Project without the help of the businesses who donated, and my friends and family’s constant support and help. Without them, my Mitzvah Project would not have been as successful as it was.
Lilli will be celebrating her Bat Mitzvah on January 30, 2010. Congratulations and thank you for sharing your great Mitzvah Project with Mitzvah Market!
January 22nd, 2010
By Linda Kling – Owner of Photo Party Favors specializing in photo favors and invitations since 1992
If you’re looking to send unique Bar/Bat Mitzvah save the dates that stand out from the rest, nothing beats photo Bar Mitzvah Save The Date Cards featuring your multiple photos. Let your child’s pictures tell the story. But before you decide, here are the hottest trends in photo Bar Mitzvah save the date cards.
1. Multiple Photos – Traditional one photo cards get an updated look by featuring several of your child’s photos on his Bar Mitzvah save the dates. You can choose pictures from different stages of his life. While you’re asking your guests to mark their calendar for his/her spiritual coming of age, they can see first hand how he/she has grown. Another approach is to use a variety of current photos that reflect your child’s personality. Take a picture of him/her with his/her favorite pet, playing a sport, strumming the guitar, laughing, hugging their sibling or anything else that gives a glimpse into what makes him/her tick.
2. Unique Designs – Multiple photo cards are a great innovation, but you can take that concept a step further by incorporating your pictures into a cool design. Browse online and you’ll find all kinds photo Bar/Bat Mitzvah save the date cards in every imaginable style. How about a card that mimics a bulletin board that pins up your message and pictures?
Or you could go with a filmstrip design that includes one photo per frame.
There are photo cards showing personalized tickets with all your information. Take your pick of flowers for a girl or sports style for a boy. Or if you want to choose something a little more religious in tone, you can find photo cards with the Torah or Star of David.
3. Themes – Is your child planning a theme for their Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah party? Shop around and you’ll come across photo Bar/Bat Mitzvah save the date cards that highlight just about any theme party. If you come up empty with your search engine results, trying searching for the specific theme, such as winter wonderland, Hollywood, Mardi Gras, jungle or luau. You can also try looking at Websites that include theme birthday invitations. If they offer their own original designs, they can probably adapt it for your child’s Bar/Bat Mitzvah.
4. Think Small – If you want to save some money on your photo Bar/Bat Mitzvah save the date cards, without sacrificing any impact, you don’t need to send large 5 x 7 inch cards. In fact, a 4 x 6 inch card is just as stunning and less expensive. Yes, you can still add multiple photos to a smaller card, because you don’t need to also crowd a lot of words onto it. Your message breaks down to asking guests to save the date for your child’s Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Include the date, the words “invitation to follow” and a Website for updates if your child has one.
5. Scratch-Off Cards – If you want your save the dates to get noticed, try this novel approach. On some photo Bar/Bat Mitzvah save the date cards, just the date is scratched off. You can find others that even go further than that. The card teases your guests with hints that include some of your child’s likes, things he’s good at, a baby photo a toddler picture, and then the big reveal when they scratch off to see your child’s photo and name. This one will get people talking!
6. More than a Card – Another option for photo Bar/Bat Mitzvah save the dates is to mail personalized photo magnets or bookmarks. These are also relatively inexpensive and will grab your guest’s attention. An added advantage is that a bookmark or a small magnet are lightweight enough to mail with just one stamp. It’s something that people are likely to hold on to, so they will be continuously reminded of your child’s Bar/Bat Mitzvah date.
7. Do It Yourself – You can scrapbook a page with photos of your child with your message. Pick out nice 12 x 12 inch scrapbook paper for the background and trim to 8 x 12 inches. Add your photos, title and journaling. Then take a photograph of your page. Make sure that the entire page is displayed in your camera’s viewfinder or you might have to crop it with software later. Then, simply make reprints and mail. You can also use greeting card software on your computer, add your pictures and words, and print them on your computer’s printer.
With so many options available, you are sure to find just the right photo Bar/Bat Mitzvah save the date cards for your child. Whether you make it yourself or hire a professional, you can discover inexpensive and unique ways to announce this important event. Whatever you choose, it will turn out to be an exceptional one of a kind save the date card that everyone will treasure.
