January 22nd, 2018
How To Safely Attend A Bar/Bat Mitzvah Party When There’s Food You Can’t Eat
By Stephanie Sorkin
The planning has begun! You’re about to host the Party of the Century and everything is starting to fall into place. The invitation is hot off the press. You’ve landed that artsy photographer who everyone has been talking about. The DJ has assured you that every song will be perfect. And the food sounds amazing; the towers of hors d’oeuvres, the mountains of sweet treats, and so much more.
Stephanie with her daughter Mallory who has numerous food allergies
But then you realize: what to do about all those guests who have food allergies and intolerances? Is it possible to throw an “Instagram worthy” party while still satisfying the needs of those who can’t eat freely?
With an estimated 15 million food allergic Americans — 6 million of whom are children — it’s an issue that cannot be ignored. The Center for Disease Control estimates that the presence of food allergies has gone up 100% in the last 10 years. Coupled with other health conditions and dietary restrictions, both throwing and attending a party can be stressful. But it doesn’t have to be.
A successful party starts with the host. It’s an important job and that includes taking into consideration accommodations for all your guests. Danielle Lenson, of Roslyn, worked diligently to find a venue that could accommodate her son’s peanut allergy. Her hard work paid off as her son was able to safely eat every food and dessert at his Glen Head Country Club Bar Mitzvah.
To further ensure that all guests could participate in the fun, Danielle got creative. After the main course, large containers were wheeled onto the dance floor, filled to the rim with an array of food-allergy-friendly snacks.
All items were in labeled packages, making it easy for guests to determine which snacks to choose. Bags printed with a clever “NO NUTZ” logo were provided. For guests who still had room, there was also Domino’s Pizza and lots of other nut-free items to choose on the way out.
Stephanie Feldman, owner of Cutie Patootie Creations, had her own great ideas when hosting her nut allergic son’s Bar Mitzvah. Like Lenson, she discussed her son’s safety with the caterer. The special requests were written into her contract, providing Feldman with an additional peace of mind. Knowing that the information was in writing ensured that the venue would work that much harder to make sure everything was allergy-free.
The Feldman family created an elaborate ice cream station with a number of delicious flavors and nut-free toppings. In addition, a colorful candy bar was another food allergy win. Overflowing with individually wrapped candy, everyone was able to get in on the action. “With a few simple substitutions, not only my son, but all of the guests were able to eat safely,” says Feldman. “I hope to someday see hosts ask about guests’ allergies on the RSVP card. Knowing in advance would make it that much easier to accommodate special requests.”
It’s always a good idea to keep in mind the food allergic guest. Their safety is of the utmost importance. If you think there may be some in attendance, be sure to ask all your child’s friends so you know what to expect.
What about hosts whose own children do not have food allergies? Are they expected to make separate dishes for everyone with a food restriction?
Food allergies go way beyond peanuts and dietary restrictions often have no relations to allergies and are in fact, just preferences. What about those who are vegans, vegetarians, diabetics, celiac, lactose intolerant and so on? Where do we draw the line?
To ensure that caterers don’t become short order cooks, some venues have established a meal that is suitable for all. Such entrees can be “Top 8 Free,” meaning they do not contain the top 8 allergens (peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, dairy, fish, shellfish, soy and wheat) that make up 90% of allergic reactions. In addition, they are vegan and low in sugar and salt. To some it may not sound too appetizing, but surprisingly, with a little imagination, it’s possible to create something delicious. Some caterers even use color-coded serving pieces and utensils for food allergy friendly meal preparation.
Debbie Auerbacher, from Ram Caterers of Old Westbury, suggests contacting the caterer far in advance, as special requests can be easily satisfied with proper planning. “As long as we know in advance, I can adjust my cooking accordingly,” she says. “The key is being prepared. Definitely ask before the party. We have received requests of all kinds and have gladly made adjustments to our menus.”
As a rule, most would argue that the night belongs to the Bar/Bat Mitzvah child. If he or she has dreamed of serving a special, artisanal donut, you can still go for it, while also serving a similar allergy-free version for those who need it.
Remember, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs are filled with so much more than food. Monumental in both the child and parents’ lives, they are overflowing with friends, dancing, games, giveaways and memories. Plus endless photo-ops waiting to fill up their Instagram feed. So be prepared and everybody will be happy…and safe.
TIPS for helping an allergic child safely attend a Bar or Bat Mitzvah
Entering a party with a food allergic child can be overwhelming. I should know. My daughter is allergic to eggs, tree nuts, sesame, flax seeds, mustard and canola oil. A party where food is served can be filled with all sorts of potential allergens that can send her to the emergency room. But after years of experience, we’ve both learned how to manage the situation. So when the piles of Bar and Bat Mitzvah invitations began to roll in, we were ready.
Here are some of our tips to help your child attend and enjoy parties safely:
1. Contact the host as soon as you receive the invitation. First, politely tell the host that you plan on calling the venue to speak to the caterer due to your child’s food allergy. I hesitate suggesting that you “ask” the host if you can call, since you never know what the response may be. But in my experience, I have never had a request met with anger or resistance. Parents want the party to run smoothly, without incident. Remember, this request should come at least a month before the party. Calling three days before the event with a laundry list of questions does not give anyone adequate time to respond. Please be considerate.
2. When you do speak with the caterer, be mindful that they may not be educated in cross contact and contamination. A buffet that starts out safe may not be later on, after excited children start mixing, dipping and sampling the foods and swapping serving pieces.
3. Don’t demand changes or make special requests. The party is about the Bar or Bat Mitzvah child. It is a very special, momentous occasion and it’s unrealistic to ask for accommodations. If it doesn’t seem like a safe environment, you can always decline the invitation. Make your decisions based on your own personal comfort level and your child’s allergy.
4. If you determine that there is a safe food or foods that your child can eat, discuss this in depth with them. Remind them about safe behavior such as not sharing food and being mindful of the danger of shared plates and utensils. Suggest that your child be first on the buffet line before any cross contamination can occur.
5. If realistic, assign your child a buddy who they can tell if they are not feeling well. The buddy should be chosen in advance and given thorough instructions to tell an adult should an allergic reaction occur. Speak to the host or responsible adult in advance about the protocol and treatment of a reaction.
6. Send your child with 2 epi-pens, to be kept in a safe, easily accessible location.
7. Feed your child a full meal before they go to the event, even if you have determined that there are safe foods available. If your child arrives full, he or she will likely head to the games and photo booth and dance the night away and not feel deprived of any food.
Stephanie Sorkin is the award-winning author of several books including “Nutley, the Nut-free Squirrel.” As a food allergy advocate, she spends her time visiting schools in the tri-state area, discussing the inspiration behind her books and the importance of creativity. For more information or to inquire about a school visit, please visit stephaniesorkin.com.
Read Kids With Food Allergies At Bar Bat Mitzvahs here.
Read about the Sorkin Bat Mitzvah Family Spotlight story here.
Get your copy of Mitzvah Market Magazine here.
January 22nd, 2018
Looking for a unique Bar or Bat Mitzvah venue? How about a celebration amongst lemurs, crocodiles, and sea lions? The Wildlife Conservation Society operates the New York Zoos and Aquarium, and each has a unique event space that your guests will remember forever.
The Wildlife Conservation Society promotes the conservation of wildlife. They operate the Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, and New York Aquarium.
Make your green go further! All event proceeds go towards The Wildlife Conservation Society’s mission to save wildlife and wild places around the globe.
New York Zoos and Aquarium
New York Zoos and Aquarium are located all throughout New York. Add a great menu from their in-house catering options, a mobile gaming app, music, and décor; you now have one of the most elegant and chic places in New York to entertain guests.
New York Zoos and Aquarium Events and Catering Department treats every guest as great as they treat the animals that live there! From the first phone call to the days after your event, their team takes pride in ensuring that your vision is flawlessly executed.
Celebrating a Bar Bat Mitzvah at New York Zoos and Aquarium will be a one of a kind and wild experience for you and your guests.
To learn more about The Wildlife Conservation Society, visit their extended profile page.
January 18th, 2018
Melrose Ballroom is a state-of-the-art multi-level event venue. They have a main ballroom, rooftop lounge, outdoor deck and a bar on each level. Their in-house staff is always ready and willing to help you through each step of the event planning process to make your event unique.
One of their many unique features is the large video wall and stage. Imagine seeing your logo on a screen 30 feet wide and 15 feet high. Or watching your montage and zap shots on 72 – 40 inch LCD screens. With their 20 foot high ceilings, the video wall is completely customizable and the stage is adjustable. Your child’s party at the Melrose Ballroom will have endless possibilities and be an awesome Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebration.
Video Wall and Stage
Logos on the Video Wall set the tone for the party
The Video Wall doubles as decor
With 20 foot ceilings, the sky is the limit. Performers can even hang from the ceiling
Zap shots on 40 giant tvs make the guests feel extra special
A montage on the Video Wall will light up the room
The Video Wall is the perfect backdrop to party
The Stage is fabulous for all types of entertainment
And it is great for dancing
Everyone gets into the party at Melrose Ballroom
To learn more about Melrose Ballroom, visit their extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.
January 16th, 2018
Looking for an elegant chic Bar or Bat Mitzvah venue on Long Island? Chateau Briand Caterers guarantees a one of a kind celebration. Manhattan glamour and South Beach style combine to bring you one of the most unique settings. Family owned and operated since 1961, the Scotto Brothers create celebrations at Chateau Briand Caterers that you and your guests will remember forever.
TOP FIVE REASONS TO BOOK YOUR CHILD’S BAR OR BAT MITZVAH AT CHATEAU BRIAND CATERERS
1. Amazing Cuisine
Classic and creative foods prepared with the freshest, quality ingredients by their award-winning chefs. Custom menus are available.
2. Elegant Ballrooms
Magnificent newly renovated ballrooms outfitted with integrated LED lighting and projection screens.
3. Ideal Space for Parties of All Sizes
From the ballrooms to the outdoor garden oasis, there is the perfect space for your celebration.
4. First Class Service
With over 50 years of experience and a commitment to excellence, the Scotto Brothers are a ‘Trusted Name In Hospitality.’
5. Perfect Location
Centrally located in Nassau County, Long Island, Chateau Briand Caterers is convenient for guests. Overnight guests can stay at their sister property The Inn At Fox Hollow, an all-suite luxury hotel with beautiful surroundings and elegant accommodations.
To learn more about Chateau Briand Caterers, visit their extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.
January 8th, 2018
Once you receive your child’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah date, you go into planning mode, even if it’s years in advance. You start figuring out how many people you want to invite, where you want to hold your celebration and who’s the best DJ/MC around.
You begin to ask your friends for recommendations and scour MitzvahMarket.com for vendors you might want to hire. Then the hard part comes: interviewing those you may want to hire. Of course, you want to make sure the vendor is available for your date and get a good vibe from them. But what are the must-have questions to ask to ensure they’ll be a good fit.
You know some of the basics – like always asking for and speaking to references and making sure outside vendors have liability insurance. But we’re here to help you with some questions you may not have thought to ask before you book.
All photos by Andi Schreiber Photography unless stated otherwise.
Questions To Ask A Venue
*How many guests can the venue accommodate?
*May we have the venue exclusively for our event? If not, how many events occur at one time?
*Is there a separate area for adults and kids or are they together in one room?
*Can you accommodate a ceremony?
*Do you have different packages for day and evening events? What does the pricing include? How many hours does this cover? Are there any additional fees?
*How much deposit do you require to hold our date? What is your cancellation policy? How much is refundable? What happens if we have to postpone due to inclement weather?
*May we bring in outside vendors, caterer, event designer, florist? If not, do we have a choice of vendors or do you supply them all?
*If we use your caterer, can we bring in our own cake? Will there be a cutting charge?
*Do you have experience with food allergies?
*If our Bar or Bat Mitzvah falls during the Christmas season, will there be seasonal decorations in your facility? Can they be removed?
Questions To Ask Before Ordering Invitations
*What is the quality of the invitations I am receiving? Is there a quality guarantee?
*Does your company do its own printing?
*How long will it take until my order is printed?
*What is included with my order? Do I get envelopes? RSVP cards? Tissue inserts?
*How many extra envelopes will I get in case I make mistakes printing addresses?
*Do I get a sample or print ready proof of my card before I finalize the order?
*How much postage will it take for this invitation? (Remember square envelopes cost more!)
*How much will it cost if I order extra invitations after the initial print run? How long will that take?
*Do you offer calligraphy or other printing services for the addresses?
Questions To Ask A Photographer/Videographer
*What is your style? Traditional? Photojournalistic?
*Are you skilled in party candids, portraits or both?
*Have you photographed many Bar and Bat Mitzvahs before so you know what to expect?
*(If you are working with a large photography studio) Who will actually be shooting my party? Can I speak to them directly beforehand?
*How many people do you work with? (If you have a large guest list or a lot going on, you may want additional photographers so you don’t miss anything.)
*Do you shoot digital or traditional film or both?
*When will we see proofs and how soon will albums be delivered once we choose the photos?
*Do you post the photos on your Website so I can share with friends and family? How long will they stay online?
*What does your price include? An album? Prints? Will I have to pay for each 5 x 7 or 8 x 10 print that is ordered? How much will that cost?
*Can I have the negatives or photos on a disk if I want to have my own digital books printed? Is that an additional cost?
*How many hours will you be there? What do you charge for overtime? Are you available for additional photo shoots in synagogue before the Bar or Bat Mitzvah or for a creative session with the child? How much more will that cost?
*What back up plans do you have if you can’t make the party at the last minute?
Questions To Ask A DJ
*How many years of experience do you have doing Bar and Bat Mitzvah celebrations?
*Can we see you in action? (Most DJs have videos showing them performing so you can get a sense of their style and interactions with guests. Many will supply dates for similar affairs so you can see them in person.)
*Will you guarantee (and put in the contract) the name of a certain DJ/MC who will be at my event? Can I speak to that person in advance? Tell me about him or her?
*What attire will the MC, DJ, and dancers be wearing? May I request a change? Will they wear T-shirts I provide?
*Do you bring all your own equipment or do you need the venue to supply anything?
*Do you have backup equipment and other MCs and DJs available in case of emergency or illness?
*Will you work with us to create a timeline of the event and when to add in such activities as the horah, candle lighting ceremony and montage? (Coordinate this with the venue as well.)
*Will you supply the dance floor giveaways? Do we get to choose what we want? Is this an additional charge or is it included? Can I save money by purchasing these myself?
*What other extras can you supply? Arcade games, live musicians, magicians, photographers, video montage experts, etc.?
*What is your fee and what does it include (including number of people they will bring, how many hours they will play, etc.)? Are there any other fees for parking travel expenses, etc.?
*Are we expected to tip everyone you bring? How much?
*Are you insured?
*Am I expected to feed the crew? (If so, ask your venue or caterer to supply sandwiches for a pre-set price so there are no last minute surprises when they charge you for a full price meal for each person.)
*What is your cancellation policy?
Questions To Ask A Caterer
*How many events will you be doing at the same time as mine?
*Who is my point person to work out details beforehand? Who will be at my event making sure everything we discuss happens?
*How many Bar and Bat Mitzvah celebrations have you done before?
*What will the guest/staff ratio be?
*What is the kids’ price? And what age is considered kids vs. young adults who don’t drink?
*(If they are coming into an outside venue) Do you supply all the serving pieces, place settings, etc.? What do you need the venue to supply? Working kitchen, etc.?
*Is there flexibility with your menus? Is there a tasting session before we choose the final menu?
*Are there beverage packages (open bar vs. a set bar menu)?
*Do you have experience dealing with food allergies?
*Will you offer vegetarian, vegan or other options?
Get a copy of Mitzvah Market Magazine here.
January 8th, 2018
Kids love the lounges at Bar and Bat Mitzvahs. They want a club vibe with couches, ottomans, banquette and light-up tables. Sounds like a fortune, right? Supreme Productionz has an answer that will make kids happy and won’t break the bank.
Special Offer
Supreme Productionz is offering Mitzvah Market readers a special deal. For $1,000, readers can get lounge seating for 40-50 guests.
2 Circular Center Cones
2 High Back Lounges with Pillows
6 LED Accent Cubes
6 LED Hi-Boys with Toppers and 12 Clear Chiavari Bar Stools (white cushions included)
6 Ottomans
Supreme Productionz gives kids the chic and cool lounge they want and parents a price tag they love.
To learn more about Supreme Productionz, visit their extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.
January 8th, 2018
For The Montage Maven, referrals are what started their business!
The “maven,” responsible for montage magic is Jackie Marek, a mother of two who grew up in Westchester. Whenever she watched a Bar or Bat Mitzvah montage as a guest at the events she attended, she was critical of what she saw and immediately knew what changes she would make.
Today, The Montage Maven is seeing a 40% growth in sales due to new and repeat customers. They are known for their high-quality, multi-media video montages. Jackie wants her Bar and Bat Mitzvah montages to be a true art form and feels her emphasis on quality and attention to detail is what sets their montages apart from the rest!
At The Montage Maven, each Bar and Bat Mitzvah montage is unique to the guest of honor. They work to acquaint themselves with their client’s wishes and style, helping along with photo organization, video clips and the hottest music selections. With the most up to date technology, they can also make the guest of honor part of an animation or tossed into movies clips and television scenes.
The Montage Maven Highlight Reel 2018
Bar and Bat Mitzvah Montage Examples
The Montage Maven knows how to make an amazing montage. We invite you to sit back and enjoy these montages!
Watch this montage for a Bat Mitzvah girl who flips for gymnastics
here
Check out this winter theme Bat Mitzvah montage
here
Check out this creative B'nai Mitzvah montage
here
Watch Jesse's Live with Jimmy K montage
here
Watch a musical montage
here
Example of an animated Mitzvah opening video can be viewed
here
Watch a snippet from a game show inspired montage for twin boys
here
See a snippet from Reilly's montage
here
A snippet from Sophie's Bat Mitzvah montage can be seen
here
Watch a snippet from Emma's Bat Mitzvah montage video
here
To learn more about The Montage Maven, visit their extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.
January 4th, 2018
We have thousands of Moms and Dads across the country who are members of our various regional Facebook groups.
They are asking great questions and are getting lots of FREE Bar and Bat Mitzvah planning advice. Have you joined one of our groups yet? Not sure what type of questions you can ask?
Here are some of the top questions from our groups:
* Did anyone do Sign-in boards themselves?
Many families responded with great ideas and photos!
* Anyone know of a “different type” of entertainment for a Mitzvah in addition to the DJ? For example for my older sons BM we had a contortionist come and do a 40 minute act. It was such a huge hit, even staff came to watch.
Over 9 members responded with creative ideas.
* Looking for someone to help me create a logo for our child’s Bar Mitzvah. Would love some recommendations. P.S. Not looking to BREAK THE BANK.
Five different companies were suggested.
* Can anyone share your thoughts on providing buses to/from the party? The service isn’t a factor so it would be just to transport the kids to/from a designated spot. The bus provides 1 chaperone on each bus, but I’m thinking I would need someone to wait in the parking lot in case parents are late. Wondering if the bus will be more stressful or helpful. Can anyone share their experiences?
Great real-life experience was given by over six members.
* Thinking about our candle lighting ceremony, not serving cake, any suggestions on candle holders?
Both vendors and readers shared ideas.
* I’m searching for a DJ for my daughter’s Bat Mitzvah on March 10, 2018! Taking all recommendations.
This group member was left with eight solid companies to call!
*Looking for glass jars of various sizes/shapes for a candy bar at my son’s February Bar Mitzvah. Anyone willing to sell yours? Where is the cheapest place to get the candy?
One of our vendors not only told her where to get these, but gave her the amount she needed for her number of guests.
If you have a question, please find your local group and post! We promise to answer you.
Thanks, The Mitzvah Market team
Check out these “Bar Bat Mitzvah Gift Suggestions” from our Facebook groups.
December 21st, 2017
Want to bring your party to the next level? The Zero Gravity Photo Booth is unlike anything your guests have ever seen.
Dance Time Entertainment, the area’s Bar and Bat Mitzvah and special event entertainment innovator, offers one of the newest and coolest Extra Entertainment add ons, The Dance Time Zero Gravity Photo Booth. Guests walk into the 8′ x 8′ booth and leave with a personalized photo that gives the illusion that they can walk on walls and defy gravity. But don’t be fooled, this is no ordinary photo booth. This is a truly interactive experience!
For more information on the Zero Gravity Photo Booth, visit Dance Time Entertainment online at www.dancetimeevents.com or give them a call at 914-591-2100.
To learn more about Dance Time Entertainment, visit their extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.
December 18th, 2017
The question: With all the “stuff” given out at a Bar and Bat Mitzvah party, should you get cubbies for the young guests to hold their shoes, giveaways and favors?
The answer: Yes! Supreme Productionz has Light Up Cubbies. They are chic and effective.
Special Offer
Supreme Productionz is offering Mitzvah Market readers a special deal. For $100, you can rent a unit of 16 cubbies. Delivery, set up and breakdown included. There is 3 unit minimum.
To learn more about Supreme Productionz, visit their extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.
