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NJM Entertainment: Newest Trends For Bar & Bat Mitzvah Parties
March 13th, 2017

NJM Entertainment: Newest Trends For Bar & Bat Mitzvah Parties

NJM Entertainment is a full service boutique style entertainment company based in New York specializing in DJs, videographers, games, live music, lighting, multimedia and unique talent. They can create a one-of-a-kind party atmosphere that the guests will remember for a lifetime.

Their experienced MC, DJ’s, dancers/motivators and live musicians are some of the most qualified, talented, and chic entertainers in the industry.  They have DJ’s who know the right type of music to play to keep guests and the dance floor rocking, they create posh lounges with furniture, add creative lighting, and provide unique talent for extra entertainment. Their attention to detail makes every event they do an experience that will keep guests talking for years to come.

We sat down with NJM Entertaiment to learn more about their business and the newest trends in Bar and Bat Mitzvah celebrations.

MM: Please tell us about NJM Entertainment and its founder, Jamel Watkins.
NJM Entertainment
: For over 20 years, Jamel has been an industry leader in entertainment and personality.  Jamel’s unique energy for the here and now is truly fun and appeals to the kids as well as his polished smooth style, which the adults can relate to.  Jamel’s reputation as a top flight entertainer is unmatched in the industry.

Jamel spent 20 years climbing the ranks, starting out as a dancer and working his way to be a top MC. Jamel not only provides great entertainment, but personal attention to each and every one of his clients.

MM: What is the MC’s favorite part about a Bar or Bat Mitzvah party?
NJM Entertainment
: The opening of the room is always a favorite. Watching the guest come in and be amazed by the sights and sounds is incredible. It becomes infectious and it sets the tone for the entire event.

MM: What trends are you seeing at the parties that you have been at recently?
NJM Entertainment:
One trend we are seeing is the LED walls. People are opting out of the traditional TVs and going with a bigger image.  We also have more clients “branding the party” by doing things like providing the performers with T-shirts with their child’s logo.

In regards to photo stations, clients are now utilizing photo stations that do not print out the photos, but instead have the ability to be shared to their cell phones via text message or email. This option allows you to share the photos easily on social media, which we all know the kids love and adults as well.

Another trend that we are seeing more of is the live musician/DJ hybrid for events.  This is where a band or musician plays along with the DJ for a more unique and amazing sound.

 

MM: What other unique entertainment options do you provide to the family?
NJM Entertainment
: We have the ability to provide our clients with many things for their event.  In addition to the performers that are on the event, we can provide dance troops, acrobats, mentalists, live musicians that can interact with the crowd, interesting and interactive photo stations, a wide variety of games, unique food accents as well as many other new and trendy options which change often. And to capture your amazing event, we offer videography and montage services as well!

To learn more about NJM Entertainment, visit their extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.

Bar Mitzvah Bouncer: What To Do When Chaperoning A Bus
March 1st, 2017

Bar Mitzvah Bouncer: What To Do When Chaperoning A Bus

Bar Mitzvah Bouncer is a full service professional chaperone company specializing in the supervision of children at Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, Sweet 16s, Graduation and Birthday Parties.

With Bar Mitzvah Bouncer, parents can relax and enjoy their child’s big day while their young guests are supervised.

In addition to supervising the children at the party and Temple service, Bar Mitzvah Bouncer supervises the transportation to and from the party. Their experienced chaperones arrive at the departure location early, check each child onto the bus and position themselves appropriately during the bus ride to ensure that everyone is behaving in a respectable manner for the duration of the ride.

When chaperoning the bus ride our bouncers always keep these points in mind:

  1. Make sure all children are seated the entire time. This will prevent children from banging their heads on the ceiling of the bus.
  2. Always refrain from allowing the children to eat candy on the bus because they sometimes try and throw the candy at the driver.
  3. Always walk back and forth in the aisle so you can constantly monitor the children.
  4. Keep the lights on inside of the bus so it does not get dark and you can always see the children. 

These are some of the things that Bar Mitzvah Bouncers do when chaperoning a bus ride. 

To learn more about Bar Mitzvah Bouncer, visit their extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.

 

How To Plan A Bar Bat Mitzvah When Parents Are Getting Divorced
February 27th, 2017

How To Plan A Bar Bat Mitzvah When Parents Are Getting Divorced

EFFECTIVE CO-PARENTING AND PLANNING FOR A BAR OR BAT MITZVAH WHEN PARENTS ARE GETTING DIVORCED

By Jacqueline Harounian

Planning a Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebration requires parents to make dozens of decisions – big and small — usually a year or more in advance of the “Big Day.” Many of these decisions are financial in nature, and require parents to see eye to eye on a budget. Other decisions require parents, and their teenager, to discuss and agree on a myriad of confusing choices regarding theme, venue and entertainment, etc. The goal is always to create a meaningful and memorable milestone event that is well planned and enjoyable for the child, family and friends.

For parents that do not communicate well, or who are in the midst of a divorce, or already divorced, it can be nearly impossible to make the decisions that are necessary to plan the event. Planning a big event can stir up old resentments, even if the divorce is in the distant past. Battle lines are drawn between families, and negative emotions cause every issue to escalate into an argument.
When it comes to co-parenting and hosting a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, one of the biggest dilemmas is whether to temporarily put the divorce legal process on hold. Sometimes parents agree to hire a party planner as a “go-between”, i.e. referee. Others agree from the outset to have a kids’ party, with a set budget, and an equal amount of guests from each side. If ex-spouses can agree to put their differences aside and focus on having the best possible celebration for their child, this maximizes the chances for a successful event, with minimal discord and drama.

DO:

1. Stay on respectful grounds with your spouse or ex (and his or her new partner) to minimize the possibility of further conflict. Your attitude affects your child too, not just your spouse or ex.
2. Try to come to a general agreement on who is responsible for what, i.e. invitations, flowers, favors, and DJ. Depending on your situation, one of you may take on more responsibility than the other, or pay a greater share of the costs. Regardless, be mindful of the “blame game” that can result if something happens to go awry.
3. Use text and e-mail as means of communication if verbal expression is challenging. This method of communication provides clarity and a paper trail. It will also facilitate the sharing of vital information such as dates and times, arrangements, locations, appointments, etc. If verbal communication is not an issue, work on delegating each of the tasks. Will one parent do the organizing and coordinating while the other does the executing? How much weight will the child’s wishes be given regarding budget, number of guests, etc.?
4. Incorporate what is important to all three of you, not just one of you. Base your decisions on the premise of the child’s best interest. If you can handle it, have a brief family meeting in a public place to go over details. Always emphasize the joyous aspects of the event, and the significance of it to your child.
5. Keep your child updated, informed and involved throughout the planning. Assure your child that your personal matters will not interfere with his or her special day.
6. Be wary of your child’s feelings and behavior around this critical time. If you become too immersed in the logistical details, you will lose sense of the real purpose.

DON’T:

1. Argue in front of your child. Although this is a joyful experience, it can be stressful. Internal conflicts will only add to your child’s stress and your stress, and will make the process a negative one.
2. Exclude relatives and friends. Interactions with ex-in laws may occur more frequently as the date approaches, so it is crucial that you maintain and if you wish, improve these relationships for the sake of your child. A gathering of any sort is likely to host an array of opinions; do your best to block out negativity and radiate positivity. Remember, it is a happy event for your child that he or she will remember always.
3. Compete with each other throughout the process. You are doing this for the sake of your child, not for the sake of your ego and pride. Fighting for the child’s approval and attention will put him/her in an uncomfortable position.
4. Bring a date or significant other, unless he or she has already been introduced to your child and in the picture for more than a year. Above all, respect your child’s wishes about your new paramour.

When the big day comes, put a smile on your face and your best foot forward. Expect a wonderful outcome and do your part to make that the reality for yourself, your child and your family. Relax, enjoy and take plenty of pictures while making an abundance of beautiful memories. Mazel Tov!

About Jacqueline Harounian
Jacqueline Harounian, Esq is a partner at The Law Firm of Wisselman, Harounian & Associates, P.C. in Great Neck, NY and a recognized leader in the field of matrimonial and family law. She skillfully and adeptly handles complex divorce, custody and support matters in the Family and Supreme Courts on Long Island and the five boroughs of New York City. As a highly experienced trial attorney, Jackie nevertheless believes that a negotiated settlement, rather than litigation, is the preferred strategy for her clients. Jackie attended Columbia College and thereafter, Hofstra University School of Law (J.D. with honors). For more information about Jackie or the Wisselman, Harounian & Associates law firm, please visit www.lawjaw.com. The law firm is celebrating its 40th anniversary and offers a free consultation.

On The Bar Bat Mitzvah Circuit…With Carrie
February 27th, 2017

On The Bar Bat Mitzvah Circuit…With Carrie

By Carrie Berk

I’m an 9th grade Bar & Bat Mitzvah teen blogger for MitzvahMarket.com and live in NYC. I love fashion, soul cycle, performing, hanging out with friends, and cupcakes. Direct message me on Instagram (@carrieberkk) and follow my new Instagram blog, @mydessertdestination, if you are a fan of sweet treats!

My dance friend Peri promised me that her Bat Mitzvah was going to be full of surprises—and it completely exceeded my expectations! As guests arrived at the cocktail party and flocked to take pics with the Bat Mitzvah girl, mini pizza boxes were passed around to snack on. So cute and clever! The airbrush booth was also a popular cocktail party activity. Kids could get their name airbrushed on either a hat or t-shirt with a design of their choice on it!

Guests eagerly made their way into the party room next door, where we noticed a giant mirror with Peri’s initials on it to sign. Friends made sure to leave a cute message in a silver or gold Sharpie. When guests weren’t dancing the night away, they were all smiles playing ping pong.

For dinner, Peri decided to put a twist on one of her favorite foods: burgers! She had a make your own slider booth, where you were given a mini burger and then guided to a large table of toppings. Yes, you had permission to take as many as you wanted!

Here are some photos from the celebration!

As attendees left, they passed by an Insomnia Cookies booth where they received two cookies and a cup of milk on the way out. I’m sure guests had very sweet dreams that night.

The party favor was a personalized blanket with the Bat Mitzvah logo on it, and also t-shirts that people caught as Peri threw them out on the dance floor.

Overall, Peri’s Bat Mitzvah was a night full of creativity, lots of dancing, and fun for everyone.

VENDORS: Venue: Marquee; Dress: Bloomingdales; Catering: Riviera; Music/Photobooth/Airbrushing; Total Entertainment, Cookies: Insomnia Cookies; Photographer: Hechler Photography

Read about Carrie’s own Bat Mitzvah celebration here.
Read more of Carrie’s blog posts:
Blog #1
Blog #2
Blog #3
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Blog #7
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Blog #9
Blog #10

Elevate Event Lounge: An Ever-Changing Bar Bar Mitzvah Venue
February 13th, 2017

Elevate Event Lounge: An Ever-Changing Bar Bar Mitzvah Venue

Elevate Event Lounge is the newest and hottest Bar Bat Mitzvah venue to come to Westchester. 

They are a private event facility that specializes in taking your child’s Bar Bat Mitzvah entertainment to the next level. They will help you every step of the way to make planning as stress-free and fun-filled as possible. 

Their state-of-the-art sound system, special effects lighting and interactive photo opportunities will make your event a memorable one. They even offer bus services to and from your event as well as valet parking. 

 

ELEVATE EVENT LOUNGE IS NEVER THE SAME VENUE TWICE!  

They are always changing and evolving. In their short time in Yorktown Heights, they have already changed their party space multiple times. They take every piece of constructive criticism into account and are always trying to make their space bigger and better. In fact, many clients have commented how wonderful the space looks each time they visit. 

 

So what is new at Elevate? “What isn’t new?” is a better question! They are regularly receiving new modern lounge furniture, so they can always change-up the look. Some of their newest pieces include: “S Snake” ottomans, a Semi Circle Chaff Lounge and a Circle Ottoman with a cylinder in the center. Their lounge furniture looks great and is comfortable too! 

 Another new addition to the Elevate room is their Light up Candy Bar! An eight foot rolling display with eight canisters that hold a minimum of five lbs of candy each, plus room for your traditional candy bar set up. The best part: you can customize it to your child’s theme! 

Their dance floor is now equipped with a two-tier, 100 square feet, light up dance stage surrounded in trussing with three TVs. Two of the TVs display digital posters of the guest of honor. They ask the guests of honor to come in the week before their party, with a few different wardrobe changes, and they take a mini photo shoot to display on the sides of the dance stages – while the top TV continuously shows Zap Shots, a Montage or Photos. 

One of the most dramatic changes that has been made at Elevate Event Lounge is their new entrance. They now have three screens and a light up entrance. The guest of honor’s name and logo is displayed on the front of the building on the two outer screens, while the middle screen shows a live feed of the party and or photos. The outside gets lit up in a color that the guest of honor selects. Parents that are coming for pick up love to see the middle screen showing the party while they are waiting for their kids!

To learn more about Elevate Event Lounge, visit their extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.

Bar Bar Mitzvah Favors From Gotham T-Shirts
February 1st, 2017

Bar Bar Mitzvah Favors From Gotham T-Shirts

 

 

 

Gotham T-shirts is a full service screen printer who uses award winning artists to create logos and designs for all Bar and Bat Mitzvah needs.

Every year they work with over 250 Bar Bat Mitzvah families just like you. These families use Gotham T-shirts again when it comes time for their younger children’s celebrations too.

We sat down with Howie Zwang from Gotham T-shirts to learn more about his business:

 

 

 

 

MM: Please describe what you do?
HZ: We are located in Sea Cliff, New York, on Long Island and offer personalized custom screen printing, embroidery, art and theme designs for Bar and Bat Mitzvah celebrations. Kids love our designs and parents love our prices.

Bar Bat Mitzvah Favor

MM: Can you help families that live outside the New York area?
HZ: We can work (and have worked) with clients from all over the country. We can schedule a call to find out what type of design you are thinking about, let our designers create your logo and ship anywhere in the country. We do it all the time.

Bar Bat Mitzvah favor

MM: What makes Gotham T-shirts unique?
HZ: We have a state of the art showroom and printing facility and completely understand that you have waited 13 years for this day… we have too! Our design team understands that your logo is sometimes used for many different aspects related to your child’s celebration. We only create a logo that is edgy, cool and trendy. This will be the kids favorite favor and they will wear it countless times. We know you will be blown away by our customer service, art, and finished favor.

Bar Bat Mitzvah Favor

MM: Many kids have no idea what type of logo they want. How do you handle that?
HZ: We run into that situation all the time. Our graphic artist will amaze you with options. We will take the time to make any changes to the design until you and your child love it. We can also work with your ideas to create your vision.

Bar Bat Mitzvah favors

MM: Can you describe the range of products you offer?
HZ: Although our designs look best on hooded and zipper sweatshirts, t-shirts, flannel PJs, sweatpants and nylon drawstring bags, we do also have a promotional department with items such as: pens, mugs, hats, iphone cases, etc.

Bar Bat Mitzvah favor

To learn more about Gotham T-shirts, visit their extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.

A B’nai Mitzvah At An Aquarium
January 30th, 2017

A B’nai Mitzvah At An Aquarium

 

The Goldberg family of Merrick, New York, celebrated twins Gabbie and Charlie’s B’nai Mitzvah on October 22, 2016, at the Merrick Jewish Center. There was an evening party in their honor at the Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center in Riverhead, New York. The family has been visiting there for many years so when it came time to pick a venue, that was the obvious choice. Guests were able to enjoy many underwater exhibits and were surprised with a “live” shark dive by Charlie!

Pictured L-R: Mom Jodi, Bar Mitzvah boy Charlie, Bat Mitzvah girl Gabbie. Sister Eden and Dad Michael.

The photographer was White Light Photography and Video and the rest of the vendor information is listed at the end of the spotlight.

 

The Venue

The Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center along with the in-house caterer, Atlantis Banquets & Events, offered a unique venue, great food and a seamless party. 

 Mitzvah Invitation/Service

 

Mitzvah Style

 

Place Cards/Sign-In/Logo

 

 
Party Decor

 Mitzvah Wow

There were many amazing “Wow” moments at this celebration. The twins are certified scuba divers and Charlie wanted to use the video version of his shark dive for his entrance. Once he found out he could take a shower in the back, he decided to do it live! Gabbie wanted to keep her hair dry.

 

Mitzvah Entrance

 

Mitzvah Special Dance

Mitzvah Music

 

 B’nai Mitzvah Montage

As A former TV and Video producer, Jodi created the montage with the help of high school student for hire, Mikey Johanson. This turned out to be a surprise for the twins as it featured videos from Gabbie and Charlie’s visits to the Atlantis Aquarium over the years. It also included a personal shout-out to them from Brett Raymer, the host of  Animal Planet’s “Tanked,” a friend of Mom Jodi’s from high school.

Favor/Fun Food & Drinks

 
Advice from Mom Jodi

“Have your kids tell your friends to save and send you their Snapchat videos They are fun to watch and you can see your party from a teen’s perspective. That is how we watched the shark dive video surprise the next day. Even though the DJ handed out dance floor giveaways,  I got some fun prizes (i.e. headphones, speakers, lamps) and my twins stood on stage and gave them out. They also had fun throwing the pillows, tee shirts, and slippers out to the crowd. If you want a crowded dance floor, have your kids prepare a song list for your DJ. The kids are very particular with what they like to dance to. It’s a good idea to book a family shoot for a date prior to your event. Trevor, owner of White Light Photography and Video, was a big proponent of this and he helped me coordinate the temple and aquarium approximately 2 weeks before our party. It’s also a good way to do a test run with your makeup, hair, dress, and break in your heels, and the night of your party you don’t have to worry about “formals” or miss your cocktail hour.”

Mitzvah Project

Gabbie and Charlie’s Uncle Eric is developmentally disabled. He lives in a group home in Brooklyn, New York. For the twins’ B’nai Mitzvah Project, they decided that a hands-on activity which involved their whole family would be one they’d always remember. The siblings raised funds that went towards building and upkeep of an amazing and spectacular fish tank for the group home residents and worked with an artist on the creation of a mural for the residents to enjoy. To read about the entire project, click here.

 

Vendor Directory

The following vendors helped to make Gabbie and Charlie’s B’nai Mitzvah special. If you give any of them a call, let them know you read about their services on MitzvahMarket.com.

Venue/Decor/Catering/Cake: Atlantis Banquets & Events, 631-574-8008
Party Planner: Mom Jodi Goldberg 
Yarmulkes/Flip Flops: Randi Goldberg Lehman, That One Special Touch, 516-496-1025
Photographer/Videographer/Sign-In: White Light Photography and Video, 516-933-3399
Music Entertainment/Lounge Decor/MC’s: AG and Breezy, Geo Events, 800-670-0462 
Logo Design/Favors: Susan, Best Express, 516-935-2869
Shark Ride/Photo Booth: Ronnie, Ovation Photo Booth, 516-334-9090 
Invitation Wax Seal: Sally’s Heartful Creations on etsy.com
Place cards/favor for adults: Invitation in a Bottle, 800-489-8048 
Montage: Creadted by Mom/Edited by Mikey Johanson, Johanson Films, 917-816-2371
Double Horah Chair: Wayfair.com
Sign In Feather Pen and parchment pape
r: Amazon.com
Mom Jodi’s Dress: Runway Couture, 516-308-4639/Moms Hair De La Mer Salon: 516-221-3662
Bat Mitzvah girl Gabbie gown: Estelle’s Dressy Dresses, 631-420-0890/Headpiece: La Chic Boutique, 516-541-0678
Sister Eden’s dress: La Chic Boutique, 516-541-0678
Suits for family members: Mur-lee’s, 516-599-7777

Vendor Spotlight: EK Productions
January 30th, 2017

Vendor Spotlight: EK Productions

 

 

 

We had the opportunity to learn more about EK Productions and what they offer to Bar Bat Mitzvah clients. 

We asked two simple questions, to which they answered in detail and with confidence:

 

What Is EK Productions?

EK Productions is a professional group of entertainers founded in 1986. Their company has grown from a successful D.J. operation to a full-scale event planning unit, specializing in videos, dancers, automated lighting, special effects, games, percussionists, M.C.s and other exciting entertainment for your child’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebration.

Why EK Productions?

When you hire EK Productions for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebration, your child is the star! With the gesture of a hand and the wink of any eye, they will encourage your guests to join them on the dance floor. Your party is transformed into a special event because they believe in non-stop entertainment, non-stop fun and they can guarantee audience participation!

All DJs are alike, right? Wrong! EK Productions is an interactive entertainment company. They’re fully insured and their 30 years of industry experience, ensures excellence. Their state-of-the-art lighting, sound, and professional staff sets them apart from all others. The dedication and enthusiasm of the staff and ownership of EK Productions will guide you through an event of a lifetime. 

 

To learn more about EK Productions, visit their extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.

Bar Mitzvah & Bat Mitzvah Entertainment: Dollar Artist
January 25th, 2017

Bar Mitzvah & Bat Mitzvah Entertainment: Dollar Artist

A unique way to capture your Bar Mitzvah & Bat Mitzvah guests attention is by using a Dollar Artist!

Your friends and family will be lined up at a table, being entertained as they watch the dollar artist create over 100 different models by folding real money! Your guests will take home a money art souvenir from your Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebration.

Check out some of his designs below. Also, you can download a free brochure from his Website by clicking here.

 

 

 

To learn more, visit their Website.

See the Dollar Artist live in action at the Celebrate! Party Showcase taking place on Sunday, January 29, 2017 at the Park Ridge Marriott from 12-4pm. Get your FREE family ticket here.

The Latest In Bar Bat Mitzvah Entertainment From EJ The DJ
January 24th, 2017

The Latest In Bar Bat Mitzvah Entertainment From EJ The DJ

 

 

EJ The DJ utilizes its worldwide resources to customize entertainment for your child’s Bar Bat Mitzvah celebration. Their staff is always on the lookout for what’s hot and about to hit. They always know the next “big thing” in the world of entertainment and are ready to incorporate it into your event. And, because EJ The DJ owns most of its own equipment, they are able to provide clients cutting-edge entertainment innovations at a reasonable cost.

Speaking of the next Big Thing…

 

 

EJ THE DJ INTRODUCES ‘SILENT CLUBBING’

It’s the latest in Bar Bat Mitzvah entertainment! Kids (of all ages, yes adults too), wear cool headphones and dance to their favorite tunes. They call it ‘Silent Clubbing’ because the party isn’t filled with loud music, but young guests are anything but silent about enjoying this new way of “clubbing” with their friends.

 

bar bat mitzvah entertainment

Guests wear state-of-the-art headphones

bar bat mitzvah entertainment

Headphones glow in the dark creating a nightclub effect

For more information about EJ The DJ, visit their extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.