November 3rd, 2013
A Mitzvah Mom told us about the custom pillows she made for her daughter’s Bat Mitzvah using a terrific Website she found to be inexpensive and easy to use. We wanted to share this with our readers.
CafePress.com is a Website with 2 million shops where customers can choose from over 300 million products on every subject imaginable: from apparel and drinkware, to posters, electronic accessories, and more. Users can also make their own designs with their easy online design tools, then buy them, share them, or sell them in their own online shops.
Remy Babbush with her custom pillows created on CafePress.com
To see the rest of this Mitzvah Family Spotlight story, click here.
For more information, visit their Website.
November 2nd, 2013
The Goldberg family from Rye Brook, New York, celebrated their daughter Madison’s Bat Mitzvah on June 8, 2013, at Temple Shalom in Greenwich, Connecticut, with a Kiddush luncheon following services. Later that evening, there was a party for Madison and her friends at Coliseum Night Club in White Plains, New York.
The theme was centered around Madison’s initials, “MVG” a take on “MSG” – Madison Square Garden. Mom Leslie owns Out of the Box NY, an invitation and accessories company, so there were many great details starting with the amazing invitation.
Pictured L-R: Mom Leslie, Brother Greyson, Sister Emily, Bat Mitzvah girl Madison and Dad Paul
The photographer was Tiffany of Luciebelle Photography. The entire vendor directory is listed below.
Madison’s Bat Mitzvah service was at Temple Shalom in Greenwich, Connecticut
The service programs were elegantly displayed
Mom Leslie owns Out of the Box NY, an invitation and party accessory company. She created unique invitations for her daughter which included a classic letterpress invitation for the service featuring Madison’s name foiled in silver and a viewfinder for the party invitation.Guests really enjoyed the viewfinder!
This family worked with owner Elena DoVale of Designing Dreams to create Bat Mitzvah girl Madison’s ball gown.
Sneakers with “bling” were comfortable and very chic
The Goldberg kids
Brother Greyson changed into a custom jersey and hat for his entrance
The signed tickets looked bright and beautiful in the box The sign-in was very unique! It was an acrylic ticket box. Guests wrote their messages to Madison on neon acrylic “tickets” and put them in the box
Kids received their hot dogs concession-style in logo’d containers
An “MVG” hot dog
Waiter staff wore custom t-shirts while delivering food
Customized pretzel bags were a great touch
Madison’s picture on the Jones Soda label and custom candy boxes “made to go” for the MVG concession theme
“Party at MVG” glasses were a big hit
There were many special moments during the night including this spontaneous moment. This is one happy family!
ESP Production team wore custom t-shirts that read, “Live at MVG”
The custom Gobo lit up the dance floor
Everyone had a great time dancing
Big black & white photos, accented in turquoise, hung on walls around the room
Instead of using regular candles for their candle lighting ceremony, the Goldbergs had a clever idea: they created custom candles that represented the person or people who were coming up to light the candle. For camp friends, they had the Camp Robindel logo, for grandparents, they used the Jamaican Flag because they travel there together on vacations.
Sister Emily reading her toast to her sister Madison
Wendy The Pipe Cleaner Lady and all her goods with Mom Leslie. She was a great activity in addition to the photo booth
Instead of a candy table, the Goldbergs had the servers go around with concession-style trays and the children got to pick out what they liked
Everyone loved this idea
Created by Out of the Box NY, these beautifully wrapped favors were chocolate malt balls given to each adult as they left. The label said “Thanks for celebrating with me, XOXO Madison”
Madison’s friends received headphones with Madison’s logo from Suzanne Corbin of CorbinStyle. Each headphone was personalized with the guest’s name
The favor bags were personalized with a sticker that looked like a ticket stub
Madison’s Mitzvah Project
Madison volunteered all year at Edenwald at Pleasantville Cottage, which is a residence and school for mentally and emotionally challenged children. She tutored a student each week and took him out for dinner each month. As part of “Give a Mitzvah – Do a Mitzvah” through UJA Federation of New York, she also wanted to donate a portion of her gifts. Madison chose to sponsor and pay for part of the prom at Edenwald. This prom is a highlight in the children’s lives as they get dressed in prom dresses and tuxedos and get a real prom experience. She was able to secure ESP Productions, who provided the music at Madison’s Bat Mitzvah, to donate his services and be the DJ/MC at the prom. It was a highlight in Madison’s life as well as the Goldberg family.
Some advice from Mom Leslie:
“Keep it all in perspective. Focus on the importance of the service and the Bar/Bat Mitzvah. At my 1st daughter’s Bat Mitzvah, I was hung up when things weren’t exactly as I had planned. This time, I realized that so much of what bothered me last time didn’t change the party. Just focus on having fun and enjoying every moment of it. It will be over before you know it!”
Vendor Directory
The following vendors helped to make Madison’s Bat Mitzvah special. If you give any of them a call, let them know you read about their services on MitzvahMarket.com.
Venue: Coliseum Night Club, 914-285-0900
Music/Entertainment: MC Lesly, ESP Productions, 516-484-8377
Décor/Florist: ESP Productions and Out of the Box NY, 914-934-2323
Photography: Tiffany, Luciebelle Photography, 718-858-4328
Favors: Suzanne Corbin, CorbinStyle, 914-834-6627
Invitation/Program/Favor boxes/Candy Boxes/Sign-in Box: Mom Leslie, Out of the Box NY
Extra Entertainment: Wendy, The Pipe Cleaner Lady, 631-470-3308
Cake: Liz Kaye, EBK Creations, 917-328-8187
Custom soda: Jones Custom Soda
Bat Mitzvah girl Madison’s dress: Designing Dreams, 516-248-1988
Greyson’s Suit: Lubin’s of Westchester, Scarsdale
Mom’s Dress: Saks Fifth Avenue
Emily’s Dress: Alice & Olivia
Hair: Audrey, Magnolia Salon, 203-354-3564
Make up: Jill Hamburger, jilly27@optonline.net
October 28th, 2013
Adam Wyner celebrated his Bar Mitzvah service and reception on October 31, 2009 at Kol Tikvah in Parkland, Florida.
After their traditional morning service and Kiddush luncheon, the family got ready for their evening Halloween party! The Wyner family called their celebration, “A Boo Mitzvah” party.
The family took advantage of their October 31st date and asked guests to dress up in costumes. They kept their family costume a secret until it was revealed that evening.
With a name like Adam, the perfect theme was a take-off on The Addams Family!
Everyone had a spooktacular time! All party photography was by Madgy Guirguis and the rest of the vendor information is listed at the bottom of this spotlight.
Pictured left (L-R): Dad Howard as Gomez Addams, Bar Mitzvah boy Adam as Pugsley, sister Sarah as Wednesday Addams, Mom Lori as Morticia Addams, and brother Jason as Uncle Fester
How many families can say they bought their Bar/Bat Mitzvah party outfits at Party City!
Here’s the family dressed in their Temple service clothes before their costume reveal!
A family shot including Mitzvah Mom Lori’s parents dressed up as hippies!
Their invitation was created by Lynvitations.
Notice the orange envelope!
Very clever language on the RSVP card
The entry way into the party was designed after the outside of the Addams family house on the popular television show.
They used this area for a photo op, taking pictures as guests entered their party
The Wyner family took advantage of Halloween wherever they could! Their place cards were blinking orange pumpkins with names attached.
Someone was hiding under the table! There’s a real arm coming out from the center showing guests funny quips
Mom Lori was the party planner and she says the decor was lots of fun to plan. She was going for a “Halloween Festive” look!
The main wall, where the buffet was, was piped and draped with dozens of multi-sized creepy eyes staring out and blinking the whole time
The kids area was piped and draped with over-sized spider webs and 4 foot lighted spiders. There were also bats and other creepy creatures hanging around
The table linens were either orange or purple fringed table clothes with huge candelabras that helped create the Halloween mood
Another area featured the “Scary go round”
Pure Energy provided the music entertainment with their MC and dancers playing fun games with their guests like “Toss The Body Parts” in the Cauldron. There was also a mummy wrap contest for the kids during the party and a lot of Halloween inspired music. While this was going on, the adults had themed drinks like “green goblin martinis” and “smashed pumpkins.”
Dad as Gomez up in the chair!
They served a buffet dinner featuring Halloween inspired items! In keeping with the theme, Parents Lori and Howard had their own “Sweetheart Table” for the evening. It was a take off on Morticia and Gomez with Kings chair. Additionally, some cold displays were shredded brain dip and jack o lantern crudite.
Doesn’t Maggot Stew (beef dish) with Devilish Muffins sound delicious?
There were large fun signs everywhere including “Snakes in Pond Scum” (pasta), “Night Crawler Salmon” and “Witches Fingers”
For dessert they had a buffet with fun foods like blood red velvet cakes, pumpkin cheese cakes and individual dirt pots. The kids had a candy bar where they could trick or treat to their hearts content
Adam’s favor for his friends was a black drawstring bag with an orange pumpkin created by Lynvitations.
The mouth was a cutout that had Adam’s name carved out along with the date
This special Boo Mitzvah was filled with special moments.
Mitzvah Mom Morticia dances with Adam
Dad giving his speech
The Wyner’s family and friends were such great sports and got into the dress-up aspect of this celebration! There were mimes, baseball players, game show hosts and greek godesses to name a few. Everyone dressed up and just had a great time that night.
The following vendors made Adam’s celebration great. If you give any of them a call, please let them know you read about their services on MitzvahMarket.com.
Venue: Kol Tikvah
Party Planner: Mitzvah Mom Lori
Music Entertainment: Pure Energy 954-782-6989
Photo Favors: Funtastic Photo Favors 561-306-3700
Invitation: Lynvitations 507-386-2320
Costumes For Family: Party City
Photographer: Madgy Guirguis, 954-749-2763
Videographer: Robert Moskowitz, Frontline Video Productions Inc.
Favors: Lynvitations
Hair/Makeup: MAC
October 26th, 2013
The Miller family from East Hills, New York, celebrated their son Max’s Bar Mitzvah on May 18, 2013.
Anyone who knows the Miller family can tell you that they march to the beat of their own drum. With a reputation for throwing over-the-top theme parties, it was inevitable that their son Max’s Bar Mitzvah would be very unique.
Dad David turned to his business partner Gil Aldad of PBG Miller Immersive Environments to help create a Bar Mitzvah that would be unique, creative and non-traditional.
The service and celebration were held at Sunrise Day Camp, the only dedicated day camp in the nation for children with cancer. The theme was surprisingly simple. Son Max is obsessed with computers and technology so it was an Apple Computer “iMax” theme!
Pictured left: Top Row, Dad David with Bar Mitzvah boy Max. Bottom Row, Mom Vicki and younger Brother Miles
The photographer was Felicia Lebow and the rest of the vendors are listed at the end of the spotlight.
The Bar Mitzvah was held in the newly constructed Pavilion at Sunrise Day Camp. The Havdallah service was upbeat, fun and non-traditional and held in a tent in the parking lot of the camp.
As guests arrived they were handed a yarmulke
Circles of Life created these yarmulkes made of seed paper in keeping with the green theme of Max’s Mitzvah Project. Read more about his Mitzvah Project here
Guests were given sachets filled with spices made by Mom Vicki who runs a spice company
Rock music versions of traditional Jewish songs were performed by percussionist George Hooks and Guitarist, Eric Komar
Children in the front rows were handed percussion instruments to play along
Dad David was the party planning parent and says, “Part of planning a memorable event is getting your guests excited and involved.” This started with Max’s invitation. The Miller family had received so many beautiful invitations that ended up in the garbage, so they wanted to give their guests something they could reuse. They decided to make every invitation by hand! Each guest received an iPad (look-a-like) and pen set!
The outside of the box mimicked the packaging for an iPad, complete with images of an iPad featuring apps that represented Max’s hobbies and interests (i.e. iDrum, iSki, iDJ, etc). Inside the box, the invitation was wrapped in paper with Matrix code designed with the date of the Bar Mitzvah (05182013), sealed with a round “Max’s Genius Bar Mitzvah” sticker, and a combination pen/stylus/flashlight attached, which was custom imprinted with the iMax logo
For the actual invitation, they created a custom note pad that looked like an iPad, with an email inviting their guests. To get the guests involved, they created a Mac-themed color dress code of white, silver or black
While guests wore silver, white or black, Mom Vicki and Dad David glowed in their EL Wire trim clothing.
EL Wire also created glowing corsets for the dancers too
When it came to decor, David turned to his business partner, Gil Aldad, from PBG Miller Immersive Environments. Having worked together on many other projects in the past, he knew that together they could create custom decor elements that would bring the theme to life.
Projection artist Dutch Masterson helped transform this space into a fully immersive high tech lounge environment. The room was pulsing with Matrix code scrolling down the walls and sound reactive light up computers on all the bars and tables
Cocktail tables were decorated with iPads with chocolate candy apps. Chemistry beakers and graduated cylinders were filled with candy to tie-in the Genius bar Mitzvah theme
Cameras were placed around the room with signs asking guests to take pictures with them or post their own, on Instagram
For the centerpiece of the room, a 70” plasma TV was turned into a giant computer and speakers, which was used for the breakout and the montage
The digital iSign board, created by Simon Elliot Events, looked like a giant “MaxBook” Pro computer.
Guests left messages for Max on this giant Max Book Pro digital iSign
All of Max’s special messages were compiled into the iSign Guestbook with a custom cover
Food buffets and other passed hors d’oeuvres were designed by caterer Andrea Correale of Elegant Affairs.
Taco Station for guests
Creative meatballs & spaghetti!
Mini grilled cheese and soup along with other “apps” were served on trays that looked like giant iPads
The adult guests were served shots from servers wearing illuminated backpacks, with clear tubes filled with two different signature drinks. Waiters wandered the room wearing shirts designed to look like Apple store employees
Guests were offered cookies & milk and Twinkies imported from Canada
(Note: Twinkies were not available in the US at the time of this celebration)
When it came time for dessert, a donut wall was created by PBG Miller Immersive Environments. The sign read, “iGoNuts For Donuts” and was rolled out onto the dance floor
Cool Haus was there to create handmade ice cream sandwiches in unique flavors that were served in an edible paper wrapper with the iMax logo and caricature image printed on them
PBG Miller Immersive Environments created custom logos which were affixed to the bars, cocktail tables and even the center of the round white dance floor. The cool t-shirts, worn by staff and guests, were created by Gotham T-shirt.
iMax branding was seen all around the room
T-shirts, like the one above, were handed out to all of the guests
Printed on the inside of the shirts upside down was a caricature of Max
When the bottom of the shirt is flipped over your head, it creates a mask of Max
More Than Music provided the music entertainment with MC Genady.
The More Than Music crew poses with the Miller family
Two males break dancers entered the room dressed in EL wire illuminated costumes and performed a robot dance
Dad David enjoying his son’s celebration
Max’s younger brother Miles was carried into the room by the male dancers on a custom made illuminated horah chair-chariot, followed by Mom and Dad also dressed in EL wire-illuminated outfits
Miles entrance created a diversion so the guest of honor could hide behind the giant computer. As the MC announced “DJ Max Trax” the female dancers pulled away the keyboard on the giant computer to reveal Max, who was wearing an EL wire jacket and a sound reactive “Daft Punk” mask, standing behind his own DJ mixing board. He performed a mix of his favorite dance songs that he produced and the crowd loved!
There were many activities for all their guests during this celebration!
During the cocktail hour, guests were encouraged to look into the “Maxtrix,” a “Punk” booth with a hidden camera that captured them peering in. Later these awkward images of the guests were incorporated into the projections on the ceiling, creating the illusion of them looking in on the party below
Kids played games and activities provided by Simon Elliot Events, including this Candy Drop game above, a video game station and Stick A Pic photo favors below, along with airbrushed neoprene iPad cases
The video game station
Stick A Pic photo favors were available for all guests
Simon Elliot Events also provided a custom Beatz Box station
Each of Max’s friends received their custom headphones in a customized box
Guests were entertained by the extreme magic of Eric Wilzig
The iMax candle display was created by Name with Flame.
Candle lighting display
As Max invited guests to light candles the ceiling was engulfed in breathtaking images of realistic flames
When it came time to make his speech, Max’s Dad announced that he asked a celebrity to speak on his behalf. Using voice-to-text software, Dad held his iPhone up to the microphone, and Siri delivered his speech in the form of a humorous rhyme and introduced the montage video.
The montage created by dad, with help from Genius Bar staff of the Apple store, featured family photos, home movies, TV and movie clips, all creatively tied together with a soundtrack of classic rock and current hits
Max’s friends each had a cubby with a logo’d bag for all their party swag!
Bar Mitzvah Bouncer provided the security for this celebration.
At the end of the night when guests departed they were given retro telephone iphone handsets with cartoon labels saying “Thanks for dialing, you’ve left us smiling” on them, and bottled water labeled iRecycle and the Max Cent’s 4 Sunrise logo.
The retro phone handsets
We wrote about Max’s terrific Mitzvah Project called, Max Cents 4 Sunrise. He collected recyclables and donated the deposit money to Sunrise Day Camp, a camp for children with cancer, where Dad David has been involved since it’s inception and sits on the advisory board.
Read more about Max’s Mitzvah Project and how you can do something similar in your town here
Max’s Dad has produced many events in his career. Here’s some advice:
“What an awesome night! From the minute Max was born we knew he would become a Bar Mitzvah, but it wasn’t until he was eleven that we began to really talk about what type of experience we wanted for our son. A night of tradition and celebration does not happen without a lot of thought, preparation and coordination. My wife stayed focused and organized throughout the entire process. She kept detailed notes and files for every step, including the guest list, vendor contracts and payments, reply cards, gifts and thank you notes. You can prepare all you like for the perfect evening, but there is no event that goes smoothly or without a hitch. There will always be hiccups and things that do not go exactly as planned, but keep in mind that you are the only ones who will know; we had our share. But don’t sweat the small stuff.”
The following vendors helped to make Max’s celebration special. If you give any of them a call, please let them know you read about their services on MitzvahMarket.com.
Venue: Beth Fetner, Sunrise Day Camp, 516-766-4341
Party Planner/Decor/Donut Wall: David Miller, PBG Miller Immersive Environments, 516-358-0800
Video Projection: PBG Miller & Dutch Masterson Designs, 516-358-0800
Service Music: Percussionist George Hooks & Guitarist, Eric Komar, Komar Music, 718-344-0440
Music Entertainment: MC Genady, More Than Music, 516-626-9400
Invitations: The Miller family
T-shirt Favors: Howie, Gotham T-shirt, 516-676-0900
Magician: Eric, The Extreme Magic of Eric, 516-944-4792
Photographer: Felicia Lebow, Photography By Felicia, 516-242-1947
Caterer: Andrea Correale, Elegant Affairs, 516-676-8500
Seed Yarmulkes: Circles of Life, 978-2-KIPPOT
iSign, Beatz Station, Stick A Pic: Michelle Collins, Simon Elliot Events, 516-586-6822
Candle Lighting Display: Name with Flame, 609-933-0887
Ice Cream Sandwich Station: Amy McCullaugh, Cool Haus, 818-694-5733
Mom’s dress: Calvin Klein Custom Couture Dress
Suits for male family members: Glow City, 877-562-4569
Dancer Corsets: Electric City
Custom made sound reactive EL Mask: Jorge Pong
Security: Bar Mitzvah Bouncer, 631-367-1519
Valet Parking: Jeffrey Shapiro, Solutions, 516-432-7275
October 25th, 2013
By Lindsey Sklar
Summer is over and I’m excited to be back on the circuit! I have already started to attend Bar and Bat Mitzvahs for my friends and family. I’m so excited to write about each unique celebration. Bar and Bat Mitzvahs are so much fun and I love looking at all of the different trendy dresses, themes, party favors, and more! I’m very excited to share with everyone all of the unique ideas I see at each and every party!
Recently I went to my best friend Amanda’s Bat Mitzvah! It was a beautiful party and I can’t wait to write about it.
On the way into the party, I saw the place cards, which were shopping bags to match her theme! I was excited to be at the Chanel table. When I first walked into the party room, I did not expect to see what I saw. The room was gorgeous. There was a pink light shining on the walls to give it a pretty pink glow. There were also pink lace table cloths and more pink everywhere. Her centerpieces were adorable! They were either pink flowers, or a big picture of her on the cover of a magazine. On the tables they had little chocolates in the shape of shoes, purses, dresses, and much more. It was perfect and totally showed her personality.
Amanda had a band instead of a DJ. I thought that was a unique touch to her party. Not only was it different, but it was GREAT. They really brought life to the party.
The food was amazing! Like most Bar Bat Mitzvahs, the kids had a buffet style meal. There were chicken fingers, pasta, mini sliders, Mac and cheese, salad and fries. The adults got a much more exciting meal. They had seafood, and pretty much anything imaginable. I was jealous, but the food I had was excellent!
Amanda’s sign-in display was a giant pink locker that was spray painted with symbols that represented her theme. For example, there was a girl putting on lipstick. The locker was beautifully decorated and it looked like a lot of time was put into it.
I LOVED her favor! It was a thin sweatshirt. It wasn’t the usual bulky kind. It is almost like a long-sleeved shirt. Not only that, but it’s also a v-neck which I think is pretty cute! Her design was only on the front. It’s a perfume bottle that says ‘Amanda’ on it. Very, very cute!
I’m so proud of my best friend, the party was so much fun! Mazel Tov to Amanda and her family!
Read Lindsey’s last blog post here.
ABOUT LINDSEY
I’m a 7th grader from Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Dancing is my favorite after school activity, whether it’s tap, jazz, ballet, or hip hop. Somehow I’m able to fit in my other hobby, softball, during my busy week. On top of all of that, I do whatever it takes to have time for my friends. My own Bat Mitzvah is coming up soon. It will be taking place in November, 2013. I can’t wait!
October 14th, 2013
MakeABall.com is an interactive site that lets you design personalized sports balls with amazing vibrancy, edge to edge printing, quality and customization.
Consider Make A Ball for your Bar Bat Mitzvah favors, gifts, part of the centerpieces, and/or place cards!
These balls will not crack, fade or peel over time. If you like baseball, basketball, football, soccer, softball, volleyball or hockey – you’ll love Make A Ball for your sports themed Mitzvah or as the ultimate, unique keepsake for the sports enthusiast!
Check out some of these samples below:
Include your custom Make A Ball in centerpieces for a basketball themed Bar Bat Mitzvah celebration
A custom Make A Ball volleyball “serves” as the table number at this beach themed Bat Mitzvah celebration
Use custom Make A Ball baseballs in vases for decor!
In this example, each guest has a Make A Ball baseball favor on their plate and some are also incorporated into the centerpiece
Looking for a Hanukkah gift for the football lover?
To learn more, visit their Website.
October 1st, 2013
This was the second celebration for the Golden family from Franklin Lakes, New Jersey at Trail’s End Camp in Beach Lake, Pennsylvania. We already ran a Mitzvah Family Spotlight story for older sister Ally, who celebrated there in 2010. Dani wanted a weekend celebration like her sister had two years before. Trail’s End Camp was the perfect location to combine her love of camp and soccer which became her Bat Mitzvah theme.
Simon Elliot Events was the photographer for this event and the rest of the vendors are listed at the bottom.
Pictured L-R: Mom Leslie, Bat Mitzvah girl Dani, sister Ally and Dad Lee.
Invitations to Dani’s weekend lead guests to a custom Website that was built by Amy Wohl from FabuDesigns.com. Check out details from her celebration on her Website here
Dani’s friends arrive by bus Saturday morning to begin the fun!
All areas of the beautiful camp were available for guests to enjoy
Dani stands on the porch of the bunks where guests all stayed for the true camp experience
Dani’s friends are ready for some fun!
During the day, Simon Elliot Events divided Dani’s friends into teams and oversaw the “color war” fun! Dani and her friends are ready for the 3-legged race!
Different colored t-shirts, created by A Promos USA/ImageMaker, were given out to Dani’s friends
Each team also had a flag also created by A Promos USA/ImageMaker
After a day of fun, it was time for Dani’s Bat Mitzvah service. Due to bad weather, the service, which would have taken place at the lake was moved inside to the dining hall, but that did not stop Dani from doing a terrific job! Dani is all smiles with her Torah
Looking Golden! Sisters Dani and Ally got their dresses at All Dressed Up. Mom Leslie’s dress was from Bergdorf Goodman. Dani’s skirt was removable to reveal a shorter dress underneath
“Life is Golden” signage flanked the entryway. Place cards, created by Artistic Displays, greeted Dani’s guests in the dining hall at Trail’s End Camp
For Dani’s sign-in, Honesdale Florist decorated a mailbox for guests to write special messages on postcards.
Dani’s friends sending her a postcard with good wishes
FabuDesigns.com designed the postcards
Dani makes her entrance in her shorter dress
Dani and the Untouchable dancers
The music entertainment was provided by Untouchable Events with Joe as the MC. Everyone was on the dance floor all night
Checkerboard printed napkins and various pastels linens created a fun look in the dining hall
Honesdale Florist provided the centerpieces which each stated, “Life is….”
The soccer cake was created by the Trails End Camp baker
Mitzvah Moment Dani and her friends enjoying the camp grounds
Ally toasts her little sister Dani
“Live” event painter Martin Harding worked all night to complete a painting capturing the celebration. The finished painting is now hanging in the Golden’s home
Each of Dani’s friends had a personalized drawstring bag, flashlight and sweatshirt, created by A Promos USA waiting for them on their beds in the bunk. The sweatshirt featured her logo,”Life is Golden”
Dani posing with her sister Ally by the lake and modeling the sweatshirt favor
At the end of the celebration, family and friends gathered by the lake for s’mores and a surprise fireworks show! Friends enjoying the bonfire and s’mores in comfy clothes
A showstopping fireworks on the lake was enjoyed by all
Bat Mitzvah Project
Dani volunteered for two weeks as a buddy at Camp Acorn in NJ. Camp Acorn is a summer/winter social and recreational program for children and young adults with multiple disabilities.
Since camp is such a special place for Dani, she wanted others less fortunate than her to have a camp experience.
Some Mitzvah Advice from Mom Leslie
“Having an event planner to oversee the schedule of events for the daytime was key. We were able to enjoy the activities and spend time with our guests.”
Vendor Directory
The following vendors helped to make Dani’s celebration special. If you give any of them a call, please let them know you read about their services on MitzvahMarket.com.
Venue/Caterer/Cake/Party Security: Trail’s End Camp
Day of Event Planner: Michelle Collins, Simon Elliot Events, 516-586-6822
Photographer/Videographer/Photo favors: Simon Elliott Events, 516-586-6822
Website/Postcards: Amy Wohl, Fabudesigns.com, 312-513-1698
Favors/Flags/Color War shirts: Mindy, A Promo USA/ImageMaker, 800-987-8966
Music Entertainment/MC: MC Joe, Untouchable Events, 212-924-6299
Décor/Florist/Sign-in mailbox: Honesdale Florist, 570-253-3050
Place cards: Lori & Michelle, Artistic Displays
Live Event Painter: Martin Harding, 201-965-3441
Dresses for family members: Dani & Ally, All Dressed Up, 914-690-1593
Mom Leslie: Bergdorf Goodman
Hair/makeup: 5th Ave Hair Color Studio & Spa; Makeup, Artistic Brushworks
Transportation: Avery Transportation, 570-729-7153
September 25th, 2013
By Marisa Thalberg, ExecutiveMoms.com
Part of my rationale for going a slightly unconventional route in the professional planning assistance department is that I knew I wouldn’t be able to resist throwing my energies into this as a “Project.” In fact, after winding down working on my iPad at night, rather than transition to sleep, I found myself trolling the web for venue ideas, which I shared with Seth – my corporate event producer-turned-first-time Bat Mitzvah planner to kick things off.
In turn, he and his adorable associate Katie arranged to meet me, along with our Bat Mitzvah girl, at a first venue that we could also tour to get our feet wet. Our destination was the Faculty House at a local University – and while it seemed a bit random as we had not yet discussed this or any other possibilities, Hannah and I were open to their suggestion that we use this as a backdrop to get acquainted on this level. The venue, while very nice, did not strike us as a top choice for us. However, what made the appointment memorable was the time Seth and Katie spent getting to know Hannah – as she quickly charmed them with her graciousness and good sense. We may not have found our site on the first visit, but I walked away excited that we were starting to share a vision for creating something meaningful and unique, and in that sense it was well worth the trip.
The venue search continued…
Off the little list of venue possibilities I had generated, I held high hopes for one in particular, a venue right in our Upper West Side neighborhood of which I had never been aware until not one, but both our kids’ public schools held their auctions there this year – and both were lovely. It’s right on Central Park, with dramatic vaulted ceilings and an almost gothic flair. Because – and here’s the catch – it was an historic church. Nonetheless, Hannah and I, along with my husband David, set out to meet Seth and Katie there.
Here’s what we learned: if you are planning an event for the daytime, visit during the daytime. Had we not, we might not have realized that the dramatic theatrical lighting that was instrumental in creating so much ambiance at the auctions we attended at night was replaced by bright streaming sunshine… Illuminating the (understandably yet previously unnoticed) very Christian stained glass windows. Moreover, we realized the space itself just wasn’t as expansive as we had recalled, to host both our service (more on that to come) as well as a subsequent party.
Unfortunately we will have to continue our search…
Read Part 1 here
ABOUT MARISA THALBERG
Marisa Thalberg is the founder of Executive Moms which for 11 years has provided content and community for fabulous women who are both professionals and mothers. An executive herself, she is also the head of corporate digital marketing worldwide for The Estée Lauder Companies. She has been widely acknowledged for her work on both fronts, including being named a Working Mother of the Year, an Advertising Age Woman to Watch, and a featured mother in UNICEF’s State of World’s Children report. She lives in Manhattan with her husband David and their two daughters Hannah, age 12 and Avery, age 7. She will be celebrating Hannah’s Bat Mitzvah in November 2013 and is blogging about her planning experience for both MitzvahMarket.com and on her blog.
Read about Hannah’s celebration here.
September 24th, 2013
The Mandel family from East Brunswick, New Jersey, had daughter Alexa’s Bat Mitzvah at the East Brunswick Jewish Center in East Brunswick, New Jersey. Her reception was held at the Renaissance Woodbridge Hotel in Iselin, New Jersey.
It was a “glowing night” with a hip club vibe. Mom Susan says that after she planned Alexa’s party, she became a party planner herself and is now owner of Mandel Group Events specializing in Mitzvahs!
Pictured L-R: Mom Susan, Dad Howard, younger brother Matthew and Bat Mitzvah girl Alexa.
The photographer was Jason Krugman of Picture Us Perfect. The entire vendor directory is listed at the bottom of the spotlight.
Alexa’s service was held at the East Brunswick Jewish Center in East Brunswick, New Jersey.
By Dana created Alexa’s custom turquoise invitation. We love how the letter “A” was accentuated in an elegant script font.
The reception was held in the ballroom of the Renaissance Woodbridge Hotel in Iselin, New Jersey. They were so happy with the party, the Mandel’s are having younger son Matthew’s Bar Mitzvah there in May 2014.
The entrance to the hotel
A beautiful display of crudites during the cocktail hour
Alexa looks great in her Mori Lee turquoise cocktail dress from Dresses and More.
The dress was embellished with crystals and tulle
The theme was @Lexa’s Lounge. All Alexa requested was a lot of “glow” and Mom Susan delivered. Everything was about the LED. Alexa’s logo was incorporated throughout, along with her favorite colors, purple and turquoise.
Alexa’s turquoise logo sparkled
The transformation of the ballroom into a “night club lounge” was easily achieved with the help of New York Lounge Decor. They supplied all of the sleek white lounge furniture, LED furniture, and up-lighting in a turquoise and purple palette. The custom lighting was changed throughout the night to give the party an authentic “club” effect. Rose Petals and Lace designed the beautiful centerpieces and floral elements around the room.
Place Cards were rock candy in martini glasses, with name cards as the “slice”
A colorful seating area was a great spot to hang out
Modern glass centerpieces were accented with Alexa’s logo and held beautiful flowers in shades of purple
Some of the adult tables had tall modern vases with turquoise water and a purple arrangement to enhance the beautiful color combination
The room looked gorgeous glowing in turquoise and purple
The kids sat together in this unique dining arrangement with large turquoise and purple balloons that were suspended on mono-filament string and hidden between the tables
The @ Lounge was branded throughout the party.
Custom @ lounge throw pillows decorated white leather couches
A floral @ hung above the bar
The Renaissance Hotel created an LED ice sculpture of Alexa’s logo
On the kids dais table, custom lollipops were used as place cards with each child’s name on a tag and tucked into the napkins
Mom Susan designed the purple and turquoise jeweled sign-in board on stretched canvas with Alexa’s logo in the middle.
The sharpie markers were turquoise and purple as well
Alexa making her way into the room after her entrance video from Green Cheese Media. Mom Susan got the idea from Mitzvah Market!
The dancer’s shirts were made specifically for the dancers using a 2nd logo and some were given out as prizes to the kids during the cocktail hour
New York Entertainment team with MC Dru had Alexa’s Lounge providing non-stop dancing.
Alexa posing with the New York Entertainment dancers
Alexa and her friends following along
Everyone loved the giveaways
The break dancers added to the fun
Alexa is joined by all her friends on the dance floor
New York Entertainment provided poker tables during the cocktail hour for the kids, and Picture Us Perfect provided the Photo Booth.
Brother Matthew enjoying everything
Mom Susan and son Matthew enjoy a photo op
Alexa and her Dad had a nice moment on the dance floor.
Alexa’s cake was designed by Mom Susan and baked by Sweet Sweet Sue’s Bakery.
The cake had an LED element that lit up from the bottom
Mom Susan designed the favors which were black sweatshirts with a splash of distressed blue and Alexa’s logo.
Turquoise favor bags ready for pick up
Hooded sweatshirts for Alexa’s friends
The Mandel guests got a preview of another celebration, Matthew’s Bar Mitzvah, in May 2014.
The Tradition Continues… a great poster of Matthew from Picture Us Perfect
Some advice from Mom Susan:
“Plan ahead….don’t worry if people say you are obsessed, even if you are just a little bit. Ask to speak to friends who have used the vendors you are considering using, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Ask questions if this is your first time planning a Mitzvah as there will be many. Best invitation advice I can give is to give yourself extra time when putting the RSVP date on your response. As you will need approximately 3 weeks to order and prepare any party favors i.e. sweatshirts, bags…a 4 week RSVP date will only leave you 1 week to hunt down all those kids who “forgot” to send back the RSVP or whose moms tell you, “Oh, it’s on her dresser, I thought she took care of it.”
An animal lover, Alexa volunteered at the Sayerville Animal Shelter (which has since closed) and collected donations for cat/dog food, towels and other items the shelter needed. She set up a booth at the Purim Carnival at the temple and spent the day collecting. Alexa also helped several friends find their own pets on Petfinder.com.
Alexa’s yarmulke included her Mitzvah project charity
The following vendors helped to make Alexa’s celebration special. If you give any of them a call, please let them know you read about their services on MitzvahMarket.com.
Venue: Amanda Grover, Renaissance Woodbridge Hotel, 732-634-3600
Party Planner/Decor/Favors/Sign-In Board: Mom Susan Mandel, MandelGroup-Events, 732-801-5106
Music Entertainment/MC/Break dancers/Poker Tables: New York Entertainment, MC Dru, 215-355-7001
Decor: NY Lounge Decor, 516-921-201
Photographer/Videographer/Montage/Photo Booth: Jason Krugman, Picture Us Perfect, 732-239-2430
Floral: Linda, Rose Petals and Lace, 732-613-0053
Invitation: By Dana, 732-625-1471
Cake: Sweet Sweet Sue’s, 718-966-2253
Entrance video: Green Chesse Media, 818-934-8990
Bat Mitzvah girl Alexa’s cocktail dress: Dresses and More, 732-566-9474
Mom Susan’ gown: Jovani Gown
Tuxedo for Dad: Saks 5th Avenue
Matthews Suit: Macy’s
September 17th, 2013
Raquel Dunoff became a Bat Mitzvah on June 16, 2012 at Congregation Or Ami in Lafayette Hill, Pennsylvania. There was a luncheon that followed at Artesano Ironworks, an art gallery and event venue in Manayunk, Pennsylvania.
We think you will be very impressed with this very artistic family and their unique touches making this a very creative celebration.
Jim Harris Studios photographed the reception and the rest of the vendors are listed at the bottom of this spotlight.
Pictured L-R: Younger sister Brooke, Mom Lauren, Dad Josh and Bat Mitzvah girl Raquel.
Mitzvah Invitation
Custom invitations were created out of paint kits by graphic designer and Mitzvah Mom Lauren’s company I-View Design Services.
Within the invitation, guests were asked to create art that would be displayed at the Bat MItzvah and be part of
Raquel's Mitzvah Project
Raquel thanking her guests for participating and sending in their artwork
And here is a gallery of the guests' artwork for all to enjoy
Mitzvah Style & Venue
The Dunoffs looked very chic in their party clothes with the color combination of black and pink. Artesano Iron Works Gallery is a unique venue in a beautifully restored historic warehouse. Fred Morganstein of Infinity Catering catered the reception.
Both Bat Mitzvah girl Raquel and sister Brooke got their dresses from Dare Boutique. Mom Lauren's dress was from Gabrielle and Dad Josh's suit was from Nordstrom
The cocktail hour was outside
The loft style space is perfect for an art themed Bat Mitzvah
Mitzvah Details
Party planner Valerie Felgoise of Let’s Party with Valerie brought Raquel’s vision to life. Place cards and table décor were portraits of the Bat Mitzvah girl in modern art styles and defined on the menu page at each guest’s table setting.
Guests found their table numbers on magnets they could take home, featuring the stylized artwork of Raquel
Table décor were portraits of Raquel in modern art styles
At each place setting was this customized menu with food choices as well as descriptions of all of the centerpiece styles
Let's Party with Valerie created the sign-in board worthy of a budding artist
Bat Mitzvah girl Raquel and Mom Lauren striking a pose,
and dancing with her Dad Josh
There was a "bling table" where the kids could decorate cell phone covers, mirrors, picture frames and more with rhinestones and stickers
Mitzvah Cake & Favor
Raquel’s cake was created by Jordyn at Velvet Sky Bakery using a splatter design Raquel created and it was delicious! Mom Lauren’s company I-View Designs designed these great towels for Raquel to give out to her friends.
Raquel with her grandparents
Raquel enjoys her candle lighting with some close friends
Perfect for a June Bat Mitzvah
Mitzvah Project
Raquel’s Mitzvah Project had two parts, both supporting Freshartists.org. She chose this organization because they provide less fortunate kids art classes and supplies. Raquel related to this as she had participated in and enjoyed art classes since she was little. She organized a Clothesline Art Sale and raised over $500! The second part of her Mitzvah Project was explained in the Bat Mitzvah invitation. Each invitation included a paint kit and encouraged guests to paint and send their own work of art made from the kit and was displayed at the party. For each painting sent, the Dunoff family made a donation to Freshartists.
Raquel at her Clothesline art sale
Mom to Mom
Advice from Mom Lauren:
“Choosing Artesano as our venue really framed the event. It’s so unique and a beautiful place for photos. Everyone loved that the cocktail hour was outdoors, and we had plenty of room. Helpful professionals such as Fred Morganstein from Infinity Caterers and Valerie Felgoise of Let’s Party with Valerie helped me juggle all the details. Jordyn at Velvet Sky bakery created a custom cake to our design, and it was delicious! Jim Harris, our photographer was super personable and captured the personality of our kids perfectly.”
Vendor Directory
The following vendors helped to make Raquel’s celebration special. If you give any of them a call, please let them know you read about their services on MitzvahMarket.com.
Venue: Dawn, Artesano Ironworks Gallery 866-939-4766
Photographer/Videographer: Jim, Jim Harris Studios, 215-964-7600
Party Planner/Decor/Sign-In: Let’s Party with Valerie, 610-213-5675
Caterer: Fred Morganstein, Infinity Caterers, 215- 509-7280
Invitation/Favors: Mom Lauren, I-view Design Services, 610-941-5486
Photo booth: Elite Party Entertainment, 866-354-8341
Cake: Velvet Sky Bakery, 215-884-0254
Girls Dresses: Dare Boutique, 856-424-8300
Mom’s Dress: Gabrielle, 610-668-2801
Dad’s Suit: Nordstrom
