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3 Essential Details to Consider When Planning A Bar or Bat Mitzvah, Princeton New Jersey Mitzvah Photographer

Having photographed Bar and Bat Mitzvahs for over a decade, I have seen so many amazing events.  The ones where the guests just don’t sit down, the kids are having a blast and the smile doesn’t leave your son or daughter the entire time.  These are the most fun to photograph!

As a mitzvah specialist, I have seen it all.  As one of the first vendors hired, I come to the table early in the planning process, and am there to assist my clients in whatever way I can.  There are some key details that are crucial at the beginning of the process, and I’m blogging them to help assist you in planning the best possible event.  Happy to answer any questions you may have!

The options for bar/bat mitzvah are limitless which makes planning more exciting. Here are three essential details to consider when planning a bar/bat mitzvah:

1. Be Mindful Of The Venue

Do you have a venue in mind? Do you plan to hold the party in the synagogue near you? Or do you have other ideas for the venue? Typically, the choice of venue should be dictated by financial and location convenience plus something suitable for all your guests.  Venue choice can also help you dictate the theme, as many are opting for a non-traditional location now-a-days.  A field house, a sports park, even a large arcade are now options!!

You’ll want to pick a venue that is just the right size for the bar/bat mitzvah, including a stage for the DJ plus displays and decorations for the party. If you plan to organize a small party, pick a small venue. Hosting a bar/bat mitzvah in too large a space will make you scratch your head figuring out how to fill the space with activities for the guests to do.

2. Pick The Right Theme

Before much work for the event can begin, settle on a theme. This can be a color scheme, an activity, a sport, even a play on your child’s favorite book character.  I love how the kids are involved in this part of the process.  Settling on something they love makes all the difference. After all, the theme of a bar/bat mitzvah is a reflection of your child’s interests and hobbies. Here are some more theme ideas:

– Favorite books or character
– World tour
– Sports
– Tropical
– Hollywood
– Disney land
– Survivor/Adventure
– Halloween
– Broadway or Musicals

Plan everything including invitations, the cake, decorations and colors around the theme you choose. Also, don’t forget to apply as much creativity to the theme as possible. Whichever theme you pick, it must scream FUN!

3. What About Photos, Caterers & Entertainment?

Regardless of the route you choose for the event, it is imperative that you hire caterers, a professional bar/bat mitzvah photographer, and entertainment. Book them early, and word of mouth is usually your best bet.  Ask to chat with parents who have hired them in the past.  Many of these vendors are some of the first to be hired 12-18 months in advance.  As a photographer who specializes in these events, I am always sure to show my potential clients full events, from start to finish.  Anyone can show you a highlight reel of their best 20, but to show you how the energy is captured for the entire party is key.  You want to love the style!

Themes for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah New Jersey Mitzvah Photographer

A collegiate theme is always fun.

Themes for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah New Jersey Mitzvah Photographer

Utilizing a color scheme can be done with balloons as well.

Themes for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah New Jersey Mitzvah Photographer

Broadway or musicals is a different take.

Themes for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah New Jersey Mitzvah Photographer

Sports and a prominent logo took center stage here.

Themes for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah New Jersey Mitzvah Photographer

Dr. Who or a Galaxy theme was a simple and elegant take for a bar mitzvah.

Themes for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah New Jersey Mitzvah Photographer

Choosing a venue that had its own modern look make details for this bat mitzvah easy.

Themes for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah New Jersey Mitzvah Photographer

Sports jerseys can decorate the room easily, creating height at the tables.

Themes for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah New Jersey Mitzvah Photographer

An amazing location like Metlife stadium is a fabulous choice.

Themes for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah New Jersey Mitzvah Photographer

A barn or other rustic venue, complete with food trucks can be a wonderful option.

Themes for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah New Jersey Mitzvah Photographer

A garden party for a bat mitzvah is a wonderful and colorful take.

Themes for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah New Jersey Mitzvah Photographer

Using simple centerpieces with pop of color in a ballroom will make your decor stand out.

Themes for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah New Jersey Mitzvah Photographer

The use of fresh flowers elevates any space.

Themes for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah New Jersey Mitzvah Photographer

Selecting a bold color palette will wow your guests!

Themes for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah New Jersey Mitzvah Photographer

A music theme is very creative for your band boy or girl, and the added touch of framed vinyl created amazing centerpieces.

Be sure to check out my other 2 posts for some key tips on how to get some the most amazing family formal pictures, and the best games and party favors for your bar or bat mitzvah.

I included a ton of imagery here, but you can also check out my Pinterest board for more.

 

photography by jen davis, 609-439-1525, photographybyjendavis@gmail.com

Jen is princeton & robbinsville nj's top family & event photographer. she is known for creating fun, fresh, and modern portraiture for bar/bat mitzvah events, headshot, commercial, babies, children, and families. she also teaches and mentors hobbyists and professional photographers.