Bar/Bat Mitzvah Planning Calendar

1-3 years in advance q Begin to meet educational requirements. q Set date and begin to gather information to decide format.

9 to 12 months in advance q Determine budget. q Plan tentative guest list. q Select theme. q Select and reserve site for main reception. q Interview and contract with professionals including party planner, caterer, photographer, florist and entertainment. q Meet with synagogue staff to discuss

Bar/Bat Mitzvah policies.

6 to 9 months in advance q Reserve facilities for such functions as Shabbat eve dinner and Sunday brunch. q Select and order invitations and thank you notes. q Select caterer for oneg and kiddush q Reserve hotel accommodations for out-of-town guests, especially if your event is “in season.” q Complete guest list and collect addresses.

4 to 6 months in advance q Send Save The Date cards. q Order any imprinted items, like yarmulkes, napkins. q Recontact caterer, restaurant or hotel with approximate number of guests. q Make menu selections. q Make a list of clothing needs. q Order flowers/decorations for synagogue, reception.

2 to 3 months in advance q Help with child’s speech. q Address invitations and mail to out-of-towners. q Purchase religious items such as yarmulke and tallit. q Have formal picture taken for sign-in board, synagogue bulletin, newspaper. q Finalize bakery order to include challah for kiddush and Bar/Bat

Mitzvah cake.

6-8 weeks in advance q Mail invitations to local guests. q Send announcement to the synagogue bulletin.

4 weeks in advance q Finalize hotel reservations and plan hospitality baskets for out-of-town guests. q Determine transportation arrangements as needed. q Send announcement and photo to the Jewish Press. q Finalize arrangements with rabbi, i.e. aliyot honors. q Complete candle lighting or other reception presentation.

2 weeks in advance q Draw up seating plan. q Make place cards.

Final week q Have final consultation with caterer, florist, photographer, entertainment and confirm schedules. q Confirm head count/floor plan with caterer. q Deliver items, i.e, yarmulke and programs to synagogue. q Deliver hospitality baskets to the hotel. q Rehearsal at the synagogue. q Relax and enjoy!