A bar or bat mitzvah is a Jewish ritual that commemorates the religious adulthood of boys and girls on their 12th or 13th birthdays. Following this coming-of-age ceremony, many families host a party for the guest of honor. However, since this is such an important event for your child, you want to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here's what to know about hosting and organizing one of these gatherings. 

4 Tips for Planning a Bar or Bat Mitzvah

1. Select a Venue

While searching your area for the perfect venue, you'll want a space that is clean, aesthetically pleasing, and provides a blank slate for adding rental furniture and decor. Though you might host your mitzvah party at a synagogue, alternate options include reserving a local banquet room or social hall. Double-checking the capacity of the venue can ensure it has plenty of room to accommodate all guests. Additionally, you should book the space at least three months in advance to help you secure it on your first-choice date. 

2. Select a Theme

Though a mitzvah party doesn't necessarily require a theme, having one can make it easier to choose decorations and centerpieces. You may also carry the motif of the event into the invitations, cake, and party favors. You might choose a theme that aligns with your child's interests, such as sports, dance, or favorite books and movies. Themes related to the beach, outer space, and sweet treats are also usually enjoyable for children and versatile enough to incorporate into the details of the gathering.

3. Order Catering

Hiring a catering service to provide appetizers, entrees, and desserts can ensure everyone at the party enjoys a delicious and satisfying meal. Starters might include kid-friendly items that are easy to eat with the hands, such as mozzarella sticks, sliders, and chicken tenders. You might also arrange to have a build-your-own taco bar, fruit and cheese boards, and carving stations featuring freshly sliced roast beef or turkey. Additionally, including plenty of kosher meat and dairy items can make sure your catering menu adheres to Jewish dietary law.

4. Hire a DJ

A disc jockey (DJ) can provide the entertainment at your bar or bat mitzvah, which may keep the energy elevated and encourage guests to dance. You can provide them with a request playlist that includes your child's favorite songs and any meaningful tunes you want played for the guest of honor. Your DJ can also act as an MC who announces the hamotzi, or blessing over bread, and gets attendees involved in games such as limbo, scavenger hunts, and hula hoop contests.

If you need a DJ for a bar or bat mitzvah, get in touch with Party Pleasers Services. With locations in Cincinnati and Columbus, they provide music, party lighting, and disc jockeys for personal and corporate gatherings throughout Ohio. Call (513) 417-8316 to start planning an event, and visit the website to learn more about how they can make your next party a success.