Checklist For Planning The Ultimate Bar/Bat Mitzvah

Planning a Bar/Bat Mitzvah can be a huge undertaking. With everything from guest lists to entertainment needing due consideration, we recommend you begin the planning process early to ensure your Bar/Bat Mitzvah is a huge success.

Our checklist for planning the ultimate Bar/Bat Mitzvah covers the 12 months before the event, showing you exactly what you should be doing and when. Use this list to make sure you don’t miss a thing in your Bar/Bat Mitzvah preparation!

12 Months Before The Event

• Book an event planner (if desired)
• Decide on type of event (day/evening, formal/semi-casual), making sure to check sunset times and whether this will impact the booking of your chosen synagogue.
• Work out a budget
• Draft a guestlist

6-12 Months Before The Event

• Book venue
• Decide on an event theme
• Conduct research into a variety of vendors
• Book catering, if not included with the venue
• Book entertainment (band/DJ)
• Book photographer
• Arrange tutoring, if required. Some children will need assistance learning their part of the Torah.
• Consider accommodation for guests coming from out-of-town
• Choose flowers and book florist, if desired
• Decide on decorations (balloons, centerpieces, props)
• Confirm guestlist

3-6 Months Before The Event

• Begin outfit shopping. This may require a range of outfits to cover Friday evening, Saturday morning and Saturday evening services, depending on your specific Bar/Bat Mitzvah.
• Send invitations
• Confirm hire items with the venue (screen, microphone, speakers)
• Order party favors
• Buy a guest book

6-8 Weeks Before The Event

• Create an event timeline
• Write speeches as well as introductions for different people being called up if you’re doing a cake cutting ceremony or Havdalah service

1 Month Before The Event

• Meet with your rabbi to confirm all details of the service
• Check with your child to make sure they are ready and have learned the required material
• Organize seating arrangement
• Confirm all vendors:
o Entertainment
o Photographer
o Catering
o Florists/stylists
• Finalize prayers and speeches
• Finalize outfits

1-2 Weeks Before The Event

• Attend hair and nail appointments
• Practice speeches
• Finalise any last minute service details and candle lighting ceremony
• Make sure the DJ or band has the required songs for the ceremony
• Have formal photos taken on Bimah
• Go through responsibilities with people so they know what is required of them

Day Of The Event

• Get ready – leave yourself plenty of time
• Enjoy the celebration
• Support the Bar/Bat Mitzvah throughout the event

There may be a lot of things involved with planning a great Bar/Bat Mitzvah, but this checklist will help you through the process and ensure everybody has an enjoyable time.