Mazel Tov! This exciting time in your family’s life is both joyful and stressful, if you’re the one planning the celebration. If you haven’t planned a Bar and Bat Mitzvah, don’t worry – I’ve created this Ultimate Guide to Planning a Bar/Bat Mitzvah in Connecticut for you to use! As a trusted Bar and Bat Mitzvah photographer in Connecticut, I’ve photographed my share of celebrations. Here’s what I’ve learned in the process.
Ultimate Guide to Planning a Bar/Bat Mitzvah in Connecticut With A Photographer
Select a Date, Time, & Set a Budget
The first step of planning is to pick a date and determine your budget. Typically, a Bar/Bat Mitzvah is held on a date close to the Bar or Bat Mitzvah’s 13th birthday. You can be a little flexible with the date, but you don’t want to stray too far from their birthdate. It’s important to coordinate this date with the synagogue well in advance, as there may be multiple families planning for the same month.
The average cost of a Bar/Bat Mitzvah these days is anywhere between $8,000 and $40,000, depending on where you live and the extent of your guest list. The most important thing to remember when creating your budget is finding a number you are comfortable with and working backward from there.
One way to save money on a Bar/Bat Mitzvah is by hosting your celebration during the day. The service is typically held on a Saturday morning, and you can either celebrate immediately after or save the party for later that evening. Just note that evening celebrations can cost a bit more, so consider a brunch or luncheon to save a little extra. In some synagogues, like Congregation Mishkan Israel in Hamden, there is a lovely events hall for brunches and parties.
Choose a Theme & Decide on a Guest List
Next up is picking a theme! Be sure to include your child in this part, as it’s ultimately their party. Think about their interests and unique ways you can celebrate their personality. Are they into sports? Do they love movies? Obsessed with Disney? Pick a theme that they’ll be proud to represent.
Then, start working on your guest list! Make a list of everyone you want to invite, but be prepared to make some cuts. After all, every guest is a significant cost, and if you need to trim the budget, trimming your guest list can be a great start.
Hire Your Connecticut Bar/Bat Mitzvah Vendors
Venue
Your venue sets the tone for a huge part of the celebration. Whether you’re looking for a formal event space or a rustic summer camp, the possibilities of where to host your Bar/Bat Mitzvah are endless. Here are a few of my favorite Connecticut Bar/Bat Mitzvah venues for a fabulous party!
- The Back Room
- Camp Laurelwood
- Rentschler Field
- Pine Orchard Yacht and Country Club
- New Haven Lawn Club
- Farmington Gardens
Caterer
If your venue doesn’t have in-house catering or required vendors, you can bring in your own caterer! Just remember that in addition to your grown-up guests, a large chunk of your guest list will likely be pickier pre-teens and teenagers. Be sure to have food that reflects their palates, too!
Planner
You don’t have to plan alone! If you’re feeling overwhelmed, bring in a professional planner to help! 3 Wishes Events and Party by Monique are two planners that I’ve loved to see in action. They’ll definitely help you pull off the Bar/Bat Mitzvah of your kid’s dreams!
DJ/Entertainment
Again, keep in mind that you’ll have a wide age range spanning your guest list when picking your DJ. Find someone who can get everyone on the dance floor but also appeal to your younger guests who may have more stamina when it comes to a night of dancing. It’s important to choose a DJ with Bar and Bat Mitzvah experience, because they will also be taking on some MC responsibilities. Make sure to talk to them in advance about when you’d like the hora to happen, and what music to use!
Bar and Bat Mitzvah Photographer in Connecticut
Now that you’ve put all this effort into planning the perfect Bar/Bat Mitzvah, you’ll definitely want to document every detail! That’s where I come in. I’ve had the honor of being a Connecticut Bar/Bat Mitzvah photographer for many Connecticut families, and I’d love to help your family capture yours. Let’s chat!
