Your child's Mitzvah is a once-in-a-lifetime event that marks their transition into adulthood. It's a day filled with tradition, family, friends, celebration and lots of BIG EMOTIONS. And amid all the excitement, you probably want to have fun while you're at it -- as much as your guests. Here are top-7 tips to help you enjoy your simcha to the fullest!
1. PLAN AHEAD AND DELEGATE
Planning a Mitzvah can be overwhelming, but you don't have to do it all alone. Enlist your family and a professional event planner, if possible. Delegate tasks and make sure everyone knows their responsibilities. This way, you can focus on enjoying the day rather than worrying about logistics. If you need a recommendation for a top-notch Bar and Bat Mitzvah planner, let us know and we can make a warm introduction. However, if you're organizing the event yourself, know that things don't always go as planned, and that's okay. Have a backup plan for things that may be variable. For example, if the event is planned in an outdoor venue, have a rain plan in case of bad weather and be prepared for other minor hiccups like a wardrobe malfunction or a headache. Staying flexible and having contingency plans will help you stay relaxed and enjoy your party no matter what happens. Here is a more thorough list of what NOT to do: Top-5 Mistakes to Avoid When Planning a Mitzvah Party
2. PERSONALIZE YOUR PARTY
Make your Bar or Bat Mitzvah party a reflection of who your child is. Choose a theme that excites you, whether it's a favorite movie, sports team, or hobby. Personal touches like customized decorations, a unique playlist, themed activities, and maybe even a special presentation by the guest of honor can make the event more enjoyable for you and memorable for your guests. For more ideas on themes, read Top-10 All-Time Bar & Bat Mitzvah Themes. In addition, take a moment during the party to thank your guests for coming and being part of your child's special day. A heartfelt speech or a personal thank-you note can make your guests feel appreciated and add a personal touch to the celebration.
3. CHOOSE THE RIGHT ENTERTAINMENT
Entertainment is key to a successful party. Consider hiring a DJ or live band that plays your favorite music and can keep the energy high with both your kids AND adult guests. Include interactive entertainment like games, contests, and follow-along group dances, etc. In addition, you may want to consider a company that offers photobooth and production services (e.g. illuminated dance cubes, lightscaping and ambiance design, and special effects) to make the celebration more engaging (read: Top-10 Questions To Ask When Hiring The Perfect Mitzvah DJ). And! Don’t forget to take part in the fun activities yourself!
4. STAY PRESENT IN THE MOMENT
It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the event, but try to stay present and enjoy each moment. Take deep breaths and feel the ground beneath your feet. Pace yourself with adult beverages and don't overeat. Conversely, with all the excitement, it's easy to forget to eat and drink. Make sure to enjoy wthe delicious food and stay hydrated throughout the party. This will help you keep your energy levels up and fully enjoy the festivities. Make the intention in advance to spend time with your friends and family, dance, and participate in the activities. Take a few moments to step back and take in the scene; this is your childn's special day and a family simcha and reunion. But what if you're afraid to miss an important moment? Read on...
5. MAKE TIME FOR FUN PHOTOS AND VIDEOS
Between shmoozing with your guests, enjoying your dinner, and dancing, it's impossible to be part of everything. Consider hiring a photographer and videographer to capture the fun with photos and videos, so that long after the party is over, you can look back and discover moments you missed and relive the moments you remember -- from a different angle. Production companies like PARTYEXPRESS provide these types of services so that you can deal with one vendor that manages both the entertainment and capturing the key moments. Additionally, if you choose to get a photobooth, make sure you have props related to your theme (read: Top-10 All-Time Bar & Bat Mitzvah Themes), and encourage guests to take silly pictures. You can also have a professional photographer and videographer capture candid moments throughout the event. Looking back at these memories will be a source of joy for years to come for both you and your child. Bonus: having a digital highlight reel, can be a classy touch and a token of your appreciation that you can share wtih your guests that you can enclose when you send your "thank you" texts, emails, or post cards!
6. KEEP THE ENERGY UP
Plan your event with a good balance of activities to keep the energy high. Start with an exciting entrance, followed by a mix of dancing, games, and quieter moments like speeches or video presentations. Keeping the momentum going ensures that everyone, including you, stays engaged and has a great time. Your entertainment company should have experience with Bar and Bat Mitzvah and should work with you and your child to create a winning timeline that "flows", makes your child feels special, includes engagement with adult and children guests, and keeps the energy up! Take the time to interview your entertainment vendor to feel out if they have experience and can meet your expectations. It is also critical that you include your child in planning the event. Not sure how to do that? Read: Including Your Child in Mitzvah Entertainment Planning: A Guide for Parents
7. RELAX AND HAVE FUN
Lastly, remember that this day is about celebrating you and your achievements. Relax, have fun, and enjoy every moment. Your child's Mitzvah is a time to create wonderful memories with your loved ones, so make the most of it!
By following these tips, you can ensure that your child's Bar or Bat Mitzvah is not only a memorable event for your guests but also a day of joy and fun for you. Mazel tov!
Want to speak to PARTYEXPRESS about your child's upcoming Mitzvah? Get in touch.
Planner: Melissa Miller / MME Events Atlanta Photographer: Sam Bennett / Cutting Edge Images, Inc.
Venue: Mary Atkinson & Audrey Safrit / The Carlyle Venue
Entertainment: Estebon Watson & Vlad Gorenshteyn / PARTYEXPRESS ENTERTAINMENT
Decor: Holland Muscio / Balloonacy Atlanta
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