B’nai Mitzvah Planning Guide

At Birth

When the child is born, start saving! It’s not a bad idea to start two savings accounts; one for college and one for the bar or bat mitzvah.

One to three years ahead

• Set the date.

• Set a budget.

• Reserve the synagogue.

• Reserve the hall for additional receptions.

• Arrange for caterer, party planner and band or DJ.

• Buy a loose-leaf binder or start a filing system on index cards.

Ten to 12 months ahead

• Begin b’nai mitzvah lessons.

• (Continue to) attend weekly Shabbat services as a family.

• Arrange for photographer and videographer.

• Book hotel accommodations and investigate transportation for out-of-town guests.

Six months ahead

• Plan colors and theme.

• Arrange for florist and make guest list.

Four to five months ahead

• Order invitations and thank-you notes, imprinted napkins and personalized party favors.

• Shop for clothing and shoes.

• Purchase a tallit and tefillin, if applicable.

• Choose a calligrapher.

Three months ahead

• Plan Sunday brunch, if applicable.

• Order printed yarmulkes.

Two months ahead

• Meet with photographer and videographer.

• Meet with florist and/or decorations coordinator.

• Mail out-of-town invitations.

Six weeks ahead

• Order tuxedos.

• Take care of clothing alterations.

• Order wine for Kiddush.

• Mail in-town invitations.

Four weeks ahead

• Prepare speech.

• Finalize reservations and transportation.

• Meet with caterer.

• Make welcome gifts for out-of-town guests.

• Arrange aliyot.

• Send honorary gift to synagogue.

• Meet with rabbi.

• Make seating charts for reception (and dinner).

Two weeks ahead

• Give final count to caterer.

• Check with florist.

• Meet with rabbi.

• Order cake, cookies and pastries for Friday night oneg Shabbat.

A few days ahead

• Have rehearsal and take bimah photographs.

• Make copies of speeches, room and table layouts, and give them to a friend to hold for you.

Special day

• Enjoy your simcha!