How to save Money on the Cost of Your Bar Mitzvah

From the cost of the catering, to the venue, and the entertainment, bar mitzvahs are expensive.  In fact, it is believed that some parents spend up to $17,000 on the cost of their child’s celebration.  Whilst it is easily possible to spend this amount of money, it is also possible to host a bar mitzvah on a budget.  This article aims to explain how to do just that.

Trim the Guest List

Creating a guest list for a bar mitzvah can be stressful.  However, one of the best ways to reduce this stress, and save yourself some money, is by cutting down the amount of people that you invite.  Close family, such as grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles, should be considered first. However you may want to leave distant relatives, friends, Hebrew classmates and co-workers off the list unless your child has a special relationship with any of them, or has asked to invite someone specifically.

DIY

If you have an artistic or culinary streak, one great way to save money on the cost of your bar mitzvah is by creating your own decorations, and making your own food.  This can include everything from the invitations that you send out, to the party favours your guests receive, and the meal you serve.  Hiring caterers can reduce a lot of stress, however they are expensive, and by eliminating them, you can save a lot of money.

Have a House Party

Venues can cost a lot of money, especially if you are hiring caterers and other services as well.  Instead of hiring a venue, why not host your child’s bar mitzvah at home?  So long as you have a garden that is large enough to accommodate your guests, some wooden garden furniture to keep everyone seated, some outdoor lighting, and perhaps some heating to keep your guests warm after dark, you could have the perfect venue.  Yes, you will be responsible for cleaning up after the party, and making sure that your garden doesn’t get trashed, but when you see how much a venue costs, the money you are saving should more than make up for the extra effort.

Have a Double Bar Mitzvah

Many young people have birthdays at around the same time of year.  So, if you know of someone in your community who is planning a bar mitzvah, you may want to enquire about the possibility of hosting a joint party.  This could cut your costs considerably, and with twice the amount of guests the party is sure to be double the fun.  Hosting a double bar mitzvah can also lower your stress levels, as you will have help planning the event.

Stick to Your Budget

If you make a budget for your child’s bar mitzvah, make sure you stick to it.  Small things do add up, and it’s easy to overspend.  Be firm with your choices, and you should host a bar mitzvah that is not only in budget, but also will be remembered forever.  Good luck.