Monday, January 30, 2012

Questions you'll need to consider...

Questions...
Most synagogues will provide you with basic information on requirements and honors. Some logistical information might not be covered...
1. Usually all males are required or requested to wear a kippah. Are they required to wear a tallit?
2. If they have an honor such as opening or closing The Ark, saying a blessing (aliyah) before/after a Torah reading, carrying/dressing The Torah, or other honor, are they required to wear a tallit along with a kippah?
3. What honors are non-Jews welcomed to have?
4. Will there be a scheduled time for rehearsal?
5. Will there be a scheduled time for portraits? Are photos or video allowed during the service?
6. If Grandparents are invited to stand or otherwise participate in saying the Shehecheyanu prayer, does this include non-Jewish Grandparents?
7. Is there a requirement to purchase flowers or sponsor a kiddush/oneg?
...
I guess I'll add to the list as we go! Please feel free to leave your own questions as a comment below and I will add them to the list. Thank you!

Monday, January 16, 2012

Bar/Bat Mitzvah Organization

Guest list
Hebrew names: child, parents, grandparents & anyone else that may be called up to the Torah for an aliyah
Entertainment contracts
Hotel room block agreement
Kippot contract, contact, receipt info
Venue contract
Venue floor plan
Menu options
Seating charts
Oneg/Kiddush hosting form, if required by synagogue
Kibbudim/Honors/Aliyot request form, if required by synagogue
Synagogue monthly newsletter to use as a guide for when you write the announcement for your child's Mitzvah
Synagogue weekly program, which might also help as a guide for your planning
Contact & pricing info for any entertainment and/or service you might be considering... photographer, videographer, screen printer, airbrush artist, decorator, calligrapher...
Invitation vendors, samples, contracts, proofs, ideas... menu cards, place cards, table numbers, custom program...
Friday night Shabbat Dinner ideas
Sunday Brunch ideas
...maybe more to come....
Your additions to the list are welcome!