I know not everyone has the budget to hire an event planner for their Bar/Bat Mitzvah and that is totally fine. You can absolutely do it on your own! I have created The Ultimate Mitzvah Timeline to help everyone stay focused and on schedule for their event. I have years of experience planning and executing Bar and Bat Mitzvahs and I have put all my experience into this list. Just remember, this is supposed to be FUN!
18 Months Before
Put together a rough estimate of guest count
Think about themes
Determine budget
Tour Venues
1 Year Before
Venue selection
Photographer selection
Event Planner selection
10 - 12 Months Before
Catering selection
DJ/ Band selection
Videographer selection
Collect Address/ Email from guests
Order your Save the Dates
7 - 9 Months Before
Book any additional vendors
Henna tattoo
Airbrush artist
Flower crown bar
LED Robots
Game Rentals
Theme Selection and Design Plan
Finalize rentals
Lounge furniture
Mobile bars
Tables/Chairs/Cocktail Tables/Tent
Send save the dates
4 - 6 Months Before
Order invitations
Design Logo
Order Kippahs
Order Favors/ Giveaways
T-shirts
Sweatshirts
Sweatpants
Sunglasses
Socks
Gift Cards
Drawstring bags
Plan candle lighting ceremony
How many candles (13 or 14)
Important people
Poems
Songs for introduction
Attire
Outfit for ceremony
Outfit for party
Suits for Dad and siblings
Dress for Mom and siblings
Book your hair and makeup professionals
Schedule portrait photoshoot
Reserve hotel blocks for your out-of-town guests
Menu Tasting
Decide kid transportation
Family transportation
2 - 3 Months Before
Send your invitations
Confirm meal selections and notify the caterer
Kosher Meals
Allergies
Desserts
Candy Bar
Doughnut truck
Designer cake
Clothing alterations
Create a seating plan
Pictures and song selections for montage
100 pictures (7 minutes long)
2-3 songs
1 Month Before
Finalize guest list/ Straggler RSVPs
Provide DJ with photos and songs for montage
Provide DJ with trivia answers
Finalize song selections with DJ
1 Week Before
Provide Final timeline to vendors and family
Get cash for vendor tips
Book manicure and pedicure appointments
Final payments made to vendors
1 Day Before
Nail appointment
Download the timeline:
YOU GOT THIS!