Becoming a Bar or Bat Mitzvah requires a lot of hard work and preparation. That means a party is well deserved for the celebrant boy or girl! So how to throw the perfect Bar/ Bat Mitzvah for your child? Here are some of our favorite tips & tricks for throwing the Bar or Bat Mitzvah party of a lifetime.

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#1 – Concept  

First comes first – choose your event concept.

Do you prefer to keep things more traditional or do you want to create a special theme for your event? Do you like a weekend celebration, an adventurous desert tour, a gala dinner, a charity party or beach chilled vibes? Talk it over as a family and find an option that makes everyone happy. 

Pro Tip: Make sure to include the mitzvah boy/girl in this discussion. After all, we want your child to be fully engaged in this milestone and feel like it is about them.

#3- Event Planner

An event planner is among the greatest investments you can make in your event. Having a planner will make your process smooth and free you up to do the things you love and need to do. Instead of guessing your way through a planning process – cut to the chase by hiring someone with professional industry knowledge and a network far beyond your own. A guide who can help you uncover local talent, ensure you are not getting ripped off and handle your event details from up close. Check out yoninaevents.com . 

Pro Tip: There are so many planners out there and it’s hard to know which one is the right fit for you. Check out our guide for selecting the right planner for YOUR event here.

#4- Entertainment & Unique Events

Entertainment is a MUST have for any bar or bat mitzvah. After all, you’ll have a whole bunch of 12 and 13-year-old teens to entertain. Hiring a live band or singer that’ll incorporate games and activities for the kids to enjoy will make the night fun! Customized giveaways and swag that are unique to your child, speed portraits, themed activities, dancers and dessert tables are all great additions. And speeches – especially by the celebrant boy or girl, will make this personal, relevant and memorable for all!

Pro Tip: So many entertainment ideas become so overdone by the time the 15th kid in the class turns 13. But options are unlimited when it comes to unique activities and entertainment so look around and don’t be afraid to think outside of the box and try something new!

#5- Additional Activities for the Day After

If you have overseas guests, they will most likely come for a long weekend or several days. Take advantage of this and make your event an experience by offering additional activities beyond your Bar / Bat Mitzvah party. Welcome luncheons, day trips, post party brunch etc. All these activities will ensure your guests the most unforgettable time when traveling far for your celebration.

Pro Tip: Make sure to allow lots of down time and lounge time at the hotel between activities so that you don’t exhaust your guests and run them ragged.

Happy planning and Mazal Tov!

Location, location, location. One of the most overwhelming, yet critical, stages of planning an event is venue selection. The location of your event in Israel is what will set your event apart from others. It is what will determine the flavors, the atmosphere and the energy of your event. It will dictate how much you need to spend on decor and will play a role in the overall messaging and story of your event.

There are so many venues across Israel; it is hard to distinguish the good from bad. Between magnificent views, timeless architecture & design and historical significance here are a few venues that earn our highest accolades. 

#1 – The David Citadel Hotel  

The David Citadel is a 5 star luxury hotel situated in a prime Jerusalem location, overlooking the old city walls. 

What is special about this location? 

The Citadel offers both high-end accommodation as well as several banqueting halls and event spaces. The ballroom, the foyet, the outdoor pool and, of course, the terrace with a magnificent old city view. Guest rooms are modern and spacious. The hotel features a large swimming pool, a modern spa and wellness center, and a range of dining facilities. Evidently all with panoramic views. 

The hotel is just opposite the Mamilla shopping area featuring a variety of shops, cafés and restaurants. It has a brand new children’s playroom and a very family friendly atmosphere. Perfect for a long weekend celebration as well as intimate events, private and corporate, at any time of the year.

#3- Olmaya Jerusalem

Jerusalem’s premium venue for private and corporate events.

What is special about this location? 

Olmaya enjoys unique panoramic views of the Old City and modern city incorporating the surrounding gardens of the Haas Promenade as background. This venue offers an outstanding (and very unusual) level of customer service.

The spaces at Olmaya, including a magnificent cocktail area between the arches and a glass-walled hall, are next level. You can really take this venue wherever you wish to go in terms of design and ambiance. It also offers two spectacular locations for outdoor Chuppah ceremonies and the option to have an outdoor cocktail reception. Perfect for a wedding, Bar Mitzvah party and corporate events all year round.

#4- Baya’ar

A magnificent venue hidden in one of the few and most beautiful nature reserves along Israel’s coastline.

What is special about this location?

Baya’ar’s location is home to various flora and fauna, which inevitably becomes this venue’s natural décor. With its lighting, landscaping, architecture and sound designs based on a concept of uncompromised quality, Baya’ar offers its guests a comprehensive sensual experience. This venue operates in all weather conditions, offering its guests both indoor and outdoor solutions.

Baya’ar was designed and constructed by some of Israel’s greatest talents in the architectural and built atmosphere domains. The amazing work of these experts, in addition to the exceptional cuisine, make this the perfect venue for the forest and greenery lovers among us who want a natural yet timeless location for their event.

#5- Kochav Hayam

A magnificent beach-front venue located just 45 minutes north of Tel Aviv.

What is special about this location?

Situated along the shores of the ancient city of Caesarea, Kochav Hayam is the dream venue for those looking to experience a high-end beach front event. It spreads across 5 acres and includes a beautifully designed glass-walled hall, groomed lawns and natural reefs. This seaside venue is unique in its variety of possibilities for event locations and the option to integrate interior and exterior. The beautiful glass windows of the indoor venue ensure that you will get to enjoy the magnificent waters and beautiful seaside sunset no matter how hot or cold it is outside. The perfect option for beach lovers who are looking for a comfortable and convenient way to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

Choosing a venue for your event in Israel is no easy task. But once you make this decision, you will have the biggest component of your event behind you. Remember what is truly important to you in your event and choose the venue that will serve as the best canvas to the style, ambiance and story you hope to encompass in your event. 

Happy Planning!

Choosing between a big or small wedding is not just about how many people you know and love. It will play a major role in shaping the experience you have before and on your wedding day. Should you invite more or less than 100 guests? Here are some of the pros and cons of big and small weddings so you can choose which size celebration is best for you!

Intimate Wedding

Pros:

1. The atmosphere is unbeatable. Smaller weddings offer the most intimate and personal energy that cannot be replicated in large crowds. The people are there – because they want to be there. All those ‘we have to invite them’ guests have been knocked off your list and instead you get to celebrate with the people you feel absolutely closest to.

2. Every detail can be personalized! From music to menus to personalized giveaways, you can tailor everything to suit the specific tastes of your guests. There’s more opportunity to consider alternative wedding venues and unique details, which is perfect if you’re the nontraditional type. Being able to customize to this level will make your wedding day truly one-of-a-kind. 

3. Coordination and logistics are that much easier. There are fewer logistics to consider when you’re not wrangling a large crowd. RSVPs, Seating plans, hotel accommodation and more are that much less stressful when you’re doing this for a controlled number of people whom you know well. You can do all of this with the help of your wedding planner. 

4. You can prioritize quality over quantity. The money you would have spent catering for all those extra guests is back in your pocket! With greater flexibility in your budget, you’ll be able to have all the wedding details you’ve been dreaming of and consider more luxurious experiences for your uniquely intimate event. 

 Cons:

1. There’s a reason they say ‘The more the merrier’. Sometimes, you just can’t hit the same levels of energy and excitement without the masses. Intimate weddings are generally quieter affairs – for better and for worse.

2. A smaller wedding will also need a specific type of venue since you won’t want a large venue that feels empty for your smaller event.

3. Finally, limiting guest numbers means you will have to slim down your invitee lists. There will be many people who just won’t make the cut and that is something worth considering. Here are some tips for cutting down your guest list. 

Big Weddings

Pros:

1. A big wedding is ideal for the social butterflies among us! If you have a large family or many friends, there’ll be fewer guest list decisions and less chance of hurt feelings. It will also be easier to accommodate plus ones and children so no one misses out. 

2. As well, a large headcount will come in handy if you need to meet any minimum guest requirements set by venues or suppliers. Whether it’s based on guest numbers or Shekels, there may be some dates, locations and details that are more accessible to you due to your higher numbers. 

3. No doubt about it, a big wedding is an instant party! There’ll be a buzz of excitement before you walk down the aisle and you’ll have the numbers to fill your dance floor until the end of the night. The celebratory atmosphere you’ll create by bringing so many guests together for this special occasion will have you feeling overwhelmed with love and happiness.

Cons:

1. More guests, more meals, more $$. Keep in mind that the bigger the event, the higher your costs will generally be. Depending on how large you go, you will be limited to venues that have capacity for your size event.
2. As well, bigger events can sometimes be more stressful to plan. The larger the event, the more there is to plan and keep track of – so just be aware of this when deciding which event size is suitable for you. 

No matter how hard you try to plan the perfect wedding, there isn’t a wedding that will suit everyone’s taste. Instead of focusing on a wedding that will please everyone, start planning a wedding that is suitable for you, your partner and your families altogether. Good luck!

A wedding planner is among the greatest investments you can make in your wedding. Having a planner will make your process smooth and free you up to do the things you love and need to do. A privately hired planner will ensure that your event is executed according to YOUR specific vision. This will also enable you to relax as a guest at your own event.

There are so many planners out there and it’s hard to know which one is the right fit for you. Below are some guidelines to help you identify and select the right planner for YOUR event.

Relationship

This is the #1 criteria. You MUST choose a planner with whom you will enjoy spending months and days planning the ins and outs of your wedding. You need to be able to trust this person so that you can delegate to them and allow them to alleviate the stress of planning. They are meant to be your arms and legs on ground, your voice in negotiations and bring your concepts and visions to life. So, you need to feel that they get, and will accurately represent, what you love and who you are. 

Services

Different planners offer different packages. Some planners specialize in full service production where they walk you through the entire planning process from start to finish. Other planners focus on day-of-event execution alone, leaving the actual planning process and vendor selections – to you. Some consider themselves planners, others position themselves as creative directors or producers. Make sure you gain a clear understanding of the services and offerings of your selected planner. Ask yourself why you are hiring a planner, and make sure you hire the one that matches your needs best.

Budget

It goes without saying that the range of planners comes with a number of price points as well. Know in advance how much you want to spend and keep that in mind when selecting your planner. You might be tempted to go with a slightly less expensive option so that you can keep some extra money in your budget. The planner whose rate is higher may actually save you money in the long run. Planners with higher fees usually have fewer clients (which means more time to devote to your wedding) and more experience (which means they know what’s worth it and what can be nixed from your budget). They’ll help you spend smarter, and you’ll get so much more out of the process.

Location

Location, location, location. So much of the planner’s added value is their network and intimate understanding of the local event landscape. They can leverage industry knowledge and help you find hidden gems, avoid misunderstandings and get the most value for your investment in your event. This MUST be someone who has a proven track record and deep knowledge of your event location and its vendors.

We’re obviously not objective – but those who have experienced (or organized) an event with and without a planner, know that this service is an absolute necessity. Having the right planner by your side will transform a good wedding into a spectacular experience (and make the months leading up to the big day that much more enjoyable!)

For literally millennia, Israel has been an irresistible destination. It has incredibly diverse terrain! From gorgeous green forests to pristine, sandy beaches, vast deserts to stunning mountains, with breathtaking views. Israel is a country rich in history and culture as well as spiritual and religious significance. It is no surprise, therefore, that Israel is such a desirable wedding destination. But – and there is no easy way to say this – planning a wedding in Israel from abroad – is NOT an easy endeavor.

Learning an entire industry, culture and currency in a foreign region and language, all while you are miles and miles away, is a recipe for disaster. Before jetting off to marry your love in Israel, here are some important details to consider.

Plan. Plan. Plan… In Advance 

The earlier you plan your destination wedding in Israel from abroad – the better. First of all, this will ensure that you get the cream of the crop when it comes to top venue and supplier selections. Your guests can plan, block out vacation days and coordinate travel logistics in advance. And, finally, it will leave plenty of room (and time) for creativity, fun additions and unique accents to your event.

Hire Someone Local

It goes without saying that it is essential to leverage industry knowledge and local expertise in your event destination. Instead of guessing your way through a planning process – cut to the chase by hiring someone with their feet on the ground. A guide who can help you uncover local talent, ensure you are not getting ripped off and handle your event details from up close. Of course we are experts in this topic, check us out here  

Plan Additional Activities

When it comes to destination planning – guests will most likely come for a long weekend or several days. Take advantage of this and make your event an experience by offering additional activities beyond your wedding party. Welcome luncheons, rehearsal dinners, wedding weekends, day trips, etc. All the activities will be some of the perks and benefits that your guests should enjoy when traveling far for your celebration. And for the guests that are planning to stay more days you can also share a tourist guide.   

Local Marriage Requirements 

Make sure to arrange these in advance and educate yourself about what is needed if you plan to marry or register according to local Israeli requirements. Some people opt for a beautiful Israeli ceremony, and do the official bit back at home.

Arrive in Advance 

Events are stressful and they have the potential to be all the more stressful. Avoid this by arriving at your destination wedding with enough time to settle in. You want to have time to get over jet lag, close any loose ends, ensure your dresses are steamed, suits are pressed, etc. Also very important, make sure you are fully relaxed and rejuvenated when your guests arrive. Don’t rush it. Give yourself enough time.

Destination weddings in Israel are the most inspiring and unforgettable events. You won’t regret your decision to bring your loved ones together in Israel for your special day. Just remember to keep an open mind during the process when it comes to out of the box ideas and concepts. Be prepared for some ‘last minute’ changes and remember to hire the right professionals to help you navigate the road ahead! 

Finding your dream gown can be a real task. You’ve likely never tried one on before. And unlike any other piece of clothing you’ve purchased, there’s a whole new language to decode! Tulle, A-line, fit-and-flare, organza, sheath, and more. Not to mention, the growing trend of multiple dresses—a more formal one for the ceremony and a party-centric one for the reception. All of this and more can make wedding dress shopping a very stressful endeavor. Though it’s hard to capture this timeless occasion in a single (or several) outfits, these wedding dress tips are guaranteed to help you find the gown of your dreams. Or to respond the question, what wedding dress should I get? 

Body type

Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. The key here is that you feel beautiful in what you are wearing. You want to love the way you look in the photos and videos of your wedding – years down the road. You need to feel comfortable. Remember that you will be spending 8+ hours in this dress, hugging, dancing and sweating the night away. So make sure that you feel confident, beautiful and at home in your body.

Tip: Even if you plan on losing weight before the big day, shop for dresses in your current size rather than going smaller. It’s much easier to take a dress in than trying to work with one that’s way too snug.

Personal Style

Many aspects of weddings are the same. There’s the flowers, the music, the dancing and the food. But what you wear on this special day is a way to make a statement, and allow the  unique side of YOU to shine. Your dress has a huge role in telling your unique story. Whether you want to feel classic, vintage, or romantic, go into wedding dress shops with a clear vision of the look and feel you hope to have for your wedding. 

Tip: Choosing three specific words to describe your vibe can help narrow down your dress selections.

Season/ Weather

Think of your dress as the centerpiece of  your event. It appears in almost all the event photos and it plays a huge role in creating the atmosphere of your wedding. Therefore, you probably want it to blend in with the rest of your wedding’s setting and decor. It should go with the overall look and feel of your venue, design and event atmosphere;  season and weather included.  Still doubting on when to get married? Read this  

Tip: If your wedding is in the August heat, go for lightweight fabrics in breezy styles. But if you’re getting hitched in the winter, in an all indoor venue, it’s all about heavier, lush fabrics like satin or taffeta.

Budget

Like any purchase, wedding gowns come in a dramatic range of prices. There are also many different options available for dressmaking. You can rent, you can buy and tweak an existing gown, and you can design and create from scratch. Know your vision and know your budget – and find the point where these two meet.

Tip: Be aware, handwork like embroidery or beading always adds to the cost of the dress. Of course, if simple isn’t your style, those embellishments are worth it—just be sure to factor that into your budget. 

Finding the dream dress may take some time. Be patient. Don’t let the wedding dress salon or your shopping crew pressure you into anything. If you don’t love it now – don’t take it. Sleep on this decision. The gown that makes you feel the most beautiful is the gown you should wear. Even if a gown checks off all of your criteria, listening to your feelings and intuitions can help you decide between dresses and lead to that magical moment when you’ve finally found “the one.”

The hard part is behind you. You finally found your other half!

But now… you are being flooded with a myriad of questions and decisions about your wedding. One of the big ones that will come up early on in your planning process is: WHEN is the best wedding season? 

There is no one answer to this question! It changes from venue to venue and it very much depends on the type of wedding you want to have. Let’s take a look at the seasons so you know what to consider when making your ‘Wedding Season’ decision. 

Spring

Pros: This is my personal favorite. It’s the perfect time of year in Israel. The weather is so beautiful! The air is finally warming up, yet the fresh greens from the winter rains create the most picturesque landscapes. Since the popular wedding months are ahead of you, guests will still be excited to attend your events as they are not yet ‘partied out’. 

Cons: It does still rain and it could be cold at night, so you can’t really rely on an outdoor-only venue. People are still deep in their routines, so expecting guests to take off work, school and life for a long wedding weekend may be a bit presumptuous. Venue prices are not yet at their peak, but they do begin to creep up at this time.

Summer

Pros: The most popular wedding season. If you’re looking to splash by the pool or say ‘I do’ by sunset at the beach, you’ll want to pick a summer wedding. The venue options are far greater and diverse in these months. Also you can safely bet on an outdoor wedding ceremony. Guests will have an easier time taking off school and work to attend your wedding and the energy of the summer is just unbeatable.

Cons: It can be too hot in certain places in Israel. You may have sweat dripping down to your stilettos at an outdoor reception, not to mention an outdoor dance floor! Demand for venues and vendors is highest during this time of year, so unless you have a super-long engagement, you might find certain vendors to be booked up. Vacation plans or other weddings may conflict with yours when it comes to your guests’ attendance. And many venues and vendors charge more during the “peak season,” so certain costs will be higher.