Bar & Bat Mitzvah planning process
Coordinate the synagogue service, Torah study milestones and the party in one plan.
Start my bar & bat mitzvah plan free →Step by step
- 1
Date & clergy
18–24 months out- ✓Confirm Torah portion date with your synagogue
- ✓Start tutoring schedule
- ✓Set budget and guest estimate
- ✓Book reception venue
- 2
Party team
12–9 months out- ✓Book DJ / MC with mitzvah experience
- ✓Book caterer (kosher if needed)
- ✓Choose a theme
- ✓Book photographer and videographer
- 3
Details
6–3 months out- ✓Send invitations (8–10 weeks out)
- ✓Plan candle-lighting ceremony and honorees
- ✓Order kippot, favors and décor
- ✓Plan mitzvah project
- 4
Rehearse
Final month- ✓Service rehearsal at synagogue
- ✓Confirm seating and kids' table
- ✓Write thank-you speech
- ✓Share timeline with vendors
Pros you'll need
See local Mitzvah specialists →Sample day-of timeline
- 9:30 AMService & Torah reading
- 12:00 PMKiddush luncheon
- 6:30 PMReception · guests arrive
- 7:00 PMHora & grand entrance
- 7:45 PMCandle-lighting ceremony
- 8:15 PMDinner & dancing
Tips
- Lock the service date with your synagogue first — it drives everything.
- Plan separate kid and adult entertainment.