Here at Aqua Azul Yacht, we have years of experience planning nautical events. One of the many nautical events we facilitate and execute is Bar/Bat Mitzvahs. Your child’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah is an important rite of passage, so it’s essential to make it a day that will always be remembered. What better way to celebrate this significant milestone than on a beautiful luxury yacht that features outstanding service and cuisine. When you are planning for your child’s transition to adulthood, you will want to take extra care to help ensure it’s a day to be remembered forever. To assist you along with this process, check out this helpful guideline that will help you with the Bar/Bat Mitzvah planning process.

2 Years Before Bat/Bar Mitzvah

• Plan and set your budget • Secure the date from your synagogue/temple • Book boat charter • Book caterer • Book a videographer and photographer • Estimate the number of guests

1.5 Years Before Bat/Bar Mitzvah

• Decide on the theme • Make a decision on the color scheme • Book your choice of band or DJ • Book your choice of entertainment venues

6 – 12 Months Before Bat/Bar Mitzvah

• Look into pricing, and decide on an invitation design • Figure out pricing and decide on balloon design, table centerpieces, and other decorative elements • Figure out pricing and decide on floral arrangements • Ensure that your child is working hard to remember their Torah portion

6 – 8 Months Before Bat/Bar Mitzvah

• Start shopping for Bar/Bat Mitzvah outfits for the family • If you will have out of state guests, book a hotel block or inform them of local hotels

3 – 6 Months Before Bat/Bar Mitzvah

• Order your choice of invitations, imprinted yarmulkes, or other party favors • Design or order the guest book and sign-in board

3 Months Before Bat/Bar Mitzvah

• Make final selections on accessories and clothing • Ensure that you have enough stamps for invitations and RSVP cards • Finalize your guest list

6 – 8 Weeks Before Bat/Bar Mitzvah

• Place order with balloonist/florist • Decide on a song list for the DJ or band • Mail out the invitations and RSVPs

1 Month Before Bat/Bar Mitzvah

• Make manicure and hair appointments • Have a final fitting done for the clothing • Arrange brunch catering

2 – 3 Weeks Before Bat/Bar Mitzvah

• Pay all fees to synagogue • Write out all prayers, speeches, and poems for candle lighting ceremony • Choose people for honors and aliyot • Choose people for the candle lighting ceremony • Ensure that the band/DJ knows all of the songs for the candle lighting ceremony • Give final instructions to videographer and photographer • Make and submit guest seating arrangements • Make sure all of the arrangements and accessories are correct and complete

1 Week Before Bat/Bar Mitzvah

• Meet with caterer with the final guest count • Confirm all of your arrangements • Take formal family pictures • Remain calm. Your hard work will be worth it!

If you are looking for a place to host your Bar/Bat Mitzvah in NYC, consider Aqua Azul. Click here to find out more about our chic, upscale charter boats.