http://barmitzvahresource.com Thu, 08 May 2008 21:30:10 +0000 http://backend.userland.com/rss092 en Bar and Bat Mitzvah is a stage of life at which one begins to take responsibility for the Mitzvot, the life practices of Judaism. At the age of thirteen, according to Jewish tradition, one should begin taking responsibility for one’s own moral decisions and spiritual values. Since the Middle Ages, ... http://barmitzvahresource.com/barbat-mitzvah-what-it-all-means/ Terms From The Shabbat Service In order for you to more fully understand and enjoy the service, here is a brief “glossary” of some of our phrases and customs: Aliyah (“Going Up”) - the honor of being called to the Torah (plural: Aliyot). Several family members and friends receive this honor, ... http://barmitzvahresource.com/terms-from-the-shabbat-service/ Using this outline for your Bar/Bat Mitzvah D’var Torah might help you to structure the speech.  It is best to work with an adult or friend as you prepare this draft. I. Introduction: Start with the words “Shabbat Shalom,” then tell us where your portion is from. What is the name ... http://barmitzvahresource.com/how-to-write-your-barbat-mitzvah-dvar-torah/ Follow these four steps to fund your Bar or Bat Mitzvah painlessly.Now that you've established your budget, you'll spend the next few months keeping track and allocating your funds. Follow these four points to make sure your spending is where it should be. Step 1: Develop a System Put your accounting skills to the test ... http://barmitzvahresource.com/party-planning-staying-on-budget/ From PartySpot.com Banish budget worries with these fantastic tips for saving some money with style.Worried about how quickly the costs for your Bar Mitzvah are piling up? Save some cash with our tips for keeping the kids' college fund intact without sacrificing on style. 1) Trim Your Guest List This is definitely a tough one ... http://barmitzvahresource.com/five-best-budgeting-tips/  From PartySpot.com Selecting a photographer to document your party is possibly the most important hire you'll make. To find the right shutterbug for your shindig, start early and shop around. These tips will help to light your way. Suit Your Style Before you start calling photographers, first decide which visual style suits ... http://barmitzvahresource.com/finding-a-photographer-2/  From PartySpot.com So, you feel pretty confident that you've completed calculating costs for the big bash. But wait -- before you close that budget binder, did you remember to include gratuity? Technically, no one should expect tips, but many vendors will since tipping has become standard practice. Depending on where you're ... http://barmitzvahresource.com/a-guide-to-tipping/ From PartySpot.com  If you remember one thing, remember this: Get it in writing. Here's what you need to see when you look at a contract.It's crucial that any time you settle on a photographer, caterer, DJ, or any other party service, you get it in writing. Until you fork over a ... http://barmitzvahresource.com/a-guide-to-contracts/  From PartySpot.com 12+ Months ·         Begin envisioning your son or daughter’s Bar/Bat Mitzvah -- formal hotel or synagogue? Casual at-home get-together? ·         Decide on a budget. ·         Pick your preferences for a date and time, and finalize after okaying with important guests, location, or officiant. ·         Begin interviewing party planners (if you'll have ... http://barmitzvahresource.com/checklist-of-to-dos-2/ From PartySpot.com   A theme isn't necessary for a Bat Mitzvah, but it can make things more fun -- and simplify your party planning. Why? When you've got a theme in mind, picking out party details is that much easier -- details that fit with your theme and palette are in, obvious ... http://barmitzvahresource.com/bat-mitzvahs-5-top-party-themes/