How to Decorate for a Bar Mitzvah

All parents want to throw a memorable bar mitzvah party that will recognize and honor their child's achievements. The way you decorate the party facility can really make this day stand out as a special event in your son's life.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Banners and posters
• Centerpieces
• Murals and backdrops
• Sign-in poster or book
• Entry decorations
• Props of different sizes
• Table linens and place settings

Select a Theme for the Party

1. Center the party's theme around the bar mitzvah boy. Choose a theme that expresses his interests and personality.

2. Focus on the religious nature of the event by having a Jewish-related theme.

3. Make sure the bar mitzvah boy's name is highlighted as part of the party's theme, allowing him to feel like the center of attention.

4. Decorate with fun colors that will complement your theme. Alternatively, you may highlight the party with the bar mitzvah boy's favorite colors.

Choose Decorations

5. Find out whether or not your party venue places restrictions on decorating.

6. Impress your guests with special entrance decorations. They can include a balloon arch, a welcome sign, a collage featuring pictures of the bar mitzvah boy, a life-size photo or other large props that relate to your theme.

7. Hang banners and posters, featuring the bar mitzvah boy's name, from the walls and ceilings. Add posters featuring the bar mitzvah date and colorful, themed graphics as well.

8. Set the tone with murals and backdrops. You can create a festive mood, replicate a setting or use decorations to transport your guests to another place and time.

9. Add drama and flair to your party by using a variety of props, balloons and cutouts throughout the party area and on buffet tables. Use the same methods to decorate gift tables as well as the activity, DJ and dancing areas.

10. Draw attention to tables with color-coordinated linens and chair covers; use beautifully decorated centerpieces as well.

11. Allow each table and centerpiece to complement a larger theme. For example, if your theme is football, each table name and centerpiece could focus on a different team.

12. Provide a book or poster for signing, encouraging your guests to leave the bar mitzvah boy special messages.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider hiring a party-planning company that will work with you to come up with a theme, providing decorations for the party. Often, party-planning companies offer packages that include decorations, party rentals, party favors and giveaways.
• Remember that your child should have a say in decoration decisions, since the party is really all about him.
• Many people believe a bar mitzvah should be more about the child's Jewish identity than any other outside interests. Consider decorating with this in mind.