This is where we expect to present any general tips that don't fit under any of our existing headings. It's a grab-bag. Enjoy!

A Survey of What Kids Want in a Bar/Bat Mitzvah!
Submitted By: Tami Meyerson of Long Island, NY This deserved its own special spot in Great Ideas. An amazing mom, Tami Meyerson (pictured here with son Joshua) from Long Island, was very interested in finding out what kids really want in a bar/bat mitzvah, so that she could make Joshua's celebration very special for the kids and adults. (There's a chapter in MitzvahChic based on interviews with kids, but it isn't as current or as Long-Island-specific!) She did this marvelous survey, which should be of great interest to both parents and event professionals.
Tami, you've done America's kids a huge favor and the nation thanks you!
Visit Related Website For More Information.Lighting a Room for Maximum Effect
NY Party Productionssays: In creating a New York City Night Club Theme or any theme, the use of color and lighting is just as important as the performers and activities.
A recent client wanted to only use blue flood lights to wash the walls in color. We advised her it would be boring unless we had accent color to draw the eye to different areas and activities. I suggested red in the four corners of the room to give the room a strong anchored feeling and green lights on either side of the doorway and video game truss to accent and frame out these areas. We also installed a Gobo light with her son's name in neon green to match the accent lights.
In addition, we wrapped all the tables and chairs in neon spandex and placed lighting under the tables to make them cast a soft glow. The end result was a very happy Mom as all the guests felt like they were at a very upscale club/lounge in Manhattan.
Between the eight-piece band, VJ, two 10-foot screens, three dancers, video game truss, light up giveaways, and flaretender show, there was never a dead moment in the party and the guests were amazed at how fast five hours had past.
For those interested in seeing video clips of this event, please contact our office and mention this article.
Visit Related Website For More Information.Cakes Create Excitement
Cakes are one of the most underutilized components of Bar/Bat Mitzvahs and it's time to "Take the Cake" to the next level. If you want to do something out of the ordinary for your cake, check with the baker before booking. Many caterers that include the cake as part of their package and aren't capable of making something unique. Of course a special cake is going to cost more, but isn't your child's once in a lifetime event worth it?
We use an excellent cake designer whose only limits are her imagination and the law of gravity. Some of her creative cakes have included: A western saloon cake complete with porch, swinging doors and horses, a New York City skyline with the Empire State Building lit from below with LED lighting which simulated the spotlights on that great building, a basket of dirt (peanut butter chocolate mousse) spilled out on the ground with edible yellow daisies on top, an actual working computer monitor with images on the screen covered in white chocolate marzipan, and so on.
The point is, have fun with your cake. Make it a conversation piece that your guests will be talking about for years to come.
Visit Related Website For More Information.Custom Made Prayer Books
There are few people who will make a custom siddur for your service but Lee-Ann Rubinstein does it exquisitely using the gorgeous papers and textured cover stocks normally available only for invitations. The book shown has a metallic, textured geometic pattern.
Lee-Ann can create everything from a small book with highlights of the service to the full service in book form with additional material and even photos from the family. All her books are beautifully made, but she respects everyone's budget and does her best to deliver great quality, whatever you're spending. Email her at
rubins02@pacbell.netCustom Kippot Made From Your Fabric
Zion Judaica can manufacture and personalize your Kippot with your own preferred fabric, for about $1.65 apiece plus a bit more if you want button or trim. After ordering on their site, you just ship the fabric with a copy of the order confirmation.
Figure amount of fabric this way: 60" wide fabric will do 1 dozen per yard, 45" wide fabric will do 1 dozen per 1 1/3rd yards.
A button can be added for an additional 15 cents or trim for an additional 30 cents. You can also add personalization. Minimun order 60 pieces. Please allow up to 4 weeks for delivery, though they do offer rush service and will try to meet any deadline.
Visit Related Website For More Information.What to Put in the Basket in the Powder Room
Submitted By: Hinda Bodinger of Rye Brook, NY I'm so not one for re-inventing the wheel and if this saves anyone the trouble of thinking it all up on your own, then I hope it's helpful!
Gail replies: It IS Hinda! Thank you!!!
Ladies Room Basket: Altoids Advil Band-Aids Bobby Pins Clear Nail Polish Comb / Brush Cotton Balls Cough Drops Dental Floss Emory Board Hair Spray Hand Cream Instant Nail Glue Lint Pick-up Roller Listerine Oral Care Strips Mouthwash Pantyhose Q-Tips Rolaids Safety Pins Scotch Tape Sewing Kit Shoe Shine Static Guard Tampons / Pads Tylenol