Traditional Bar/Bat-Mitzvah Format

Please remember that Lee Waddell Musical Host Services will tailor to the format that you wish to enhance at your celebration. whether it be formal or informal, all details will be discussed a the “month before the event meeting.” This is just a guide for what the “traditional” format has been for the Capital District area…

I. Guests First Arrive:

The first 1/2 hour to 45 minutes is known as the “cocktail time” where guests will mingle, drink, and snack. Your DJ will greet your guests by announcement, and my briefly explain events or point out special details for the day.

II. Introduction Of Family & Guest Of Honor:

Your DJ will coordinate lining up the immediate family members, with possibly grandparents, from outside the party room, to be introduced in.

III. Motzi:

The Motzi, or blessing over the bread, is usually done by 1 or 2 male relatives (Grandfathers in many cases). Following the Motzi may be an optional toast to the guest of honor from his/her parents. (Note: Your DJ will provide a cordless microphone to any guest upon speaking).

IV. Candle Lighting:

Here is where the Guest of honor conducts and designates family & friends to light 13 candles (sometimes more) in honor of the Bar/Bat-Mitzvah celebrant. The act of lighting each candle can consist of an individual family member, a friend or several individuals, beginning with the oldest family members (grandparents, etc.) and ending with brothers, sisters, and parents. Music: Traditionally, Jewish music is played for when guests are called to light their candle; however, it is not unusual for the guest of honor to designate certain songs for his or her guests for each candle. If this is the case, the list of those corresponding songs (in order of the candle) should be submitted to the DJ at the meeting, or by mail, fax, or e-mail 1 week prior to the event. We are the only known service in the capital district to supply a CD Box Set of popular candle lighting songs, categorized to generically fit each family member or friend. The song list & CD box set can be signed out at the meeting to review, and returned at he celebration.

V. Hora:

Your DJ will help conduct the Hora, including the coordinating of lifting the Guest of Honor and any family members by chair.

VI. Dinner:

Many reception locations provide a kids buffet, along with a sit-down dinner for the adults.

VII. Games/Dance Contents:

Since the kids will usually finish dinner before the adults do, most games and contests that are requested are performed at this time. The goal of your DJ here is to provide a constructive, focused, and organized but fun atmosphere for the kids, without trying to disrupt the socializing of adults during their dinner. Discussion of what games & contests to play, and recommended prizes to be supplied and discussed at the meeting.

VIII. Let’s Party!

Traditionally all open dancing begins at this point, welcoming guests of all ages to the dance floor. Giveaways are included by your DJ for participation dances such as Village People hats for the YMCA, Hawaiian Leis for a conga line, Sombreros for a Labamba dance, etc. etc. I would be happy to play your musical requests, and also ascertain a “not-to-play” song list.