An indispensable, modern-day guide to planning the perfect bar or bat mitzvah, celebrating substance and styleThere used to be only two approaches to the bar or bat mitzvah party -- a low-key event that reflects the solemnity of this sacred rite of passage or a big bash that has no connection to the religious service. For many, it was an impossible dilemma. Will a big bash trivialize and overshadow the bar or bat mitzvah experience? Will too much spirituality suck the life out of an otherwise fabulous party?MitzvahChicis the first book that proves that if you want a truly amazing experience, you can and must have it all! Blending meaningful Jewish elements with high-style contemporary party planning, this inspiring and useful guide will show you how to have the ultimate bar or bat mitzvah -- a profoundly moving service followed by an unforgettable party. TheMitzvahChicapproach also shows how to honor your child in a big way, rather than reducing him or her to an overused pop culture theme or a single cliche: He's into baseball! She loves horses!This must-have guide gives advice on the major decisions, the basics of the service, and the party details that really matter. It also features:A complete guide to the Torah, including dates and summaries of the portions and supplementary materialsEight complete, themed parties, including party favors, decorations, and photographs of sample tablesA time line to help plan the bar or bat mitzvah up to two years aheadInstructions for beingMitzvahChicon a budgetAdvice on how to include non-Jewish friends and family members in the ceremonyA practical guide to all things mitzvah from the Torah to the tablecloth,MitzvahChicwill help create a beautiful, powerful, resonant, and unforgettable rite of passage.

Gail Anthony Greenberg is a lifelong writer, editor, and crafts artist. Born in a small town, she saw her first bagel when she attended college in Boston. While planning her son's bar mitzvah, she asked questions that led to formulating the MitzvahChic approach. She lives with her family in Melrose Park, Pennsylvania.