Benjamin Levine of Saint James, New York, will be celebrating his Bar Mitzvah on October 11, 2014.
For his Mitzvah Project, he decided to support ConKerr Cancer, a non-profit dedicated to improving the lives of chronically-ill children as they undergo treatment.
Benjamin (pictured left) calls his project, Stitches By Ben and he is sewing beautiful pillowcases to bring joy to children in hospitals on Long Island and in New York City.
We spoke with Ben to get more details on how he came up with this idea:
MM: Can you give us details of your Mitzvah Project? BL: I am making pillowcases that will be donated to ConKerr Cancer, a charity that provides them to children experiencing long term stays in the hospital. The pillowcases are made by volunteers, like me and they are then brought to drop off sites where they are washed, ironed and packaged and then sent on to hospitals in the area. The Long Island chapter delivers to several hospitals including Winthrop University Hospital’s Pediatrics, Winthrop’s Cancer Center for Kids, Memorial Sloane Kettering’s Pediatrics, Cohen Children’s Hospital, and Stony Brook’s Pediatric Cancer Center are the locations that will receive my completed work.
MM: Does your project have a start and end date, if so what are they?: BL: There is no end date to this project. I plan to continue to make pillowcases past my Bar Mitzvah.
MM: Why did you decide to take on this particular project/charity? BL: I was inspired by my home and careers teacher and class in 6th grade and the sewing club I joined that year. While waiting for projects to be shipped, the entire club worked on learning how to measure, sew and complete pillowcases that were all donated to the local chapter of ConKerr Cancer. In 7th grade, October 2013, I began thinking about how I could participate in a Mitzvah Project that would be meaningful to me. When I was 1-year old I had to spend 8 days as a patient in Stony Brook Hospital. My mom and dad were really scared and though I don’t remember it, I have pictures and can see how little I was when it happened. After going home, I had to have 6 weeks of IV antibiotics and a visiting nurse before another procedure. When I was 8-years old, the doctors realized a piece of my IV port had been left in and I had to have a small surgery to remove it and that I do remember that, it was scary. Also, my Bubbe is a cancer survivor and is currently undergoing treatment. So, I combined my interest of crafts and sewing and rolled that together with the desire to do something to help ease the experience of a kids hospital stay.
Ben hard at work on his sewing machine
MM: In your own words, what does it mean to you to do a Mitzvah Project for your Bar Mitzvah? BL: It feels good to know that someone who is sick may get the feeling of help and support from a complete stranger. I don’t need them to know it was me who made them a pillowcase. Hopefully the designs, patterns and soft fabrics will bring them smiles and happiness.
MM: What are you doing to spreading the word? BL: Since the fall, I have been asking family and friends for help. I sent out flyers at my synagogue and left a laundry basket for collections. My mom displayed a flyer in the school where she works. Throughout the months, my mom posted status updates to her Facebook account along with photos and this seems to have generated the most buzz and support! Whenever we have company I make sure to pull out my bucket of completed projects, and spread the word. Close friends immediately reacted and brought over fabric, others sent notes and cash. We set up a small production line in our dining room. A sweatshop in Saint James was born! Over 25 families have already contributed to the more than 100 completed pillowcases so far.
MM: For how long can people donate to this charity? BL: You can make donations directly to www.conkerrcancer.org or contact the local coordinator if you want to drop off fabrics that are 100% cotton. There are chapters in many states.
MM: Anything else we need to know about your Mitzvah Project? BL: At first I planned to make 50 pillowcases but since my mom helps to cut the fabrics sometimes, I have exceeded my first goal and now I hope to have finished at least 125 by October 2014.
We thank Ben for sharing this terrific Mitzvah Project with our readers. If your child has a past, present or future Mitzvah Project that you would like to share, reach us at info@MitzvahMarket.com.
Melisa Imberman, president of The Event of a Lifetime, Inc. recently created a football themed Bar Mitzvah that we wanted to share.
X-Quisite Flowers and Events assisted with the decor and did a great job tackling all the football elements. The venue was the Estate at Florentine Gardens in River Vale, New Jersey.
“Are you ready for some football?”
Guests picked up their place cards which were attached to these Number #1 foam hands on the turf table with a giant goal post and the Bar Mitzvah boy’s logo
The blue and red decor was a nod to the Bar Mitzvah boy’s favorite team, the New York Giants. The kids’ lounge was a great place to hang out
Large poster style pictures of the Bar Mitzvah boy were placed on tables throughout the room and lit up
Bleacher seating with custom stadium pads and a custom mural of the Bar Mitzvah boy at Giants Stadium
Concession signage against the draped wall
Custom logo rally towels were on the back of each chair
The obvious choice for the #1 Draft Pick
Over-sized yellow goal posts and light up box centerpieces customized with the Bar Mitzvah boy’s logo on each of the adult tables
Great dance floor for dancing
The dancers were ready to go in their referee shirts and the signage above the dance floor resembled the stadium scoreboard
We thank Melisa for sharing this football themed celebration with our readers.
United Floral Events is the best kept secret for all your Bar Bat Mitzvah needs.
They are always out on top with the newest ideas in the industry. Each client works directly with Charles (their lead designer) from start to finish no matter how small or large the event.
UFE is far from a factory style operation. UFE is now in its 3rd generation family cycle, running strong for 75 years. They have worked through rough economies and pride themselves for their ability to work with any budget.
TWO RECENT EVENTS: TWO COMPLETELY DIFFERENT LOOKS
Event 1: This Bar Mitzvah celebration was held at Carlyle at the Palace. The family wanted a sophisticated, classy look with a basketball theme.
See more below:
Charles used orange roses and industrial containers to create this elegant look
This decorative wall mural incorporating the basketball theme was created before the event and produced a dramatic graffiti wall that really popped
An actual basketball hoop covered in flowers was used as part of the decor
Different sized vases create a dramatic look
Graffiti favors bags and basketballs were painted on the spot by Meir
Event 2: This Bat Mitzvah celebration was held at the Village Club at Lake Success. The colors of gold and yellow guided this party’s club atmosphere.
See more below:
Long light-up tables were brought in by Great Neck Games
Different flowers were used throughout the party including these gerber daisies
Test tubes holding french tulips were used on alternating tables
Yellow and gold Chiffon curtains create a sexy look and divided the dance floor
Make an appointment to visit their new 2,000 square foot showroom that is filled with “out of the box” ideas.
For more information about United Floral Events, visit their extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.
A Promos USA/ImageMaker has over 20 years in the industry, they distinguish themselves by creating custom designs that set the trends for the Bar & Bat Mitzvah world.
WHAT’S NEW FOR FALL:
1. Opening September 2014, a new showroom on the North Shore of Long Island located at 210 Terminal Drive, Suite 100, Plainview, New York 11803 (off Sunnyside Blvd Exit of the LIE). We are proud to announce this new showroom that is open by appointment only with extended weekend and evening hours in addition to our showroom and factory already located on the South Shore of Long Island.
2. New styles & fabric treatment for the upcoming year. As we approach 2015, why not bring in the NEW! Add bling to your garment with hoodies, tee’s, crew necks & more where the fabric is not only luxurious in feel, but sparkles to the eye. Imagine adding a bit of metallic ink or foil, glitter perhaps to make a spectacular party favor. New in washed garments – 2 tones hoodies and sweats that your teens will love. Stop in our showroom and ask about our cosmic fleece. Great feel, great look, great favor!
HERE’S THE DEAL: The first 10 Mitzvah Market readers who call for an appointment at the new showroom and book their event with us, will receive a personalized travel pillow and blanket (A gift worth over $50 – see bottom of this story for more information).
10 TRENDS FROM A PROMOS USA/IMAGEMAKER
1. VINTAGE IS BACK Soft, worn fabrics, along with the newest print techniques and design brings ‘tween fashion back from the late 60’s into 2014. Kids want their favor not only to represent a part of them, but to make a fashion statement with a garment that they can easily find in a top trendy teen shop at a fraction of the cost since we are factory direct. We know what the kids want since we sell to top fashion outlets nationwide. No middle man here. Talk directly to the source!
2. BIG IS IN Think Big…Big Letters, Big Words or just Oversized Graphics. Whether you decide to print one color or multi-color, our knowledgeable, patient sales staff and in-house superior design staff will make it happen!
3. SOFT AND YUMMY Most kids agree…Soft and Yummy fabrics are what they want to wear. Some of the hottest fabrics out in today’s market are tri-blends, burnouts, french terry, slub jersey and thinner tissue-weight fabrics. This statement also holds true with the inks we use. Some printers print with thick ink, we understand the fabric and use fashion-soft inks designed specifically for these fashion soft garments.
4. KEEP WARM MUST HAVES For fall and winter events, why not think outside the box with embroidered hats, blankets and scarves? All embroidery is done here on premises, no job is too small or too big. For printed garments, we recommend flannels, sweatpants and polar fleece trimmed hoodies.
5. THINK GEEK For all future Bill Gates’ and their friends. GADGETS! Our kids love them. Some of the favorites are headphones, portable speakers, jump drive wristbands, touch screen gloves and power supplies, which will keep them always connected.
6. GIRLS JUST WANNA HAVE FUN! Neons and bright colors are always in style. Check out our sleeveless hoodies with slit sides, perfect over a bandeau or bathing suit. For something different, we carry fringe shirts & knotted tanks with complementing dyed short shorts. No need to worry about the boys….keep the design, change the garment and ink colors so the girls get what they like and the boys do too.
7. HOLLYWOOD BLING Bling it on baby! Stones, foil and glitter inks make all the difference. If you are looking for that added touch, enhance your garment with that little bit of bling. Foil is not just for girls anymore, boys are loving that bit of shine also. For a new look, customize each garment with a name in glitter flake.
8. THE SPORTS CRAZE We carry all kinds of jerseys in all colors – basketball, soccer, baseball, lacrosse and football. Want just a bit more than a t-shirt? How about a dry fit t-shirt available in short and long sleeves? Check out our themed drawstring bags, perfect for that special favor with a sports theme.
9. CAMOUFLAGE Camouflage is not only basic green, but available in fashion colors including shades of blues, grey and even pink. There are also many different fashionable silhouettes available. Whether you are looking for a winter hoodie, a long sleeve thermal, two tone fabrics, tees or tanks, camouflage is the rage and the craze for our teen’s fashionable wardrobe.
10. GLITTER Pillows & More! If you are thinking about decorating your lounge, make sure to print pillows with your specially designed logo or theme to complement your decor. Add a blinged-up water bottle for an added accent. Kids love metallic ink, foil embellishment, and bling…let your child’s Mitzvah shine above the rest with something different.
ADDITIONAL BAR AND BAT MITZVAH IDEAS FROM A PROMOS USA/IMAGEMAKER
Custom pillows, blankets & more…
Adult Favors:
MORE THAN JUST MITZVAHS At A Promos USA, we are not just known for our super creative Mitzvah favors. Think of us when you are in the market for School Fundraisers & Spiritwear, Team Uniforms, Business Apparel and Company Gifts, Birthdays, Sweet 16s, Family Reunions, Fire Department T-shirts and more. We offer vinyl banners and back drops, life size and table top stand ups for events and businesses, step and repeat walls, tablecloths, pillows and more. Additionally, we offer competitive pricing, an outstanding art department, knowledgeable and helpful sales staff and in-house embroidery and screen printing with 24 hour rush service.
PERSONALIZED TRAVEL PILLOW AND BLANKET
Note: This special offer is only valid for the first 10 Mitzvah Market readers who book their order through the new showroom on orders over $700.
Learn more about A Promos/USA ImageMaker by visiting their extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.
Space, located in Englewood, New Jersey, is a unique party space with high tech games, extravagant entertainment, unique decor and customized menus.
We spoke to owner Elvira Grau and wanted to share 3 things you need to know about this Bar Bat Mitzvah venue location:
1. They truly are a one-stop shop!
When you book your date, Space not only serves as a venue, accommodating up to 400 guests, but offers customized menu options by their in-house chef, in-house entertainment (DJ,Emcee, dancers + giveaways), customized linens, overlays, runners, centerpieces & all decor. Also, club furniture, LED bars, high boys, high chairs & all that you need for your party! They also work with each family to design custom timelines as well as custom floor plans to accommodate all size parties.
Note: They are not Kosher, but welcome Kosher caters to come in to accommodate Kosher clients.
No two parties look the same!
Blinged out centerpieces
Pretty pink centerpieces
Creative food displays
2. Their venue can be transformed into a variety of colors depending on your theme. They offer “couture” full service party planning & event services. They paint their walls with LED lights and can transform their Space into any color you want!
3. Lots of extra entertainment is included when you have your child’s Bar Bat Mitzvah celebration at Space!
Space offers over a million dollars of the best high tech entertainment with over 100 of the latest video games, laser tag, exclusive paintless paintball & glow in the dark bowling alleys. Your guests can enjoy unlimited play on all games & attractions.
To learn more about Space, please visit their extended profile page in our Vendor Directory.
The Hally family from Yardley, Pennsylvania, celebrated daughter Amanda’s Bat Mitzvah at Congregation Kol Emet in Yardley, Pennsylvania. A reception followed at Rho Waterfront in Trenton, New Jersey.
Amanda is very active on a competitive cheer team, loves the color purple and sparkles and wanted to incorporate all three into her Bat Mitzvah.
Mom Alyson works for Mitzvah Market so we are excited to spotlight this Bat Mitzvah.
Pictured L-R: Dad Ray, Brother Jack, Bat Mitzvah girl Amanda and Mom Alyson.
Creative Photography by Maya was the photographer and the rest of the vendor information is listed at the end of the spotlight.
A purple background set the tone for the Bat Mitzvah invitation with Amanda’s name across the top in silver sparkles.
Amanda’s service was held at Congregation Kol Emet and she did a great job reading from the Torah. The beautiful tallit was a gift to Amanda from her grandparents’ recent trip to Israel
Circles of Life Kippot were given to guests. These are 100% recycled, 100% recyclable, 100% biodegradable seed paper that when exposed to soil and water, a beautiful flower garden will grow.
The Hally family looked great. Amanda got her beautiful service dress from Belinda’s Designs Haute Couture.
For the reception Dad Ray and Jack wore suits from Nordstrom with purple ties from The Tie Bar. Amanda’s beautiful purple gown was from G-Lizzy and Mom Alyson’s embroidered bodice chiffon cocktail dress was from Saks Fifth Avenue.
Rho Ristorante is a great venue; a refurbished factory building with spectacular river views right on the banks of the Delaware River. Amanda was excited to see her name up on the Marquee!
Amanda wanted her Bat Mitzvah color theme to be purple with sparkles and BJ Boyd from Parties! Rare to Well Done and her team did a great job. Framed pictures of Amanda growing up were a nice touch on the gift box table. Photo-fetti was sprinkled for a colorful accent
Different variations of whimsical centerpieces
All accented with Photo-fetti
An over-sized Purple “A”
Amanda’s cheer logo was used on these fun stadium cups. Notice the megaphone
Amanda’s own signature drink
Parties! Rare to Well Done also created the sign-in mirror. A great way to remember everyone who celebrated with her
All signed, it’s now hanging in Amanda’s room
Since Amanda is on a cheer team it was only appropriate when it was time to make her entrance guests cheered holding purple pom-poms.
Flare Event Group created a great video which really captured the entire evening. Watch it here
MC Dylan and the Flare Event Group dancers provided the non-stop fun on and off the dance floor. All smiles during the Horah
Non-stop party on the dance floor
MC Dylan entertained the kids with interactive games during the cocktail hour
Amanda was presented with a wonderful collage of memories
There were many nice moments at this celebration including a dance with Dad. Amanda and her dad started out dancing slowly to “My Little Girl” by Tim DeGraw and then…
…they really showed off their dancing skills which everyone loved!
Rather than having a traditional 13 candle lighting ceremony Amanda chose to honor her family and friends while lighting three beautiful candles. Parties! Rare to Well Done created the pretty candle holders. Amanda’s outlined initials sparkled in purple glitter representing the Past, Present and Future and of course, one for “Good Luck.”
Amanda surrounded by her friends
The Hally family helped Amanda blow out her candles
Custom Discount Apparel created the hooded sweatshirts which looked great wrapped up with a single purple ribbon. The girls sweatshirts were purple with white
Grey sweatshirts with the date in purple for the boys
On the back of the sweatshirt was Amanda’s initials with all her friends’ names written inside the letters
Jim’s Soft Pretzel Bakery created “A” very delicious treat for guests to enjoy on the way home!
Amanda (right) with teammates and some new friends
Some advice from Mom Alyson:
“This is a moment you’ve been waiting for since the day your child was born. Let it be a reflection of who they are! Family and friends who travel from near and far to fill the room to celebrate this special occasion with you is what makes the day extra special! Don’t waste your time and energy sweating the small stuff. Everything always works out in the end!”
The following vendors helped to make Amanda’s Bat Mitzvah special. If you give any of them a call, let them know you read about their services on MitzvahMarket.com.
Seventh-graders at Chicago Jewish Day School and best friends Ariana Handelman and Marc Luban will celebrate their Bat and Bar Mitzvah this November at Anshe Emet Synagogue on Chicago’s North Side.
They want the day to stand out, but not with a big party. So instead of a huge bash, they decided to design and raise money to build a playground at a church in Bronzeville, a neighborhood on the South Side of Chicago, Illinois.
For the community service project, both Ariana and Marc have spent countless hours on playgrounds, and want all kids to have the same opportunities.
Ariana and Marc want their combined Bat and Bar Mitzvah party to be a “Playground Build Day.” They are hoping to invite their families and friends to Bright Star Church on Chicago’s South Side to build a playground in one day, from the ground up. Anshe Emet and Bright Star members will join in the day which will be coordinated by the playground experts from KaBOOM!
The space where the new playground will be built
A fundraiser through Indiegogo has been established seeking to raise $30,000 for the playground on the property. So far they have raised over 37,000!
Instead of receiving monetary gifts for their B’nai Mitzvahs, they are asking for donations to the playground. While there will be small celebrations after their B’nai Mitzvahs, their parents will kick in money that would have gone to a party to the playground effort.
“It was really meaningful how all these people were trying to make the world a better place,” Ariana said. “Even though we were different people in different communities, we all had the same goal.”
Click here for more information on this great Mitzvah project and to go directly to the fundraising page.
In no time, the Fall Bar Bat Mitzvah celebrations will be back in full swing. Are you wondering what the hot new Mitzvah treat will be?
BizBash, the leading trade media for the event planning industry, just reported on some of the new edible favor trends.
All of these ideas can be customized with your child’s logo.
Check out some of these treats that you might be seeing on the circuit near you!
Customize two-bite macaroons from Dana’s Bakery with your event colors, logo, favorite flavors or image
Each custom logo s’more kit, $4.50, from Candy With a Twist, contains all the ingredients, including a branded marshmallow. Kits can be shipped throughout the United States and Canada
Veronica’s Treats will transfer any logo or photo to the top of a fresh baked cookie which are glazed with white chocolate
Made from scratch, dipped by hand customized cake pops from Haute So Sweet are available in great flavors like Cookie Dough and Birthday Cake
Guests will gobble up the gooey goodness of Madyson’s Marshmallows. The individually wrapped, chocolate-dipped marshmallows, from $2 each, arrive topped with logos and can be shipped nationwide
Edible Gifts Plus offers take-out containers, $8.50 each, filled with two hand-dipped fortune cookies, which can be customized with an edible logo and matching sprinkles. Shipping is available nationwide
Did you have a fabulous edible favor at your child’s Bar Bat Mitzvah celebration? Let us know at info@MitzvahMarket.com.
