BBQ Bar Mitzvah Theme

Rubel Event Management owner and event planner Amy Rubel planned a Bar Mitzvah celebration for the Weber family of Maplewood, New Jersey. This family felt strongly about keeping their event local with a casual feel and few formalities and the Woodland in Maplewood, New Jersey was the perfect choice.

Mom and Dad felt they had taken care of the formal ceremonial observances on Friday night and Saturday morning and wanted Isaac to relax at the party. Most important to Bar Mitzvah boy Issac was his theme and of course with the last name of Weber, a barbecue party was perfect!

The photographer was Kristine Foley Photography. Pictured below: The Weber family

Event Planner Amy Rubel tells us, “Another thing I loved about working with this family, is that the Dad, Steve, was my point person. As we all know, it is usually the Mom who works with the planner, but it was so refreshing to have constant input from the Dad. Of course Mom was consulted and participated in all our meetings, but for day to day communication it was always working with Steve.” In addition, Laura Himmelein, Owner of Party Cake Party Cake, had the kind of vision and sensibility that would work perfectly for this style of event. Laura has also worked at the Woodland a number of times so this was also a key factor in wanting her to be on my team.”

Decor and Party Details

When guests entered The Woodland they felt like they were at a big country barbecue decorated as though they were walking into an old weathered barn strung with twinkling lights.

Guests were wowed by the venue transformation. The red and white check table cloths and lights strung together were the perfect combination

Red check tablecloths, and fresh field flowers along with string lighting

A 'barn' themed decor vignette as guests walked into the venue

The place cards were hung on a large screen door and included a BBQ grill on them

You can't get much more authentic than Dinosaur BBQ, who catered the event

Tin cans and mason jars turned into charming vases

Chalkboard menu lettering and signage by Claire McGee

A red wheelbarrow made a great cooler for beer and bottled drinks

This simple rustic look made everyday items extraordinary

Xplosive Entertainment had everyone on the dance floor

The perfect BBQ Mitzvah Exit Treat was S'mores with a note that read: "Take home some S'more fun for later"