By Mom Alissa Butterfass
We spent the entire Shabbat/weekend at the Hyatt Regency Greenwich with our extended family, which made the entire occasion extra special. On Friday night we held the Kabbalat Shabbat services and a Shabbat dinner for extended family and close friends, where my son Seth’s grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends toasted him. After dinner we hung out playing board games and cards until late in the evening.
Pictured above (L-R): Bar Mitzvah boy Seth, mom Alissa and brother Max
The main Bar Mitzvah ceremony and celebration were Saturday night. About 200 people attend a Mincha/Mariv/Havdalah service where Seth read Torah, helped lead the service and gave a meaning D’var Torah about his portion. Seth’s Tallit belonged to his late father Andy, who passed away in December 2019, and the Tallit that I wore was created from my wedding dress.
After the service, the adults headed to cocktail hour and the kids and teens headed to Seth’s Tailgate Party, showcasing his favorite team the Seattle Seahawks. The entire party room was decked out in navy and green, with various versions of Seth’s logos on all of the decor. Seth’s brother Max gave a hilarious speech, I gave a heartfelt one and then the montage showcased memories throughout Seth’s life. After a challenging two years, it was amazing to come together for a happy occasion and the love and support from family and friends was palpable.
The photos were by Tom Warren Photography and the rest of the vendors are listed at the bottom.
Bar Mitzvah Details
Mom to Mom Advice
“Having just the right décor, food, music, entertainment and clothes is great and planning it all can be a lot of fun, but what truly will make your Bar Mitzvah special is sharing it with your friends and family. If you’re able to create multiple opportunities to spend time with them throughout the weekend, I recommend it. Between Friday night dinner, Shabbat brunch, the Saturday night party and just hanging out during downtime, I was able to catch up with each of my relatives, close friends and out of town guests. And watching my kids create memories with their cousins and extended family made my heart swell.”
Bar Mitzvah Vendors:
Venue: Hyatt Regency Greenwich, 203-637-1234
Music Entertainment: MC Eugene, DJ Josh, Jimmy Dee Entertainment, 914-428-9231
Photographer: Tom Warren Photography, 516-847-2330
Favors/Logos/Escort Cards/Hand Sanitizers/Playing Cards/Step-n-Repeat: Favor & Flair, 914-949-0133
Invitations: Greenvelope.com
Service Program: CustomSiddur.com
Kosher Caterer: Above & Beyond Catering, 201-746-6161
Decor: Event Design Studio NY, 914-374-8232
Mom’s Custom Tallit: SilverStitchDesigns.com, 339-364-2122
Sign-In Board: Magic Mirror Store, 914-419-1717
Dress: Elephant Trunk, 914-666-7666
Suits: Seth, Brooks Brothers, Max: JCrew
Hair/Makeup: Hopscotch Salon at Hyatt Regency Greenwich
