I’m going to be completely honest with you. The term “party planner” makes me cringe internally. Whenever I have to introduce myself as a party planner, I feel like I’m underselling what I truly do. In my mind, what you’re planning isn’t just a party; it’s an event. That makes me your event planner (or event coordinator, if I’m only stepping in to help during the final month before your Mitzvah).
So, what’s the difference between a party and an event?
When I hear the word “party,” I imagine something low-key and straightforward. Think backyard BBQs, your child’s 8th birthday bash at Chuck E. Cheese, or a Halloween pumpkin carving get-together with friends. Sure, it’s a reason to celebrate, but it’s a casual affair. It’s unlikely you’d be spending thousands of dollars or coordinating intricate details to make it happen. It’s fun, festive, but inherently simple.
Now, contrast that with your child’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah. This isn’t just a regular celebration; it’s an event in every sense of the word. Your child is stepping up to read from the Torah and entering a new chapter as a Jewish adult. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime milestone, something that holds deep cultural, spiritual, and familial significance. Guests are traveling from all corners of the country, you’re investing significantly, and every detail is crafted to create an unforgettable experience for both your child and your guests.
So please, call me a Mitzvah Planner!
I’d love for “Mitzvah Planner” to become as common a term as “Wedding Planner.” It perfectly describes what I do—planning Mitzvahs, not merely coordinating parties. Until that day comes, though, I’ll continue to wear my current titles with pride: Mitzvah Planner, Chief Magic Maker, and the person dedicated to making your event truly extraordinary. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just a party. It’s a celebration of tradition, community, and an important moment in your child’s life.