Celebrate a Bar or Bat Mitzvah with Meaning, Style, and Heart

A bar or bat mitzvah is more than just a religious milestone — it is a celebration of heritage, family connection, and personal growth. Make this special day unforgettable by crafting an event that reflects your traditions, values, and unique personality.

Ceremonies can be held almost anywhere that is comfortable for you — no synagogue membership is required. I serve families in Ann Arbor and Southeast Michigan, New York State (Albany, New York City, Oneonta), and South Bend, Indiana, and I teach preparation lessons online for families anywhere.

How Preparation Works

• Free introductory conversation — we discuss your family's background, wishes, and timeline
• Personalized plan — I select an easy-to-learn Torah portion, prayers, and teachings matched to your child's abilities and interests
• Online lessons — preparation consists of several online sessions scheduled at times convenient for your family
• The ceremony — held at the place of your choice, shaped around your family, with music at its heart

A Good Fit For

• Families not affiliated with a synagogue
• Interfaith families — an interfaith background should never be a barrier to a bar or bat mitzvah
• Russian-speaking Jewish families
• Adults who never had the opportunity to celebrate their own bar or bat mitzvah
• Children with special needs — whether gifted or with learning differences, instruction is tailored to each child

Personal Touches That Make It Special

• Customized themes — from elegant to playful, the event is tailored to match your child's personality
• Music — modern or traditional songs woven into the ceremony make the experience meaningful and joyful
• Family involvement — meaningful speeches, special tributes, and interactive experiences

The Purpose of Preparation

The goal of bar and bat mitzvah preparation is to give the child a deep understanding of the ceremony's significance and of their Jewish heritage. While the religious aspect is at the heart of the occasion, a bar or bat mitzvah is also a cultural coming-of-age moment that brings families and friends together. Whether you envision a traditional service followed by a grand celebration or a modern twist on timeless customs, I can help bring your vision to life.

Multilingual Service Options

To make the ceremony more meaningful and inclusive, I offer services in multiple languages:

• Hebrew — traditional prayers and blessings
• English — for accessibility and understanding
• Yiddish — connecting to Ashkenazi heritage and tradition
• Russian — for families with Russian backgrounds

Parts of the service can be conducted in any combination of these languages to best suit your family's background and preferences.