Free interactive starter

Bar & Bat Mitzvah planning checklist

Use this practical timeline as a starting point, then customize it around your synagogue, community, family, and child. The Simchora app includes the full 100-task editable plan.

0 of 31starter tasks complete

18+ months before

Talk with your synagogue about timing and expectationsSet a working budget rangeChoose the type and scale of celebrationBuild a first guest-count estimate

12–18 months before

Confirm the service date with your synagogueTour and reserve a celebration venueBook priority vendorsStart a shared family planning calendar

6–12 months before

Review learning milestones with clergy or educatorChoose invitation directionOrganize guest households and addressesDiscuss honors with your synagoguePlan accessibility and transportation

3–6 months before

Finalize invitation wording and send dateOutline candle lighting or another family honor momentReview vendor deposits and balancesPlan attire and fittingsDraft seating and table needs

1–3 months before

Track RSVPs by householdConfirm aliyot and other honors with the synagogueShare final counts with venue and catererPrepare a day-of contact sheetSchedule final vendor calls

Last month

Confirm service logistics with clergyFinalize seating and dietary needsPrepare final payments and gratuitiesPack ritual items and family keepsakesShare the day-of timeline

Week of

Confirm every arrival timeGive copies of the timeline to key helpersPause, breathe, and be present

This starter list is educational, not religious guidance. Every synagogue and family is different; confirm ritual roles, service requirements, and terminology with your clergy or educator.

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