You’re right, this isn’t a wedding! But bear with me….this event still holds so many great decor ideas for a wedding and producing a FUN event for your guests!
Anyway, I’m just bursting with excitement to share the incredible experience I had photographing Megan’s recent Palo Alto Bat Mitzvah. I’m all about capturing special moments and this event is FULL of special. As a professional photographer specializing in wedding & lifestyle photography, I travel often for special events. And let me tell you, getting to the destination was worth it! Megan’s celebration was an absolute blast, filled with love, joy, and memories to last a lifetime.
It was an honor to reconnect with Julie and Erik, Megan’s parents. I had the pleasure of photographing their wedding many years ago here in San Diego, and it was incredible to be asked to be a part of another important milestone in their lives.
From Palo Alto’s beauty to the exceptional coordination by Marcy Blum, this Bat Mitzvah was a celebration filled with so much love, joy, and a ton of fun. Photography by Jennifer Dery.
Friday Shabbat Dinner at Ettan Restaurant:
The weekend festivities commenced with a delightful Friday Shabbat dinner at Ettan, a Michelin star restaurant where Megan’s family and friends gathered to kickstart the celebrations.
This is the first time many of these family members had seen each other since the lockdown. The love and enthusiasm of that night was palpable. Megan delivered her blessing to the group while everyone gather around her on Ettan’s amazing umbrella-filled patio. It was beautiful!
Saturday Morning Palo Alto Bat Mitzvah Ceremony and Kiddish Lunch:
Saturday morning brought the main event – Megan’s Bat Mitzvah ceremony at Congregation Beth Am. It was a privilege to document Megan’s dedication and remarkable maturity. The heartfelt speeches, proud smiles, and family connections were so loving and joyful to hear. The lunch that followed was a testament to the love and support Megan receives from her family and friends.
Saturday Dinner Reception at the University Club:
The pinnacle of the weekend arrived with the grand Saturday dinner reception at the prestigious University Club.
Duet Botanical and Verducci lighting/AV must be commended for their outstanding work at Megan’s Saturday night reception. Their purple and neon-themed floral and decor transformed the venue into a captivating wonderland. The breathtaking ceiling floral installation was nothing short of extraordinary, adding a touch of elegance and enchantment to the evening.
During the cocktail hour, an area at the tennis courts was transformed into an incredible hangout spot for the teens. They had their own appetizer and mocktail bar, allowing them to indulge in delicious treats specially crafted for them. A craft table was set up, where they could create live flower hair crowns, adding a touch of natural beauty to their attire. Games like corn hole and volleyball were available for them to enjoy, fostering a sense of camaraderie and fun. The talented DJ kept the vibe lively and energetic, and the Boba Bar by Milk Tea Lab kept energy up ensuring that the teens had an unforgettable experience.
While the teens were enjoying their exclusive hangout, the adults mingled and enjoyed drinks and appetizers on the expansive deck provided by the University Club. The incredible charcuterie and appetizer spread by Feast and Floral delighted the guests’ palates, offering a delightful array of flavors and textures. It was fun watching all the guests visit the tables laden with tasty treats and see how they reacted to the abundance and choice in front of them.
After dinner and dancing, a side room opened its doors, revealing an incredible array of goodies for the guests to enjoy. A photo booth allowed them to capture fun and memorable moments, creating keepsakes to cherish for years to come. Pajama bottoms were provided, allowing guests to relax and feel comfortable while indulging in the festivities. Additionally, a custom Nalgene bottle to be custom-adorned with an array of “Megan” stickers added a personalized touch, making it a cherished memento of the event.
Megan’s Bat Mitzvah was an extraordinary journey filled with love, laughter, and fun. I am immensely grateful to Julie, Erik, and Megan for entrusting me once again to capture their great milestones. Witnessing Megan’s confidence as a young woman and being a part of this joyous occasion reminded me of the immense privilege I have in preserving cherished memories for families and couples through the years.
The talented live band, Entourage, (as well as the DJ Team I’ll mention next) deserve special mention for their exceptional performance. They engaged everyone and kept the dance floor full all night, creating an electric atmosphere of celebration and joy. As a professional photographer, I cannot manufacture the energy and enthusiasm that radiated from the guests on the dance floor. This team brought out the best in the night so that finding moments of enthusiasm and excitement were downright easy.
DJ Alan Waltz, who provided the DJ entertainment for the day, delivered the highest energy and engagement I have ever experienced with a DJ. The way they effortlessly interacted with the teens and encouraged their participation was truly remarkable.
Now, let’s give a round of applause to Marcy Blum and her team, the masterminds behind the flawless coordination of Megan’s Palo Alto Bat Mitzvah. Finding a skilled event coordinator who can bring your vision to life is THE KEY to a stress-free and unforgettable celebration. They’ll handle all the intricate details, allowing you to focus on making memories and enjoying time with your loved ones.
‘till next time! – Jen
