Mazel tov to Emily! Emily’s Bat Mitzvah service was on a very cold, snowy Saturday morning at Temple Sinai. She had family and friends from near and far, with far truly being far – England! Emily did wonderfully, teaching about the difference between determination and stubbornness.
In the evening, Emily and her family celebrated with a party in the Works Theater at the Carnegie Science Center.
Here are some of my favorites from the day.
Rabbi Gorban posed the question, “who here woke up today?” Emily did!
I always love this moment when the congregation throws candy at the Bar/Bat Mitzvah child…
… and I particularly loved that one of Emily’s friends stopped to give her a quick hug. (Note the exuberant boy leaping off the bimah, too.)
Hearing parents address their child is always my favorite part of the day. Emily’s mother, Jill, shared how at age 8 Emily had insisted on staying with their beloved family dog at the end of her life. And how one of Emily’s friends, going through a very difficult time, found that Emily was the only one she could open up to. I admit it, I pretty much always cry at this point!
The Works Theater at the Science Center is a great party environment! The kids get to take over the theater area, while the adults are in the open space outside the theater. I think kids and adults alike appreciate this setup 🙂
The Works Theater has screens all around the room. When it was time to watch Emily’s slideshow, you could see people watching in many different directions.
Loved Emily’s emotion while watching the slide show! 
My second favorite part of the day. 
DJ Jeremy from Kelli Burns Entertainment did a great job keeping everyone entertained. 
One last hug.
Mazel tov, Emily!
Vendor Team
- DJ: DJ Jeremy, Kelli Burns Entertainment
- Balloons: Laurie Lieb, Festivities
- Venue: Carnegie Science Center
- Catering: Culinaire
- Photography: Christina Montemurro