Jewish families at this time of year are busy with winter vacation plans and Chanukah celebrations, not to mention New Years' Eve! But, your real December dilemma is trying to sign contracts for your child's Bar or Bat Mitzvah! One of the biggest dilemmas...should you book the party at a synagogue? The social hall is perfect, it has a great dance floor, it is a convenient location, etc. But the biggest stipulation is...do I have to serve kosher food? This is a dilemma for many parents. Let's consider your options.
If you consider hosting the party at an Orthodox or Conservative synagogue, you are restricted to the basic laws of kashrut (kosher). Reform synagogues are more likely to have lesser restrictions, like following general kosher guidelines, but not requiring a kosher caterer. Private kosher caterers and hotels that cater kosher can be very expensive. So, how do you plan a great party, stay within your budget and live up to the expectations of your family to host a traditional Jewish event?
If you are prepared to host a formal kosher celebration and pay full price, you could pay up to $200 a person (adult) or more at a hotel or at a banquet facility with a high profile caterer. So, how do you keep this light, or let's say, Kosher Lite? Synaogues have lists of approved kosher caterers, and it pays to call them all, ask for menus, be specific about your budget and be prepared to negotiate. If the menus are still too cost prohibitive, then it is time to think like a Modern Jewish Mom...don't decide to do a non-kosher party...be creative!
It's time to think Kosher Lite! How many events have you attended with a one-hour cocktail party and four hours of dancing, salad, dinner and dessert? Try something different! Find a caterer who can create an evening of fun, casual, creative kosher food. Try a deli party...everyone loves a good kosher hot dog or corned beef sandwich (watch the adults at a party...they always sneak off to the kid's food for the mini hot dogs!) Or, start your evening with veggies, fruit and dairy appetizers, enjoy your party, and serve a breakfast menu later in the evening. Take it up a notch and find a caterer who supplies creative backdrops for various buffet stations...Italian, Asian, Israeli...everyone will find something they like! If you use a dairy menu, you can serve cream with your gourmet coffee bar and real ice cream and yummy desserts.
If you really want a kosher party, don't be discouraged by the prices of the first kosher caterers you contact, keep calling. If you are working with a non-kosher facility, think kosher lite and try a kosher-style menu...the only shrimps at your party should be the kids!
Tip: If you work with your caterer for your Friday night dinner or Sunday brunch, you could benefit from a package deal!
Happy Chanukah!
Sheri Freedman
Two's Company, North Potomac, MD
301-279-0928
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