Yes, you read that correctly. No typo above. This is a “real event spotlight” of a bat mitzvah which took place inside a barn! When Rachel and her family set out to find the perfect bat mitzvah setting, they knew a typical hotel or country club wasn’t right for them. They wanted something different, unique, memorable, but most important… they wanted something that more clearly personified Rachel!
After some hunting around, they came across the Maskers Barn which is part of the “Deserted Village Site” in the forests of Berkley Heights. This property is managed by the Country of Union Parks System. This incredibly unique space was created in the mid 1800’s and has been maintained to keep it’s authentic feel.
While the barn itself isn’t too large, it has ample outdoor space surrounding it. Rachel’s family was wise and realized planning a party of this size in a unique setting required the help of experienced professionals. The team consisted of Lisa Ivler Events for the planning and coordination aspects. The décor was created and setup by Total Party. Photography was by Jeff Becker of Impressions. And the Entertainment was provided by Xplosive Entertainment led by MC Joey with DJ Mike and motivators Dom and Bridgitt.
Rachel’s family wanted a party that involved dancing, but wasn’t focused strictly on the dancing. Therefore, a timeline was assembled to maximize guests’ abilities to enjoy the park’s atmosphere, the yard styled games provided by Xplosive, and the amazing foods provided by various food trucks. The party began with an outdoor cocktail hour. Kids and adults enjoyed rounds of corn-hole, giant jenga, ladder ball, washers and more! The drinks and food were plentiful during this time. A photo booth was setup in the “feed room” of the barn, which was adorn by bails of hay and a horse’s saddle. Xplosive’s motivators mixed and mingled with the kids, breaking the ice to ensure a smooth transition into the reception.
When it came time for the reception, MC Joe worked his magic and brought all the guests together for an energetic grand entrance. After a few short dance songs, guests took their seats for the traditional formalities. Following an abbreviated candle lighting ceremony, guests joined hands for the hora. While this was taking place, Lisa Ivler and her team organized the food trucks for their anticipated opening. The kids were invited to the food trucks first while Xplosive danced the adults. Shortly after the adults had the opportunity to enjoy the tacos, quesadillas, wood-fired pizzas, and falafels. A photo montage was displayed after the guests ate and MC Joey kept the kids engaged through rounds of games, challenges and dance sets.
As the DJ at the party, I personally enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere. There was a great “feeling” amongst the guests who wore casual attire and enjoyed the perfect temperatures. Kids and adults alike seemed to enjoy the change of pace from the “typical” bar or bat mitzvah. I should note, however, that the planning of this party heavily relied perfect weather. If we encountered rain or a heatwave, this blog may have had a different tone.
Written by: Michael Langsner, Vice President of Xplosive Entertainment: www.XEevents.com
VENDORS:
Venue: Masker’s Barn
Planner: Lisa Ivler Events
Decor: Total Party
Photo: Impressions
Entertainment: Xplosive Entertainment