My youngest son has been invited to a Bat Mitzvah for a former classmate. The parents sent a very helpful note explaining customs and expectations, but left out the gift part. What types of gift (cash only?) and typical amount? FWIW, only Alex is invited to the party/meal following the ceremony but parents can go to the synagogue with him. They have a bus to take the kids to the function at a hotel.


Thanks in advance,

cj/

Here's what I was told from a couple of sources. My son attended two this year, and I too was uncertain about a gift. If it is a luncheon affair only, usually $20-25. Evening affair is $40. This is in the Pittsburgh area.

This may help you:
Google Answers: Bar Mitzvah Gift

Normally if you decide to give money, it is in increments of $18 for good luck.

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This space for rent

Hurm.. one kid invited? Not a family member but a friend of your childs?

It's been a while. I'd think $25.

Last ones I've gone too were for cousins, where the 5 of us went (3 kiddos), and its family, so more than $100 IIRC.

We're now getting invited to the kids WEDDINGS (yikes!)

I bought my first car with the money I got

Jason

If giving a money gift - increments of Chai - $18 - are appropriate.

Gift cards are also fine - around here cards to Blockbuster, Gamestop or a popular clothing store are popular.

Also, an Am EX or Visa gift card are good - they can be used anywhere.

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Bevogal

Yes, it is only my son invited to the party. The meal selection part of the RSVP was for adults only. I assume the kids are getting some less fancy selection.

So is the concensus cash? What about gift cards?
She's just turning 13 so I don't think she'll be buying a car yet!

cj/

Oops..new post while i was writing addressed the GC question. Do non-Jewish give the increments of 18?

I would say it would be better to give a gift card to the child.

For the party, the kids will usually have a different menu than the adults. The kids menu is usually a buffet, while the adults is most often (but not always) seated.

I am the Event Coordinator in a synagogue, so let me know if you have any other questions.

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Bevogal