B’nei Mitzvah Logistics

Livestreaming

Morning Services:
These services are automatically broadcast as part of our regular Shabbat livestream. A thumb drive of the recording is available at no additional cost.

Afternoon & Evening Services:
Livestreaming is available for a fee of $400. This includes a private livestream link, password protection, and a thumb drive of the service.

Invitations

When preparing your invitations, please note the following:

• Temple Name: Congregation Emanu-El of the City of New York or Temple Emanu-El

• Temple Address: Fifth Avenue and 65th Street

• Wording: The milestone should be phrased as “becoming a Bar/Bat/B’nei Mitzvah” or “celebrating your child becoming a Bat/Bar/B’nei Mitzvah.”

We are happy to assist with invitation wording or to review your draft. Please email: membership@emanuelnyc.org

Flowers

Fifth Avenue Sanctuary:
Flowers are provided by the Temple’s Bimah Flower Fund for morning services and remain in place throughout the day. To contribute to the fund for your child’s service, please contact the Development Office.

Beth-El Chapel:
Flowers are not provided. You may coordinate with your own florist to create an arrangement no larger than 10 inches, or contact the Temple’s florist:

Fellan Florist
Phone: (800) 335-5267
Contact: John Fellan

Special Accommodations

If you are expecting guests who require special accommodations, please contact the Membership Office in advance. We are happy to provide hearing devices, large-print prayer books, accessible entrances, or any other necessary support to ensure all guests feel welcome and comfortable.

Photography & Videography

Scheduling
Please contact the Membership Office to schedule photography sessions. Timing depends on the service:

• Morning Services: Photos may be taken in the Fifth Avenue Sanctuary from 8:30–9:30 AM.

• Afternoon Services: Photos may be taken for one hour following the conclusion of the service.

• Evening Services: Photos may be taken in the assigned sanctuary from 3:30–4:30 PM.

• Rehearsals: You are also welcome to take photos during your final rehearsal. Please notify the Membership Office in advance.

Guidelines
Photographers and videographers must remain stationary in designated areas:

• Fifth Avenue Sanctuary: Balcony

• Beth-El Chapel: Choir loft

Flash photography and shutter sounds are not permitted during services in order to preserve the sanctity of the moment.

Booking a Kiddush

Depending on your service time, you may have the option to host a Kiddush at Temple Emanu-El. Reservations open one year prior to the event date. To inquire or book, please contact:

John O’Hara
Assistant Director, Special Events & Operations
john.ohara@emanuelnyc.org
(212) 507-9574

Transportation & Parking

Buses
If you’re arranging transportation by bus, please notify us in advance. We’ll assist with determining the best location for guest drop-off and pick-up.

Parking
There is no on-site parking at the temple. Nearby parking garages include:

• 65th Street between Madison and Park Avenues

• 65th Street between Park and Lexington Avenues

• 67th Street between Fifth and Madison Avenues

Please inform your guests that street parking is limited.

Additional Considerations

Kippot/Yarmulkes
If wearing a kippah is your custom, black kippot are always available in the lobby. You are also welcome to order personalized kippot for your guests. Judaica shops and online vendors offer a range of customizable options.

Programs
Many families choose to create service programs that highlight prayers, music, or moments of significance. The Membership Office can provide a B’nai Mitzvah program template upon request.

Safety & Security

For the safety and comfort of all attendees, our professional security guards inspect all bags upon entry to the sanctuary.

Please note:

• Backpacks and suitcases are not permitted inside the sanctuaries. Large bags must be left outside.

• The NYPD is often present outside our building as part of routine coverage. Their presence is meant to offer reassurance and additional security—there is no cause for alarm.