I'm going to a bat mitzvah! Help me please?

Question

So I'm going to my third (i think) mitzvah. I should be experienced by now, but I would just like to know a few things.

This bat mitzvah is for a kinda-know kinda person. We were in Student Council together for one year 2 years ago, but we never got that close. It was very kind of her to invite me, but I don't really know what to say on a card, what kind of gift i should get, etc. Think you could help me there?

Also, what the heck does Kiddush mean? The card asks whether I'm attending it. That must mean it's the service right?

And what is California festive attire? I'm a Californian...i should know this.

Also any do's and dont's for service or reception would be grrrrreat.

Thanks so much!

PS..the bat mitzvah is in september.

PPS..I'm 13.

Answer 1

Kiddush means blessings recited over wine on the eve of the Dabbath or of a festival.  You should go to a local card store and they will have plenty of choices.  Tell her how happy you were to be invited and wish her many blessings on her bat mitzvah.  The gift should come from your heart, it is a special time for her so think of something special you would like to receive and then give it to her,  California Festive Attire would be a very nice, summery,yet appropriate for the temple and the bat mttzvah, nothing too flashy, yet nothing too laid back.  Be polite and kind and gracious.  Dance, eat and be merry.  Enjoy yourself, it is meant to be a time to celebrate!!!

Peace & Love ")

Answer 2

I would go to a Hallmark store and get a card there.  If you can find the right card, it helps you find your own words.  I am wanting to say that California festival attire is news to me but I would wear something nice, like a summer dress that is OK to wear to church.  I would follow what everyone else does and RELAX, enjoy yourself.