Mazel Tov it’s Mitzvah time! Today’s Q&A is on candle lighting.
Q: Must you have a candle lighting service?
A: No. But if you’re looking for a fun and sentimental way to recognize family and friends then YES.
Q: How many candles?
A: As many or few as you like. While 12 is the standard there are no set rules. 3, 6, 12? It’s up to you. I’ve seen as many as 15, but that’s extreme. Consider it takes a minimum of 2 minutes per candle – Something is said, they walk up to music, take pictures, sometimes recipients say something, and then they exit to music. That’s 24 minutes +/- for 12 candles.
Q: Do we have to use candles?
A: No, use whatever you like. Real candles, electric candles, candy, trophies, plaques, puzzle pieces, plants \ leaves \ branches on a tree (representing a tree planted in Israel in their name), sporting balls \ equipment, or my personal favorite, The Mitzvah Awards using your Mitzvah’s name – think Oscars or Tonys.
This is the brief list, there are plenty of options, let’s brainstorm to find what matches your theme.
Q: Who reads the message?
A: Typically, your Mitzvah. Although I have seen others do it with \ for them. Such as their parents, siblings, or even the recipients.
Q: Does the message have to rhyme, Dr Seus style? i.e. This candle is for you and me. Jenny come light candle number 3.
A: No. Rhyming is fun, but it’s not for everyone. (See what I did there) The sentiment is far more important.
Q: Do the recipients have to be present?
A: No. We can Zoom them into the room. Or here is a video from guests unable to attend an event, we can do something similar for your guests who are unable to attend who want to share a message.
Q: Do the recipients have to be alive?
A: No. A memorial candle can be a great tribute. For one or more people. Let’s discuss options to make it tasteful and uplifting.
Q: Should your Mitzvah practice \ have written notes?
A: Yes, absolutely, to both. Even the best speakers use something written as a guide, and it’s always better when they rehearse.
Q: What if your Mitzvah makes a mistake and reads a message out of order?
A: A good DJ will be flexible, and able to play the right song at the right time, even if out of order.
Q: Who gets a candle \ can we skip someone without offending them?
A: Lighting a candle is an honor, not everyone can be included. But there are ways to be more inclusive. Not my cousins from New York, but ALL my cousins. Not my two best friends, but ALL my friends. You can also light the last candle and dedicate it to everyone there, inviting everyone to take a group picture.
Mazel Tov on your Mitzvah. If you need memorable DJ entertainment, I’m ready to help you celebrate. [Smile]
Your fun Mitzvah starts here.