We're not going to lie -- a Bar Mitzvah takes a lot of planning (and we mean a lot). Use this basic timeline to check up on your progress in the upcoming months. If you've got less time to plan, don't panic -- but do get started right away!

1 to 2 Years before...

• Pick the Bar Mitzvah date and make sure it's held on the synagogue calendar.



• Figure out a preliminary budget.

10 to 12 (or more) months before...

• Start thinking about what kind of party you want to have -- colors, theme, location, everything!



• Sign your child up for Bar Mitzvah classes at your synagogue.



• Start thinking about the guest list.



• Start looking at Bar Mitzvah locations. It might seem early, but remember, you're competing against weddings and other parties, so these places book up fast. If you see one you love, go for it!

6 to 8 months before...

• If you and your child are ordering a dress (especially one that'll require tailoring), start shopping now. Order as much in advance as possible to leave time for last-minute alterations.



• Start thinking about what kind of food you'd like to have.



• Decide on what kind of entertainment you want. A band? A DJ?



• Start researching and booking party pros, like your photographer, band or dj, etc.



• Check out party-rental places if you need to rent anything for your Bar Mitzvah (like chairs and tables or a tent).

4 to 6 months before...

• If you're getting custom-printed invitations, it's time to start shopping.



• Having a custom-made cake? Start thinking about how you'd like it to look (and taste!), and check out the bakeries in your area.



• If you're planning on having any oneg Shabbat, discuss your needs with the synagogue caterer.

3 months before...

• Order your invites.



• Order your cake.



• Meet with your rabbi and/or cantor to talk about the service.

2 months before...

• Get those invitations in the mail.



• If you're having you and your child are having hair or makeup professionally done, make those appointments now. You might also want to do a trial run to see how it'll look.

1 month before...

• If you've ordered a dress, pick it up from the store and have your final fittings done.

Two weeks before...

• Take a peek at your RSVPs and call up any guests you're still waiting to hear from.



• If you're having a professional photographer, discuss when portraits or other posed shots will be taken during the Bar Mitzvah, and who will be in them. You'll need to schedule enough time beforehand.

The day before...

• Go back over any and all checklists to be sure you've taken care of every detail.



• Get a good night's sleep!

The day of...

• Relax! You'll do great. And one more thing -- mazel tov!