coming of age birthday

Host a coming-of-age party for the ages with these easy tips and tricks.

It probably comes as no surprise that the theme of my bat mitzvah was Sweet Melissa. The year was 1996, and M&M had just launched a new line of colorful candy. Even now, I can’t think of a theme that fits me better. I remember the desserts (soft chocolate chip cookies, ice cream sundae bar, and of course a cake) better than the music, though swaying to Dionne Warwick with all my friends is definitely up there in my top memories.

Once-in-a-lifetime celebrations, like a sweet 16 party, bar or bat mitzvah, or quinceañera, are such fun opportunities to get together with loved ones. Whether you’re planning one for a family member or yourself, here are my top tips to make it an unforgettable celebration. 

Decorate the party entrance with a balloon arch

The best way to know you're stepping into an epic party is seeing spectacular decor when you walk in. Balloon arches never disappoint, with balloons of all different colors. Plus, you can easily create an arch or have one made to match the colors of the party theme. 

Serve a mouthwatering array of savory snacks

Whenever I got to a party, I immediately gravitate toward the food. From dips to salads, hors d'oeuvres to pasta dishes, I can never decide what to try first. If you’re making the food yourself, the herby quinoa salad, Mediterranean chopped salad, and green goddess pasta salad are always crowd-pleasers in my house.

Create a fun dance playlist

If there’s one thing that makes celebrations special, it’s the dancing. In between music for the traditional celebration dances, put together a playlist of upbeat songs that will pull people of all ages to the dance floor and get their groove on.

Hand out swag on the dance floor

Dressing up in party swag adds so much more fun and energy to the room. Stock up on beaded necklaces, glow-stick bracelets, and paper crowns—once your guests put them on they’ll be dancing and singing louder to the music. 

Invest in show-stopping candles for a candle-lighting ceremony

One of the most popular bar/bat mitzvah traditions is giving speeches in honor of family and friends and lighting candles with them. It’s a special moment that makes the relationships between the guest of honor and their loved ones shine. (Pun intended.) These stylish candles are perfect for the occasion.

Create a beautiful dessert table with cupcakes

Dessert is absolutely your chance to wow your guests. Our party cupcakes come in 18 different flavors, making your dessert table full of color and delicious goodies. You can add party macarons to the table for more variety. Not to mention if you’re throwing a bar or bat mitzvah party, all of our bite-sized treats are kosher!

Baked by Melissa also offers custom cupcakes for large parties. You can choose your cake color, icing, stuffing, and toppings to create the perfect cupcakes to go with your party theme. 

Send your guests home with a sweet thank you

After many hours of celebrating, let your guests know how much you appreciate them for coming with our individually wrapped favors. It allows them to bring a little bit of the dessert table home and makes the sweetest end to a fun-filled night.

What was your favorite coming-of-age party theme? I’d love to hear about it! Tell me by tagging @bakedbymelissa on Instagram or TikTok.