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BESA, the Bar/Bat Mitzvah Event Services Association

BESA, the Bar/Bat Mitzvah Event Services Association, was founded by two industry veterans, Eric Sands of Sundance Productions and Sherrill Kinsler of RSVP Events. With over 50 years of combined experience in the special events industry, the pair met in 2001 to discuss how they could make a meaningful impact. Recognizing the need for an association of vendors specializing in Jewish events, they set out to create a community resource. What began as a core group of six members quickly grew into the Bar/Bat Mitzvah Event Services Association, providing invaluable expertise and support to the San Diego area.

BESA proudly represents over 60 members across various categories, offering everything you need for your upcoming Mitzvah. Whether you're looking for vendors, venues, or expert planning assistance, BESA is here to help!

MISSION STATEMENT

TO BE A RESOURCE FOR THE JEWISH COMMUNITY, WITH A MEMBERSHIP COMPRISED OF ESTABLISHED EVENT SPECIALISTS WITH BUSINESSES CURRENTLY PROVIDING SERVICE AND EXPERTISE IN THE BAR/BAT MITZVAH AND JEWISH EVENTS INDUSTRY.

BESA Expo Balloon photoMaximum Impact at the BESA Expo

Code of Ethics

BESA, the Bar/Bat Mitzvah Event Services Association

* Maintain the highest standards of personal conduct to bring credit to those vendors who specialize in events within the Jewish community.
* Promote and encourage the highest level of ethics within the industry.
* Communicate truthful and accurate information with respect to the professional performances of duties.
* Use only legal, ethical, and safe standards in all industry activities.
* Use a written contract clearly stating all charges, services, and products.
* Demonstrate respect for every professional within the industry by consistently performing at or above industry standards.
* Contribute knowledge to professional meetings and journals to raise the consciousness of the industry.
* Maintain adequate and appropriate insurance when providing services.

Membership

Upon applying, the board will review the applicant’s request, if there is an opening in that category. If approved to present the applicant must attend one general meeting as a guest prior to presenting. The applicant will then be given the opportunity to present themselves to the members at a monthly general meeting (brief introduction of yourself and samples or photos of your specific service). The general membership in attendance will then vote on the applicant’s request for membership. The applicant will be notified of the results of the vote. If voted in, all fees must be paid in order to complete the process.

* Minimum of 3 years experience in the special events industry in your profession
* Have performed at least 50 Bar/Bat Mitzvahs (for “core” categories)
* Be sponsored by a current BESA member
* Hold a current business license and provide proof of business liability insurance
* Provide business and personal references
* Pay a $500 yearly membership fee (renewed every Oct. 1st)
* Pay an initial one-time $75 web site fee

Board Members

What should I expect at the BESA Expo?

How often do you have the Expo?

Is the BESA Expo Free?

How can my business become a member?

The most common questions

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Bob Hoffman Photo & Video: Bob and Tara at the BESA Expo

Mark your calendar for an extraordinary experience

2:14 min

Testimonials

Loved by community

Sarah and Howie Bear Photo

We were so happy with the BESA vendors we used for our older daughter's bat mitzvah that we hired them again for our younger daughter's bat mitzvah two years later. Lydia Krasner at Mitzvah Events was the glue that planned and put everything together.

- Juli & Howie Bear
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A truly enriching experience! I attended the BESA Expo and left feeling inspired and motivated. Highly recommend!

@BEATTYBOO
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The BESA Expo was out of this world! Such fantastic vendors and the organization was flawless. Count me in for every future event!

@NICKDIOS
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Attending the BESA Expo was the highlight of my year! From the food to the music to all of the members, it was an unforgettable event.

@RICKHARTEN
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I've been to many events, but none quite like this. The vendors were top-notch, and the booking opportunities were invaluable.

@VITALYTEE
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An absolute blast! The organizers truly know how to put on a show. I danced, I laughed, and I made memories that will last a lifetime.

@MOONCHILD