Bar Mitzvah gift?

We have a Bar Mitzvah for my boss's middle son next weekend. We gave a check to his first boy 5 years ago but now I know the family much better and want to do something more thoughtful. I plan on giving another check for the same amount this time but adding a gift that he can enjoy now.

I have thought of an Apple/Ipod or Blockbuster gift card but am looking for some other ideas.

Any suggestions in the $50 range?

Re: Bar Mitzvah gift?

Perhaps try something from http://www.jewishsource.com/ or yussles in Merrick for something bar mitzhvah related?

Re: Bar Mitzvah gift?

I think a check is nice enough. I don't know if pple bring gifts to Bar Mitzvah's. It's usually money. If you want... find out what video games he likes. Anything electronic or even if he has an ipod maybe a gift certificate so he can buy music.
I think anything Bar Mitzvah related his family might get him and depending on how religeous he is, a teenage boy may not want too much of it. Depends though. JMO

Re: Bar Mitzvah gift?

Maybe things have changed, but I attended many bar and bat mitzvah's growing up and I dont remember seeing any gifts, only cards (I assume with a check inside). I know I only gave checks.

Re: Bar Mitzvah gift?

Okay, so maybe gifts are not as popular. I do know that 2 colleagues (who are both non-practicing Jews) bought gifts for the last Bar Mitzvah. One gave a Tiffany belt buckle and the other a framed NBA jersey so I thought it was common enough.

As an RC, I wouldn't feel comfortable giving a religious gift. I guess I will go with the check and Bestbuy gift card.

Re: Bar Mitzvah gift?

Well from when I had my bat mitzvah and my brothers had their bar mitzvahs we got both $$$ and actual presents, but they were religious related items. I also got a couple of pairs of gold earrings and bracelets. Oh, and a Tiffany pen.

Re: Bar Mitzvah gift?

I'm all for doing lots of things the "Jewish way" but I don't see how any sort of gift for a Bar Mitzvah could be considered a violation of those ways. Money is a common gift but I do not think that other gifts are any sort of etiquette violation. I don't have any wonderful gift ideas but I will post if I think of something.

Message edited 8/27/2009 5:03:44 PM.

Re: Bar Mitzvah gift?

Even though checks are great for the future, they don't mean much to a 13 year old. My bat mitzvah was (gulp) over 23 years ago and I still remember that one of my mom's friend's got me (in addition to a check) a Benneton bear and gift certificate - those things stand out to a 13 year old!
If you want to get something additional for him to enjoy now, go for it - I think it's a great idea!!!