Barbie-Inspired Simcha

Family Photos by Rachel Rovner & Reception Photos by Jessica Baum Sukhodolsky

Family and friends from New York, Washington D.C., Connecticut, and more gathered for Eliana’s bat mitzvah during the long Memorial Day weekend to celebrate and make lasting memories.

The festivities began with a Friday night Shabbat dinner and kiddush at Baron Hirsch Synagogue hosted by mom and dad, Jessica and Alex.

On Saturday, family members had the honor of reading from the Torah. Grandfather Jacob Sukhodolsky read the haftora, and Grandpa Lee Baum and uncles were given aliyot.

Eliana gave a d’var Torah to the congregation following services. She spoke about the holiday of Lag B’Omer and the importance of Rabbi Akiva’s message of “V’ahavta L’reach kamocha – love your neighbor as yourself,” especially meaningful during this terrible time for the State of Israel.

In her speech, she said: “When we light our bonfires tomorrow, we must remember that these fires not only represent the eternal flame of the Torah, but also the fire that burns in each and every one of us. Now, as our beloved homeland is at war and many of our loved ones are held captive, it’s more important than ever to be a light unto the nations. We are the people of Israel, and together – nothing, and no one, can stop us. Am Yisroel chai!”

To prepare for her bat mitzvah, Eliana studied with her mom, Jessica, and with Rabbi Ian Lichter, and she practiced her speech with her grandpa, Lee Baum.

“It was very special to be surrounded by so many people who I love – aunts and uncles, parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents – on this important day in my life,” said Eliana.

“For a mitzvah project, Eliana worked with many of her friends from across the Memphis community throughout the year to make and sell bracelets to raise money for Memphis Jewish Federal Emergency Israel Fund,” said Jessica.

After all of Eliana’s hard work and excellent presentation, it was time to party. Jessica had the most fun planning the party herself. Barbie pink and glittery silver lit up every aspect of the room including Eliana’s dress.

From immaculately designed cookies and desserts to fun pink and silver sparkly tablecloths adorned with pink flowers and silver disco balls, it was like living in a Barbie Dreamworld.

The kids spent lots of time in the photobooth and danced the night away to the beats of DJ Rockin Robin.

“During a year filled with turmoil for the Jewish people, we were so happy to have a simcha to celebrate!” explained Jessica and Alex. “We are incredibly proud of our kind, hardworking, poised daughter, Eliana. She did an amazing job with her d’var Torah.