The Day
Our Celebration
The Service
The service begins promptly at 10:30 AM on Saturday morning at Peninsula Temple Beth El. Please arrive at 10:15 AM for seating.
You are warmly invited to attend the Friday evening Shabbat service on March 13 at 6:30 PM.
The Celebration
A catered dinner and dance party begins at 6:00 PM on Saturday evening at the Temple. Come eat, dance, and celebrate with Marni!
DJ, dancing, games, and prizes!
Arrival Logistics
The service begins promptly at 10:30 AM on Saturday morning. Please plan to drop off your child by 10:15 AM to allow time to find a seat. The service will conclude around 12:15 PM, followed immediately by a Kiddush lunch in the social hall.
Kids are typically ready for pickup between 12:45–1:00 PM, but feel free to come in sooner.
Photos and video recording are not permitted during the service. Please make sure your child silences and puts away cell phones and smartwatches. The evening party will also be a phone-free environment for kids so everyone can focus on the festivities.
Evening party drop-off is at the same place, PTBE, at 6pm. Plan to pick up between 9:45–10:00 PM
Let Us Know
RSVP
We kindly ask that you RSVP by February 1, 2026 so we can plan seating and catering.
Please complete one RSVP per household. You can include the number of guests, dietary needs, and any special notes.
If you prefer, just email joshua.saffren@gmail.com or call Josh at 650.207.4387 or Heather at 650.430.0482.
For Our Guests
Travel & Stay
Hotel Suggestions
For our out-of-town guests, nearby hotel options include:
- Marriott Grand Bay Hotel — approximately 20 minutes from the Temple
- Residence Inn San Carlos — approximately 20 minutes from the Temple
- VRBO and Airbnb — additional local lodging options
What Is a Bat Mitzvah?
A Bat Mitzvah is a joyful milestone in Jewish life, marking the moment a young person takes on new responsibility within their community. At around age 12 or 13, they are recognized as capable of participating more fully in Jewish ritual, tradition, and communal life.
During the ceremony, Coco will read from the Torah, help lead parts of the service, and share reflections on her learning and values. It represents years of study, personal growth, and a deep connection to heritage and community.
We are honored to celebrate this moment with family and friends as Coco steps forward with confidence, curiosity, and a strong sense of who she is becoming.
Getting Here
The Temple is easily accessible from anywhere in the Bay Area.
- SFO Airport — approximately 15 minutes
- SJC Airport — approximately 35 minutes
- OAK Airport — approximately 60 minutes
Taxis are recommended from SFO over rideshare.
Map & Directions
Explore the area around Peninsula Temple Beth El or get step-by-step directions.
Meet the Guest of Honor
About Coco
Coco is a joyful, optimistic, and creative young woman who loves exploring the world through art, music, sports, and more. She has worked hard preparing for this milestone—studying Hebrew, practicing her Torah portion, and learning what it means to take on new responsibility in Jewish life.
She also loves volleyball, track and field, spending time with her friends, and playing music and singing. She brings her creative outlook to all things fashion and design.
At home, she’s our resident barista, always crafting the perfect drink with flair and enthusiasm, baking breakfast, and experimenting with new recipes.
We are incredibly proud of the care, thoughtfulness, and humor she brings to everything she does, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you.
For the Day Of
What to Expect on the Day
The Flow of the Day
We want everyone to feel relaxed and comfortable, whether this is your first Bat Mitzvah or one of many. Here’s a general sense of how the day will unfold:
- Morning service – 10:30 AM: The Bat Mitzvah service begins in the sanctuary at Peninsula Temple Beth El. Please arrive a few minutes early for seating
- Kiddush luncheon – after the service: A light lunch and time to say mazel tov, take photos, and visit
- Break in the afternoon: Free time to rest, explore the area, or regroup at your hotel or home
- Evening celebration – 6:00 PM: Dinner and dance party back at the Temple
During the Service
The service includes prayers, readings, music, and moments where Marni helps lead and reads from the Torah. Some parts are in Hebrew, some in English, and everything is guided by the clergy and the prayer book.
- You do not need to know Hebrew or be Jewish to follow along and participate as you feel comfortable
- Simply stand, sit, and respond by following the cues of the congregation and the clergy
- Please silence phones and avoid photography during the service
Your presence and support mean the most to us—there are no “right” or “wrong” moves.
Seating & Synagogue Basics
Seating in the sanctuary is open; there are no assigned seats. Family and close relatives often sit closer to the front, but you are welcome to choose any open seat that feels comfortable.
- If you have mobility needs or prefer an aisle seat, please let us know in your RSVP or when you arrive
- Temple staff and ushers are happy to help you find a good spot
- You may see kippot (head coverings) or prayer books available as you enter; feel free to use them if you wish, but they are not required
If you’re ever unsure about what to do, just ask—this is a warm, welcoming community, and we’re grateful you’re there.
Kids, Teens & the Evening Party
The evening celebration is fun and family-friendly. There will be food, music, games, and and a dance floor DJ so be sure to practice your best moves now while you still have time.
- If you or your child has any dietary needs or sensory considerations, please include that in your RSVP so we can do our best to accommodate
- If necessary, please consider discussing the importance of staying off the phone and enjoying the live event they are a part of