The Process

The first step is to schedule a free 30‑minute consultation with Atara. This meeting takes place over Zoom and gives us the opportunity to get to know one another. We’ll discuss your family’s goals, your child’s needs and interests, and what you envision for a meaningful Bar Mitzvah or wedding experience.

This conversation allows us to determine the best path forward and ensure that the process is supportive, personalized, and aligned with your values from the very beginning.

Once you decide to move forward and partner with me for your event, I will send you a brief set of forms to complete.

Once the forms are filled out, I will reach out to meet via zoom with you and your child (or fiancé for wedding) for a 30-45 minute session to discuss your family’s background, priorities, and specific needs, allowing me to tailor the experience thoughtfully and intentionally from the first class.

Let’s get learning!

We will start meeting on a bi-weekly basis to and preparing for big day. Each class will be 50 minutes long and we can either meet via zoom or in person if you reside in Palo Alto.
I use Google Workspace to allow families to manage their schedules and payments, as well as keep track of what we are learning and working on.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bar/ Bat Mitzvah Specific:

If you live in the vicinity of Silicon Valley, we can meet in person but most sessions take place online via Google Meet. I will share notes and materials ahead of time and provide assignments and follow up as well. This works well for busy families as you can avoid another car trip.
For the big day, I will travel to wherever in the world the ceremony will take place. I even have a small Torah that I bring with me!
At my core, I am a Jewish educator. This business grew out of my work as a Jewish studies teacher at a Jewish day school which I have taught at for 25 years. I am not and ordained Rabbi but I have prepared students for and led almost 200 Bar/Bat Mitzvahs. Each one of them was completely unique!
Most students begin 6–12 months before their Bar/Bat Mitzvah date, depending on their experience and schedule. We’ll create a timeline that ensures steady progress without feeling rushed.
Not at all. We work with students at all levels—from beginners to those with Hebrew school experience—and tailor our approach accordingly.
Typically once per week, with optional increases as the date approaches.
Lessons can be held in person if you live in Palo Alto, online, or as a hybrid depending on your preference.
We understand schedules can change—makeups are handled as flexibly as possible depending on availability.
We guide parents on how to support practice at home, but your participation in the the preparation process will depend on the package you chose.

Wedding Specific:

If you live in the vicinity of Silicon Valley, we can meet in person, but most sessions take place online via Google Meet. I will share notes and materials ahead of time so we can build your perfect ceremony!
For the big day, I will travel to wherever in the world the ceremony will take place. I even have a small Torah that I bring with me!
At my core, I am a Jewish educator. This business grew out of my work as a Judaism teacher at a Jewish day school which I have taught at for 20 years. I am not an ordained Rabbi but I have led many wedding ceremonies, and each one of them was completely unique!
Most couples start working with me 6 months before their wedding date to put together a ceremony that reflects their beliefs and traditions, and helps incorporate their families into the big day. We’ll create a timeline that ensures steady progress without feeling rushed.
Yes. I specialize in creating ceremonies that honor Jewish tradition while being inclusive and meaningful for all backgrounds.
Typically 3–4 planning sessions, plus ongoing communication as needed.