This spring marked only the 100th anniversary of the first American Bat Mitzvah service. Look who caught up with history and made a surprise appearance at Kate’s Bat Mitzvah party at the Army Navy Country Club in early April, just one day shy of her 13th birthday. Have you ever danced the hora with George Washington?

Below is a (small) selection of my favorite images from this high energy event that was packed with games, dance sets, surprises, a luscious dessert buffet, and most of all, the palpable love and joy of family and friends. Thank you to the great team of vendors (see below) and especially my co-photographer and friend Art Pittman for making this evening a resounding success.

If you’d like to see Kate’s Bimah photos click here.

Photography: Marion Meakem Photography

Associate photographer: Art Pittman

Event organizer: Dailey Forte Designs

DJ and photobooth: Washington Talent

Venue and catering: Army-Navy Country Club, Arlington