1000 Words

By Alanna Maya

When it comes to finding a location for your next party or event, there are myriad options in San Diego, with House of Blues at the top of the list. An unique location and ambiance can really add the finishing touch to your event, and House of Blues provides just that. House of Blues San Diego is a 30,000 square foot site featuring indoor and outdoor space, offering a rich setting for corporate and private events, meetings and premiere parties. Whatever you have in mind, the team at House of Blues is dedicated to designing an exciting event that is perfect for your needs, including the next mitzvah event in your life. L’Chaim Magazine spoke with Rachel Gold, Special Events Sales Manager, House of Blues San Diego about the offerings for Bar Mitzvah celebrations.

L’CHAIM Magazine: How long have you been working with Jewish families on their celebrations?

Rachel Gold: House of Blues San Diego has been working with the Jewish community on Bar and Bat Mitzvahs ever since we opened doors in 2005. We are a premier restaurant and entertainment venue located in the downtown business district with the ambiance of an old Southern Delta Juke Joint. We provide the best in live music and eclectic cuisine, for events both large and small. From a sit-down lunch to a whole-house buyout, our House can be yours!

L’CHAIM: How many people can you accommodate?

RG: We can accommodate small parties of 50 all the way up to 1,500. We have three diverse rooms that can cater to your party size and particular needs. Our private Delta Room can accommodate up to 80 guests for a seated dinner or 120 for a standing reception. Our Music Hall can do a seated dinner for 200 guests up to 800 for a standing reception. Our restaurant, Crossroads, can accommodate 100-350 depending on your desired set up.

L’CHAIM: What time of day can you hold a private event at your venue and do you allow kosher catering?

RG: We are available for both daytime and evening parties. Catering for your special event is handled in-house, but in addition, we can work with an outside kosher vendor to meet your specific needs.

L’CHAIM: What makes House of Blues a great location for a Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebration?

RG: We provide a unique experience to have your special day in the same place your musical heroes have graced the stage. From Meghan Trainor to Iggy Azalea, host a party where some of your favorite artists have performed.

L’CHAIM: How does House of Blues cater to the traditional or non-traditional Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebration?

RG: We are truly the perfect place for a family who is in search of a non-traditional experience. We are not just a blank space. You can utilize our eclectic in-house décor or create a house of your own. From beach themes to rock n’ roll, anything is possible.

L’CHAIM: How can a family make their celebration unique at House of Blues?

RG: House of Blues San Diego will work with your family every step of the way to create a memorable and unique experience. For the music lover in your life we’ll roll out the red carpet (literally) and make them feel like a star. If you are looking to have a one-of-a-kind party that your family and friends will be raving about for years to come, we got you covered. We have the best connections in town for entertainment. Why not throw in a live band before the DJ starts to set the mood as your guests arrive? We have entertainment options that can cater to all ages.

In addition to on-stage entertainment, our flexible event space can be used to create an interactive experience for your guests. Casino tables, air hockey games, foosball tables, airbrush tattoo artists, photo booth … you name it!

L’CHAIM: Does House of Blues work with specific vendors (caterers, DJs, photographers) and/or do you have in-house options for these items?

RG: We are a one-stop shop for all your party planning needs. Anything from the DJ and photographer all the way to specialized decorations and full production, we have it all in one place. We can customize your event, execute your vision and make sure every need is met with our experienced special events staff.

L’CHAIM: What are some of the craziest things you have seen in the Bar/Bat Mitzvah world?

RG: Nothing is too crazy for House of Blues! One of my favorite things a client did in the past is they turned our entire stage into a lounge area for the teens to feel like they were in a club. I have also seen aerial artists perform on our stage, which had everyone in awe.

L’CHAIM: What is one of the most fun celebrations you recall, and how did you go the extra mile to make the celebration special for the family?

RG: To be honest, all of the Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebrations here have been a blast. I often receive calls from parents saying not only did their son or daughter have fun, but family and friends have been raving about the party for weeks. We pride ourselves on operating our events with the utmost professionalism and customer service. I understand that planning a Bar/Bat Mitzvah can often be a full-time job on its own. The most important part of my job is to make sure the entire process for the family is as stress-free as possible. House of Blues handles all logistics the day of the event as we want the entire family out on the dance floor rather than worrying about all the details that are involved behind-the-scenes.

Planning a private event at House of Blues is easier than you may think. Not only do you work with an experienced Sales Manager on booking the space and planning your celebration, but when the special day comes, you will have an on-site Logistics Manager handling all aspects of the party from start to finish. Our Special Events Staff is here to be a resource and will guide you along every step of the way.

For more information, email RachelGold@livenation.com or call (619) 525-1939