By David Ben Hooren

In recent times, New York event planners have witnessed an unprecedented surge in demand for heightened security measures from Jewish clients who are increasingly concerned about rising levels of anti-Semitism, the Post reported. The recent conflict in the Middle East involving Israel has triggered an explosion of pro-Palestine protests and a troubling increase in hate crimes, such as swastikas being tagged on properties in Manhattan and the Hamptons, as reported by the Post. As a result, the atmosphere of caution has compelled event planners to provide robust security solutions, including hiring armed guards and bomb-sniffing dogs, to ensure the safety of their clients and guests.

The surge in anti-Semitism and related incidents has necessitated a shift in the way security is approached at events, particularly those with a Jewish focus. The Post report said that event planners who previously employed security personnel resembling doormen or bouncers now find themselves engaging a more comprehensive security team to guarantee the safety of attendees. Jennifer Gilbert, the founder of the event planning company Save the Date, noted the change, stating, “Now if it is anything Jewish, like a bar or bat mitzvah, there are two or three people there to make sure guests are safem” she told the Post.

Randy Zablo, CEO of Foremost Kosher Caterers, also emphasized the evolution of event security. The enhanced protections now include rigorous pre-security checks and the use of bomb-sniffing dogs to sweep large rooms before events commence, according to the Post . Rather than limiting security to the front door, it now extends to all exits, including the back door, to provide a comprehensive safety net without intimidating guests.The report added that tthese measures aim to provide a greater sense of security and reassure event attendees in an increasingly uncertain climate.

While the anti-Semitic attacks initially cast a pall over events planned well before the tragic events of October 7 in Israel, event planners report that their clients are not canceling events, including weddings, bar mitzvahs, or brises, as was noted in the Post report. In fact, there has been an increase in events, including “pop-up” fundraisers for Israel, added to the traditional fall gala calendar, the report added. This reflects a strong commitment to support Israel, and the social events continue as a demonstration of unity in the face of adversity.

The increased focus on security has added a new “line item” to party budgets, alongside the traditional expenses of flowers, catering, and entertainment. The Post report mentioned that celebrity event planner Marcy Blum revealed that the cost of a three-person team of retired police officers for five hours can amount to $2,000, making it a significant addition to event expenses. In some cases, this extra security expenditure can run as high as $5,000, reflecting the paramount importance placed on the safety and well-being of event attendees.

The concern for safety is not limited to events within New York. Some New Yorkers have chosen to alter or scrap their plans to host parties overseas, prompted by a travel advisory issued by the State Department on October 27, the Post reported. The advisory cited increased tensions in various locations worldwide, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations, and violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests. Event planner Jung Lee recounted to the Post how one client changed their honeymoon destination from Morocco to the Caribbean, illustrating the far-reaching impact of these security concerns.

Despite the challenges posed by these troubling times, the resolve of the Jewish community to stand strong and continue their social gatherings remains unwavering, reflecting a commitment to unity and resilience in the face of adversity.