You find out the date days ahead, the timing shifts on the morning itself, and the meal still has to be standing and ready the moment the ceremony ends. We have been doing this in the Five Towns since 1999, and it is the occasion we are asked for most.

The table is built for a crowd arriving all at once, straight from shul, hungry and in good spirits. Hand-rolled bagels still warm, lox and whitefish, herring, egg and tuna salads, cut fruit, and a spread of pastries and cakes from our own pareve bakery that holds its own on the table for the full morning.

A week's notice is ideal. In practice we hear from some families three months before the baby is born and from others two days before the bris, and we have managed both. Call as soon as you know, and we will work with whatever time there is.