How to Plan a Sweet 16
PartyHaving a sweet 16 party is just as crucial as planning their future wedding for many teenagers. Regardless if you are planning a sweet 16 party or a Quinceanera, below are essential tips that will help you make it memorable.
Decide on a Date and Time
Sometimes birthdays fall on difficult dates, one of the most critical factors. I am sure that there will be others planning sweet 16 parties around this time, so avoid schedule conflicts. Choose any day Friday through Sunday afternoon or evening. Try to avoid special occasions like holidays that might keep friends and family away. The best advice is to choose the weekend before or the weekend after and send out invitations far in advance. The further out you send invites gives guests more time to prepare for an RSVP. It is the first step in how to plan a sweet 16 party.
Location
Even though you can plan a larger-than-life event, you need to keep your budget in mind. Do not stick with the cookie-cutter banquet halls; step outside the box. Pick a warehouse and decorate it to your theme, or plan a tent event in your backyard. You can still negotiate rates with banquet halls depending on the date and time of your sweet 16. Also, try to choose a local place that will not discourage guests from traveling too far.
Who is coming and how many?
The more people you invite, the more your party will cost. It is directly related to the meal and location size. You need to ask yourself what kind of party you are trying to plan. Are you looking low-key birthday party or a loud, spontaneous, sweet 16? Please keep in mind your budget and your goals. Put your style into the party by inviting the people you know or get along with. If you are more outgoing, extend the list to those you know who would add to the event’s atmosphere (more friends than family). If you are shyer, then invite more family than friends. It is this mixture between family and friends that you will have to choose between. You can even throw two different parties (one for family and one for friends) if your budget allows it.
Invitations
Now that you know who to invite and how many people are going, it is time to send out the invitations for your sweet 16. These are good to mail out two months before the event date. Ensure that you have all other details finalized before putting them on the invitations. I recommend creating the invitations yourself; this is a more budget-friendly
idea. Unless it is a surprise party, the guest of honor (birthday girl) should make the invitations herself. Tie your theme into the design for your invitations. So It is convenient you contact a great designer for digital invitations since they have become a trend and are an exciting and different alternative for your invitations. Be sure to note
on the invites for people to RSVP ASAP!
Themes
So since we brought it up, we might as well cover it. A theme is central when it comes to planning a sweet 16. It will distinguish your party from all the ones your friends are throwing. It is an expression of your personality and creativity. It will give you the added even personalization you desire. Themes can be lavish or quiet. Usually include a color, costume, period, or place.
Party Details
When does the party start? When does the party end? Be sure to set an end time for the party so that guests can arrange rides if need be. You will also need to figure out how the dinner will be served and when the dancing will begin. Most DJ companies offer event services that include online planners. This way, everything flows smoothly and as they coordinate with your banquet staff.
The Dinner
Even though a meal is typical at every event planned, this can take up a large portion of the budget. Food can either be catered, buffet, or appetizers. So what will you serve at your sweet 16? If you are in-depth with an international theme, choose food that meshes well with that country. Remember that your guests will have to eat this food, so try to give them options that they would enjoy.
In final consideration for planning a sweet 16 party, keep all the above points in mind. There is no right or wrong way to plan your birthday bash. The only way is your way, so keep your guests in mind because they are there to celebrate you! You will always have the option of hiring an expert party planner near you who will make your teen’s experience unique and matchless
