The quinceañera celebration marks the fifteenth birthday. There are just a few simple steps to planning this magical birthday party right. We are sharing tips for planning a flawless quinceañera.
Create Your Guest List
You will not need a final guest list to begin planning; however, you will need an estimated head count before choosing your venue and planning the details. Most quinceañera parties include close family members and the inner circle of friends at the top of the guest list, followed by other friends.
Book the Quinceañera Venue
You should always book your venue first. You will need a location, date and time secured before you can plan the details. An all-inclusive venue will save you the most money and avoid the stress of planning. Search for venues that include the furnishings, décor and staff services.
Quinceañera Invitations
As with any celebration, you will need to invite your guests. The date of your celebration should fall on or near her birthday, if possible. It is not uncommon to have a small celebration on the actual birthday, and hold the formal quinceañera celebration near the birthday. You should always have your invitations chosen and ready to mail eight weeks prior to the event. Make sure you include an RSVP postcard. Guests should receive the invitation at least six weeks prior, and respond at least two weeks prior. You will need the final guest count for the caterer and the venue.
Assemble your Court
The Courts de Honor consists of the birthday girl, her escort and fourteen couples, which includes seven Damas and seven Chambelanes. Not every celebration follows tradition, and her court might take a slightly different shape. The escort could be a boyfriend, close friend or cousin, depending on your culture and rules.
Quinceañera Dresses
The traditional quinceañera includes up to three dress changes. There is usually a dress for the ceremony, one for the reception and one for the dance. The traditional gown is pink; however, this is her quinceañera celebration and she gets to choose the colors.
The Shoes
The changing of the shoes is an important part of a quinceañera party. Flats are usually worn during the ceremony. The father or a family member changes the shoes from flats to heels just before the father-daughter dance. The shoes should match the style and color of the dress, and provide comfort.
The Quinceañera Theme
The quinceañera theme is the exciting part of planning. Working with a venue that has in-house planners and designers can help you plan and stage the entire event.
Hire a Photographer
You will want to capture every moment of this day. It only happens once; therefore, it is important to hire a professional photographer. When choosing a photographer, you will probably make a decision based on style and price. Working with a venue that has preferred vendors can help you find the best of both.
Catering a Quinceañera
A quinceañera reception revolves around food. You will probably want to serve a full three course meal at a banquet-style celebration. You should choose your cuisine to match the theme and your taste. Have an estimated guest count for planning purposes. The final guest count should be provided to your caterer about a week prior to the event.
The Cake
Every birthday party has a cake, and this one is on a slightly grander scale. Design your cake to match the theme. If you want to create a dramatic effect, use dummy tiers to create the illusion of extra height. Choose a topper to match your theme.
Crystal Ballroom at Sunset Harbor
Crystal Ballroom at Sunset Harbor is an all-inclusive event venue that designs quinceañera celebrations from fantasy. Bring your princess to the design studio to choose colors and décor. This magical venue is designed and staged to meet imagination. Plan her fairy tale event at Crystal Ballroom, and let her walk the red carpet to a ballroom designed just for her.
