A Quinceanera is more than just any other birthday party. It includes a religious and cultural right of passage for a young lady. There are tons of details that involve in the planning stages or a quinceanera. One of the most important steps, after securing the church is finding a place in which to host the reception party.
To further assist you in the planning of your quinceanera, here is a list of things to keep in mind during your planning.
One to Two Years In Advance:
Set the date
Book the event site (i.e. church, banquet facility, etc.)
Book the priest/minister (if applicable)
Determine your budget
Choose a theme (this can be anything from a flower, a recent movie release or based on a hobby of the honoree).
Choose the colors (see below).
If financial resources allow it, hire an event coordinator who specializes in Quinceaneras.
Book the church? don’t forget to book a rehearsal so you, your court, and your family can have a walk-through before the big day.
Assemble a preliminary guest list. Decide on Sponsors? who is paying for what?
Book the reception site (for a variety of event location options, click here).
Book caterer, if reception location does not offer on-site catering.
Book the entertainment for the party: DJ, band and/or mariachis.
Book transportation for the quinceanera, her court of honor, and family from church to reception.
Book photographer and/or videographer (be sure and check with the church on their policy about filming in the church).
Research bakers and select cake for the reception.
Nine Months In Advance:
Begin Planning Ceremony.
Begin Planning Reception.
Announce your Quinceanera in the local newspaper.
Order invitations.
If you are having your dress made, line up a dressmaker.
Hire a choreographer or dance instructor to help you with your waltz during the reception.
Decide if you want a full or half Court of Honor and choose the members.
Decide on rental equipment needed (if applicable) to reception: tent, chairs, tables, linens, dance floor, staging, etc.
Secure rental equipment with a local rental company.
Choose attire of Court of Honor. Choose your Honor Escort.
Purchase invitations.
Purchase decorations.
Purchase party favors.
Meet with the Priest or Minister to discuss the ceremony and your preferences.
Four Months In Advance:
Finalize guest lists.
Touch bases with all your vendors to go over details: photographers, florists, musicians, caterers, etc.
Two Months In Advance:
Address invitations and announcements.
Mail them 6-8 weeks prior to the event.
Make appointments for hair, makeup, and nails.
If you are not having a dress made, now is the time to purchase your dress. Send invitations.
One week before:
Contact guests who have not responded.
Give final count to a caterer and review final food, beverage, and set up instructions.
Give the photographer and videographer a list of shots you would like included.
Give all musicians the lists of music for the ceremony and reception.
Make a list of all the items you need to take to the church (candles, gifts, rosary, Bible, anything pertinent to the ceremony itself).
The Day Of:
Be sure you eat something prior to the ceremony. This will be a long day and it may be a while until you get to eat at the reception.
Have hair, makeup, and nails done.
Have someone keep an emergency kit with an extra pair of pantyhose, clear nail polish (for runs), band-aids, makeup, and a mini sewing kit.
Take payments for vendors and bring extra cash for tipping as necessary.
Get your checklist of items needed for the ceremony and reception and make sure you have everything before you leave.
Relax and have fun!