15 TIPS FOR PLANNING A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME QUINCEAÑERA
Your quinceañera is the moment that you go from niña to señorita in front of your closest family and friends, and it should be absolutely perfect. Planning a quinceañera can seem overwhelming, but taking the right steps now will ensure that you get to enjoy the culture, the beauty and the magic of your big day later. Before you step into womanhood, take a deep breath and follow these helpful tips for planning a fiesta that’s fit for a quince queen!
FIND THE PERFECT THE DRESS
After family and friends, a fabulous dress is the most important part of any quinceañera! Determine your budget, body type, skin tone and desired fit before you begin shopping. Try on as many dresses as you can, and remember that comfort is key. Avoid buying online… you won’t get a good idea for the fit and feel of the fabric unless it’s in front of you.
GLAM IT UP
A quinceañera is all about celebrating inner and outer beauty. Stunning hair and makeup can be hard to achieve at home, so you may want to consider visiting a professional. Having a particular vision for the finished look is always helpful, but if you’re unsure, then most stylists will help you choose the perfect look. Don’t wait until the morning of your big day to debut your hair and makeup—do a few test runs in the weeks leading up to your quinceañera.
CHOOSE A THEME
Choosing a theme or a color scheme early on will go a long way towards helping you plan your décor. Have fun and pick something that represents you! Use Pinterest as a resource (there are hundreds of great quince inspirations to choose from).
BUILD A GUEST LIST
Sharing your special day with the family, friends, madrinas and padrinos who helped you reach womanhood is one of the greatest joys of a quinceañera. Know your budget and your venue size, then plan a guest list starting with the people who are closest to you.
CONTACT THE CHURCH
When booking the church for your quinceañera, ask yourself the following questions: Do you need to be a member of that parish? Do you need to take preparatory classes? Is a fee required? Is it a personal booking or will you be sharing with other quinces? Be sure to ask plenty of questions to avoid any unexpected issues.
BOOK THE PERFECT VENUE
Your quinceañera isn’t just a birthday party, it’s a milestone. Be sure to find a venue that combines beautiful space, elegant decor, world-class entertainment and a staff that will meet your every need. If you can visit sites in person for a better idea of how they’ll accommodate your party.
ENTERTAIN YOUR GUESTS
Every great quinceañera features live entertainment. Whether it’s a professional DJ, a live band, or a mariachi quartet, you’ll want to give your guests a show and create fun energy for the entire party.
CRAFT A MOUTHWATERING MENU
Quinceañeras always have good food and lots of it! You may want to go all traditional or switch things up, but you’ll have to choose some comida deliciosa that will please your particular crowd.
REMEMBER YOUR TRADITIONS
Speak with your parents and other family members to make sure that you’re including important traditions. A quinceañera is rooted in culture, so remember to plan for rituals like surrendering the last doll, the waltz and the changing of the shoes.
HAVE FUN WITH PARTY FAVORS
Don’t send your guests home empty handed! Choose party favors or gift bags filled with fun goodies that have a personal touch, like your favorite candy or custom printed sunglasses commemorating your day.
DOUBLE CHECK YOUR VENDORS
Okay, so you’ve made all of your preparations. Now go back and double check all of your vendors. Sure it’s a little more work, but a few quick phone calls can ensure that everyone is on the same page and everything goes according to plan.
DON’T FORGET THE INVITATIONS
Impress your guests even before the party begins. Your invitations are the first glimpse that guests will have of your big day, so choose a style that’s consistent with your theme or color scheme.
WRITE A TOAST
Most Quinceañeras are expected to say a few words at their ceremony. Be prepared with some short notes so that when the time comes, you’re ready to speak from the heart.
HAVE FUN!
Whatever you do… don’t stress. Stay drama free by planning ahead as much as possible. Even if there are a few issues on the big day, remember that your quinceañera is a special celebration with family and friends, and one that you’ll never get to live again!
CHOOSE LIVE NATION SPECIAL EVENTS
With over 100 unique venues nationwide, you’re never far from an incredible event experience. Live Nation combines unique event spaces, state-of-the-art sound and lighting, custom menus and hospitality and access to world-class entertainment for private events.
Contact our event specialist today to book your quinceañera!