Dollars & Sense – The very first thing to consider is your budget. Plan a party that is right for the money you have. Knowing your finances well determines whether your Sweet 16 will be a simple sleepover or an elaborate event. Regardless of finances, make sure you get creative with your theme so that you have a party that reflects you and that you will ultimately enjoy. Flip through magazines and surf the internet for fun and unique ideas that will make your event stand out from the rest.
The List – Your budget will help you determine how many guests you can invite. Find or create invitations that match your theme. E-vites are an inexpensive way to invite and keep track of your guests. A good rule of thumb is to send invitations out two to three weeks before your event. Make sure to invite people that are important to you and will make you feel like a queen on your special day. Remember that quality is more important that quantity. Don’t aim to just fill a room, instead your goal should be to share your moment with company that will really help you to enjoy your event. So make your list and check it twice to make sure you have the right guests attending.
Party Palate – Your party should have some type of snack to offer your guest and definitely some cold drinks. The best places to get party food are Costco, Sam’s Club or other warehouse stores. Buying in bulk enables you to get enough so that your guests are satisfied while saving some money. You don’t have to get fancy; chips, pretzels, soda and water should be the type of things you’re looking to serve. And if it’s your birthday, don’t forget the cake!
Décor Galore – Whether you are partying at home or at a fancy venue, decorations will help the theme of your event come to life. If you’re having a luau or Mardi Gras themed party, make leis or buy beads for your guests to put on as they walk in. Having something simpler, like a super sweet 16 sleepover? Decorate with oversized pillows, tiaras and bright colored blankets to create a princess oasis. Also, remember to capture the details of your decorations with photos. Make sure all your friends bring their cameras to your party and have them share the photos online after.Tune Time – Music is a must no matter what type of party you have. If your budget permits, you may want to hire a DJ. But don’t spend too much! Scope out classmates who DJ on the side or know someone who does. You never know, you just might get a discount because you helped him with that tricky Algebra homework! Also consider being your own DJ. Create a playlist on your MP3 player, set it up to your speaker system and get your boogie on! This is a great way to save money and avoid hearing the songs you dislike.
Guest Gifts – If you can afford it, favors are a great way to send your guests home. Something simple like candy with a little note is a nice way to say thank you to your guests for coming to the party. If favors are out of the budget, don’t let your manners fly out the window. You should still plan on creating a homemade thank you card or an email for your guests especially if they purchased a gift for you.
Celebrate – Make sure you have fun! Planning a party can be stressful, but don’t get so caught up in making it perfect that you don’t have a good time. This party is for you and you are probably celebrating something special like a birthday or a graduation, so make sure you take the time to enjoy!
--Martine Rouzan
Brownstone Team
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