Sweet 16: Tips for a Successful Party

Sweet 16: Tips for a Successful Party

Your daughter isn’t a little girl anymore: If her 16th birthday is coming up, then she’s well on her way toward becoming an adult. A Sweet 16 celebration is one way to commemorate this very special occasion. Since the event is not exactly a child’s birthday party and not exactly a party honoring an adult, there are some special considerations to keep in mind during your planning. All of these suggestions would work well for a Quinceañera, a coming-of-age party for a 15-year-old.

Depending on the time of year that your daughter was born, her Sweet 16 party might be competing with weddings when it comes to choosing a locale to hold the big event. Particularly during the summer and around the holiday season, book well in advance. You can also have her party at a favorite restaurant or even at home, if you have enough space.

Five years ago, your daughter may have appreciated invitations featuring a favorite character or theme. Since this party will be one celebrating her maturity, though, it’s a time for invites with a more grown-up appeal. Consider bringing all of the party details to a printer, or print your own with a traditional or fun font on pretty (but not juvenile) cardstock. Such an occasion is worthy of mailing invitations, if possible. RSVP cards add a nice touch.

Your daughter will want a mix of popular music and entertainment for her Sweet 16. It’s important to find a DJ that will listen to her; not all teens are the same, and tired, overdone playlists are not appropriate for a teenager’s party. Choose someone that is able to sit down with her and determine her likes and dislikes. Consider a baby photo montage (if she doesn’t object), light shows and maybe showings of old home videos. This is a time to reflect on how much she’s grown!

Happy Sweet 16 to your daughter! Congratulations on a job well done in raising a little girl into a young lady. Make her special day everything she wants it to be by giving her a good mix of party elements that will appeal to her youth as well as welcome her to adulthood.