Garden Theme Fiestas

A Garden of Quinceañera Delights
by Michael Kabel

   When you imagine yourself as a Quinceañera princess, where do you see yourself? Are you at the center of an elaborate banquet table, or standing under a spotlight surrounded by your corte de honor? You've probably got a very definite image in mind, one you've been cultivating since for some time.

   If you're still considering where to hold your Quinceañera fiesta, have you thought about a garden party? The Quinceañera Garden theme is one of the fastest growing design ideas around.

   One reason the garden theme has grown (no pun intended, we promise!) over the last few years is its versatility. A lot of other themes can comfortably fit into the garden theme without standing out or looking tacky. This is because garden parties have been fashionable and elegant for close to four hundred years but constantly change style. They were especially popular during the reign of England’s Queen Victoria. This period, known as the Victorian Age, is considered one of the most beautifully elegant times in history.

   So garden themed Quinceañeras can be elegant, include a bit of vintage-themed cool, and pay tribute to history, all while including own special style. They can be formal or casual, or anything else you like.

Finding A Garden Venue

   Depending on where you live, there may be any number of gardens available for public or semi-private use. (Semi-private means you can rent them.) You can sometimes find gardens in places you might not expect. Many public museums have gardens, as do public parks and historic residences. If you live in your state's capital, there are probably parks around the capitol building. All of these may be available for parties, and will fit your garden theme to a perfectly blooming "T."

   Before you set up your party on public land, however, it's a good idea to check with your city or state's Parks Department. There may be a rental or use fee for holding parties. At the very least, you'll probably need a permit.

Decorating Your Garden

   The decoration of your garden fiesta should follow your heart's desire, but the best décor will match the colors of the garden and add elegance and sophisticated finery to the occasion. You can use flowered garlands and streamers, bouquets on every table, and even seed packet favors to create a sense of celebrating among growing things.

   Depending on the formality of your fiesta, you might include wrought iron tables and chairs with glass vases in the middle. You might also have an elaborately set central dining table that all the guests can gather around together.

Storybook Garden Themes

   Garden themes really come to life when given a little storybook luster. By infusing horse-drawn carriage candles, tiara accents at the place settings, and elegant pewter and silver accessories, you'll create an "Enchanted Garden" that will make every guest feel caught up in adventure and romance.

   These decoration ideas still work great even if your fiesta is held indoors. The venue space can be transformed into a garden with boughs and garden arches leading inside, and carefully arranged flowers and topiary arranged throughout. An indoor garden is a little more complicated, sure. But think of it as a challenge for your creativity, a way to show your guests how smart and clever you've become.

Your Gown and Your Court's Attire

   A garden theme naturally lends itself to soft, shimmering pastels and warm earth tones alike. Even if you're planning an autumn themed garden event, your gown can still reflect all the beauty of nature.

   Your tiara, by using carefully curling and sweeping designs and patterns, can evoke a wreath of ivy curling winding through your hair. Your scepter can include scrollwork that evokes leaves and trees.

   For your court, the damas' gowns can complement your own colors and patterns, or counterpoint to create a many-hued garden ensemble.

   The chambelanes' tuxedos should probably stick to straight basic black. This will definitely give elegance and refinement to the entire court presentation, and make your entire motif come across as tasteful and well-considered.

The Food

   What do you feel like having? A Quinceañera banquet should be the princess' choosing, but she should also take her guests tastes into sincere consideration. As you prepare your garden themed dinner, remember to plan food for the great outdoors and light food that won't leave your guests feeling heavy or sleepy.

A simple selection of appetizers, fruits and other snackables may be just the solution, if it coincides with your Quince wishes. The food is one area you might consult your parents and padrinos about. Catering for large affairs can sometimes cost a lot of money. They may also have their own ideas about receiving your friends and families members, and entertaining them in style.

Quinceanera Party Favor Areas