Seven Can't-Miss Suggestions for your Quince Fiesta
by: Michael Kabel

Happy birthday! Planning your Quinceañera fiesta is the work of a lifetime – or at least, it might feel that way once you get into the actual work of getting every detail just right.

There are a thousand choices and probably almost as many decisions to make as your fiesta takes shape. We've put together the following list as a way to get your creative juices flowing. 

1. Get over the rainbow honor court.

The traditional group of damas with different-colored dresses is a nice tradition, but it's not really up to par with today's sophisticated formal events. Have your damas wear the same color dress – one that offers a counterpoint to your gown. They can wear different colored corsages if you want to keep a nod to the rainbow tradition.

2. Music is for everyone.

You've probably got a lot of ideas for what you want to hear at your fiesta. Remember that some of the guests won't have you and your friends' taste in music. Play a wide variety of songs, so that everyone has a chance to dance or hear their favorite stuff. Don’t worry about song order, so long as the styles are mixed up enough so that they change fairly often.

3. Don't forget your youngest guests.

Your older friends and family members will probably bring their little ones. If you have room in your fiesta venue, set the area aside for use as a nursery or "party care center" where the children can remain supervised by an adult. You can even bring some toys and board games for them to play with while their parents enjoy your celebration.

4. Don't forget your older guests.

This includes your grandparents, aunts and uncles, and others. Play some traditional music they'll appreciate hearing at your fiesta. Be sure to personally thank each one of them for coming. The attention to detail will make a great demonstration of your newfound maturity.

5. Keep the first dance traditional.

We know it's hard in some modern families to keep the first dance strictly for the daughter and father. But if you can persuade your father to have that first dance, it'll really put an elegant spin on the evening. You'll remember it forever, too.
In lieu of a father, consider inviting a father figure such as a teacher, uncle, cousin, or someone you look up to and trust. Traditions are kept alive when they're interpreted in new ways, so feel free to designate an "honorary father" for the evening.

6. Give favors that show your guests you're glad they came.

Favors let every guest know you appreciate their presence and their well wishes. It's not necessary to give something expensive, but you should give the right favor to match your quince fiesta motif and theme. Some favors are even available personalized, so guests have a keepsake that's unique to your Quinceañera.

7. Remember the occasion is yours, but the fiesta is for everyone.

There's no mystery to this advice - just keep in mind that guests are coming to have a good time too, and you'll best show your new maturity through generosity and consideration. Enjoy yourself, but remember that you’re there for your guests as much as they're there for you.