Are you trying to play a sweet sixteen party? Turning sixteen is a special birthday for guys and girls in particular. For young women, the sixteenth birthday is a coming of age and the mark of becoming a young adult. Plenty of parents take this birthday to throw a large party celebrating their daughter.

It takes a lot of planning to pull off a successful sweet sixteen birthday party. But don’t be daunted– the list ends at some point. From picking the best venue for a sweet 16 party to selecting food, drinks, theme, and music, it pays to start your planning early.

Select and Book a Venue

Seeing venues early will allow you to narrow down what you’re looking for. Book venues that will be able to hold the amount of people that will be attending. Also be sure that they have outlets or areas for entertainment and catering if you are going to be ordering it. Some people use their backyards or the yards of a friend to host these parties, a great option if there is plenty of space and not too many people– although a venue may be able to accommodate parking more easily.

Pick a Date and Time

Once you know where you’re holding your sweet 16 party, you can set a date or time. If you’re holding it at a home or public area like a park, you can simply select the best day that works for your birthday girl and all of the guests. This is why you should check out a venue prior to selecting a date and time so that if you book the venue you can then send out the invitations. The weekend is a popular time to hold parties as most people can make the party more easily than on a weekday. Consider the time carefully too so the weather and the attendance can be as ideal as possible.

Send Out Invites

Whether digital or material, sending out invites is a must for any party! Be sure to let guests know of the party at least two weeks before the date so they have adequate time to plan. A month before is a good time to send invites as it gives all of your guests due time to make arrangements to attend. You can even call or text each guest personally; each person likes to invite people differently. If you’re conflicted, a good way to do it is to send out invitations and then call those who have not yet R.S.V.P.’d to make sure that they are coming.

Food and Drink

Whether you go with catering or put out the snacks and food and drink yourself, food and drink are a must for any party. Celebrate the sweet 16 with the birthday girl’s favorite foods or just food that everyone loves. Put out enough to feed everyone and everyone will be happy!

Cake

Order or make a cake if you need to. Go all out and do three tiers if you feel like it– it’s a sweet 16! Make sure you have her favorite type of cake– after all, it’s her big day.

Party Favors

Last but not least, buy party favors if you are going to be giving them out. Party favors are a great way to celebrate the day and thank everyone for coming.