Planning a Sweet 16 party: Top Tips and Essential Equipment

Sweet 16 planning can be challenging and stressful, from managing activities and party games to choosing a venue. Make no mistake, this blog will guide you through the ins and outs of a party planning checklist.

Tip 1: Party Planning Checklist

A party planning checklist is essential in guaranteeing an exciting Sweet 16! This checklist should include:

  • Venue
  • Theme
  • Party games to play
  • Decorations you choose.

There can be many different options for Sweet 16 planning, but with a good party planning checklist, the rest is a breeze!

If your teen isn’t keen on choosing a theme, it’s a good idea to choose a colour theme, and the birthday girl can be the centre of festivities.

Tip 2: Send Out Invitations Well in Advance

A good-looking invite on your party planning checklist can be the difference between the best night of your little girl’s life and an empty venue. Make sure that they are clear to read and engaging to look at.

One way to make sure that all the guests invited to your party turn up is to send out the invitations well in advance. This ensures that all the guests can clear their calendars, buy presents and make sure they are available. This way you make sure that your Sweet 16 birthday party is the best possible event it can be.

Tip 3: Keep It (Somewhat) Parent-Free

Teenagers can sometimes feel uneasy: feeling judged by their parents can make them feel uncomfortable. Allowing the guardian of every party guest will lead to this feeling and make the party dull. Keeping your Sweet 16 somewhat parent-free will make the party much more enjoyable for all party guests. However, with some guardians present, you can still ensure the safety of your guests. After all, this is her day, and the most important thing is that she can spend it with her friends.

Tip 4: Teen-Approved Food and Drink

Sweet 16 planning has never been easier with the introduction of picky bits! Teenagers can be picky, so we recommend pencilling-in a casual-style buffet on the party planning checklist. This can involve lots to choose from, so everyone can eat something they enjoy. For example, sausage rolls, fruit kebabs, tacos, cupcakes, and popcorn.

Young guests can often work up an appetite dancing all night, which is why teen-approved food and drink are crucial. A good idea is grazing stations (places where easy-to-eat food is displayed on tables). These are easy to use, and guests will feel free to grab whatever they fancy.

Hiring a popcorn and/or candy floss machine as well could be a good way to satisfy the extremely powerful teenage sweet tooth and bring another level of excitement to the party.

If you need anything for your next party don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Top Table Catering Hire on our contacts page. If you’d like help choosing the correct cutlery for your next event, check out our previous blog here.