A sweet 16 might call for an extravagant, professionally prepared birthday cake.
If your daughter is about to turn 16 and you want to give her an unforgettable coming-of-age party, think about her interests. A party can be built around a favorite book, band, movie or TV show, or it can be centered on what she hopes to do for a career. Maybe she dreams of studying abroad in a foreign country; an internationally themed party can be a creative way to surprise her on her sweet sixteen. No matter what theme you choose, remember to reflect the theme in all the aspects of the party: the invitations, food and drink and decorations, at the very least. And if you want your guests to dress in a certain style, include that information on the invitation. Does this Spark an idea?
Outdoor Movie Night
Particularly if you have a swimming pool (or access to one), an outdoor movie night can be a fun and memorable way to spend the evening. You can rent all of the audio-visual equipment, like the projector and screen (if you don't have a wall that will work) and all the necessary cables. Then choose a movie or movies and let your daughter and her friends float around the pool or spread blankets on the grass, kick back and enjoy the show.
Masquerade Ball
Chances are good that you don't have a large, empty ballroom in your home, so to throw a masquerade ball, you'll probably have to reserve a banquet hall or gym at a local hotel or community center. Indicate on your invitations what kind of dress your party requires; you can go for the classic 17th- and 18th-century garb with dramatic masks, or, because such costumes can be expensive and difficult to find, something simpler, like a hip-hop or disco theme (with the added element of masks). Hire a DJ or ask a friend to do the job, and consider hiring a dance instructor to teach the kids steps from the era you choose.
Red Carpet Party
A red carpet party gives teens the chance to dress formally but with a bit more of a fashionable edge than a prom or banquet. It also allows them to bring a date if they want, although boys might not be as excited about the opportunity to wear formal wear for no good reason. You can serve sparkling juices and fancy, gourmet foods and show a movie or even take the kids to a movie or play if they like the idea of going out in their premiere outfits.
Tags: your daughter