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It’s never too early to start thinking about a place to have your quinceañera party. Ideally, you should book the ceremony and after-party locations a year in advance. Not sure where to begin?

First, decide on the season and month to have your quinceañera, rather than an exact day. This gives you more flexibility, in case the place is already booked. Remember, you don’t have to celebrate the exact day or week you turn 15 — a quinceañera can be anytime during your 15th year.

Ask around and search the Internet for places. Make a list of your top choices, and set up appointments to meet with coordinators at each location.

Make sure to ask the all-important questions about comida.
1. What menu choices does the hall offer? Get the price options for:
- a full menu
- a set menu (ask if there are options for each course)
- a buffet with service
- a self-serve buffet
- canapés (fancy finger foods) served with drinks

2. Are you allowed to work with an outside catering company or bring your own food in?
3. Are there any extra costs for linens and dinnerware, centerpieces, and special chair covers?

Then, dive into questions about music.
- Is there equipment for you or a DJ to use?
- Is there space for a live band if desired?
- Do they provide background music?
- Can you choose or provide your own tapes?

And, of course, ask about timing:
- What time can you enter the room?
- Will you have to leave at a particular time? You don’t want guests to have to hurry out because there is another event right after yours.

These aren’t all the questions you should be asking, but they’ll get you started. Start a new notebook to record everything related to your party planning. Write other questions you think of here, then take it to your venue visits and record the coordinator’s answers. It’s best to keep all your notes in one place.

Are there any other questions you think are important to ask before you book?

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