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When planning an outdoor quince, you take a chance on the weather. But I think it's worth it! (Have a plan B in case of rain, of course). Before I go into the fun of planning a quince at a beach or in your backyard, we have to go over the practical stuff. There are five things I always tell quince girls to remember if they're planning an outdoor party:

1. Alert your guests if they have to walk on grass or rough terrain. You want to make sure the women aren't wearing high heels if that's the case!

2. Think of the elderly relatives. They can't sit out in the sun or heat for too long, so make sure there are shady spots or indoor places they can rest.

3. Beware of bugs. To keep them away, set up citronella candles or bug-repellent lanterns (the company OFF! makes them).

4. Make sure that there is appropriate room and electrical outlets for DJs and bands to set up outside.

5. Ask the local authorities about noise restrictions or about any permits that might be required if you're in a public place like a park. It would be a bummer to get a fine!

If you're having your quince at the beach...

I can't resist a beach-themed quince that's actually at the beach! Although a beach is an unusual place for a quinceañera, it's really easy to put together and it can be inexpensive because it's so casual. Of course, just because the mood is casual doesn't mean you can't dress up like a princess. There's nothing like running around in the sand all dressed up. After all, it is YOUR day.

If you start the party in early afternoon and carry through the night, you'll have the benefit of the sunset — SO HOT! You can do a barbecue and eat in front of a bonfire, not to mention dance in the sand. It's so much fun. Keep it simple: Serve hot dogs and hamburgers, cool tropical drinks, salads with cucumber, and pineapples. You can set it up like a buffet and create a "gazebo" (a tiny roof supported by two or four columns) for the cake, so it won't melt in the sun.

To get more ideas for decorating and planning a beach-themed quince, check out MisQuinceMag.com's guide here. You can also take this quiz to see if a beach-themed quince fits your personality.

If you're having your quince in the backyard...

For a small party, you can turn your backyard into an elegant garden, with a tent, fabric, plants, and lights. Set up a dance floor and a pathway for you and the court to make an entrance. If the space is limited, set up smaller tables with candles in the style of a French café. You can spread other chairs around for additional seating.

A backyard party calls for a menu that is fresh and light. Serve drinks like iced tea or lemonade mixed with cherry juice, sangria, and virgin margaritas and mojitos. Create a menu with favorite homemade dishes by family members. Use colorful plastic plates and napkins, and serve the food in pretty baskets decorated with ribbons in your quince color.

If you need more ideas for a theme to create outside in your backyard, maybe the one you're looking for is here on my list of five fun party themes.

Would you take a chance on the weather and plan your quince outdoors? Tell us!

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