How to Plan a Debutante Ball

A debutante ball is a formal dance during which a young lady, usually 18 years of age, is presented to society. The ball is typically a very elegant affair, requiring full black-or-white-tie dress, ballroom music and a special three-course meal. Traditionally, each debutante ball is reserved for one special young lady, but modern balls may involve a group of young women between the ages of 16 and 18. These young ladies may be close friends, or they could be complete strangers.

Things You'll Need

• Venue
• Guest list
• Invitations

Instructions

Plan a Debutant Ball

1. Draft a preliminary guest list as soon as possible. Although you can make additions to it later, having a guest list will give you an idea of how big a venue you need and how much food needs to be prepared.

2. Find a venue. Make sure it's either already tastefully decorated or easily transformable into an elegant ballroom. Be sure that it can accommodate your entire guest list.

3. Figure out whether you want to have the debutante ball catered or not. Making the food yourself may save a lot of money, but having it catered can make things easier on you. Another alternative is to have a potluck.

4. Think about how you're going to decorate for the ball. Some families like to have a general theme, like a circus, a costume ball or an evening in Paris. You can ask the debutante how she feels about having a theme and what her thoughts are on decorations.

5. Look at several different styles of invitations. Decide whether you want formal invitations, with engraving and reply cards, or informal invitations made on a computer with a telephone number as an RSVP.

6. Plan to have at least one rehearsal evening where the debutante can practice her reception and dancing with her escort and her family. Similar to a wedding rehearsal, this will help make the actual debutante ball run smoother, as everyone will know what they are supposed to be doing.

7. Hire professional entertainment. Whether you decide to get a DJ or a small band is up to you, but musical entertainment is a must for a debutante ball.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider hiring a coordinator to help you plan a debutante ball. Professional coordinators often have access to vendors and entertainers and can negotiate better prices. You may be able to book a package deal that would cost you less money than if you tried to take care of everything yourself.