How to Throw a Debutante Ball

Debutante balls, also called cotillions, are an old tradition that involved presenting young women of marriageable age to society for the first time. Debutante balls may no longer be relevant; however the tradition still lives on. No longer representing a way for families to present their daughters to future husbands, they remain an opportunity to showcase young women for their accomplishments or just a reason to throw a fabulous party.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Set a date and time for the ball to take place.
2. Find a location to hold the ball. Hotel and convention centers are obvious options but also look at alternative locations such as churches (if you're a member), the local library or community centers.
3. Book a caterer that will service the cotillion. If it is an organization throwing the debutante ball, then the catering may be able to be done in-house.
4. Plan any extra events that are associated with the ball. Many debutante balls have events leading up to the actual event such as mother/daughter luncheons, a dance or teas.
5. Decide how the debutantes will be chosen and how many there will be. Decide if the ball is also going to include junior debutantes and pebbles as well.
6. Make debutante selection and have them choose their escorts.
7. Set up rehearsal schedule for the cotillion and distribute the schedule to the debs and their escorts as well as all of those who will be involved in helping to put the ball on.
8. Send out invitations to the ball. Make sure the invitations include all of the events that will lead up to the actual ball.

Who Can Help:

• Find Decorators & Designers Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.