How to Host a Sweet 16 Party on a Budget

One of the most celebrated turning points in a young woman's life is her sixteenth birthday. For most American girls, turning 16 means freedom to date, freedom to drive and the first step toward womanhood. All parents want to throw a grand party for their daughter's true coming out party, but if you aren't a family precariously positioned in the upper echelons of society, you may need to be creative. First, throw out your pre-conceived "My Super Sweet 16" notions, as most people do not have a reality TV show based on their own turn at the sixteenth birthday party. Instead, follow a few simple steps and make it a blast for everyone to talk about in the halls at school on Monday.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Pick a theme with your birthday girl. Extravagance is not a theme and a good party on a budget begins with a theme. It's just easier that way. For instance, how about a 1960s prom night? A 70's Disco night? Chances are, you, the parent, has been there and done that, so research might be a breeze.

2. Select a good location. Renting a church hall, community center or even using the school gym will be very inexpensive due to the nature of the party. You may even find a place that won't charge you a thing except for clean up. If your home is large enough to host all of the high school sophomore class, you are already on your way.

3. Involve your birthday girl in the decoration process. Working around your theme, pick up items that are party ready and suit the mood.

4. Hire a professional DJ. This is critical for the success of any party. A professional DJ will keep things moving, make announcements and generally keep a lot of teenagers engaged in the party and not looking for a make out closet or your favorite liquor. Your DJ will have dance contests, a best costume contest, take requests and to your teen it will make their party feel like a night at Studio 54--without the illegal drugs and alcohol.

5. Invite everyone on your child's list. Teens would rather have a massive group event than a fancy steak house dinner any given day. Make sure that all the kids come dressed in the theme costume of some sort. Consider calling the parents of all of the guests to ensure that they come dressed to impress.

6. Serve teen food. Pate fois grois and medallions of beef may sound chic to you, but your teen won't care and this kind of menu will blow your budget. They want pizza--cut it up fancy if you must-- cheese sticks, chips and dip. Have lots of lemonade, pop and water, and if it's during cooler weather, spiced cider or hot chocolate.

7. Schedule gift opening for a later time. If you set aside gift opening time, you'll kill the fun atmosphere. Open gifts at an intimate family dinner at a later date.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not serve alcohol to minors.