Quinceañera Planning Timeline: What to Do 12 Months Before the Big Day
- Marisa Colón
- Mar 26
- 2 min read
Planning a quinceañera is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—and it takes time, organization, and vision to make it unforgettable. Whether you're the parent or the birthday girl, having a month-by-month plan can help reduce stress and bring the celebration to life with ease.
At FBM Studios, we’ve been part of some magical quinceañeras, and we’ve seen firsthand what a well-planned timeline can do. Here’s your guide to staying on track!
📅 12 Months Before
Set a budget
Choose a date
Book your church and reception venue
Decide on your guest list
Hire your photographer and videographer
Start brainstorming theme and color palette
✅ Tip: Venues and photographers book fast—secure your dream team early!
📅 9–10 Months Before
Start dress shopping
Book entertainment: DJ or live band
Hire caterer and other vendors (planner, decorator, etc.)
Research cakes, florists, and rentals
Ask padrinos and madrinas for their support
Begin saving for big-ticket items (dress, décor, photos)
🎉 Tip: Make it a fun outing—bring close family or friends to dress appointments.
📅 6–8 Months Before
Choose your court (chambelanes and damas)
Book hair and makeup artist
Schedule a photo shoot for invitations (FBM Studios can help!)
Finalize theme and décor
Shop for shoes and accessories
Order your gown if not already done
💃 Tip: Consider a pre-quince photo session to use on invites, centerpieces, or a guest book.
📅 4–5 Months Before
Order invitations and party favors
Book transportation (if needed)
Begin choreography for the waltz and surprise dance
Finalize cake design
Purchase outfits for the court
Plan ceremony details with your church
📸 Tip: Practice dance routines and have a few rehearsals professionally photographed or filmed for memories.
📅 2–3 Months Before
Mail out invitations
Plan your seating chart
Confirm all vendor contracts
Shop for undergarments and have dress fittings
Schedule trial for hair and makeup
Order guest book or photo display table items
💌 Tip: Use RSVP reminders to help you get an accurate guest count early.
📅 1 Month Before
Final dress fitting
Confirm timeline with vendors and venue
Print programs, menus, or signage
Finalize playlist with your DJ
Prepare tip envelopes for vendors
Plan a “get ready” schedule for the big day
🌟 Tip: Don’t forget to schedule a moment for prayer, meditation, or reflection to ground yourself before the celebration.
📅 1 Week Before
Confirm guest count with caterer
Pack an emergency kit (safety pins, wipes, band-aids, mints)
Break in your shoes
Organize accessories and dress items
Confirm transportation times
Rehearse dances and ceremony order
🧘♀️ Tip: Try to get plenty of rest—you’ll want to feel your best!
💖 The Big Day!
It’s time to celebrate YOU! Smile, enjoy every moment, and trust the team you hired to bring your vision to life. And remember, at FBM Studios, we’re here to capture every laugh, tear, and dance move so you can relive it forever.
📥 Want a Free Printable Quinceañera Planning Checklist? Download it here or reach out to us, and we’ll send one directly to your inbox.
👑 Ready to book your quince photo and video team? Contact FBM Studios today!
305.707.8281
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