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Quinceañera Planning Timeline: What to Do 12 Months Before the Big Day

  • Writer: Marisa Colón
    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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