Quinceanera is a traditional Hispanic celebration for the girl in the family as she enters early womanhood. If you are expecting this momentous event anytime soon, it is crucial to know how much a quinceanera costs.
Average Quinceanera Cost
The average cost of Quinceanera ranges from $5,000 to $20,000. This price bracket would change depending on several factors, such as the number of guests, the venue, the food and beverages served, and event features, among others.
The idea of Quinceanera is similar to that of wedding ceremonies. The only difference is that wedding ceremonies close the door to suitors, whereas a quinceanera opens the door for ladyship, allowing suitors to enter that door.
The quince will also wear her chosen elaborate Quinceanera dress and will have her spotlight throughout the day. Because of this, expect the wardrobe to be a major part of the total bill.
Additional Costs
There are lots of additional expenses that must be considered when celebrating this important event in a girl’s life. Some of these are the following:
- Quinceanera mass
This is typically celebrated with a Quinceanera mass. Unlike other Catholic rites that are actually part of the sacraments, the Quinceanera mass is more of a celebration that solidifies the girl’s faith.
If you plan on offering a mass for this purpose, be prepared to donate an amount between $250 and $600.
- Decors
The price for decor will vary according to the theme. Themes come in a variety of choices.
You can have a fairytale kind of event, a magical-themed Quinceanera, a butterfly-themed, western-style Quinceanera, or an under the sea Quinceanera. The choice you make and your preference will have a huge impact on the overall cost of the party.
Decors and flower arrangements usually come in a duo. Some catering companies include the overall decorating, but some do not.
However, in some cases, the Quinceanera party provider includes decor and flowers in the package. Decors and flowers generally cost up to $7,000, depending on the elaboration.
- Invitations
The invitation is a must-have complementary accessory for the event. The design and theme of the invitation are being matched to the concept of the Quinceanera to get the overall fabulous feel.
Invitations are usually included in the party package. Unless specified as an exclusion, the price of an invitation is $2 to $4 per person, and that is $400 to $800 for 200 guests.
- Makeup
You can hire a professional make-up artist for that perfect look since this is a very special day. This includes a hairdo and nail polish. Make-over packages generally range from $75 to $125 per person, but could be as high as $200 depending on the reputation of the makeup artist and the inclusions in the package.
- Photos and videos
Professional photographers will help you make your event literally unforgettable with their powerful lenses that take great snaps. These photographers usually charge a flat rate, while some are paid on an hourly basis.
Event photographers charge $150 to $250 per hour with a two-hour minimum requirement. Party DJs that will spice up your event’s mood charge an average cost of $150 per hour and $250 for two hours.
- Outfits of damas and chambelanes
For the attendants, a traditional Quinceanera requires 14 damas and 15 chambelanes. These attendants, damas, and chambelanes will groove in the traditional Quinceanera dance.
Their outfits must also match the theme of the event. That will add up to a cost of $1,500 to $3,000.
- Dress alterations
You may find alterations necessary. This will cost you more, depending on the complexity of the alterations. Some charge a flat rate while others charge for each fabric adjustment.
Factors Affecting Quinceanera Cost
As previously mentioned, Quinceanera prices will vary depending on several factors, including the following:
- Number of guests
Most quinceanera typically invite 200 to 250 guests, but this will be highly based on the budget you set. You can make it more intimate with fewer guests to accommodate only those who are very close family members, relatives, and friends to save on cost.
- Location
The prices of the items needed for the party will also depend on the economic status of the state where you are residing, where the party will be held, or where you will sort these things from.
- Venue
As for the venue, it will vary according to your preferred event center; its vastness, location, features, and other amenities. Venues typically cost $700 to $8,000 or higher.
For instance, Ravens Wood Event Center in Chicago charges $2,500 to $4,500 for small spaces. This, however, could go up to $8,000 or more for wider rooms, depending on the day of choice and season.
- Food
For the food, it is more practical to hire catering services that will not just serve you sumptuous meals but will also manage the tables, the event, and the silverware. Catering services usually charge depending on the choice of meals to be served and the number of guests.
The typical cost for each person is generally $10 to $30 each. This will cost around $2,500 to $7,500 for 250 guests.
- Dress
If you want to know how much a Quinceanera dress costs, the price ideally depends on the complexity of the design, the size, and the color. Most Quinceanera dresses are priced at $500 to $850, from dress to bolero. However, it could go up to as much as $1,500, depending on the reputation of the designer.
- Party favors
Quinceanera favors must also be added to the budget plan. While most people ignore the significance of these items, your guests will surely appreciate receiving something as a token of their attendance.
These typically cost $1 to $2 each, but could go up to as much as $5 each depending on the design and concept.
How to Save on Cost
This event can be very expensive if you don’t plan carefully. Hence, here are some of the tips you can consider to save on the cost of the event:
- Know what you can afford
Starting off with a budget plan is the smartest way to go. By knowing exactly what amount you can work around with or setting a budget, you’ll know what to expect. This also saves you time by not going beyond what your budget allows you to spend.
- Throw a party on weekdays
While it is understandable to want the event to be held on the weekends, particularly on a Saturday for all the guests to be present, doing so would mean you have to spend more. Weekend rates for venues and services are definitely more expensive due to higher demand.
- DIY
There are some aspects of the event that you can do yourself to save a few bucks. Invitations, party favors, and even decorations at the venue (if a separate charge) can be done DIY if you can spare some of your time. It’s much better if you have a family member that can also do hair and makeup; it’s much better than hiring a professional makeup artist.