Quinceañera Planning Timeline: 12-Month Checklist for Planning Families

Written By Mario Gamez

12-Month Quinceañera Planning Checklist

12 Months Before

  • Set your budget: Decide how much you want to spend and who will contribute.

  • Pick a date: Consider family schedules, venue availability, and school calendars.

  • Create your guest list: Estimate how many people you want to invite.

  • Book your venue: Popular Dallas-Fort Worth venues fill up fast, so reserve early.

  • Join our Facebook group: Connect with other local families for tips and support at Quinceañeras on a Budget.

10–11 Months Before

  • Choose your theme and colors: Let your daughter’s personality shine.

  • Book your church ceremony (if applicable): Many churches require advance reservations.

  • Research and book major vendors: Secure your photographer, videographer, caterer, and DJ. (Tip: New Dawn Photo offers complete photo and video packages for every budget.)

8–9 Months Before

  • Shop for the dress: Allow time for fittings and alterations.

  • Select your court of honor: Decide on damas and chambelanes.

  • Book entertainment: Mariachi, bands, or other performers.

  • Plan invitations: Consider digital invitations for convenience and cost savings. Need a digital invite? Contact Us!

  • Schedule your Save-the-Date photoshoot: Meet your photo/video team and capture special moments before the big day. If you are in the DFW area, book our FREE Save the Date photoshoot here.

6–7 Months Before

  • Arrange transportation: Limos, party buses, or family vehicles.

  • Order party favors and decorations: Coordinate with your theme.

  • Book hair and makeup artists: Secure your preferred professionals.

  • Continue saving and tracking expenses: Use a spreadsheet or planning app.

4–5 Months Before

  • Send out Save-the-Dates: Especially important if you have out-of-town guests.

  • Finalize menu and cake: Taste test with your caterer and bakery.

  • Confirm all vendor bookings: Double-check contracts and payment schedules.

2–3 Months Before

  • Send out invitations: Include RSVP instructions and your event website or portal. Need a digital invite? Contact Us

  • Schedule dress fittings: Make sure everything fits perfectly.

  • Plan choreography: Hire a dance instructor or organize rehearsals. Did you know there is an online choreographer? Check out stage ready!

  • Arrange for photography timeline: Work with your photographer to plan the day’s schedule.

1 Month Before

  • Confirm guest count: Follow up with anyone who hasn’t RSVP’d.

  • Meet with vendors: Finalize details and review the event timeline.

  • Prepare emergency kit: Include safety pins, makeup, and other essentials.

  • Connect with the community: Join the Quinceanera’s on a Budget facebook group for ideas and remaining items you might not have thought of.

1–2 Weeks Before

  • Pick up dress and accessories: Double-check everything is ready.

  • Confirm transportation and hair/makeup appointments.

  • Do a final walk-through of the venue.

  • Relax and celebrate! You’ve done the work—now enjoy the moment.

Tips for Staying on Budget

  • Tap into the community: Our Facebook group is filled with families sharing real budgets, vendor deals, and creative DIY ideas.

  • Bundle services: Ask about package deals for photo, video, and invitations.

  • Prioritize what matters most: Invest in memories—photos and video last a lifetime.

How New Dawn Photo Supports You

At New Dawn Photo, we believe every family deserves beautiful quinceañera memories—no matter the budget. We offer:

  • Free Save-the-Date photoshoots to meet our team before booking

  • Flexible photo and video packages for any budget

  • Digital Invitations

  • Ongoing support through our Facebook community - Quinceanera’s on a Budget!

Mario Gamez
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Digital Invitations: Maximizing your RSVPs