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Sweet sixteen parties are changing.

Some teens feel awkward about having a formal party... who to ask...who not to ask...what if the "right" people don't come...what if the "wrong" people do show up?

Some teens dream of the day, others shrink in horror.

The solution? Let the about-to-be sixteen make the decision.

If your teen says no, offer the option of an informal fun party with a theme that everyone will enjoy... or a backyard bash for close friends. Remember - the goal is for the birthday star to have a memory to cherish.

also see -> sweet 16 gift ideas

Sweet 16 party planning

Prepare to start planning at least a month or two in advance to leave time for setting a budget, choosing the party theme, organizing the guest list, deciding on the venue, and picking out the invitations.

If your budget allows for an outside venue, check out appropriate Sweet 16 party locations in your area to see what's on offer. Some venues may have exactly what your looking for -- with an entire party package available providing everything from the invitations, DJ and entertainment -- to party favors and thank you notes!

As always, it pays to shop around for the best available price (then, negotiate with other venues to see if they can beat it) or ask other parents of teens who might have a range of other ideas you may want to consider.

If you're having your Sweet 16 party at home, you can easily host an affordable and popular teen party theme such as a Hollywood night party, Hawaiian luau a Harry Potter party, a 70's party disco theme, or move it outdoors for a splashy pool party or a festive backyard barbecue.

Invitations, party food, activities and goodie bags

For easy homemade invitations, use Sweet 16 birthday clipart or other images appropriate to your theme with wording such as "She's Sweet and 16!" or "Farewell to braces,  pigtails and toys!  Welcome to driving,  parties and boys! " Also be sure to include RSVP details as well as driving directions for out of town guests.

A simple sheet cake can spell out a Very Berry and Cream Sweet 16!

Make the home party menu easy and enticing with chips and dips, finger foods. or mini pizzas to allow guests to have fun and mingle. Then, make space for a dance floor and pump up the volume! To get everyone up and dancing, have a limbo dance competition. Or, for a "girls only" activity have the cosmetics ready for a complete Sweet 16 makeover session.

Send guests home happy with a custom-made Sweet 16 goodie bag filled with sample size cosmetics or make it extra sweet with chocolate kisses, gourmet jelly beans, and other candies.

Finally, whether your having a big splashy event -- or a fun and casual party at home -- be sure to involve your teen in the decision-making process from the very start. Their input will not only make party planning easier, it will also provide them with a great learning experience on party hosting.

What could be sweeter? Have fun!

More about Sweet 16 parties around the Web:

Just up ahead find more great resources with expert advice on Sweet 16 party planning with additional tips on the "where, when and how" of making it fun, exciting and memorable...

Kids Party Fun Sweet 16 - Check out a page of ideas for themes, foods and favors for the perfect teen party, with related links to get the things you need for a sweet 16 - plus some advice on planning with the guest of honor in charge.

Sweet 16 Birthday Party Ideas - If you need some inspiration, this is the place. A whole page that lists sweet sixteen parties. Some of the ideas are a little lame, but there are some real winners that get an A for originality. You can also submit your own ideas.