A milestone celebration isn’t just a party—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of stepping into a new chapter. Whether you’re envisioning a glamorous ballroom affair or a stylish gathering filled with unforgettable moments, planning can feel overwhelming at first. But don’t worry—our team at The Grand 1401 has helped host countless milestone events, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Here are the 10 essential steps to planning a Sweet 16 that’s just as stunning as the person being celebrated.
- Start with a Planner You Can Trust
Your celebration deserves to be enjoyed, not stressed over. That’s why we always recommend beginning your planning journey with a trusted event planner. A seasoned professional will help you stay on track, manage vendors, and bring your vision to life with ease.
✨ We highly recommend Circle of Events—they’ve curated some of the most stunning events at our venue and will ensure your Sweet 16 feels effortless and extraordinary. See pictures below for some of her work captured by Aleson and Devin Photography.
- Build Your Guest List Early
Before anything else, decide who you want by your side. Creating a guest list helps:
- Estimate your headcount
- Save time when sending invitations and tracking RSVPs
- Get accurate quotes for catering, bartending, and rentals
- And most importantly—build a budget that works for your event goals
- Choose Your Date & Book Your Venue
With your guest count in mind, it’s time to find your dream venue and lock in your celebration date. Whether you’re planning a spring soirée or a winter wonderland bash, booking early gives you the most flexibility.
📍 At The Grand 1401, our two timeless ballrooms provide the perfect backdrop for milestone celebrations—each with its own unique charm and historic elegance.
- Ask for Preferred Vendors
Save yourself hours of research by asking your venue for their preferred vendor list. These are professionals who know the space, the flow, and how to create a seamless event. It’s one of the simplest ways to ensure your celebration feels elevated and well-executed.
- Begin Designing Your Look & Feel
Once your date and venue are secured, it’s time to think about décor. If you’re not hiring an event planner, start reaching out to decorators.
Already booked with us? You’re ahead of the game.
The Grand 1401’s historic architecture and neutral-toned ballrooms create a naturally stunning backdrop that elevates any theme. From soft and romantic to bold and modern, our space transforms beautifully. We also offer custom décor packages, so you can sit back while our team handles the details.
- Secure Your Vendors
Book your key vendors as early as possible to ensure availability. Consider:
- DJ or live music
- Photographer & videographer
- Caterer & bartender
- Cake and dessert vendors
- Florist
- Transportation (limo, classic car, or even a horse-drawn carriage!)
- Content creator (perfect for reels, TikToks, and highlight videos)
- Send Out Invitations
Whether you go digital or printed, your invitations set the tone for your event. Make sure they match your theme—and don’t forget to give your guests plenty of time to RSVP!
- Finalize Your Guest Count
About 2-3 weeks before your event, confirm your final guest list with your venue and caterer. This step ensures everything is set when it comes to seating, food, drinks, and more.
- Finalize Your Floor Plan
At The Grand 1401, our venue team will reach out one month prior to walk you through layout options. Whether you’re planning a sit-down dinner, dance floor reveal, or grand entrance—we’ll design a flow that reflects your vision and keeps your celebration running smoothly.
- Final Walkthrough & Last-Minute Details
We believe in peace of mind, especially for milestone moments. In the weeks leading up to your Sweet 16, we’ll help confirm your vendors, finalize logistics, and make sure nothing has been overlooked. From floor plans to champagne toasts, we’ve got your back.
✨ Celebrate in Style at The Grand 1401
Located in the heart of downtown Fresno, The Grand 1401 is more than just a venue—it’s a part of your story. With two elegant ballrooms, breathtaking architecture, and a team dedicated to excellence, your milestone celebration is in the best hands.
Ready to tour the space or inquire about availability? Contact us here, and let’s make your milestone celebration truly unforgettable.