Party ideas

Every party idea, with Houston prices

247 things you can add to a party, from tamales to a mariachi to a bounce house, and what each one usually costs here.

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Venues and spaces

Where the party happens: halls, ballrooms, ranches, restaurants, parks, play places and party homes.

16 ideas
Activity venueA place where the activity is the party: bowling, arcades, escape rooms, axe throwing, simulators.$20 to $45 per guestTypical Houston priceBanquet hallA rented hall with tables, chairs and a dance floor, often sold as a package with food, decor and a DJ.$4,000 to $10,000 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceChurch or parish hallThe reception hall attached to a church, often used right after a Mass, baptism or funeral.$250 to $800 for a 4-hour to all-day rentalTypical Houston priceCommunity center or civic hallA city, HOA, lodge or civic hall rented at public or member rates.$600 to $1,800 for a 4 to 12 hour rentalTypical Houston priceEvent loft or warehouseAn empty, open space you dress up yourself: concrete floors, high ceilings, sometimes exposed brick.$65 to $200 per hourTypical Houston priceGarden or estate venueA landscaped property or historic home with garden ceremony space and an indoor reception room.$3,500 to $10,000 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceHotel ballroomA hotel event room where the hotel's own kitchen and bar handle food and drinks.$4,500 to $15,000 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceKids' party venueA play business that runs the whole party: play time, a party room, setup and cleanup.$259 to $990 for a party packageTypical Houston priceMuseum, zoo or attraction venueA party room or pavilion at a zoo, museum or attraction, sometimes with guided activities.$250 to $400 for a pavilion or party roomTypical Houston pricePark pavilionA covered pavilion in a city or county park that you reserve for a few hours.$50 to $500 per day or 4-hour blockTypical Houston priceParty house or short-term rentalA house or private event home rented for a few hours or overnight, sometimes with a pool.$80 to $308 per hourTypical Houston pricePhoto studio rentalA studio rented by the hour for portraits, pre-quince shoots or small styled events.$55 to $95 per hourTypical Houston pricePrivate pool rentalA private backyard pool rented by the hour through apps like Swimply or a host directly.$25 to $125 per hourTypical Houston priceRanch or barn venueA country property with a barn or pavilion, open land and often a ceremony site, usually outside the city.$3,500 to $10,000 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceRestaurant private roomA private room at a restaurant, priced as a food-and-drink minimum instead of a rental fee.$1,000 to $3,500 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceRooftop or loungeA rooftop, bar or lounge with a skyline view, usually for cocktail-style parties.$500 to $3,500 for a typical partyTypical Houston price

Food and catering

Meals and savory stations, from a full caterer to a taquero, a crawfish boil or a mini pancake bar.

24 ideas
Sample photoMini pancake barA cart cooks bite-size pancakes on the spot and tops them to order.$8.50 to $11 per guestTypical Houston priceSample photoTamalesTamales ordered by the dozen from a tamalería or home cook.$11 to $45 per dozenTypical Houston priceBBQ catererSmoked brisket, sausage, ribs and chicken with Texas sides.$15 to $35 per guestTypical Houston priceBirria, barbacoa or carnitasSlow-cooked Mexican specialty meats sold by the kilo or served from a cazo or truck.$6 to $25 per guestTypical Houston priceBoxed lunches and corporate cateringIndividually packed meals or trays for office events, trainings and meetings.$12 to $25 per guestTypical Houston priceBrunch or breakfast cateringMorning food for showers, after-parties and next-day gatherings.$12 to $25 per guestEstimated priceEstimateBurger or hot dog grillA grill cook serving burgers, hot dogs or sliders.$15 to $30 per guestEstimated priceEstimateCrawfish boilLive crawfish boiled on site with corn, potatoes and sausage, dumped on tables for guests.$25 to $60 per guestTypical Houston priceCultural cuisine catererCaterers that specialize in a cuisine or dietary law: Vietnamese, Nigerian, Indian, Chinese, Middle Eastern, halal, kosher.$20 to $75 per guestTypical Houston priceDrop-off cateringReady-to-serve trays delivered by a restaurant or caterer, with no staff staying.$12 to $25 per guestTypical Houston priceElote and esquites cartA street-corn cart serving elote on the cob or esquites in cups with mayo, cheese, chile and lime.$7 to $12 per guestTypical Houston priceFajita grill cateringBeef and chicken fajitas grilled on site with tortillas, rice, beans and pico.$15 to $35 per guestEstimated priceEstimateFood truckA food truck parks at your event and serves guests to order from its window.$15 to $45 per guestTypical Houston priceFruit cup cartFresh cut fruit in cups with lime, Tajín and chamoy, sometimes mangonadas.$7 to $12 per guestEstimated priceEstimateFull-service catererA caterer who cooks, serves and cleans up a full meal for your guests.$20 to $125 per guestTypical Houston priceGrazing table or charcuterieA long table or cart covered in cheese, cured meats, fruit, crackers and dips.$25 to $35 per guestTypical Houston priceHibachi at homeA hibachi chef brings a flat-top grill and cooks a show-style dinner in your backyard.$60 to $110 per guestTypical Houston priceLate-night snack serviceA second food round late in the party: tacos, sliders, fries, pizza, ramen cups.$5 to $20 per guestTypical priceMexican snack barA loaded-snack bar: Tostilocos, Dorilocos, chicharrones preparados, cueritos, chamoy and gummies.$7 to $12 per guestTypical Houston pricePrivate chef dinnerA chef cooks and serves a multi-course dinner in a home or rented space.$60 to $200 per guestTypical Houston priceTaquero (taco catering)A taco cook who sets up a grill or comal at your party and makes tacos to order.$10 to $35 per guestTypical Houston priceHandmade tortilla stationA cook presses and griddles fresh corn tortillas in front of guests.$250 to $600 for a typical partyEstimated priceEstimateTrompo al pastor stationA vertical spit of marinated pork carved to order with pineapple, cooked live at the party.$16 to $24 per guestEstimated priceEstimateWood-fired pizza cateringA mobile oven bakes pizzas to order at your party.$15 to $45 per guestEstimated priceEstimate

Cake, desserts and sweet carts

The cake plus every sweet table, cart and truck: churros, paletas, raspas, mini donuts, cookies.

15 ideas
Sample photoPaleta cartA paletero cart with Mexican fruit and cream ice pops, sometimes dipped or boozy for adults.$450 to $650 for a 3 to 4 hour cartTypical Houston priceCandy table (mesa de dulces)A table of Mexican and American candy in jars with bags for guests to fill.$3 to $8 per guestTypical priceChocolate-covered treatsDecorated chocolate-dipped strawberries, pretzels, Oreos and cake pops in the party colors.$2.50 to $5.50 per pieceTypical Houston priceChocolate fountainA flowing chocolate fountain with fruit, marshmallows and cookies to dip.$380 to $900 for a typical partyTypical priceChurro cartFresh churros fried or warmed at a cart, with dips and fillings.$5 to $8 per guestEstimated priceEstimateCotton candy and popcornConcession machines for cotton candy and popcorn, rented or staffed.$150 to $300 for a machine rentalTypical Houston priceCrepe stationA chef makes sweet or savory crepes to order.$10 to $20 per guestTypical Houston priceCupcakesIndividual cupcakes, often displayed on a tower instead of or beside a cake.$2.50 to $5 per cupcakeTypical Houston priceCustom cakeA decorated cake made to order, from a simple sheet cake to a multi-tier showpiece.$3 to $8 per sliceTypical Houston priceCustom decorated cookiesHand-decorated sugar cookies with names, dates or themed designs.$50 to $75 per dozenTypical Houston priceDessert tableA styled table with several desserts matched to the party colors.$10 to $15 per guestTypical Houston priceIce cream truck or gelato cartA truck or cart serves scoops or novelties to your guests.$6 to $9.25 per guest (one serving each)Typical Houston priceMini donut truck or cartMini donuts fried fresh to order with toppings.$7 to $10 per guestEstimated priceEstimateMini treat barBite-size desserts like mini cheesecakes, shooters and tarts, set up as a bar.$10 to $15 per guestTypical Houston priceRaspas and snow conesShaved ice with flavored syrups; raspas add chamoy, lechera and fruit.$150 to $195 for a machine rentalTypical Houston price

Drinks and bar

Bartenders, mobile bars, coffee and boba carts, aguas frescas, mocktails, ice and alcohol delivery.

15 ideas
Aguas frescasBig glass jars of horchata, jamaica, tamarindo and fruit waters.$2 to $4 per guestEstimated priceEstimateAlcohol delivery and supplyBuying and delivering the beer, wine and spirits, often with returns on unopened bottles.$600 to $2,000 for about 100 guestsEstimated priceEstimateBeer and michelada barA bar for cold beer and micheladas with chamoy rims, Clamato and toppings.$40 to $60 per bartender, per hour, plus the beerTypical Houston priceBoba tea cartA cart or vendor serves milk teas and fruit teas with tapioca pearls.$7 to $12 per guest (one drink each)Typical Houston priceChampagne or drink wallA wall that holds filled glasses so guests can grab a drink as they arrive or toast.$150 to $400 per wall, with flutesTypical priceCoffee and espresso cartBaristas serve lattes, cold brew and specialty drinks from a mobile cart.$825 to $1,700 for a 2-hour bookingTypical Houston priceHot chocolate and cider barA warm drink bar for winter parties: hot chocolate, champurrado, atole or ponche navideño.$4 to $11 per guestTypical priceWater and hydration stationFree water dispensers or bottled water placed around the party, often with cooling towels.$40 to $150 for a typical partyEstimated priceEstimateIce deliveryBulk bagged ice delivered for drinks, coolers and food.$1.88 to $4.58 per bagTypical Houston priceFrozen drink machine rentalA rented frozen-drink machine for margaritas, daiquiris or non-alcoholic slushies.$150 to $260 per machine, per dayTypical Houston priceMatcha barA cart that whisks matcha lattes and matcha drinks to order.$400 to $1,200 for a 2 to 4 hour bookingTypical Houston priceBar rental or bar trailerThe bar itself: a portable counter, LED-lit bar or converted trailer, rented with or without staff.$500 to $1,500 for a typical partyEstimated priceEstimateMobile bartenderTABC-certified bartenders who serve drinks at your party, with or without supplying the alcohol.$40 to $70 per bartender, per hourTypical Houston priceMocktail barAlcohol-free cocktails made to order, for kids, teens and adults who do not drink.$40 to $60 per bartender, per hour, plus suppliesTypical Houston priceTasting experienceA host leads guests through a flight of tequila, mezcal, wine or whiskey.$45 to $140 per guestTypical Houston price

Music and DJs

DJs, MCs and live music: mariachi, norteño, banda, Tejano, cover bands, strings and soloists.

12 ideas
Sample photoMariachiA mariachi group plays live: at the Mass, for a serenata, the grand entrance or during dinner.$325 to $500 per hour, for the whole groupTypical Houston priceBandaA large brass band (tuba, trumpets, clarinets, drums) playing banda music.$1,500 to $5,000 for a typical partyEstimated priceEstimateCeremony singer or choirA singer or small choir for the Mass or ceremony, often with keyboard or guitar.$150 to $400 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceConjunto or Tejano bandA Texas-Mexican band playing Tejano, conjunto and cumbia classics.$500 to $2,500 for a typical partyTypical priceDJA DJ plays music, runs the microphone and keeps the program moving.$75 to $300 per hourTypical Houston priceLatin party band (grupo versátil)A party band that plays cumbia, salsa, merengue, bachata and pop so everyone dances.$650 to $2,500 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceLive cover bandA band that plays popular songs live for dancing.$1,500 to $8,500 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceMC or hostA host who announces each moment, leads games and keeps the crowd engaged, often in two languages.$100 to $300 per hourTypical Houston priceNorteño groupAn accordion and bajo sexto band playing norteño dance music.$2,400 to $2,800 for a typical partyEstimated priceEstimateSolo musicianOne musician for background music: sax, piano, harp, acoustic guitar or singer-guitarist.$200 to $400 per hourTypical Houston priceString ensembleStrings for the ceremony, cocktail hour or a quince entrance, including pop covers.$400 to $1,500 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceTrío románticoA three-guitar trio singing boleros and romantic classics.$250 to $500 per hour, for the trioEstimated priceEstimate

Entertainment and guest activities

Performers and things guests do: hora loca, magicians, casino tables, karaoke, hat and jewelry bars.

20 ideas
Caricature artistAn artist draws quick funny portraits of guests to take home.$100 to $300 per hourTypical Houston priceCasino tablesBlackjack, poker, roulette and craps tables with dealers, played for fun chips and prizes.$325 to $500 per table, with a dealerTypical Houston priceCigar rollerA torcedor hand-rolls cigars for guests as a live station.$500 to $1,700 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceComedian or roast hostA stand-up comic or roast host for a 20-45 minute set.$150 to $1,200 per setTypical Houston priceCustom hat barGuests pick a hat and add patches, pins or burned designs, made on the spot.$45 to $75 per hatTypical Houston priceDance performersA short dance show to open the party or fill a program break.$250 to $800 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceFire, LED and circus performersSpecialty acts: fire spinners, LED hoop dancers, aerial silks or acrobats.$250 to $1,000 per showTypical Houston priceTarot or palm readerA reader gives short, light-hearted tarot or palm readings.$75 to $200 per hourTypical Houston priceHora loca crewA burst of high-energy performers who storm the dance floor with props, masks, LED gear and noisemakers.$400 to $1,200 for a typical partyEstimated priceEstimateKaraokeA karaoke system with a host who runs the song list, or a DIY rental.$50 to $150 per hourTypical Houston priceLive event painterAn artist paints the scene during the event and finishes a keepsake canvas.$960 to $2,500 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceMagicianA magician performs a stage show for kids or close-up tricks that roam among adult guests.$100 to $750 per showTypical Houston priceMake-and-take craft barA guided craft station where adults make something to take home: perfume, candles, bouquets, terrariums.$15 to $50 per guestEstimated priceEstimateMechanical bullA ride-on mechanical bull with an inflatable landing pad and operator.$850 to $1,150 for 1 to 4 hoursTypical Houston pricePermanent jewelry barA jeweler welds custom-fit chains on guests' wrists or ankles as a take-home keepsake.$45 to $70 per guestTypical Houston priceSilent discoGuests dance with wireless headphones that switch between two or three DJ channels.$4 to $11 per headsetTypical Houston priceStilt walkers and roaming performersCostumed performers on stilts or in character who roam, greet guests and pose for photos.$175 to $350 per performer, per hourTypical Houston priceTeam-building activityA hosted group activity for coworkers: cooking class, escape game, scavenger hunt, painting.$30 to $150 per guestTypical Houston priceTribute artist or impersonatorA performer who looks and sings like a famous artist.$500 to $1,500 for a typical partyTypical priceTrivia or game show hostA host runs trivia, a game show or lotería with prizes.$250 to $1,000 per hourTypical Houston price

Kids' activities and rentals

Bounce houses, soft play, foam, game trucks, animals, face painting, characters and craft parties.

20 ideas
Reptile or animal showAn educator brings snakes, lizards, birds or bugs for a hands-on show.$225 to $425 per showTypical Houston priceBalloon twisterAn entertainer twists balloon animals, swords and hats for each kid.$50 to $160 per hourTypical Houston priceBounce houseAn inflatable bouncer, often with a slide or obstacle course, set up in a yard or park.$120 to $575 per rental, plus deliveryTypical Houston priceBubble showA bubble artist makes giant bubbles and bubble domes kids can stand inside.$200 to $450 per showEstimated priceEstimateCarnival games and dunk tankRented carnival booths, giant games or a dunk tank with prizes.$425 to $900 per game, for 1 to 4 hoursTypical Houston priceClown (payaso)A clown hosts games, contests, music and jokes for kids, often in Spanish.$125 to $200 per hourTypical Houston priceCostumed characterA performer in costume (princess, superhero, cartoon) visits to sing, play games and pose for photos.$150 to $350 per hourTypical Houston priceCraft or art partyA guided craft for kids: slime, canvas painting, pottery painting, jewelry, cookies.$13 to $25 per childTypical priceFace painterAn artist paints kids' faces, cheek art or glitter tattoos.$85 to $150 per hourTypical Houston priceFoam partyA foam cannon fills a yard with bubbles for kids (or a glow foam night for teens).$250 to $1,500 for 1 to 2 hoursTypical Houston priceVideo game truckA trailer with TVs, consoles and seating parks at your house for a gaming party.$375 to $425 for 1.5 to 2 hoursTypical Houston priceGlamping sleepoverA company sets up themed teepees with mattresses, lights and trays for a sleepover.$525 to $1,200 for a typical partyEstimated priceEstimateKids' spa partyA mobile spa sets up robes, manicures, face masks and a mini runway for kids.$25 to $60 per childTypical Houston priceMobile laser tag or gel blastersLaser tag or gel-ball battles with inflatable bunkers set up in your yard or park.$309 to $359 for 1 hourTypical Houston priceMobile petting zooFriendly farm animals in a pen at your party: goats, bunnies, chicks, piglets, sometimes a pony.$400 to $500 for 2 hoursEstimated priceEstimatePony ridesHandlers lead kids around on ponies, often with a petting zoo.$60 to $74 per hourEstimated priceEstimateScience showA science entertainer runs experiments: dry-ice fog, slime, rockets.$250 to $450 per showTypical Houston priceToddler soft playPadded play sets, ball pits and bubble houses for babies and toddlers, styled to the theme colors.$200 to $400 per rentalTypical Houston priceTrackless trainA small train with cars that drives kids around a yard, park or lot.$150 to $350 per hourEstimated priceEstimateWater slideA tall inflatable water slide with a splash pool for hot days.$350 to $600 per rental, plus deliveryTypical Houston price

Photo, video and booths

Photographers, videographers, drones and every kind of booth and guestbook.

13 ideas
Sample photoVideo guestbook boothGuests record short video messages at a booth, edited into a keepsake film.$150 to $400 for a 2 to 4 hour bookingTypical Houston priceAudio guestbookA vintage phone where guests leave voice messages for the honoree.$99 to $350 per rentalTypical price360 video boothGuests stand on a platform while a camera arm spins around them for slow-motion video.$300 to $800 for 2 hoursTypical Houston priceDrone photo and videoAerial shots of the venue, entrance or a big group photo.$120 to $200 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceHeadshot boothA pro photographer with lights takes quick headshots for staff or guests at a corporate event.$125 to $300 per hourTypical Houston priceMirror or glam boothA full-length touchscreen mirror booth or a beauty-filter black-and-white glam booth.$600 to $1,000 for 2 hoursTypical Houston priceClassic photo boothA booth or open-air camera that prints photo strips with props and a branded template.$400 to $650 for 2 to 3 hoursTypical Houston pricePhoto slideshow or tribute videoAn edited slideshow of photos with music, shown on a screen during the event.$100 to $500 for a typical partyEstimated priceEstimateGuest photo sharing (QR gallery)A QR code on tables lets every guest upload phone photos to one shared album.Free to $119 for a typical partyTypical pricePhotographerA photographer covers the day from getting ready to the last dance, then delivers an edited gallery.$1,350 to $3,500 for the eventTypical Houston pricePre-event photo sessionA portrait shoot before the event, often in the dress at a park or landmark, used for invitations and displays.$420 to $749 for a typical partyTypical priceRoaming instant photographerA photographer walks the party taking instant prints guests keep or paste into a guestbook.$150 to $400 per hourEstimated priceEstimateVideographerFilms the event and delivers a highlight video and full-length film.$1,800 to $3,500 for the eventTypical Houston price

Decor, florals and balloons

Balloons, flowers, backdrops, signs, thrones, piñatas, draping and themed design.

19 ideas
Backdrop rentalA panel or arch behind the head table, cake or photo spot: shimmer walls, chiara arches, printed panels.$300 to $700 per backdropTypical Houston priceBalloon garland and installsOrganic balloon garlands, arches, columns and walls in the party colors.$10 to $30 per foot of garlandEstimated priceEstimateCeremony arch and aisle decorThe arch, chuppah or mandap plus aisle markers and runner for a ceremony.$200 to $500 for the archTypical Houston priceCustom signageWelcome signs, seating charts, menus, bar signs and table numbers in the event style.$50 to $150 per signTypical priceDraping and ceiling treatmentsFabric draped on walls or ceilings to soften a room, hide clutter or create a tent look.$1,500 to $10,000 for a typical partyEstimated priceEstimateEvent decoratorA decorator designs and installs the whole look: backdrop, centerpieces, head table, balloons and lighting.$900 to $4,000 for a typical partyTypical priceFlorist and centerpiecesFresh-flower centerpieces and room arrangements.$75 to $200 per centerpieceTypical Houston priceFlower wallA wall of faux or fresh flowers used as a photo backdrop or behind the head table.$200 to $800 per wallEstimated priceEstimateHelium balloons and bouquetsFloating balloons, foil numbers and bouquets for tables and photos.$12 to $35 per bouquetTypical priceHoliday decor installChristmas trees, garland, wreaths and lights installed for holiday parties and offices.$500 to $5,000 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceMarquee letters and numbersGiant light-up letters or numbers: initials, age, XV, LOVE, a grad year.$26 to $50 per letterTypical Houston priceNeon signA custom LED neon sign with a name, phrase or hashtag.$75 to $250 per signEstimated priceEstimatePapel picado and Mexican decorCut-paper banners, paper flowers, sarapes and talavera details for a Mexican theme.$2 to $15 per bannerTypical priceBouquets, corsages and boutonnieresFlowers people carry or wear: the honoree's bouquet, court bouquets, corsages and boutonnieres.$12 to $200 per bouquet or boutonniereTypical Houston priceLuxury picnic setupA styled low-table picnic with cushions, rugs, florals and tableware set up in a park or yard.$80 to $95 per guestTypical Houston pricePiñataA papier-mâché piñata in a character, number or custom shape, filled with candy.$50 to $120 per piñataEstimated priceEstimateTablescape rentalsChargers, centerpiece frames, candles, mirrors and runners rented to dress each table.$1.15 to $6.50 per pieceTypical Houston priceThemed props and cutoutsLarge props and character cutouts to carry a theme: carousel horses, giant flowers, cars, astronaut, castle.$150 to $500 for a typical partyEstimated priceEstimateThrone chairA large decorative chair for the guest of honor at a quince, sweet 16, birthday or baby shower.$150 to $400 per chairTypical Houston price

Lighting, effects, sound and tech

Uplighting, cold sparks, clouds, LED floors and walls, sound systems, projectors and livestreams.

13 ideas
Cold spark machinesFloor machines that shoot fountains of cool-to-touch sparks for entrances, first dances and the waltz.$250 to $550 per machineTypical Houston priceConfetti and CO2 cannonsBursts of confetti or CO2 fog jets at peak moments.$200 to $600 for a typical partyEstimated priceEstimateDance-floor lightingMoving heads, lasers and effect lights over the dance floor.$100 to $400 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceDancing on the cloudsA low fog that hugs the floor for the waltz, first dance or entrance.$795 to $850 per effectTypical Houston priceLED dance floorA light-up dance floor that changes colors and patterns, sometimes with names or logos.$1,000 to $4,800 for a typical partyEstimated priceEstimateLED video wallA bright modular LED screen for visuals, live camera feeds or branding.$725 to $8,000 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceLivestreamBroadcasts the ceremony or event online for relatives who cannot attend, often family in Mexico.$200 to $2,500 for a typical partyTypical priceMonogram or gobo projectionA light that projects the honoree's name, initials or logo on the dance floor or wall.$75 to $750 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceProjector and screenA projector and screen or large TVs for slideshows, presentations or sports.$150 to $725 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceSound system and microphonesSpeakers, mixer and microphones for speeches, ceremonies or a playlist without a DJ.$150 to $600 per dayTypical Houston priceSparkler send-offGuests hold sparklers in two lines as the couple or honoree leaves.$0.25 to $0.60 per sparklerTypical priceString and bistro lightsStrands of warm bulbs strung over a patio, tent or backyard.$150 to $800 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceUplightingLED lights placed along walls to wash the room in your colors.$250 to $500 for a typical partyTypical Houston price

Rentals and equipment

Tables, chairs, linens, tableware, tents, dance floors, power, cooling and restrooms.

16 ideas
Chafing dishes and catering equipmentChafers, warmers, coolers and drink dispensers for DIY or drop-off food.$10 to $40 per chafer or dispenserEstimated priceEstimateCooling: fans, misters and portable ACPortable AC units, misting fans and big fans to keep guests safe in Houston heat.$350 to $2,800 for a typical partyTypical priceDance floor rentalA portable floor laid over grass or carpet so guests can dance.$150 to $600 per floorTypical Houston priceGenerator rentalA portable or towable generator when there is no outlet close enough.$100 to $300 per generator, per dayTypical Houston priceKids' tables and chairsSmall tables and chairs sized for kids.$4 to $15 per chair or tableTypical Houston priceLawn gamesGiant Jenga, cornhole, Connect Four, lotería and other yard games.$50 to $600 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceLinensTablecloths, napkins, runners and chair covers in your colors.$10 to $30 per tableclothTypical Houston priceLounge furnitureSofas, armchairs, coffee tables and rugs to create seating nooks.$275 to $800 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceOutdoor movie screenAn inflatable screen, projector and sound for a backyard movie night.$150 to $2,925 for a typical partyTypical Houston pricePatio heatersPropane patio heaters for chilly winter evenings outdoors.$60 to $210 per heaterTypical Houston priceRestrooms: porta-potties and restroom trailersPortable toilets or air-conditioned restroom trailers when the site lacks enough bathrooms.$172 to $299 per restroom unitTypical Houston priceSpecialty chairsUpgraded chairs: Chiavari (Tiffany), cross-back, ghost or gold resin.$8 to $15 per chairTypical Houston priceStage and risersA raised platform for a band, head table, throne or speeches.$350 to $1,000 per stageEstimated priceEstimateTables and chairsFolding or banquet tables and chairs delivered for the guest count.$1.25 to $18 per chair or tableTypical Houston priceDishes, glassware and flatwareReal plates, glasses and silverware rented by the piece.$1.05 to $1.15 per pieceTypical Houston priceTent rentalA frame or pole tent for shade and rain cover over a backyard or outdoor venue.$650 to $1,450 per tent, set upTypical Houston price

Attire and beauty

Dresses, suits, alterations, hair, makeup, nails and grooming for the guest of honor and the court.

13 ideas
Alterations and seamstressFitting and alterations for gowns, suits and court outfits.$150 to $800 for the gownTypical priceBarber and groomingHaircuts and shaves for the groom, father and chambelanes, sometimes on site.$30 to $100 per personTypical Houston priceWedding dressThe wedding dress, bought or made, plus veil and undergarments.$300 to $6,000 for the gownTypical Houston priceCostume and theme attireCostumes or theme outfits for Halloween, themed birthdays or a character entrance.$25 to $250 per costumeTypical Houston priceCourt attire (damas and chambelanes)Matching outfits for the court or wedding party: damas' dresses, chambelanes' suits or charro outfits.$800 to $3,000 for the whole courtEstimated priceEstimateHair stylistA stylist does the honoree's and court's hair on site or in salon.$70 to $150 per personTypical Houston priceLashes and browsLash extensions or brow treatments done a few days before.$99 to $225 per personTypical Houston priceMakeup artistA makeup artist does the honoree's and court's makeup, often with lashes.$80 to $175 per personTypical Houston priceNailsManicure and pedicure for the honoree and court, in salon or on site.$35 to $60 per personTypical Houston priceQuinceañera dressThe quinceañera's ball gown, sometimes with a second dress for the surprise dance.$200 to $3,500 for the gownTypical priceShoes and accessoriesShoes, jewelry, gloves, crinoline and hair pieces for the honoree.$120 to $210 for the setTypical priceSpray tanAn airbrush tan 1-3 days before the event.$30 to $90 per personTypical Houston priceTux and suit rentalRented tuxedos or suits for the groom, father, chambelanes or groomsmen.$149 to $300 per suitTypical price

Invitations, paper, favors and gifts

Printed and digital invitations, websites, programs, favors, custom shirts and party supplies.

10 ideas
Branded swag and badgesLogo gifts, name badges and branded items for corporate events.$5 to $50 per attendeeTypical priceCustom shirts and merchPrinted shirts, hoodies or jackets for the court, family, bachelorette group or reunion.$9 to $20 per shirtTypical priceDigital invitations and RSVPInvitations sent by text, WhatsApp or email with an online RSVP.$1 to $2 per invitationTypical priceEvent websiteA simple website with date, venue, schedule, dress code, hotel and registry.Free for the siteTypical priceFavors (recuerdos)Small thank-you gifts: candy boxes, mini candles, cookies, keychains, goodie bags for kids.$200 to $900 for about 100 guestsTypical priceGuestbookA book, frame, puzzle or board guests sign as a keepsake.$60 to $180 for the bookTypical priceParty suppliesDisposable plates, cups, napkins, cutlery and table covers in the party theme.$0.50 to $1.50 per guestTypical pricePrinted invitationsPrinted invitations, save-the-dates, RSVP cards and thank-you notes.$3 to $30 per invitationTypical pricePrograms, menus and prayer cardsPrinted ceremony programs, Mass booklets, menu cards and memorial prayer cards.$0.40 to $1.50 per pieceTypical priceWelcome bagsGift bags for out-of-town guests at their hotel with snacks, water and a schedule.$15 to $45 per bagTypical price

Cultural and religious traditions

The Mass, officiants and the items and performers that belong to quince, wedding, baptism and other traditions.

14 ideas
Aztec dancers (danza azteca)Dancers in feathered regalia with drums and copal perform a ceremonial danza.$300 to $1,000 for a typical partyEstimated priceEstimateBaptism and communion itemsThe baptism gown, candle, shell and bolo coins, or first communion candle, rosary and missal.$25 to $170 for a typical partyTypical priceCapiasSmall ribbon pins printed with the name and date, pinned on each guest as a keepsake.$0.45 to $1.10 per capiaTypical priceChurch or religious ceremonyBooking the church Mass or service: thanksgiving Mass for a quince, wedding Mass, baptism or first communion.$500 to $1,000 for the Mass or ceremonyTypical Houston priceDhol playerA dhol drummer leads entrances and the baraat procession at South Asian celebrations.$150 to $400 per drummer, per hourEstimated priceEstimateFolklórico dancersA ballet folklórico group performs regional Mexican dances in traditional dress.$250 to $800 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceHenna artistA henna artist draws temporary designs on hands and arms, for a mehndi night or as party entertainment.$35 to $85 per hourTypical Houston priceLion danceA Chinese or Vietnamese lion dance troupe with drums and cymbals for luck at weddings, openings and Lunar New Year.$400 to $1,200 for a typical partyEstimated priceEstimateOfficiantThe person who leads the ceremony: priest, pastor, rabbi, judge or a ordained friend.$150 to $600 for the ceremonyTypical Houston priceMemorial display or ofrendaA table honoring the person who died or late relatives: photos, candles, flowers, favorite things; or a Día de Muertos ofrenda.$100 to $500 for a typical partyEstimated priceEstimateProfessional chambelanesA team of trained dancers who serve as the quince court, perform the waltz and often run the program.$1,800 to $3,500 for the court and rehearsalsTypical Houston priceQuince ceremony itemsThe traditional items for the quince ceremony: tiara, scepter, last doll, cushions, Bible and rosary, ring and medal.$70 to $400 for a typical partyTypical priceQuince choreographerA choreographer teaches the court the waltz and surprise dance over weekly rehearsals.$1,300 to $2,500 for the full routineEstimated priceEstimateWedding ceremony items (lazo, arras)The lazo, arras coins, kneeling cushions, Bible and rosary used in a Mexican Catholic wedding.$30 to $230 for a typical partyTypical price

Planning, staff and guest services

Planners, coordinators, servers, setup and cleanup crews, babysitting and guest comforts.

11 ideas
Babysitting and kids' roomSitters who watch kids in a separate room or corner with activities, so parents can enjoy the party.$15 to $41 per sitter, per hourTypical Houston priceCleanup crewA crew that clears trash, packs rentals, sweeps and returns the venue so you get your deposit back.$24 to $39 per crew member, per hourTypical Houston priceCoat and bag checkAn attendant holds coats and bags with claim tickets.$21 to $30 per attendant, per hourTypical Houston priceDay-of coordinatorA coordinator who takes over the final weeks and runs the event day so the family can enjoy it.$700 to $2,200 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceGreeter or hostStaff who greet guests, check names, hand out programs and guide people to seats.$21 to $30 per greeter, per hourTypical Houston priceFull-service plannerA planner who handles the whole project: budget, vendors, design, timeline and the day itself.$1,500 to $8,000 for a typical partyTypical Houston priceGuest comfort amenitiesSmall comforts: flip-flops for dancers, restroom baskets, hand fans, umbrellas, bug spray, phone chargers.$50 to $250 for a typical partyEstimated priceEstimateHotel room blockDiscounted rooms held at a hotel for out-of-town guests.Free to $800 if rooms go unfilledTypical priceInterpreterA live interpreter for a bilingual ceremony, speeches or guests who are Deaf or hard of hearing.$80 to $160 per interpreter, per hourTypical priceServers and waitstaffStaff to serve food, clear plates, refill drinks and cut cake.$21 to $46 per server, per hourTypical Houston priceSetup crewWorkers who set up tables, chairs, decor and rentals before the party and break down after.$24 to $39 per crew member, per hourTypical Houston price

Transportation, safety and permits

Party buses, limos, valet, shuttles, security, EMTs, insurance, permits and trash removal.

16 ideas
Alcohol permits and TABC rulesThe rules and permits around alcohol: TABC-certified servers, licensed providers, and permits if drinks are sold.$10 to $251 per permit or server certificateTypical Houston priceClassic, exotic or lowrider carA Rolls-Royce, vintage convertible, exotic car or lowrider for the arrival and photos.$100 to $250 per car, per hourTypical Houston priceEMT standbyEMTs on site for large or high-risk events, such as big outdoor summer parties.$45 to $115 per EMT, per hourTypical priceEvent insuranceA one-day liability policy (often with host liquor coverage) that many venues and parks require.$75 to $200 for a one-day policyTypical priceGuest shuttleA shuttle that moves guests between hotel, ceremony and reception or from remote parking.$150 to $300 per bus, per hourTypical Houston priceHorse-drawn carriageA horse and carriage, or a decorated horse for a baraat, for an arrival or exit.$500 to $2,000 for a typical partyEstimated priceEstimateLimoA stretch limo or luxury SUV for the honoree, couple or family.$70 to $150 per car, per hourTypical Houston priceMosquito treatmentA yard or venue treatment 1-2 days before an outdoor evening event.$100 to $400 per treatmentTypical priceOff-duty police or constableA uniformed off-duty officer or constable deputy hired for security or traffic, often required by halls and parks.$40 to $67 per officer, per hourTypical pricePark reservation and permitThe reservation or permit to hold a private party in a city or county park, plus approvals for moonwalks, DJs or portable toilets.$50 to $500 per dayTypical Houston priceParty busA bus with seating, lights and sound that carries the court or group between church, photos and the party.$150 to $375 per bus, per hourTypical Houston priceSecurity guardsLicensed guards check the door, watch the parking lot and handle problems.$25 to $80 per guard, per hourTypical priceAmplified sound permitA City of Houston permit that allows amplified sound up to 75 dB(A) during set hours.$38.58 to $109.35 per permitTypical Houston priceTent and fire permitA fire marshal permit for large tents, open flame or cooking under tents.$150 to $300 per permitTypical priceTrash removal and recyclingExtra trash cans, bags, a dumpster or haul-away service after big outdoor parties.$390 to $960 per dumpsterTypical Houston priceValet parkingAttendants park guests' cars at homes or venues with limited parking.$24.99 to $39.99 per attendant, per hourTypical Houston price

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