For Catholic families, a child's first communion typically takes place when he or she is 7-12 years old. In addition to the religious ceremony, parents may choose to invite family, friends and classmates to a first communion party afterward.
Typical costs:
Invitations for a first communion typically cost 50 cents-$2 each. Parties for Kids[1] sells packages of eight invitations for $10 shipped, for about $1.25 per invitation.
The child's outfit typically costs $50-$120. Boys wear a suit or tuxedo, which is often white, and girls wear a white dress. For example, the Catholic Children's Company[2] sells a white suit[3] for $80-$90 and a white communion dress[4] for $60.
The child's accessories such as matching dress shoes, a tie for boys, and a veil for girls typically cost $10-$30 each. For example, Cashel House Gifts sells a veil for $31 and a tie for $10.
First communion gifts may include a rosary, a Bible, or jewelry, and typically cost $4-$30 each. For example, Concordia Publishing House[5] sells a variety of first communion gifts for $6-$26.
A first communion party or reception can be a relaxed dinner at the family's home or a catered party at a restaurant, so prices range from less than $100 for food and decorations to $1,000 or more for a larger event. Home and Garden Ideas[6] suggests party locations and themes ranging from a backyard barbecue with yard games and cake to a formal reception including guest speeches and religious-themed decor.
A first communion ceremony and reception are often paired. Some common first communion party supplies are the cake, party food and drinks, and decorations, according to Holy First Communion[7] .
Additional costs:
Party decorations may include a banner, balloons, or flowers. Shindigz[8] sells personalized first communion banners for $10-$15. They also carry a variety of party balloons ranging from $1 per balloon to $8 per 100 balloons.
A party cake typically costs 35 cents-$4 per slice, ranging from supermarket sheet cakes to tiered bakery cakes.
First communion favors typically include small toys for children and candy or mints for adults. Cool Party Favors[9] sells communion-themed mementos and gifts for $1.50-$4 each.
Event photography typically costs $50-$300 per hour. For example, GDeCardenas Photography[10] in Miami offers a 45-minute first communion session for $100.
Shopping for a first communion:
Invitations, Etc. provides several examples of invitation wording[11] for first communion. According to Occasions[12] , invitations should be mailed seven to eight weeks before the event.
Circus City Kids[13] suggests ordering a dress up to 14 weeks in advance, and lists other tips for dressing a child for first communion.
Catholic Culture explains how to prepare a child for their first communion[14] .
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