Confirmation: Planning, Ideas and FAQ

For many families, a confirmation is one of the year’s biggest milestones. It’s the day the young person is in focus, and the goal is usually the same: a celebration that feels both meaningful and genuinely enjoyable. At the same time, confirmation is the kind of event where decisions multiply fast—how many guests, what to serve, whether there should be speeches, how to keep the budget under control, and what the confirmand actually wants.

The best confirmations are rarely the most complicated ones. They work because the day is planned around the confirmand’s personality—and because there’s room for conversation, laughter, and real memories.

Confirmation or non-religious celebration: what’s the difference?

A confirmation is typically connected to a church tradition and a ceremony, followed by a family celebration. A non-religious confirmation-style celebration (sometimes called a “nonfirmation” in Scandinavia) is a celebration without a church ceremony—yet the party afterwards can look very similar: family, food, speeches, and gifts.

Many families simply choose the format that matches their values and traditions. Both options can be just as personal and just as memorable.

FAQ about confirmation

When should you start planning?

Confirmation season gets busy quickly, so it pays to start early with the decisions that “lock in” everything else: date, venue, and guest count. Once those are set, the rest becomes much easier.

Who do you typically invite?

Most families invite close family and the family’s closest friends—often grandparents, siblings, aunts/uncles, cousins, and long-time family friends. Guest numbers vary a lot, so choose a level that fits both your budget and your capacity as hosts.

Where do people hold a confirmation celebration?

Common options include hosting at home, renting a function room, booking a restaurant, or using a community hall. Practical details matter more than people expect: space, parking, serving logistics, and whether the confirmand has somewhere to take a short break if the day feels long.

How long does a confirmation party usually last?

It depends on the format, but many celebrations follow a daytime structure: meal, speeches, coffee/cake. Some end early; others add a more informal “later” part—especially if the confirmand wants time with friends after the family gathering.

What food works best?

The most popular choices are the ones that work across ages and tastes. A buffet or a classic lunch setup is often easiest. A 2–3 course meal feels more formal. Cake or dessert is usually a key moment because it naturally shifts the mood into the relaxed part of the day.

Do you need entertainment or planned “segments”?

Not necessarily. Confirmation often works best with a few strong elements rather than a packed programme: a short welcome, 1–3 speeches, and maybe one small memory moment. Too much programme can make the day feel heavy—especially for the confirmand.

What should you write in the invitation?

Make it easy for guests:

date and time (ideally start time + approximate end time)
practical info (parking, dress code if relevant, allergies)

If you’re sharing gift wishes or a wish list, keep it short and neatly phrased.

Is a wish list normal?

Yes, very common—and it genuinely helps guests. Many confirmands wish for experiences, room items, or something useful for the next few years. If the confirmand wants jewellery, it can be practical to gather wish ideas through a retailer like A-Hjort so guests can find the right style and price level without guessing.

What is a “typical” confirmation gift?

There’s no fixed rule. Many people give based on closeness: close relatives often give more, friends and acquaintances less. The most important part is that the gift feels considered for the confirmand—not that it matches a specific standard.

How do you keep the budget under control?

Start with the big cost drivers first: venue, food, and drinks. Once those are set, you can scale décor and details up or down. A good method is to choose one thing to prioritise (for example: the food, a photographer, or the venue) and keep the rest simple.

Ideas that make the day better without making it harder

Build a clear “frame” with breathing room
Plan for pauses. A confirmation feels better when it isn’t crammed with activities.
Keep speeches few, but meaningful
Aim for 1–3 speeches that matter. Place them where they feel natural—often between the meal and dessert/coffee.
Choose food that’s easy to serve
Buffets, sharing platters, or partially prepped menus reduce stress and keep the flow smooth.
Add one memory element (no more)
A guestbook with short notes, a small photo corner, or “messages for the future” cards creates lasting value without turning the day into a show.
Plan a smooth ending for the confirmand
If the confirmand wants to see friends later, build in a natural wrap-up (often after cake/coffee) so the family part feels complete.