Traditions of Quinceaneras
Planning the Event
Traditions of Quinceaneras vary from family to family and from country to country, however the traditions are very similar. Sometimes it can take a few years to plan this grand event. However, with other families, it depends on their financial resources how large of an event this may be.
All the quinceanera planning will take place by family members and friends. Everything is planned from the menu items to the attire as well as the reception that takes place afterwards.
The Dress
Traditions of Quinceaneras have always included a white dress for the honoree, signifying purity. However, light pink has been a popular choice. The quinceanera dress resembles a wedding dress without the train. Most girls on their quinceanera have the appearance of the fairy tale character, Cinderella.
The Ceremony
The ceremony begins with a mass service at the family church. Still resembling a wedding, the young children act as flower girls sprinkling flowers on the altar where the quinceanera will walk. Many will escort the quinceanera on this special occasion; among those will be the main chamberlain, other chamberlains, her mother and father, and 14 damas (similar to wedding bridesmaids). At the end of the ceremony, the children will pass out little gifts to those who have attended and the bouquet, held by the quinceanera will be placed on the alter for the Virgin Mary.
During the ceremony, the headpiece that is worn by the quinceanera is replaced with a crown or tiara (symbolizes a princess before the passing of the duties); at this time she will also be handed a sceptor (symbolizing the passing of adult authority).
Other items that quinceaneras may be gifted with is a rosary (symbol of faith), a bible (used to keep the word of God), and a cross or medal (symbol of faith in God, herself as well as the world).
The Reception
The reception takes place right after the mass ceremony. The quinceanera will make a grand entrance after her introduction. Her dance ends with performing a waltz with her father followed by the chamberlains. During her grand entrance, the honoree will wear flat shoes symbolizing her as a young girl; her father will have her change into high heels, which of course represents womanhood. Typically, she will also be given a beautiful set of earrings (represents her listening to the word of God as well as the world).
Lastly, the traditions of Quinceaneras include the passing of the quinceaneras doll, which is typically dressed just like the honoree. The doll is covered in ribbons, which are later passed out to each guest who arrived for the celebration.
