Quinceaneras date back to ancient times in the Aztec societies. It's an old Hispan
ic tradition that symbolizes the beginning of womanhood in the Latin community. Quinceaneras are an exciting moment that young girls often plan and dream about for years as they approach their 15th birthday.
Although there are several deeply rooted and meaningful traditions, there is still plenty of room for creative planning. Combine old traditions with new ones to add your own personal touch!
Quinceaneras Traditions
- A Quinceanera Ceremony is preformed by the family priest during Mass. A candle is lit during the ceremony signifying reaffirmation of the baptismal vows made by her parents. By participating, the birthday girl is accepted by the Church, by God and the congregation (including her friends and family) as woman.
- The First Dance Tradition is the sweetest of all. The father of the birthday girl changes her shoes from flats to high heels and then dances the first dance with his daughter. This represents him accepting the birthday girl becoming a woman.
- The Quinceanera Court is a mixture of seven girls and seven boys that play a prominent role in the party. This equals 14, plus the birthday girl equals 15 which represents her age. Typically the court includes siblings, cousins and other family members. The Court will do a big dance after the father and daughter dance.
- The Doll Tradition is where the birthday girl will give a porcelain doll to her younger sister, meaning that she is now leaving her childhood to her sister. It is the last toy she will have and will pass it on.
- The Last Pinata is similar to the last doll tradition. Pinatas are often used at children's parties, and this being the birthday girl's last party as a child will get one last swing at a pinata.
- Cutting of the cake is a fun tradition where the birthday girl will make the first cut and take the first bite of her special cake.
- A toast is made by the guests at the party in honor of the special birthday girl.
Gifts will be given from family members that have symbolic meanings behind them such as,
- A tiara is given to the birthday girl by her parents or god-parents.
- The mother will often give a Bible, prayer-book, rosary and cross as a sign of faith to her daughter.
- A ring and bracelet are given representing the circle of life.
- Earings are also given to affirm that the birthday girl always listens to God.
Adding some flair!
So, now that we have gone over the traditions of the past, let's think of ways to incorporate a modern twist to show off your personality!
You party can have a distinct theme reflecting your personality without taking away from the traditional quinceanera feeling.
Here are some fun themes to consider
- A Black Tie Event
- A Retro Party
- A Hollywood Party
- A Garden Party
- A Princess Party
- A City Chic Party
- A Beach Party
- A Paris Themed Party
Between picking out your dress, cake, food and decor, this special party is a huge one and one to be excited about! Your community will have a wonderful time celebrating and experiencing a once in a life time event catered special just for you! So, remember to keep the traditions that are rooted deep in the Hispanic culture but add your own personal flair to make your party shine!
Special thank you to SariDennise and Justplainhope for the great pictures via Wikipedia and Flickr.
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